Louisa moved to the North East to complete her legal qualifications and has developed her specialism in family law over the last 15 years at some of the region’s best-known firms.
Specialises in:
Louisa moved to the North East to complete her legal qualifications and has developed her specialism in family law over the last 15 years at some of the region’s best-known firms.
Experience
Louisa deals with all aspects of family law including;
- pre and post-nuptial agreements
- co-habitation agreements
- separation and divorce
- welfare of children
Outside of the office
Louisa enjoys coastal walking, running, reading and travel as well as activities with the family and watching her children play rugby.
Client
Client
Client
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Client
“Both Louisa and Phoebe helped me with my very difficult divorce. Without their knowledge and expertise, I could not have gotten the result I did. I am so very grateful for their assistance.
“I couldn’t be happier with the service I received. Louisa was clear, professional, and highly efficient from start to finish. She explained every step of the process in plain terms, provided timely updates, and handled the case with care and precision, even when things were delayed on the other side. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Louisa or Hay & Kilner to anyone needing support with a family law matter
“Louisa was fantastic from start to finish. She listened, understood my perspective, and shared my goals. I appreciated her honesty, advice, timely communication, and tenacity in settling the divorce.
“Louisa has been fantastic to deal with from start to finish. She listened, she understood my perspective and what was important to me, and as a result we shared the same goals to work towards from the onset. I really appreciated her honesty and advice throughout, her timely communication and her tenacity to get the divorce settled.
“From our first meeting with Louisa we felt we were in safe hands. Her honest and straight-talking approach were appreciated in a situation which felt overwhelming and hugely stressful for us to navigate. My partner and I are incredibly grateful to Louisa and her team for their guidance, reassurance and dedication throughout.
“The help that Hay & Kilner gave to us when we were fighting a Court case was absolutely invaluable, in particular I would like to give thanks to Louisa Bestford, who guided us through what was a very difficult time. Her commitment and integrity were absolutely second to none! We won the case hands down but we could not have done it without her legal expertise and guidance. I can unreservedly recommend this Firm!!
Professional memberships & accolades
Leading Lawyer
Legal 500
Expert commentary & updates
Mediation: A calm, supported path to resolving family matters
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains how mediation offers a calm, supported way to resolve family disputes and avoid court with practical legal guidance.”
Why divorce enquiries rise in January and Hay & Kilner's amicable options for couples
Why do divorce enquiries rise in January? Fiona Ryans, from Hay & Kilner's Divorce & Family Team, explains the trend and how an amicable One Solicitor Solution can support couples.
Domestic abuse does not stop for Santa
Kayleigh Bell, from our Divorce & Family Team, outlines legal protections available for domestic abuse victims and how to seek urgent support.
Divorce made simple
Kate Garrett, from Hay & Kilner’s Divorce & Family Team, explains how to navigate the divorce process simply and sensitively, with practical legal guidance for amicable separation.
Do I need my ex-partners permission to take my kids on holiday?
Do you need your ex-partner’s permission to take your children abroad? Kayleigh Bell, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains child travel consent rules.
Cohabitation Agreements: Understanding your rights and responsibilities
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains Cohabitation Agreements, helping couples understand their legal rights and responsibilities under UK law.
How to prepare for a divorce
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains how to prepare for divorce, covering finances, children and practical steps to protect your future.
You may also need advice on
Divorce & Separation
Here at Hay & Kilner we understand that deciding to separate from your partner is one of the hardest decisions you can make. Our dedicated team of legal experts are here to make the process of separating from your partner or divorcing your spouse as stress and pain free as possible with personalised support and guidance.
Child Maintenance & Support
At Hay & Kilner, we understand that issues surrounding child maintenance and support can be emotionally challenging and legally complex, especially when it concerns children of a young age. Ensuring the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of your children is a top priority, whether you're going through a separation or need help enforcing or modifying existing child support agreements. Our specialist family law team is here to provide you with clear, compassionate, and effective legal advice to help to secure the best possible future for your children.
Family Court
Navigating the family court system can be a daunting experience, especially when dealing with emotionally sensitive issues such as divorce, child arrangements, or financial disputes. At Hay & Kilner, our expert family law solicitors provide experienced and compassionate representation to guide you through every step of the process.
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