John Philpott Consultant Family Law Solicitor

I qualified as a solicitor in 1976. For some years, I engaged in criminal defence and advocacy and family law but, later, engaged also in general litigation including family.

In more recent years, I have primarily engaged in family law dealing with divorce and dissolution, cohabitation disputes including TOLATA, related property and financial issues, and child arrangements. I always endeavour to resolve matters on fair terms to avoid contentious and potentially costly proceedings, but can issue proceedings should family mediation be unsuccessful or unsuitable.

Specialist areas

• Divorce
• Dissolution of civil partnerships
• Related financial and property issues
• Child arrangements, including prohibited steps and specific issue applications
• TOLATA claims
• Pre and post-nuptial agreements
• Cohabitation agreements
• Non-molestation and Occupation orders and applications
• Experienced as a family mediator
• Previous experience as a criminal defence advocate
• Preparation of Lasting Powers of Attorney
• Declarations and swearing of documents
• Advising in respect of occupier’s or joint owner’s consent to legal charge
• Advocacy and representation in the Magistrates Court (family proceedings) and County Court (financial remedy proceedings and Children Act)

I am caring and considerate with my clients, listen to what they say, and explain in layman’s terms the action I propose to take to resolve the matter and the potential cost and risks involved.

In my spare time, I enjoy family life and getting involved in the activities of the village where we live. I have four adult children and I enjoy seeing them, their partners and the grandchildren. I also enjoy going to the theatre or concert hall, music of all kinds, singing in a choir, food, some travel, and taking part in the village pantomime.