‘Master tactician’ Catherine Polli heads the predominantly Upminster-based practice at Pinney Talfourd LLP, which is noted for its ’multi-disciplinary' expertise. In Brentwood, deputy head Claire Spurgeon regularly assists with financial remedy and Children Act mandates involving coercive and controlling behaviour, areas in which Michael Sheville has extensive expertise. Catherine Loadman has experience with cohabitation claims, and Louise Eady was promoted to partner in May 2023, and leads the firm’s growing surrogacy and fertility practice. Remyhs Baker is a ‘stand-out divorce solicitor’ who has notable expertise in non-traditional family structures. Lucy Nicholson joined the firm in January 2023, contributing her deep knowledge of private children and domestic abuse matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Profile

Work Department

Family

Position

Partner and Head of Family Department

Career

Having undertaken two specialist family pupillages in London, Catherine subsequently became a tenant at Tanfield Chambers. Whilst a pupil she was awarded a Hardwick Scholarship from Lincoln’s Inn. Having practiced as a family specialist at the Bar in London for 7 years she decided to enter into private practice in Essex in 2003.

Catherine joined Pinney Talfourd in 2004 as Head of the family team, becoming a Partner in 2006 where she has remained head of the family team since that time. Over that time the family team has grown significantly both in strength and size and in now ranked in Tier 1 of Legal 500. She has also been named as a Leading Individual for a number of years.

Catherine undertakes some of the most complex and high value financial remedy work in the firm. Her clients mainly come through recommendation. She also continues to supervise all lawyers in the team.

Catherine also now manages the marketing and business development team and is involved in the day to day management of the firm in her role as Client Services Partner.

Key dates:

  • Trained as a Barrister at QEB and 10 Bolt Court
  • Hardwicke Scholar at Lincoln’s Inn
  • Called to the Bar 1997
  • Family Specialist in London Chambers until 2003
  • Joined Pinney Talfourd LLP 2004 and converted to a Solicitor 2005
  • Partner at Pinney Talfourd LLP 2006

Memberships

Catherine is a member of Resolution. Catherine continues to be recognised year on year in Tier 1 of Legal 500 as a leading individual.

Education

Catherine Polli studied law at Newcastle University, graduating in 1995.  She then went on to complete the Bar of vocational course at the Inns of Court School of Law in London, qualifying in 1997.

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Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Pinney Talfourd LLP are a well regarded family practice in Essex. They offer multi-disciplinary expertise and so clients can have all elements of their legal issues dealt with within the firm, and advice taken promptly on any cross-over issues. They have an very good reputation for family matters and any client could be confident of getting a excellent service with a real focus on client care and achieving the best possible outcome.’
  • ‘Louise Eady is exceptional, she works tirelessly for her clients and I would not hesitate to recommend her.’

  • ‘Remyhs Baker is a stand-out divorce solicitor, very passionate about her work assisting LQBTQ+, solo, separated and blended families.’

  • ‘Kiren Dhillon is very considered and thoughtful lawyer who will always ensure a case is considered from every angle. She is a brilliant person to have in your corner.’

  • ‘Jennifer Herbert is superb with a very down to earth approach which puts the clients at ease. Her instructions are always clear and precise and she is very responsive when needed.'

  • ‘Catherine Polli is a master tactician who gets to the crux of a case in an instant.’

  • ‘Working with Lucy Nicholson for a while now has been an absolute pleasure. Lucy is responsive, informative and helpful and consistently goes the extra mile.'

  • ‘Claire Spurgeon always goes above and beyond to ensure not only is my case in the best possible hands, but also my wellbeing throughout this tough time. She puts my mind at ease and I would not want to be represented by anyone else.’