Hannah Ward

Hannah specialises in financial remedy and private children disputes following relationship breakdown of married couples, civil partners and unmarried couples. In relation to financial matters, this includes negotiating financial settlements, advising on pre- and post-nuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, financial consent orders and all contested proceedings. Hannah has particular expertise in variation proceedings, dealing with issues of litigation capacity and involvement of litigation friends and/or the Official Solicitor as well as the enforcement of financial orders. Hannah has a particular interest in financial remedy cases involving an international element, including both REMO maintenance cases and international divorce and financial remedy cases under Part III of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act 1984. Many of Hannah’s financial cases involve multiples jurisdictions, complex issues, clients with high earning capacity and she regularly advises high net worth clients.

For children matters, Hannah’s expertise includes negotiating arrangements outside of court (which can include alongside mediation) or assisting with the court process. Hannah has worked on cases involving international relocation, allegations of serious harm (including domestic abuse and sexual abuse), parental alienation, and applications regarding whether a subject child should give evidence at trial. Hannah is adept at working with vulnerable clients, with whom she is able to cultivate a strong rapport as a result of her calm, open, and approachable demeanour and tireless work ethic.

Hannah is committed to finding the best solution for each of her cases and resolving disputes outside of court wherever possible. To that end, she is a trained mediation, working towards accreditation with the Family Mediation Association.

Hannah is praised for her work ethic, dedication to clients, and unflappable nature in navigating the various issues and pressures that arise. She is a recommended lawyer in the Legal 500.

• Resolution

• Family Mediation Council

• Family Mediators Association

Y v Z [2023] EWFC 205

Law Gazette – Litigation friend ordered to pay £42,000 costs for ‘wholly inadequate’ performance.