Member Article

Expanding family law team for Holborn office

Three lawyers have joined Slater and Gordon’s expanding London family law team.

Senior associate Elizabeth Cookson joined from Berry and Lamberts Solicitors, principal lawyer Venisha Shah was the director of Vyman Solicitors and solicitor Laura Flanagan worked for IBB solicitors. 

Venisha began practising family law 25 years ago and specialises in dealing with finances, both within divorce proceedings and when unmarried couples separate. She said: “When a client comes to you, usually at the beginning of a really traumatic time, you see them through the whole process. You see them changing and often becoming stronger, that’s very satisfying to see.

“We really can have such a positive impact.”

She is also looking forward to being a part of a family law sector that is changing. Venisha said: “There’s a real move to resolve things outside of court where possible by tailor making processes for each family.”

After 25 years in the industry Venisha said helping people continues to inspire her each day.

“I joined Slater and Gordon because the work here is interesting and varied. I had high expectations and the business has already met them. The family team is young, energetic and vibrant, keen to do things in a different way.”

For Elizabeth Cookson the best part of her role is being able to help people through one of the most traumatic times in their lives. She said: “Divorce can be like a bereavement and a really frightening prospect for people who don’t know what to expect. Guiding people through that process and revealing the light at the end of the tunnel is what it’s all about.”

Elizabeth studied at Exeter University, then Guildford Law School before completing a Graduate Diploma in Law at the London College of Law. She qualified in 2009 and has been working in family law since then. For her, being part of the family team at Slater and Gordon is a major attraction.

She said: “The team is really strong, with  tremendous energy and skill. I’m really looking forward to being a part of this dynamic team and providing each and every client with the highest standard of service and care.”

Laura Flanagan said she was also looking forward to being part of the team. She said: “Family law offers me the perfect combination of legal challenge and debate, along with meeting clients.

I enjoy being able to help people through probably one of the hardest times of their lives and the satisfaction of securing them a result which allows them to see what their life will be like in the future and how they can move forward.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Susan Carr .