Collins Solicitors fields a team with an ‘outstanding personal approach’ to an array of public and private child proceedings. Team head Danielle Messenger brings ’exceptional professionalism and competence’ in complex financial disputes arising from divorce and separation, private children disputes, cohabitee disputes, and pre-nuptial agreements, combining strong technical expertise with exceptional client care. ‘Go-to’ solicitor Donna Downes leads the public children law team and is a key contact for representing children, parents, and extended family members in complex and high-risk cases involving serious harm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Donna Downes is an outstanding lawyer. She is the go-to solicitor for parents and guardians involved in care proceedings in Hertfordshire. Donna has a wealth of experience in cases involving non-accidental injury, intergenerational sexual abuse, fabricated factitious illness and child neglect. She is a proactive, pragmatic and tactical litigator.'
‘Donna Downes is a calm yet tactically astute lawyer with a balanced approach. She understands the importance of a case strategy and can manage complex cases with ease.’
‘The firm has a strong head of department for family law. Easy to reach via email or telephone, and you normally get same day response.’
‘Danielle Messenger possesses extensive knowledge in family law, which is evident in the insightful advice she offers. Danielle demonstrates exceptional professionalism and competence, delivering her expertise in a friendly and approachable way. Throughout the entire process, she remains meticulous, fair, and fully transparent. Lastly, she is highly efficient and consistently ensures tasks are completed promptly and without unnecessary delay.’
‘A strong, cohesive team. From first contact, seamless contact and communication.'
‘The firm was recommended and did not disappoint with an efficient service and timely updates.’
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Danielle Messenger
Other key lawyers
Donna Downes