With lawyers dedicated to private and public family law work, The Wilkes Partnership assists a broad client base with the full spectrum of nuptial and child law-related matters. Veteran Aaron Keene leads the private family law team, which includes highly recommended mediator Jackie Lee, and well-rounded practitioners Shabina Bi and Grace Hallam. The public law group, led by complex childcare expert Ruth Harrison-Byrne, consists of Samantha Hodson, who handles highly sensitive matters involving children and vulnerable people, as well as seasoned specialist Gail Hope. Hayley McCormack joined the practice in June 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Aaron Keene was very child-focused and even when the other party’s solicitor was using scare tactics, Aaron dealt with it using legal principles.'

  • ‘Ruth Harrison-Byrne is an exceptional solicitor who has extensive knowledge of public children law and outstanding client care skills. Samantha Hodson is an outstanding legal executive with exceptional organisational skills, legal knowledge and client care skills.’

  • ‘Jackie Lee provided a client focused service and was knowledgeable, easy to deal with, and fought her client's corner!’

  • ‘My family’s financial adviser recommended Wilkes Partnership to me when I undertook divorce proceedings. I am forever grateful for this recommendation as Wilkes supported me 100 per cent. The Wilkes Partnership have a very person-centered approach. I worked with Jackie Lee.'

  • ‘My needs were well matched as Jackie Lee steered me through a difficult divorce, always putting my concerns and outcomes at the centre of all her work. Her advice was second to none, as was her excellent representation in the family courts.'

  • ‘I have had an excellent experience with Jackie Lee who was in charge of my mediation meetings. She was extremely competent, professional, trustworthy, and reliable. I could form a strong trust relationship on the first day and could feel that the meetings were organised and held fairly and professionally. She is a great professional and a great human being!'

Practice head

Aaron Keene; Ruth Harrison-Byrne

Other key lawyers

Jackie Lee; Gail Hope; Shabina Bi; Grace Hallam; Samantha Hodson; Hayley McCormack