Experienced solicitor Stuart Smallman joins The Family Law Company's Exeter Divorce & Finance team

A solicitor with over 30 years of experience has joined The Family Law Company in Exeter.

Stuart Smallman grew up in Birmingham where a chance meeting with a barrister when he was a college student sparked a lifelong interest in law.

On qualifying, he practiced in the Midlands including Birmingham and Lichfield. Although he initially worked in a variety of legal areas including litigation and Wills, Stuart was drawn to family. He began specialising in family law, including children, care work and his favourite specialist area, matrimonial finance.

He says “I was fortunate to come into contact with many really good barristers, QCs and Judges in the area. Working closely with them enabled me to learn a huge amount about family law.”

13 years’ ago, Stuart decided to become freelance, working across the country, including the West Country, where he decided to settle with his partner. Looking to expand The Family Law Company approached him and after a positive interview with Joint-MD Norman Hartnell accepted a new role in the South West’s largest family law specialist.

Stuart, whose colourful career has included representing football players and entertainers, says he was particularly impressed with The Family Law Company’s ethos. “I immediately liked the fact that the company just does family, so really understands everything about it.

“It’s also great that there’s a real focus on staff and client wellbeing, something I’ve not come across before.”

Norman added: “We’re delighted to have such an experienced solicitor join us. Stuart has so much specialist knowledge that will benefit our clients enormously. He brings even more expertise to our first-rate divorce & finance team and I wholeheartedly welcome him to the company.”