Melanie joined Setfords Solicitors to concentrate on purely client work after selling her well regarded, niche family law practice in Essex which she established and ran for 20 years.
After qualifying as a barrister in 1991 Melanie began specialising in family law in 1997 when she transferred to a solicitor.
Before setting up her own practice Melanie lead the family law Department for a London legal 500 firm overseeing their two London offices.
In recent years Melanie has gained a reputation and specialism in dealing with high net worth complex cases including the tracing of hidden/ transferred assets involving companies, properties and overseas trusts. She has been involved in cases in both the High Court and Court of Appeal.
Areas of Expertise
Financial Settlements: Melanie has over 25 years of experience in representing client’s in the Court of Appeal, High Court and County Courts. She has particular expertise in dealing with complex, High Net worth divorces involving companies (including valuations), pensions, trusts, tracing/freezing assets, maintenance (including enforcement) as well as more modest financial remedy cases.
Notable cases:
Melanie has recently been involved in a case (soon to be reported) after successfully protecting (ringfencing) her client (wife’s) property portfolio in a Financial Remedy case and securing an order for the husband to pay her £109,500 in costs.
High net worth case where the husband (a builder) failed to provide adequate financial disclosure. Melanie successfully uncovered 2x £1million properties which the Court accepted were the husband’s and were added into the matrimonial pot for division.
Melanie prides herself in her proactive approach to always pursue with determination the best possible outcome for her clients whether dealing with high net worth cases or those where the assets or more moderate.
Melanie has recently moved to the Ribble Valley but due to her continued links with Essex is able to represent clients in both regions.
Services Offered
- Negotiation and Arbitration: Melanie can help you resolve disputes amicably through negotiation or Arbitration.
- Court Proceedings: If necessary, Melanie can represent you in court to protect your interests.
- Collaborative Law: A non-adversarial approach to divorce, focusing on cooperation and finding solutions.
Personal:
Melanie enjoys walking with her family, dog (and frequently cats) in the Ribble Valley, exploring Lancashire and Yorkshire and the numerous Gastropubs on offer and socialising with friends and family.