Family/Children Law

The family law practice at Boodle Hatfield advises clients on the full spectrum of private children law, including child arrangement orders, contact and residence disputes and leave to remove cases. The team is well-equipped to handle difficult matters such as those concerning child abduction and abuse allegations. It also has specialist experience in cases centred on children with autism and other forms of neurodivergence.

"Their anticipation of issues and laser focus are second to none."

"They didn't just provide legal counsel - they orchestrated a masterful symphony of integrated services, ensuring that every aspect of my case was addressed with the utmost precision and care."

"They are exceptionally professional but also full of empathy and understanding. They are hands-on and proactive when needed and don't exacerbate already turbulent discourse between the opposing sides."

"The team's ability to navigate the complexities of my case with such slick efficiency and strategic foresight was nothing short of remarkable."

"A team of first-rate lawyers who are absolutely committed to their clients."

Emily Brand heads the department and handles private children law proceedings as part of her broad family practice. She is adept at managing complex cases, including international relocations, and has notable experience in matters involving neurodivergent children. "Emily is top-notch in all respects. She is a very experienced solicitor, but despite her calibre is very personable and is able to lighten the mood even at the most stressful times." "Emily is extremely skilled at giving the right advice, even if that is difficult to hear - she is a solicitor who has the capacity to change the course of a case." "It is clear Emily is a force to be reckoned with in the legal world. Her commitment, intelligence and sheer passion for law and justice isn't just impressive - it's inspirational." "I cannot recommend Emily enough. She is incredibly intellectually capable and also compassionate and intuitive." "Emily is very dedicated to her clients, efficient and very tactical."

Katie O'Callaghan regularly handles complex children disputes involving allegations of abuse and substance misuse, among other factors. She is a qualified family mediator. "With Katie on your side, you're not just going through the motions: you're setting yourself up for the best possible outcome, backed by one of the sharpest minds in the business." "Katie possesses a rare combination of professionalism and genuine care for her clients, making you feel not just heard, but truly understood." "Katie is more than terrific as her abilities are also matched with warmth, passion and kindness." "When you're in the middle of a legal storm, Katie is the steady hand on the tiller, keeping everything on course." "Katie is an excellent lawyer with first rate knowledge of family law. Her communication skills are excellent and she displays empathy, tact, sensitivity and foresight. She is a joy to work with."