During our 15 years in business, we have seen an increasing number of cases with an international element. Over this period, the firm has achieved many outstanding results and we have received praise from independent surveys for our work.

To meet this growing need, the firm decided to open a dedicated department to handle international cases. We were the first family law firm in Wales to launch a whole department dedicated to international matters.

Our International Family Law Department deals with all cases involving financial provision for married couples, civil partners and co-habiting couples, as well as Children Act matters which involve an international element.

The Department is headed by Rhian Howells, a Partner in the firm. Rhian is a Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, a worldwide association of practising lawyers who are recognised by their peers as the most experienced and expert family specialists in their respective countries. Rhian is the only current member of the Academy in Wales. She has vast experience in dealing with family cases featuring cross-border aspects.

Claire Cooper has also joined the Department. A solicitor in the firm, Claire has always had a keen interest in international family law, and has worked on a large number of cases featuring international elements. She is a founder of European Lawyers Events, an international network of solicitors which hosts seminars and conferences across Europe. She has lectured for European Lawyers Events in Brussels.

By consolidating our resources in the new Department, we believe we are able to provide clients with an even better service to resolve their international family law problems.

Rhian and Claire will be happy to provide initial advice over the telephone or via e-mail to analyse a potential case and ascertain whether it is appropriate for us to act here in the UK, or whether it would be more appropriate for a client to appoint lawyers in another country. If you, or anyone you know, happens to be facing an international family law issue, then please do not hesitate to contact Rhian or Claire by telephone on (029) 2034 2233, or by e-mail to enquiries@wendyhopkins.co.uk.