Leading Associates

Firms To Watch: Family: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40

Amanda Phillips-Wylds set up the Family Law Partners offering in Ascot in September 2024, with comprehensive family law experience and specialist knowledge of nuptial agreements.

Family: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 in South East

Blandy & Blandy LLP

Praised for its ‘unrivalled talent at all levels of seniority’, the family team at Blandy & Blandy LLP in Reading handles the full range of matrimonial, financial, and children matters, including those complicated by trusts, tax issues, and jurisdictional questions. Practice head Claire Dyer ‘has an amazing ability to make the most complex case look simple’, advising married and unmarried couples as well as grandparents and families in complex children cases. Dyer has growing experience in surrogacy matters, also an area of expertise for Gemma Kemp. Tasha Bevan-Stewart is a go-to for non-court dispute resolution methods and constructive separation, using mediation or collaborative practice.

Practice head(s):

Claire Dyer


Other key lawyers:

Gemma Kemp; Tasha Bevan-Stewart; Claire Clarke; Shashi Sachdeva; Rebecca Ledgerwood; Peter Hilton; Elizabeth Owen


Testimonials

‘Tasha Bevan-Stewart’s prowess in settling cases (advantageously and reasonably) for her clients is well-known. Everything that is capable of settlement is (and anything left to the courts usually leaves Tasha’s clients very successful indeed). She is a pleasure to work with and wholly committed to achieving the best outcomes for her clients.’

‘Without a doubt the leading firm in the Thames Valley. Unrivalled talent at all levels of seniority. From the more basic family finance/children matter, to the most complex of UHNW matter, Blandy & Blandy are the best.’

‘Gemma Kemp is an outstanding lawyer with a huge following. If you want the best outcome, you go to Gemma. As simple as that.’

‘Elizabeth Owen has huge potential. She is definitely a star for the future.’

‘Claire Dyer has an amazing ability to make the most complex case look simple.’

‘Peter Hilton is developing an increasing practice in TOLATA work, which adds another string to the Blandy bow. He is a very safe pair of hands who covers all bases for his clients.’

‘Shashi Sachdeva has a vast range of experience in money and children disputes, which helps clients trust that her instinct about their case is accurate.’

Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne

‘Well-respected within the local legal profession’, Abingdon-based Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne is noted for its wide-ranging, deep expertise in public children law, including high complexity care proceedings. Emily Boardman is a go-to for adoption work, with ‘considerable experience’ acting for prospective adopters and agencies, and handling post-adoption contact applications. Ruth Hawkins is known for her complex children work and mediation: Carrie Rudge also offers mediation. Irena Osborne often takes on cases involving international relocation, and has expertise regarding domestic abuse. The private matrimonial team is headed by Helen Bishop, who has deep experience in cases involving children with complex needs, and business assets.

Practice head(s):

Emily Boardman; Ruth Hawkins; Irena Osborne; Helen Bishop


Other key lawyers:

Carrie Rudge


Testimonials

‘There is a real focus on client care from the entire team – they each take time with their clients in a way that other firms don’t. There is an individualised focus to that which is personal to each client.’

‘Emily Boardman is a stand-out partner. Anything she doesn’t know about adoption proceedings is not worth knowing. She is a leader in the field in that area. Likewise her work in non-accidental injury cases. She has a no-nonsense, but empathetic approach.’

‘Client care is excellent and it is obvious that clients are well prepared and properly advised before court hearings. The team is well-respected within the local legal profession having good working relations with other solicitors and the judiciary, vital for the amount of work now done outside of court hearings.’

‘Emily Boardman, from personal experience, is one of the most ‘hands-on’ and available solicitors around, ensuring that communication is prompt and in accordance with the needs of the particular client. She has considerable expertise in the areas she practices in and any client of hers is in safe hands.’

‘Founding partners Emily Boardman and Ruth Hawkins are extremely well versed in the law and diligent on behalf of their clients. Emily Boardman is second to none in going out of her way to listen to, understand and advise especially vulnerable clients with no nonsense, plain advice and direction.’

‘Helen Bishop is a very competent solicitor. She provides an excellent service to her clients, in terms of advice, the standard of documents that she produces and her skills in negotiation.’

‘Emily Boardman is the lawyer you would send your best friend to.’

‘A committed firm that will go the extra mile, and more, for their clients. They are leaders in the field of complex children work.’

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP‘s Oxford offering is noted for its range of expertise, ‘from tough litigators, to mediators and to children specialists’. Expertise spans finances and children work, including farming cases, those with an international element, and highly conflicted children cases. Tim Whitney co-heads the team: noted for his strength as a mediator, Whitney regularly takes on high-value, complex, or urgent mediations. Matthew Heyworth, co-head, specialises in complex financial remedy proceedings including those where there are failures in disclosure. For children matters, Claire Burton is the go-to, often sought out for children work where there are allegations of domestic abuse and those arising as a result of substance abuse issues.

Practice head(s):

Tim Whitney; Matthew Heyworth


Other key lawyers:

Claire Burton; Kerry Haugh; Eliza Bruton


Testimonials

‘The team has a good balance. They have all different types of lawyers, from tough litigators, to mediators and to children specialists with the gentle approach.’

‘Matthew Heyworth is comfortable in litigation. I understand that many of his clients come to him after they have exhausted options available to them with court now being their last resort and they want someone to fight their corner. He is detailed and thinks carefully about his client’s position.’

‘Tim Whitney is a go to mediator. He is a real problem solver and tackles tricky cases head on. His experience in litigation really helps his mediation practice as it enables him to be more direct and clear.’

‘Tim Whitney is no nonsense and user friendly. He has an ability to get to grips with the most challenging mediation scenario.’

‘They are an excellent team who excel in providing honest advice from the outset so that clients are fully aware of the strengths (or not) of their cases from the get go.’

‘Matthew Heyworth is a leading partner, who will always pick up the phone and talk through matters on a constructive basis. His knowledge of complex finance work is outstanding but he never lets complexity distract from getting to a resolution.’

‘Claire Burton is a highly regarded children specialist with a growing practice in advice on modern family law topics. She is a go to recommendation.’

‘Tim Whitney is my mediator of choice. Calm, pragmatic and effective.’

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Praised as ‘the standout team for high-net-worth financial remedy cases in Oxford and the Thames Valley’, Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP has notable strength in cases with an international element: Jane Mitchell, co-heading the team, is a fellow of the International Family Law Association. Co-head Ruth James regularly handles the most complex financial work, involving trusts, offshore estates, and businesses, children matters impacted by substance abuse and mental health issues. Jolene Hutchison has extensive experience in wealth preservation, advising on pre- and post-nuptial agreements, while Matilda Kingham is noted for her work as a mediator, and is the key name in Reading.

Practice head(s):

Jane Mitchell; Ruth James


Other key lawyers:

Eleanor Moodey; Jolene Hutchison; Matilda Kingham; Adam Paterson


Testimonials

‘Eleanor Moodey is an exceptional solicitor who is an expert in her field. She has excellent client care coupled with thinking strategically about the case to achieve the best outcome for the client.’

‘Adam Paterson has a calm and considered approach, is able to look after vulnerable clients well and provide pragmatic solutions. He is a very safe pair of hands.’

‘Matilda Kingham is the full package: keen intellect, great strategist but also settlement focused – shown by her strong mediation following which supplements her traditional practice.’

‘Penningtons Manches Cooper have a deserved reputation, particularly at their senior end, for capability in the area. They are one of Oxford’s leading firms in family law.’

‘Ruth James is exceptional. Her attention to detail is second to none and she has an acute ability to see the crux of a case.’

‘Pennington Manches Cooper are the standout team for high-net-worth financial remedy cases in Oxford and the Thames Valley. They have strengthened their team with the arrival of Jolene Hutchinson over the last year and are likely to go from strength to strength.’

‘Jane Mitchell leads the team with great experience and huge talent. She always seeks the best for her clients and works hard to achieve their aims.’

‘Jolene Hutchinson is a fantastic whirlwind of energy who looks after her clients with great care and skill. She is a talented lawyer and pursues cases proportionately and with great pragmatism.’

Barrett & Thomson

Based in Slough, Barrett & Thomson is a ‘deeply professional firm’ with longstanding experience of public children law, including matters involving domestic abuse. Claire Fitzgerald heads up the team, a particular expert in domestic abuse matters, also an area of expertise for Tracey Haynes. Sue Scott has experience handling both privately and publicly funded work, including separation agreements, contact disputes, and child abduction issues, and Rizwana Khan has expertise in complex non-accidental injury, sexual abuse, and trafficking related cases.

Practice head(s):

Claire Fitzgerald


Other key lawyers:

Tracey Haynes; Sue Scott; Rizwana Khan; Charan Jutla


Testimonials

‘This practice is an old school deeply professional firm. There is quality throughout the firm and the advice given is always focused on achieving the best outcome for the client. The solicitors are experienced and pragmatic. Apart from being excellent – they are all highly sympathetic and will always walk the extra mile to ensure that the client is supported.’

‘Claire Fitzgerald is the best of the best. Deeply experienced, highly knowledgeable and encyclopaedic knowledge of law and above all impeccable judgment.’

‘Tracey Haynes is supportive, competent and creative at finding solutions for clients.’

‘Good client relationships. Able to deal with clients who are difficult in terms of volume of communication, not accepting of advice and the legal position even when advised by a judge, or suffering emotionally. This level of client care is exceptional in my view.’

‘Charan Jutla is extremely helpful, knowledgeable, personable. She is good to work with as a legal team, and has exceptionally good relationship with clients.’

‘This firm goes above and beyond to meet its clients’ needs, some of whom are highly vulnerable.’

‘Rizwana Khan is highly effective and diligent, knows her cases and her approach and she demonstrates integrity and maximum effort for all her clients. It brings success wherever possible.’

‘The team are a group of formidable solicitors who combine compassion and care with clarity and competence.’

Blake Morgan LLP

The team at Blake Morgan LLP is made up of ‘true experts in the field of matrimonial finance’, regularly handling complex, high-value financial disputes following divorce and separation as well as nuptial agreements, cohabitation disputes, and private children law work. James Davies heads the team, ‘a jurisprudential force’ whose cases are often inter-jurisdictional or involving business assets; Cohabitation disputes are a particular area of expertise for Davies. Laura Bennett is recommended as a mediator, as well as handling high-value financial disputes, and Amy Maher is a qualified collaborative lawyer. Catherine Morgan departed the team in March 2025.

Practice head(s):

James Davies


Other key lawyers:

Laura Bennett; Amy Maher; Rachel Knight


Testimonials

‘The family team at Blake Morgan is one of the best in the area. They are all good lawyers, and a pleasure to have on the other side of a case.’

‘Amy Maher works tirelessly for her clients.’

‘James Davies has been especially supportive and has offered exceptional advice, often in difficult circumstances. He has made me feel supported and has not let any details that would work against me go unquestioned. He is able to explain issues thoughtfully, in an understandable way, and the letters that he has written on my behalf have been excellent.’

‘Having had to go through a very tough family court case, Amy Maher from Blake Morgan tackled it with honesty, integrity and clarity. Going to court was something I was very nervous and apprehensive about, however, Amy put my mind at ease and it was a very smooth transaction from start to finish.’

‘The team is very well organised and lead by James Davies. They are true experts in the field of matrimonial finance.’

‘James Davies is an exceptional lawyer and always strives to achieve the best results for his clients. He is very client focused and has no difficulty at all in dealing with the “Magic Circle” firms. When appropriate, is relentless in his approach to disclosure.’

‘James Davies is a jurisprudential force. He loves technical legal arguments and is really prepared to thoroughly research a client’s case from all angles to make sure all bases are covered.’

‘Rachel Knight, as the most junior member of the team, is already making a name for herself as a bright, astute and friendly lawyer.’

Field Seymour Parkes LLP

Field Seymour Parkes LLP‘s Reading family practice fields ‘an excellent team with expertise across the full range of family disputes’, with a deep bench including collaboratively trained lawyers and trained mediators. Bethan Thomas, practice head, is noted for her expertise advising intervenors, and has experience with complex private law children work. Sue Baker has a particular specialism in the treatment of Armed Forces pensions in divorce, and Lindsay Davies is additionally a go-to in this area. Madeleine Young, a mediator, is trained to offer the Resolution Together one lawyer two clients model.

Practice head(s):

Bethan Thomas


Other key lawyers:

Sue Baker; Lindsay Davies; Hannah Sims; Madeleine Young; Duncan Lomax


Testimonials

‘Stand out team, who provide flawless legal advice, great team work and an empathetic approach.’

‘Hannah Sims is a stand out star, thinks strategically and tactically. Gives excellent and realistic advice, and is not afraid to make difficult decisions.’

‘The family team is an extremely cohesive group of stellar lawyers, led by the first-class Bethan Thomas.’

‘Bethan Thomas is a stand-out lawyer in her field. She has excellent judgment and an outstanding knowledge of the law.’

‘Hannah Sims is an excellent lawyer. She has a keen eye for detail, is strategic in her approach and is loved by clients.’

‘Duncan Lomax is one to watch. He is conscientious, extremely hard-working and has good judgment.’

‘Sue Baker is a stalwart of the family law landscape in Reading, she is well regarded by clients and professionals alike, who appreciate her frank approach.’

‘Madeline Young is a talented NCDR specialist with a mediation and collaborative practice on top of her traditional legal work.’

Freeths LLP

The Oxford family team at Freeths LLP advises on a wide range of issues, including complex financial disputes involving pension issues and cross-jurisdictional assets, and children matters such as child abduction issues. Gavin Scott heads up the team, ‘a fearless, driven and dedicated practitioner’ with notable expertise regarding cases with international elements. Scott is additionally recommended in cases involving domestic abuse, parental alienation, and coercive control. The ‘highly recommended’ Joanne Thomas has experience handling surrogacy and fertility work, and Gemma Nicholls-Webber has a particular focus on farming matters. For mediation, Tom Burgess is the go-to.

Practice head(s):

Gavin Scott


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Thomas; Gemma Nicholls-Webber; Tom Burgess


Testimonials

‘Freeths is an exceptional firm with a well deserved national reputation. They work well together and draw on their internal expertise across the regions.’

‘Gavin Scott has made a reputation for himself as a fearless, driven and dedicated practitioner who clearly enjoys the job. He is consistent with everyone he meets, kind and courteous, and is devoted to the client and their case.’

‘Joanne Thomas is highly recommended. She has a calm, reassuring presence with clients, a wise head and a meticulous attention to detail. She tackles children and financial work with equal sensitivity and clarity.’

‘Tom Burgess is a really excellent family mediator. Stays very calm under pressure and an excellent manner.’

‘I’ve found Freeths to be sensible in their approach, realistic with clients, and good at avoiding unnecessary conflict. They also strike the right balance between being approachable and properly on top of the law. It’s a team that runs smoothly and delivers consistently.’

‘Gemma Nicholls-Webber is one of the most competent solicitors I’ve worked with in recent years. She’s all over the detail. She’s confident without being overbearing, and she has a really good feel for how to handle complex or high-conflict cases. She’s particularly good on financial remedy work—very switched on when it comes to strategy, but also very practical. Clients clearly trust her, and rightly so.’

‘Tom Burgess is calm, reliable, and gets the job done without fuss. He’s a strong all-rounder, very steady with clients, and a safe pair of hands. His preparation is careful and thoughtful, and he’s not someone who overcomplicates things. He’s also good at seeing the bigger picture and gives instructions that are focused and well-judged. He brings a level-headedness to proceedings that’s very welcome, especially in more emotional cases.’

‘Gavin Scott is second to none when it comes to strategic awareness combined with exceptional client care.’

Hedges Law

‘A very sound choice for the discerning family law client’, Hedges Law has bases across Oxford, Chipping Norton, and Wallingford, and is experienced across complex finance and children matters. Zoe Rose heads up the team, ‘an outstanding family law solicitor’ regularly sought out for her expertise in handling pension assets. Nicola Poole focuses on high-net-worth financial disputes, often involving overseas assets, business valuations, and farming assets. Complex finances are also an area of expertise for Alexandra Baggallay, who in addition handles private law children work such as relocation disputes. Ian Davies is trained in the Resolution Together one lawyer two clients model.

Practice head(s):

Zoe Rose


Other key lawyers:

Nicola Poole; Ian Davies; Alexandra Baggallay; Lauren Pilcher


Testimonials

‘Hedges Law are a very professional, efficient and personal firm. They are exceptional in navigating clients through the maze of family law. They explain and guide comprehensively, and are very much the wise tortoise rather than a gung ho hare. I highly recommend them and genuinely believe that you could not have anyone better in your corner.’

‘Zoe Rose is truly great! Always there and comprehensively explaining all options before guiding one to the best route. She gave such very wise counsel and best advice throughout all our dealings, and is an outstanding family law solicitor.’

‘I found the team to be very profession and thorough throughout. They have helped me immensely to understand the process and work through everything I need.’

‘Ian Davies is clear, calm, and sympathetic, and works very hard to manage my enhanced level of need.’

‘Nicola Poole was truly exceptional as were all the staff who managed my case. She was precise, prompt, informative, great at explaining and went above and beyond in what was a very trying time personally.’

‘Zoe Rose is at top of the game. Brilliant lawyer.’

‘Modern in its outlook and very client-focused in its approach, Hedges is a very sound choice for the discerning family law client.’

‘Nicola Poole – the driving-force of the firm – is hugely experienced and universally respected.’

RWK Goodman

The ‘fantastically strong family law team’ at RWK Goodman in Oxford has a particular emphasis on work for high-net-worth individuals, including financial remedy matters with overseas assets and jurisdiction issues. Simon Bassett is ‘sought after’ for his understanding of business assets, and Vanessa Gardiner regularly prepares high-value nuptial agreements. The team has a growing non-court dispute resolution practice, and works with a divorce coach. Catherine Morgan joined the firm in March 2025 from Blake Morgan LLP.

Practice head(s):

Simon Bassett


Other key lawyers:

Vanessa Gardiner; Catherine Morgan


Testimonials

‘RWK Goodman have a fantastically strong family law team with individual and combined expertise in family law. This means that cases are well managed – strengths and weaknesses identified, clients feel listened to, and the cases are well placed to achieve the best possible outcomes.’

‘A professional and robust approach is matched with empathy and understanding how difficult the client may find the situation.’

‘Vanessa Gardiner is very thorough and has a great attention to detail that inspires confidence in clients which is important in the collaborative law process.’

‘Vanessa Gardiner is very empathetic and knowledgeable. Vanessa really cares about her clients and is very responsive. She gives strategic advice in a way clients are able to understand.’

‘The firm has a number of highly experienced lawyers in their field. They are very well known locally for their expertise knowledge and their willingness to be involved in pushing across new initiatives.’

‘Simon Bassett is the go to person in respect of finance cases. His knowledge regarding businesses makes him well sought after in his field.’

SE-Solicitors

‘A standout practice that combines City-level expertise with a client-focused approach’, SE-Solicitors handles the full spectrum of family law matters including divorce, finances, child arrangements, and cohabitation agreements. Its clients often include agricultural business owners. Practice head Patrick Mulcare is an ‘exceptional practitioner’, advising on financial remedy cases involving landed estates. Deborah Davies heads up the team’s private children law offering, qualified as a collaborative lawyer, and often handles matters with vulnerable clients and allegations of domestic abuse.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Mulcare


Other key lawyers:

Deborah Davies; Monicka Rai; Irrum Shah; Sigourney Lee-Smith


Testimonials

‘SE-Solicitors’ Family Team is a standout practice that combines City-level expertise with a client-focused approach. The team is highly regarded for its ability to handle complex and high-value family law matters with the same skill, precision, and strategic insight as the leading London firms.’

‘Patrick Mulcare is an exceptional practitioner whose legal expertise, strategic mindset, and unwavering dedication set him apart from his peers. He is highly regarded for his ability to navigate complex and high-stakes matters with precision, combining sharp analytical skills with a pragmatic, results-driven approach.’

‘Deborah Davies is a highly competent practitioner. She is well known and respected by the local judiciary and family bar.’

‘Patrick Mulcare is also a ‘stand out’ member of the team. He is intelligent, personable and achieves excellent results for his clients.’

‘I would particularly recommend Sigourney Lee-Smith – she is a solicitor who really fights her clients’ corner. She knows the cases inside out, knows the law well, and ensures that barristers she instructs have everything they need. Her clients respect her.’

‘Sigourney Lee-Smith has been a delight to work alongside, and has provided clear and sensible instructions on each occasion. It is clear that she cares for her client and the outcome. She has been exceptionally responsive and has gone above and beyond when required.’

‘The family team are well known for their expertise and attention to detail. They provide clear advice and will offer support at every stage.’

‘Sigourney Lee-Smith is fantastic. Her attention to details is second to none and she has a brilliant, personal, hands-on approach to achieve the best possible outcome for her clients.’

Blanchards Law

The ‘highly collaborative’ team at boutique firm Blanchards Law handles the full range of family matters from relationship breakdown and divorce issues through to private family law matters; it has extensive experience handling international matters. Founder Punam Denley is key to this international offering and is a trained mediator, as is Christine Plews, who joined the team in June 2024. Helen Habershon has experience in child abduction and leave to remove matters, and Susan Andrews, who also joined in June 2024, is ‘a highly sought after leading matrimonial solicitor’.

Practice head(s):

Punam Denley; Helen Habershon; Susan Andrews; Christine Plews


Other key lawyers:

Juliet Gordon


Testimonials

‘Blanchards are an excellent firm in the area offering a service to a range of clients. The firm moved quickly to secure local star solicitor Susan Andrews recently, an excellent move for a highly sought after leading matrimonial solicitor.’

‘The team are without a fault approachable. They are all highly collaborative and ensure that there is always capacity for clients.’

‘They have the culture of a boutique firm, but the ability to deal with value high value matters of a big London firm.’

‘Punam Denley is extremely knowledgeable and highly professional: instills great confidence in you.’

‘Susan Andrews has a very long track record of litigating against London firms and her knowledge of the law and understanding of human relationships is unparalleled. She fights hard for her clients but knows when to settle.’

‘Punam Denly is an exceptional partner who brings her experience in high-net-worth cases to bear in all cases. She provides sound advice and works incredibly hard.’

Clifton Ingram LLP Solicitors

The ‘dynamic team’ at Clifton Ingram LLP Solicitors has expertise across child arrangements, often including allegations of abuse and vulnerable clients, and financial settlements on divorce, along with experience handling TOLATA cases for unmarried couples. Anne Deller and Rekha Joshi co-head the team: Deller, in Reading, is a go-to for children work, while in Wokingham, Joshi often takes on financial disputes, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and cohabitation agreements.

Practice head(s):

Anne Deller; Rekha Joshi


Other key lawyers:

Lisa Lee; Laura Inskip; Rashi Dawson


Testimonials

‘Anne Deller is a good communicator and always well prepared. Instills confidence in her clients.’

‘Dynamic team who are all very approachable and support their clients throughout their case. The engagement with the proceedings and all that needs to be done to ensure that the client’s case is thoroughly prepared is done to an incredible standard.’

‘Rekha Joshi gives her clients a very warm and supportive space to explain their current position and what they are seeking from the court proceedings.’

‘Rashi Dawson is a pleasure to work with. She is a skilled communicator and gives sound advice to client’s at an early stage, helpfully managing client’s expectations of the process. She is impressive in her strategic approach and develops positive relationships with clients and opponents. ’

‘The Family Team at Clifton Ingram are one of the most approachable teams I work with. From partners to associates, they are down to earth and really understand their clients’ goals on an individual level. They are exceptionally professional, which is sometimes hard to balance with a friendly approach, but the team at Clifton Ingram manages it.’

‘Laura Inskip is always complimented by clients for her support to them, both on a personal and professional level, throughout their dispute.’

‘Rekha Joshi is hard working, knowledgeable, and well prepared. She is great to work with. She is prepared to go the distance to get a good result.’

Gardner Leader LLP

The family team at ‘client focused firm’ Gardner Leader LLP takes on the full spectrum of family law matters, with experience across divorces, financial arrangements, private children disputes and cohabitation or nuptial agreements. Simon Fisher heads the team from Maidenhead, an arbitrator and collaboratively trained lawyer, while in Newbury Suzy Hamshaw is a trained mediator. Elizabeth Saunders is a go-to for financial disputes involving business and farming assets.

Practice head(s):

Simon Fisher


Other key lawyers:

Suzy Hamshaw; Elizabeth Saunders; Stephanie Buckeridge; Amy Wilson Weymouth; Stephanie Newton; Rosie Deller


Testimonials

‘A great team who take real pride in being as helpful as possible to their clients. Their advice is always spot on.’

‘Amy Wilson Weymouth gives solid advice which is always spot on.’

‘Rosie Deller is an excellent lawyer. She is dedicated to achieving the very best outcomes for her clients. She does this by having excellent client care, sound judgment and an outstanding knowledge of the law.’

‘Stephanie Buckeridge is an outstanding lawyer who fights very hard for her clients. She goes the extra mile for her family law clients to get them the best result.’

‘Suzy Hamshaw and her team were excellent through the whole divorce process. Her advice was excellent and she took time to explain everything so that I understood exactly what was going to happen.’

‘Amy Wilson Weymouth is approachable and friendly whilst providing an excellent quality and standard of work.’

‘Gardner Leader are a client focused firm who ensure that they are approachable and client focused.’

‘Elizabeth Saunders is a class act. Extremely knowledgeable, tactically astute, robust and non-nonsense. Gives eminently sensible advice and is a strong litigator.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for a wife in a £15m – £20m financial remedy matter in the High Court involving trusts in the Cook Islands, assets in New Zealand and a company in England.

HCR Law

HCR Law‘ family practice ‘provides a personal service within a large multi-disciplinary practice’, with notable experience handling complex private children law cases involving relocation, parental alienation, domestic abuse, and disputed paternity, alongside taking on the full range of financial remedy matters. Kate Grant heads the team, trained to offer the one couple one lawyer model, and the team grew in June 2024 with the addition of Danielle Bentley, formerly of Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP, a mediator with experience handling cases with an international element.

Practice head(s):

Kate Grant


Other key lawyers:

Danielle Bentley


Testimonials

‘Kate Grant and Danielle Bentley are outstanding.’

‘Strong team with good legal knowledge. Safe pair of hands.’

‘The family department are one of the leading teams in the Thames Valley area. Both Kate Grant and Dannielle Bentley are technically brilliant whilst all the time delivering sensible and pragmatic advice for their clients.’

‘Kate Grant is an exceptional solicitor. Humane and understanding but with a keen tactical mind that sees round corners. She is one of the best in the business.’

‘I largely dealt with Danielle Bentley, who was the solicitor with conduct of my matter. The difference between her approach and others seems to be a focus on not only the legal requirements of my matter, but also a clear focus on practical consequences of decisions that were made during the case.’

‘The firm provides personal service within a large multi-disciplinary practice.’

‘Kate Grant is first rate. Her client care skills are second to none.’

‘Kate Grant has experience, intellect and humanity. Her clients love her and her opponents underestimate her. She is a force to be reckoned with.’

Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers Ltd (LGFL Ltd)

Characterised by ‘its client-focused approach and exceptional expertise’, boutique firm Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers Ltd (LGFL Ltd) is co-led by Anne Leiper and Rita Gupta. Noted for her ‘professionalism and attention to detail’, Leiper is a trained mediator and collaborative lawyer. A standout element of the practice is Gupta’s expertise regarding cases involving SEN children: ‘an innovative, hugely experienced and professional lawyer’, she is additionally experienced in post-separation abuse cases.

Practice head(s):

Rita Gupta; Anne Leiper


Testimonials

‘Rita Gupta is an innovative, hugely experienced and professional lawyer, who goes the extra mile for her clients.’

‘Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers are true professionals in every sense of the word. They show empathy, strong communication skills, and have a thorough understanding of family law, while also exhibiting patience, analytical abilities, and the capacity to navigate complex and often emotional situations.’

‘This practice stands out for its client-focused approach and exceptional expertise. Advice given is honest, clear, and realistic. The firm’s small size fosters close collaboration and personalised attention, setting it apart from larger competitors.’

‘I have found LGFL an excellent company to deal with. Rita Gupta in particular has been extremely helpful and manages to explain everything in clear English. This is especially helpful when you do not fully understand ‘solicitors speak’.’

‘Rita Gupta always make you feel at ease and you feel comfortable in explaining your situation. Her questions are easily understood and phrased clearly. She has a fantastic ability to understand her client and is always willing to assist further with any questions you may have. I cannot say enough about the excellent service I have received and would totally recommend Rita and her team to anyone.’

‘Personally I cannot fault a single thing Anne Leiper did for me. Her knowledge and experience speaks volumes with how she helped me get to an end of a divorce that I didn’t think was possible. I came away with a settlement I never thought was achievable.’

‘I had a very positive experience with LGFL Ltd, a firm recommended to me by a friend who had previously utilised their services. From the outset, I felt extremely confident in their expertise and felt looked after in a difficult period of my life.’

‘My appreciation for Anne Leiper comes from her being the most helpful person I’ve ever had the pleasure of dealing with. Anne’s professionalism and attention to detail are commendable, and she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure everything is on point.’

Stowe Family Law LLP

Combining ‘breadth of expertise’ and ‘excellent client care’, Stowe Family Law LLP‘s Oxford and Reading based teams practice across the full range of family law. Liza Gatrell, managing partner, heads the team. Gemma Davison, in Oxford, is an accredited mediator and collaborative lawyer with experience in modern families work. In Reading, Sarah Scriven is recommended for challenging child law matters, and Jo Backwith is also a key name.

Practice head(s):

Liza Gatrell


Other key lawyers:

Gemma Davison; Jo Backwith; Sarah Scriven; Emily Bevan


Testimonials

‘Stowe Family Law is rapidly expanding. What makes them stand out in the industry is that they specialise exclusively in Family Law, which brings with it many advantages.’

‘I work with Emily Bevan. She is a no nonsense solicitor who gives robust and sound advice. She leaves no stone unturned.’

‘The team’s key strengths are the breadth of experience whilst maintaining excellent client care.’

‘I work with Sarah Scriven regularly and I would happily recommend her to friends, the landmark of an excellent professional. Sarah is so organised and her attention to detail is unrivalled. Sarah also maintains excellent client care levels, she really cares about her cases but gives honest advice, even when contrary to client’s preferred outcome.’

‘This firm has a good ethos of team working which means that clients will always have a lawyer to speak about their case.’

‘Jo Backwith is very approachable and provides excellent customer service to her clients. She is meticulous in her strategy for a clients case and is always focused on providing them with the best outcome.’

‘Emily Bevan was outstanding and very supportive.’

‘Sensitive team with a human touch.’

Boyes Turner

Boyes Turner has a growing family practice in Reading, headed by ‘inspirational’ Paul Linsell, a mediator with experience handling complex financial and children matters and a particular focus on assisting families with children who have special needs. Nicola Weeks is praised for her ‘friendly and direct manner’, and Lizzie Dravnieks is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Paul Linsell


Other key lawyers:

Nicola Weeks; Lizzie Dravnieks; Jess O’Shea White


Testimonials

‘Boyes Turner has been exemplary, not only in terms of the service it has provided but also the support, guidance and genuine care extended to me and my family.’

‘Nicola Weeks provided excellent and clear advice in a friendly and direct manner, which was crucial in enabling a vulnerable client to fully understand and engage with each stage of the process.’

‘From the very first engagement with the Family Law Team at Boyes Turner, they have been balanced in their advice with a shared focus on prioritising us. Paul Linsell has nurtured a great team and I am truly grateful for the compassionate and collaborative approach from Lizzie Dravnieks and Jess O’Shea White.’ 

‘Paul Linsell has guided me from the outset with a calm and considered approach, has never made me feel embarrassed or ashamed despite some very difficult subject matter.’

‘Thoughtful and considered advice. Teams of specialists in distinct areas including families with SEN children.’

‘Paul Linsell is inspirational. His knowledge of law but also his commitment to well-being and equality make him stand out.’

‘A nice, incredibly ambitious team that has some real young talent, all expertly guided by a more senior head of team.’

‘What stood out from the outset is the empathy, compassion and understanding shown each and every day working with Lizzie and Jess.’

K J Smith Solicitors

K J Smith Solicitors has a ‘strong regional presence’: Kulbir Rahi heads the Ascot team, Beth Pettifer takes the lead in Woodley, Edward Morton leads the Newbury office and Sofie Corbin established the team in Oxford. The firm handles the full range of financial and children disputes.

Practice head(s):

Kulbir Rahi; Beth Pettifer; Edward Morton; Sofie Corbin


Testimonials

‘The team have been very helpful. Everyone I have had contact with has been kind and supportive with helping me.’

‘Sofie Corbin is really understanding, helpful and kind. There have been areas of my divorce that have brought complexity and difficulties. She has listened and given her expertise and guidance.’

‘The Family Team at KJ Smith offer a very strong regional presence for a full Matrimonial service in Private Law and financial proceedings.’

‘Beth Pettifer is an extremely knowledgeable, approachable and dedicated lawyer, who is always striving for the best. Her “no fuss” approach makes it a delight to work with her. Beth always takes a constructive approach to matters and has strong communication skills.’

‘Beth Pettifer if very good. I would recommend her. She gets it and is very supportive of clients.’

‘They are personable, willing to go the extra mile and focused on helping their client to secure their desired outcome.’

‘KJ Smith Solicitors are an approachable, client-focused team who are all very capable solicitors.’

‘Kulbir Rahi was the solicitor on my case, and I hold her in high regard for the quality of work and advice I received. All timely and appropriate to my needs, advising risks and mitigations such that I could make necessary decisions.’

Lightfoots Solicitors

The ‘incredibly compassionate’ team at Lightfoots Solicitors works out of Thame, handling divorce issues, child arrangements, nuptial agreements and cohabitation matters. Team head Petrova Caldecourt is a mediator and ‘handles extremely challenging cases with skill and great determination’, while Adam Ball is the go-to for Inheritance Act-related work.

Practice head(s):

Petrova Caldecourt


Other key lawyers:

Adam Ball; Rebecca Pykett


Testimonials

‘Petrova Caldecourt stands out as an incredibly hard working and warm hearted solicitor who inspires confidence in her clients and achieves wonderful results.’

‘The team at Lightfoots are incredibly compassionate and supportive towards their clients. They are very pro-active at reaching out to ensure that their clients feel heard at every stage of the process.’

‘Petrova Caldecourt is a stand out partner in the Thames Valley area. She handles extremely challenging cases with skill and great determination.’

‘Petrova Caldecourt has been an incredible support throughout a challenging family matter. Her expertise in family law, combined with her compassionate approach, made all the difference. She took the time to listen to my concerns and provided clear, practical advice tailored to my situation.’

‘Petrova Caldecourt is proactive and sensible. She cares about her clients and will help them to achieve the right outcome. ’

‘They are the best! So professional, but they know what they are doing and they have your best interests at heart.’

‘I would trust this team with my life, in fact I pretty much have. There is no one else I would use.’