Atkins Hope Honoured at Family Law Awards

A commitment to safeguarding vulnerable children has led to Croydon-based solicitors Atkins Hope being named as Family Law Firm of the Year at prestigious national awards.

The company, based in North End, won the award at the Family Law Awards 2012, having demonstrated the outstanding quality of the legal service it provides to clients and the high levels of teamwork within the firm and with other lawyers and professionals.

In particular, the award recognised Atkins Hope’s commitment to public law and its development as a specialist in cases of child abduction, domestic violence, forced marriages and in cases where children have been referred by social services.

Managing partner Charlotte Collier said: “There is no more important area of law since family law is the one that touches more people in the UK than any other.

“With one in three families in the UK breaking up, many children in our community are left in a vulnerable position. Our job is to represent clients’ and assist the court to reach the best possible outcome for vulnerable children, their parents or guardians.

“This award is recognition of our professional approach. Atkins Hope is very much team based and we focus on personal development and training to allow our people to develop. It is a privilege to lead this firm. We have a team of extremely talented people and I am proud of the truly skilled representation we provide for our clients.”

The firm received the award at a presentation evening at the Hilton Park Lane hotel in Central London while Charlotte also reached a final shortlist of four in the Family Law Partner of the Year category.

She was nominated for her award by Janet Bazley QC of 1, Garden Court Chambers, having taken an innovative approach to the particularly difficult case of a 14-year-old child who gave evidence in court. Charlotte added: “We are a match for any key  firm on childcare issues and make sure all of our clients are represented fully.”