Family law ‘doyenne’ appointed as partner

HALL Brown Family Law, which only opened its Manchester office months ago, has appointed “the doyenne of family law” Beth Wilkins as partner.

Wilkins, former head of family law at JMW and leading partner in Pannone’s family law department, brings more than 30 years’ experience, plus a high-profile, national reputation to the Manchester firm.

Her specialisms include complex trust and offshore asset cases, pre and post-nuptial arrangements, Children Act disputes, contact and residence advice, divorce, child maintenance and special needs children cases.

And she has represented celebrities, sports stars, high-profile business owners, plus a wide range of professionals.

Along with Hall Brown Partner, Andrew Newbury, Wilkins is one of the small group of family lawyers in the North West ranked by the independent directory, Legal 500, as ‘Leading Individuals.’

And in Chambers and Partners she has been given the coveted status of eminent practitioner – a banding above Tier 1.

Hall Brown founders, Sam Hall and James Brown, said in a joint statement: “We are thrilled that the doyenne of family law has chosen to bring her reputation, skill and experience to Hall Brown. Beth is one of the best known and respected family lawyers, not only in the North West, but nationally.

“She built the Pannone family law department into what was then the biggest and best team in the North West at that time. She then drove the JMW family team from Tier 4 to Tier 1 in the independent legal directories.

“A writer, broadcaster and lecturer on family law matters; we admire Beth as a person, as well as an empathetic professional and first-class legal expert.”

Wilkins added: “I jumped at the chance to come on board at Hall Brown. The Pannone family department was the best in the North West thanks to the combined force of James, Andrew and me. Sam Hall was fundamental to the success of the JMW team with his charm and expertise.

“Brought together as a team at Hall Brown we will have the perfect mix of skills and experience to build on what is already a recipe for success.”