Business booming for family law team

A surge in new clients has led to the growth of the Family Law team at a Carlisle solicitors’ practice.

Burnetts’ Family Law department has seen its busiest year ever and has recruited a new solicitor to help advise clients on their relationship and family issues.

Stephen Cox, 27, joins Burnetts from Camden family law specialists, Hodge, Jones and Allen where he worked on family cases involving injunctions, restraining orders, divorce and separation in liaison with the Domestic Violence Forum in Kentish Town. Stephen also has an interest in thorny cohabitation cases, especially where the ownership of property is in dispute following a break up.

He said, “Although I grew up in London, I knew I wouldn’t stay there for the long-term future partly because my wife’s family are from Cumbria. I had heard of Burnetts and felt it was the right sort of firm for me. I’m looking forward to getting involved with local advice organisations and developing my experience in child care law.”

Stephen, 27, read Law and completed his Legal Practice Course at the University of Sheffield. He trained as a solicitor at Hodge, Jones & Allen, one of London’s biggest legal aid providers for family work. He has been actively involved in the Young Legal Aid Lawyers Group, a group of lawyers committed to practising in areas of law that have traditionally been publicly funded. 

In his free time, Stephen enjoys walking, tennis and music. Having left behind Crystal Palace, he is now looking forward to seeing Carlisle United matches. 

Simon Mortimer, Partner at Burnetts said, “We have seen a record number of new instructions, even at traditionally quiet times like August. New legislation like the Civil Partnerships Act, our increasing involvement in cohabitation issues and a higher profile generally have all helped to bring us more clients. We needed an experienced family lawyer to hit the ground running so Stephen will be a real asset to our team. I’m sure clients will find him reliable, expert and sensitive.”

Burnetts’ Family Law team now includes five solicitors.

2nd October, 2006

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