K J Smith Solicitors fields a strong reputation ‘both locally and across the South East’ for their family law offering. St Albans-based co-head Laura Gusatu is well-versed in drafting prenuptial and cohabitation agreements, as well as handling contentious issues, such as divorce, cohabitation disputes, and domestic violence. In Beaconsfield, co-head Anna Ferro is a key contact for matters involving divorce, separation, children matters, marital agreements, and complex financial disputes surrounding substantial UK and international assets.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘I found the whole process of dealing with K J Smith a pleasure, from the signing up process to communication with them during my divorce. The staff were incredibly helpful and there was always someone on hand to answer my questions through a particularly difficult period in my life.’
- ‘Sophie Turrell was always professional, but she was also empathetic. She understood how difficult this process was for me and sought to put my mind at rest when things got particularly challenging. Sophie is very knowledgeable and welcomed my input because she said, I am the one who knows my now ex-husband the best and therefore would be able to inform her of the best steps to take. ’
- ‘KJ Smith are a leading firm in the area with great strength in depth amongst partners and associates alike. The can handle all cases, from the biggest to the smallest, and have an excellent reputation both locally and across the South East.’
- ‘KJ Smith have real strength in depth. The partners heading the offices are excellent, and it is in their more junior individuals that the quality really shines through. These individuals are more than capable of running cases by themselves. When combined with partner oversight, this affords real value for money to clients, as opposed to more partner-dominated practices where hourly rates are that much higher.’
- ‘I worked with Anna Ferro and Sophie Turrell on a complex matrimonial finance case with a vulnerable client. Together they were an excellent team; responsive to their clients and quick about liaising with counsel, caring, supportive, and gave clear and impartial advice. Their paperwork was excellent, and they kept me well-informed.’
- ‘Laura Gusatu is my solicitor. When I had my initial consultation with her, she was genuinely interested in my situation and what I was going through. She showed compassion and gave me hope and confidence in what was and still is an extremely difficult time.'
- ‘Anna Ferro is a hugely experienced solicitor with a great knowledge of family law and a fantastic insight into the dynamics of matrimonial cases. She is wise and strategic as well as sensitive and thoughtful. Clients love her.’
- ‘Harpreet Phal has been practical with her advice and has worked to try and meet my wishes. However, she has also been good at showing me the limitations within the law and where the greatest risks to myself are.'
Practice head
Laura Gusatu; Anna Ferro
Other key lawyers
Harpreet Phal; Sophie Turrell