The family law sector has seen a wave of appointments and expansions, as firms strengthen their teams and extend their reach to meet growing client needs.
Reeds Solicitors LLP recently announced the opening of its first Devon office, located in Exeter. This marks the firm’s 21st national office, and will primarily offer family law services. Associate Jessica Cantú, who specialises in care proceedings and pre-proceedings, particularly those involving domestic abuse, substance abuse, and mental health issues, will manage the Exeter office. Jessica will divide her time between Exeter and her current base in Swindon, while building a new practice in the Devon area under the guidance of James Ferry, Head of Family Law at Reeds. Managing Partner Jan Matthews emphasised the importance of local support amid the cost-of-living crisis, noting how it exacerbates domestic risks such as abuse and mental health challenges.
What’s more, Fladgate LLP has reinforced its family law team with the appointment of Rebecca Cockcroft as a Partner, effective from 27 August 2024. Cockcroft, a distinguished family lawyer with over 25 years of experience, will lead the Family team at Fladgate. She brings her expertise in complex matrimonial finance, children’s cases, and disputes with international dimensions. Rebecca joins from Payne Hicks Beach, where she was Head of Family Law from 2019 to 2024. Her appointment reflects Fladgate’s commitment to growing its Private Wealth and Dispute Resolution offerings, with Rebecca’s skills dovetailing seamlessly with the firm’s holistic service approach for private clients. Commenting on her new role, Cockcroft expressed her excitement about joining Fladgate during a period of growth and development, highlighting the firm’s premium approach to family law.
Anthony Collins Solicitors has strengthened its Midlands presence by opening a new private client office in Wolverhampton. The office, led by longstanding childcare solicitor Madhur Sharma, will build on the firm’s extensive work in family law across the region, supported by its additional Legal Aid Agency contract. This expansion reflects the firm’s commitment to making family law support more accessible, particularly for children and families in Wolverhampton and the wider Black Country area. Anthony Collins’ partner, Jas Tamber, described the opening as a personal and professional milestone, noting the significance of bringing top-tier childcare expertise to Wolverhampton.
Family Law Partners has expanded into Berkshire with the opening of a new office in Ascot, led by Amanda Phillips-Wylds, who joins the firm as Legal Director on 1st September 2024. Amanda, a Resolution Accredited Specialist and family mediator, brings over two decades of experience and will spearhead the firm’s strategy to extend its dispute resolution-focused services across the South of England. Her appointment aligns with the firm’s ethos of keeping clients out of court to minimise the emotional and financial toll of family disputes. Managing Director Robert Williams praised Amanda’s credentials and shared vision, reinforcing Family Law Partners’ commitment to delivering non-court resolution options for clients.
These high-profile appointments and office openings reflect a broader trend in the family law sector, as firms adapt to growing demand for specialist family services across England and Wales. From local expansions to bolstering teams with experienced professionals, the sector is positioned to provide comprehensive legal support during challenging times for families.
