Biography
I am a solicitor practising in all areas of private family law including divorce, financial settlements, child arrangements, cohabitation agreements, enforcement proceedings and injunctions. I have particular experience in dealing with a variety of financial cases which range from high net worth with overseas assets and pensions to cases with limited assets and involving insolvency proceedings.
I am also a member of Resolution (an organisation of Family practitioners who promote a non-confrontational approach to resolving family disputes) and I am committed to resolving matters as constructively as possible.
Before qualifying in May 2023, I obtained a First-Class Honours Degree in Law at the Open University before completing my Masters at the University of Law, finishing with a Distinction. I later completed my training contract with a Northwest law firm before joining Irwin Mitchell in May 2024.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
The team I work with! Everyone is so friendly and there is such a wealth of talent and experience. Everyone is so generous with their time and knowledge.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
Definitely being able to help clients move on with their life after a break up. When you have worked so closely with someone during arguably one of the most difficult and stressful periods of their life, it is immensely rewarding to see them move on and be able to plan for the next chapter, knowing that you helped them to make that step.
What inspired you to get into law?
I had a slightly unusual route into the legal profession. I previously worked as cabin crew for a major UK airline for nearly 20 years. When I made the decision to hang up my wings, I wanted a career that would offer me a challenge as well as the opportunity to help others. My friend’s father wrote a book about his career as a matrimonial lawyer and, after reading, it I was curious to find out more about family law. The rest, as they say, is history!
What do you do away from the office?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and little boy and visiting my friends and family back in Scotland.
Testimonials
"After a recent marital split, I was recommended Claire when it came to sorting out the financial aspects and protecting my future. I met Claire in person last year and we went through my wishes and what my rights were. After leaving the meeting, I felt my future was much more promising and not swayed towards a particular party (which most men would be led to believe). The process in total took a few months (and that's mainly because the delay was on the other side) however Claire made it very easy to contact her with any questions whether that be by phone or email. Claire's advice and expertise is worth its weight in gold and I honestly believe you cannot put a price on protecting your rights and the future of yourself and your dependents. I would not hesitate to use again and I'm glad I'm able to look forward in 2024." - Mr C, client (Finances)
5 January 2024, 5* Review Solicitors Review
"Claire took over my case from another solicitor's firm that I hadn't been happy with. She took control of the situation immediately and got matters moving quickly where previously they had stalled. Communication was excellent throughout and even when on leave she ensured that the case was handed over to colleagues so that no time was wasted. As well as email, Claire was always available to talk to, which I appreciated when there were big decisions to make. Altogether, I felt that she represented me really well and achieved a good outcome on my behalf." - Mr S, client (Finances)
2 May 2024, 5* Review Solicitors Review
