Hughes Fowler Carruthers has once again been ranked in Band 1 for Family/Matrimonial: Ultra High Net Worth in the Chambers and Partners High Net Worth 2024 guide.

Frances Hughes is reconfirmed as a Star Individual. Pauline Fowler, Alex Carruthers, Mark Harper and Caroline Park have all been ranked in Band 1. Renato Labi also maintains his ranking in Band 2, and Bryan Jones has increased in ranking to Band 5.

The firm was praised for its “incredibly strong team,” and for being “incredibly efficient” and “personable” while having “great knowledge of the law and strategic vision.”

Frances Hughes is described by one commentator as “formidable, with extraordinary judgement.” She is a “determined litigator” with “uncanny skill in knowing what is the right time to settle and at what amount,” highlights a second source. Another enthuses that she “deserves her reputation as one of the very finest lawyers in the country. She is a ferocious advocate in defence of her clients and will never give up.”

A source describes Pauline Fowler as “an absolute superstar lawyer,” with commentators enthusing her expertise as a litigator and mediator. “She is brilliant,” highlights another source.

Alex Carruthers is praised for his skill as a “seasoned litigator” in big money cases, with a source noting that he “does them beautifully. He’s as good as it gets.” He is commended for approaching “some of the most combative litigation cases” with a “lightness of touch,” with this commentator enthusing that “he would run through a wall for his clients.”

“Very kind and empathetic,” Mark Harper is considered a “fantastic lawyer.” Sources praise him for being “hugely intelligent and reassuring”, “extremely experienced”, and as a “good strategist.” One commentator states that Mark “has excellent client management. He gives firm and clear legal advice.”

Renato Labi is described as being “extremely good as well as being liked and trusted.” A source enthuses that he “has a serious brain at work and is extremely sensible,” while another highlights that he “fiercely defends his clients but also offers realistic and compassionate advice.” Another source comments that Renato is “the coolest customer. He handles cases with a really impressive elegance.”

“Incisive” and “very intelligent” Caroline Park is praised for her “fantastic judgement” and for being “really exceptional at having an overview of the case.” She strikes “an excellent balance between providing clients reasonable expectations and fighting for their case.” One commentator states that Caroline “has the ability to see right through cases. She can see what’s motivating the client, things they may not be able to articulate. She has extraordinary perception.”

Bryan Jones is known for being “cool and calm in every scenario.” A source highlights that he “has an amazing ability to always be one step ahead of the opposition. He is never fazed when complications arise but immediately finds a solution.” He is further praised for being “very accomplished, extremely bright and always on top of the detail,” and for being “extremely diligent.”

The firm’s full Chambers HNW 2024 profile can be found here.