Susannah May | Harrison Clark Rickerbys

A bit about me

The breakdown of a relationship is always difficult, and especially so when there are issues to be resolved involving children and finances. I understand the impact this has and once I know what my client wants to achieve, I focus on offering the solutions they need to deal with their particular situation, however complex that is.

Whether negotiation is the answer or if we need to go to court to get the right result for a client and their children, I will be with them to advocate for them and give clear and proactive advice. I work with separating couples and those who are newly engaged and seeking pre-nups and cohabitation agreements, as well as parents and children.

Outside work, I am passionate about the arts and art history; I am studying for a Diploma in Art Law.

Want to know more?

Take your time to think through your options carefully and don’t hesitate to talk issues through with your solicitor, no matter how big or small.

Identify what is essential to you for a positive and secure future.

Approach issues calmly and try to look at things with a clear head; this will help you to make good decisions at the key moments in your case.

Begin gathering key information about your finances at an early stage as it will help me to progress your case more quickly.

How long will it take?
It depends on the case, but as a general rule, most court proceedings take a minimum of 4–6 months to resolve. If it’s highly contentious and has to progress to a final hearing, the average is 6–12 months.

How much it will cost?
This depends on the process and nature of your dispute, but we take great care to estimate costs and work out a plan to make sure you’re in financial control of your case.

Do you recommend that I get a pre-nup?
It depends on your relationship and the assets you have. The agreement will usually set out how the couple wish their assets and income to be divided should they later separate or divorce. Although they are not currently legally binding in England and Wales, the court is likely to take a pre-nuptial agreement into account and uphold it, as long as it is fair and reasonable and certain safeguards have been met.

Bear in mind that a pre-nuptial agreement must be signed at least one month before the wedding and each party will need to provide full financial disclosure of their own assets, so you will need to plan in advance if you wish to enter into one.

Teams I work with