Watson Ramsbottom announce the arrival of renowned family solicitor

Watson Ramsbottom is delighted to announce that Alison Leivesley has joined the Family Department as a consultant solicitor.

Alison is an experienced consultant solicitor with a distinguished national reputation in family law, particularly in cases involving children.

Alison’s arrival will strengthen our foothold across the UK in Family Law, adding another key figure to what is already a nationally recognised family law offering.

She will continue to offer unrivalled legal support to clients throughout London and beyond whilst also providing members of our team with yet another key figure to learn from. We’re over the moon to have her on board.

Expertise in Family Law

Alison specialises in all aspects of law relating to children, with a particular focus on:

• Domestic abuse
• Forced marriage and so-called ‘honour’ based violence
• International child abduction cases
• Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
  Her extensive experience includes representing parents in complex care proceedings, often involving international elements, non-accidental injury, physical and sexual abuse allegations, and cases with parallel criminal proceedings.

A Proven Track Record
Previously, Alison has been head of family at two of the biggest and most highly regarded family law departments in London. She has a strong background in handling public and private law children cases, including those involving radicalisation, and advising parents on disputes regarding child residence and contact arrangements.

Alison is known for her calm, patient, and compassionate approach, particularly when representing vulnerable clients. She is also experienced in cases involving disputes with treating doctors over a child’s medical treatment.

Commitment to Excellence and Training

Alison is committed to sharing her expertise through training and development. She provides training for professionals, including lawyers, social workers, and healthcare professionals, and guest lectures to undergraduate students. She is also a mentor for Young Legal Aid Lawyers (YLAL).

Accolades and Recognition

Alison‘s expertise has been recognised through various accolades, including:

• Family Lawyer of the Year at the British Family Law Awards 2024
• Highly commended as Female Trailblazer of the Year at the Modern Law Awards 2024
• Highly commended as Family Law Partner of the Year at the Family Law Awards 2023
  She is accredited by Resolution as a Specialist in public law children, private law children, domestic abuse, forced marriage, and honour-based violence. Alison is also accredited by the Law Society’s Family Law Advanced Accreditation in private law children and violence in the home.

Rachel Horman-Brown KC (Hon), head of Family Law and director, said: 

"I am absolutely thrilled that Alison has joined us as she is someone I have respected and been impressed by for a long time.  

"Alison is a leader in her area of family law and someone who totally understands coercive control which is rare.

"She is a real asset to the department and I am looking forward to working with her in London and the South of England."

Speak to an expert...
To arrange an appointment to discuss matters with one of the team, complete our contact form, request a callback, or call us on 01254 67 22 22.