Partner & Head of Family Law
Jessica Palmer
Jessica Palmer is a Partner and the Head of our Family Law department.
Non-Court Dispute Resolution
Avoiding the cost and conflict of court
When a family or relationship dispute gets complex, court can sometimes feel inevitable. But we believe it should be a last resort. Wherever possible, our specialist solicitors will look for practical, out-of-court solutions that protect what matters to you – without the added cost, stress and time.
Making amicable more achievable
Our experienced and dedicated solicitors will guide you through your options, exploring how court can be avoided in both financial and family matters.
We’ll take the time to understand your situation and find solutions that are amicable and swift, while protecting your position throughout.
Our non-court expertise includes:
Mediation
We’ll guide you through the process, helping you work towards agreement on finances and arrangements for your children. We have experience in supporting clients across all types of mediation, including child-inclusive and hybrid mediation, and will help you find an approach that works for your circumstances. Find out more.
Family arbitration
By appointing an independent specialist to decide the dispute, you can avoid the often lengthy court process while maintaining greater privacy. We’ll support you at every stage, applying specialist expertise to complex cases.
Private FDR/ENE
With a private FDR (Financial Dispute Resolution) or ENE (Early Neutral Evaluation), an independent specialist provides an informed view on how a court might approach the dispute. This can help identify fair settlements earlier. Our team will guide you through the process, tailoring our advice to your circumstances and providing clarity without the need for litigation.
Here when it matters. Get in touch.
ContactNon-Court Dispute Resolution
Meet the experts
Consultant Family Solicitor
Lisa Bolgar Smith
Lisa Bolgar Smith is an experienced consultant solicitor handling national and international family matters, with a focus on constructive solutions and carefully judged negotiation.
Paralegal
Molly Brown
Molly joined Streathers Daynes Smith in August 2025 as a Paralegal in the Family team, where she is gaining experience assisting with divorce, financial, and child arrangements matters.
Associate
Will Brownhill
Will is an Associate in our Family Team.
Solicitor
Lucy Ellington
Lucy is a solicitor in our Family team, specialising in divorce, financial matters and children issues
Senior Associate
Charlotte Hayes-Sennett
Charlotte Hayes-Sennett is a Senior Associate in our Family team, specialising in divorce, financial matters and children issues.
Senior Legal PA
Sarah Warwick
Sarah Warwick is a Senior Legal PA in our Family and Dispute Resolution teams.
The expertise you need. From people who understand.
Have a real conversation with us about your needs and how we can help – whether it’s support with property, your business or personal matters.
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