HFC has again retained its Band 1 ranking for Family/Matrimonial Law in the Chambers and Partners High Net Worth Guide. Frances Hughes is reconfirmed as a Star Individual. Pauline Fowler, Alex Carruthers and Mark Harper all retain Band 1 rankings. Renato Labi retains his Band 2 ranking and Caroline Park retains her Band 3 ranking.

Chambers notes “there is not a weak link” within the Firm and that, “the partnership has a knack of employing excellent young associate solicitors, trainees and paralegals”. The Directory highlights “they have some stars there. They have the firepower and the experience to be able to deal with higher-end, complicated matrimonial matters.”

Frances Hughes is reconfirmed as a Star Individual and is described as “a complete star” and “outstanding”. Frances is praised for her ability “to get quickly and accurately to the key issues in a case almost immediately. An hour of her time is probably worth more than six hours of most people’s time.” Chambers HNW also notes “she has got a really great reputation and it is entirely deserved. She has a very no-nonsense, approach, she is very good at cutting to the chase. She identifies exactly what clients need and then achieves it for them. She is just brilliant.”

Pauline Fowler retains her Band 1 ranking and is described as a “phenomenally bright, clever lawyer. She is very client focused and always has good judgement” and is “very effective in mediation.”

Alex Carruthers retains his Band 1 ranking, and is recognised for being “a complete advocate for his clients. He is technically superb and represents his clients brilliantly.”

Mark Harper retains his Band 1 ranking. The guide highlights he has “a very comprehensive knowledge of the law, especially international law”, “has great expertise when trusts come into play” and is “technically superb.”

Renato Labi retains his Band 2 ranking, and is described as “excellent” and as someone who “has got great judgement”. The Directory further notes “he is a very adept litigator” and “really good at explaining things in layman’s terms.”

Caroline Park retains her Band 3 ranking, and notes she is “extremely tough in negotiation and achieves results for her clients that others would not even think possible. Underestimate her at your peril, she is a tactician and extremely capable lawyer who is always on top of the facts”. The Directory further highlights Caroline as “an outstanding family lawyer. She is sensitive, empathetic and unfailingly prompt. She is extremely numerate and her background in tax law is a great help. She also has a deep understanding of pensions.”

HFC’s full profile can be found on the Chambers HNW website.