The 5 best family lawyers in London who know how to fight (fairly)
I’ve watched a few clips of Keeping Up with the Kardashians, and the level of family drama is something else.
At times, I couldn’t tell if it was scripted or completely real. But if it was real, you have to wonder—did they ever bring in a lawyer to solve some of the dramas?
Family disputes can be challenging. When emotions are running high, it’s not always easy to think clearly or make objective decisions, especially when legal matters are involved.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who not only supports you through the process but also confidently represents you in court, we’re here to help. Our team has researched the best family lawyers in London so you can find the right one with ease.
| How much do family lawyer services cost in London? Family lawyer services in London typically cost between £150 and £500 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case. Some lawyers offer fixed rates for simpler matters like uncontested divorces. |
1. Southgate Solicitors
Address: Third Floor, Crown House, 47 Chase Side
Phone: +44 20 8004 0065
Business hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Southgate Solicitors has embraced technology to make things easier for their clients, and we really love that.
Clients can communicate with them through FaceTime, Skype, and even a live chat on their website. They also use secure digital portals for document sharing.
It’s a huge plus for clients who need transparency and ease of access without constant phone calls.
We also love how they handle their cases. You don’t get passed around between assistants. A qualified solicitor sticks with you from start to finish. This kind of personal attention came through when we spoke with people who had used their services.
One client told us her solicitor didn’t just point her to paperwork. She explained what everything meant, step by step, especially the more complex legal statements.
Another parent told us about a last-minute child arrangement hearing. Rajan, one of the solicitors, took charge quickly. He offered legal options and laid out a clear plan, even on short notice. For us, this just showed how efficient they can be.
That said, one client felt the solicitor’s negotiation lacked strength, leading to an outcome she wasn’t entirely happy with. The firm explained that the case was settled by agreement based on the court’s advice to avoid extra costs and delays.
They can put you in a better place than you can ever expect
“They are really good with family matters. 2 years ago, I was in a really bad situation, but with the great barrister like Rabia and the great solicitor like Ceylan Kahya. They can put you in a better place and in a better position than you can ever expect, and they will keep you well informed about the situation. Thank you both.”
Fiston Bombusa, Google review
They handled my case with great care
“I had an excellent experience with Lucy Cornish at Southgate Solicitors. They were professional, thorough, and provided clear advice throughout the process. They took the time to explain everything in detail, making sure I felt comfortable and informed. Their communication was prompt, and they handled my case with great care. Highly recommend their services!”
L. Meo, Google review
2. Gilson Gray LLP
Address: 6, 7 Queen St
Phone: +44 20 3096 7500
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Gilson Gray LLP offers a full range of legal services under one roof. It’s really helpful if your family law case overlaps with things like property disputes or cross-border issues, which happen more often than you’d think.
Several clients we spoke to had a good experience with them, especially during divorce proceedings.
One client shared that when the in-house team couldn’t appear in court themselves, they brought in a top barrister from another firm to ensure the client got the best outcome. That kind of flexibility and effort stood out to us.
We also heard great reviews about Sharan, one of their solicitors. Clients said she genuinely cares and was there for them emotionally during hard times. One parent also shared that she helped them win custody when things looked tough.
That said, while Gilson Gray is a strong full-service firm, we wish we could find more specific information on their family law specialisation. It’s not that they don’t offer it, but we had to dig a little to get the full picture.
If you’re thinking of reaching out to them, we’d suggest asking early on about the lawyer’s experience with family cases. That way, you can make sure you’re working with someone who fits your case.
The team always answers my questions thoroughly
“I can not recommend the PCM team enough. I found them engaging and understanding, always clear and timely with their communications and correspondence. The process of divorce is daunting, but the team were always on hand to help answer questions thoroughly and with consideration. I am grateful for such a professional service and would recommend them without hesitation.”
Darren Brown, Google review
They were able to turn my demands into a strong legal case
“I engaged PCM on a complex divorce proceeding where I had to appear in court 3 times, including for a financial dispute resolution. Where they were not able to represent me in court, they partnered with the best barrister from another firm to see that I achieved the best outcome, which I did. Recently, I have consulted with them on a child arrangements case, and they were able to turn my demands into a strong legal case.”
Akin Akinyemi, Google review
3. Dawson Cornwell LLP
Address: Staple Inn, 11
Phone: +44 20 7242 2556
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
If you’re going through a complicated or emotionally heavy family case, especially one that’s international, Dawson Cornwell LLP is the firm you’d want in your corner.
Our team liked how the firm is split into two specialist departments. There’s one for matrimonial work and another for international children’s law. We think this structure allows their lawyers to focus deeply on the specific issues their clients are facing.
We were also impressed by how many of their lawyers speak multiple languages. They also understand how family law works in other countries.
That global awareness gives them an edge, especially in cases involving surrogacy, same-sex parenting, or situations where different legal systems are involved.
One person we talked to mentioned how their solicitor supported them through a traumatic international child abduction case and helped them get their son back.
Another client said the team made smart, well-timed moves that helped them win an international relocation case. Neither case was easy, but we saw how their firm handled them with a mix of strategy and compassion.
That said, their firm follows a partner-led approach. It can feel somewhat formal, and some people may prefer more day-to-day contact with one main solicitor.
Dealt with an international family matter and won
“Absolutely amazing team! Dealt with an international family matter and won. I would definitely recommend Forum Shah and Gemma Adams if you’re going up against child services in any case. They really try their best to help and are passionate about what they do. Also, a big shout-out to Amy, who first took on my case. I’ve been looking for a solicitor who would take on my case for 3 years and finally found the right one. You changed my life.”
Ayesha Khan, Google review
I will never forget how she helped me through
“I feel so lucky that I found my solicitor, Mrs Lina Kahnon from Dawson Cornwell. She helped me through my case for international child abduction. She acted always professionally, she has always been helpful and gave me the best advice. She worked very hard on my case. The case was difficult, but in the end, I managed to get my 8-year-old son back. I have also been provided with legal aid. I couldn’t ask for more, and I will never forget how she helped me through!!! I strongly recommend Mrs Kahnon and her work team.”
Effie Zita, Google review
4. HopeHolm Family Law
Address: 60 St Martin’s Ln
Phone: +44 20 3488 8620
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
HopeHolm Family Law is led by Angelique Holm, and we love how family law is their entire focus. They deal with everything from divorces and financial disputes to more complex cases like inter-country adoption.
We also appreciated how hands-on the firm is. Clients appreciated how responsive and honest Angelique was, even if the advice wasn’t always what they wanted to hear. They said her straightforwardness gave them clarity during stressful, confusing moments.
It was also interesting for us to see how they blend deep legal knowledge with emotional intelligence.
They’ve built their firm around helping families through complicated situations—whether it’s ensuring children can maintain relationships with both parents after separation, or navigating tricky financial settlements.
They’re also regulated by the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx), which gives them a slightly different setup from most traditional firms. Instead of being run only by solicitors, their team also includes other fully qualified legal professionals.
We think this structure works well for the kind of sensitive family cases they take on, where a supportive approach really makes a difference.
However, their fees are on the higher side. You’re looking at £400+ per hour for senior solicitors.
On top of that, they often recommend bringing in a barrister for court appearances, so that’s another layer of cost you’ll need to be prepared for.
They navigated complex legal issues skilfully
“I am incredibly grateful for Angelique’s assistance with my contested child arrangements. Her professionalism, expertise, and genuine empathy made a difficult time more manageable. Angelique navigated complex legal issues skilfully, kept me well-informed, and was always responsive to my concerns. Thanks to her dedication, we achieved a favourable resolution that prioritises my children’s well-being. I highly recommend Angelique for anyone needing family law representation.”
Horatiu Cadar, Google review
She’s concerned about my safety and my children more than billing
“I am very grateful to Angelique for all the support and assistance with my child arrangement order. After over 3 years in the court, she took up my case and ensured I had a favourable outcome, the case was dismissed. Not only that, she ensured that Children/S91(14) barring order was also issued to prevent my ex-partner from making further application to the court. She is passionate and concerned about my safety and the children more than billing. Angelique is extremely dedicated, positive and a great listener. She is the best family solicitor that l highly recommend”
Mopelola Ajani, Google review
5. Brookman Solicitors
Address: 6 New St Square, New Fetter Ln
Phone: +44 20 7430 8470
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Brookman Solicitors is known for handling international divorce cases and complex financial disputes. The firm is headed by Henry Brookman, who has over 45 years of experience in family law. That experience might just help you with anything.
Under his leadership, the team has become especially confident when it comes to tricky cases, particularly those involving cross-border legal issues.
But they don’t just focus on the complex matters. They also cover children’s issues, property settlements, and even pre- and post-nuptial agreements.
One thing we liked is that they’re not all about going to court. They offer mediation and collaborative law services. For us, it shows they’re open to finding more peaceful, long-term solutions, which we appreciated.
We tried to look at their rates on their website, but the firm is not really upfront about them. Some clients mentioned that their pricing can be a bit steep, but most people felt it was worth it for the level of their service.
On the brighter side, they also offer a free initial consultation. Many clients found it helpful for getting a clear picture of their situation and the legal process ahead.
Exceptional advice in a very complex case
“I had the pleasure of consulting with Philip Morton at DMH Stallard during my divorce proceedings, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. Philip provided exceptional advice in what was a very complex and emotionally challenging case. He was incredibly thorough, ensuring that all possible options were carefully discussed and explained in detail. His clear and pragmatic approach helped me understand exactly what I needed to achieve and how best to proceed.”
Manoharan Rajkumar, Google review
I cannot recommend them highly enough
“Phil Morton and the team at Brookman/DMH Stallard provide excellent family law advice. I can not recommend them highly enough. They assisted me to amicably conclude my divorce proceedings to the satisfaction of both parties and, perhaps most importantly, allowed me and my ex-wife to support our children and protect them throughout the process.”
Ben Price, Google review