"A resolute advocate with a charming manner before the tribunal" Legal 500
“Pragmatic, forthright and intelligent” Legal 500
"A strong advocate who has a no-nonsense approach" Legal 500
"His blunt style is powerful and effective" Legal 500
"Very experienced in public and private children law matters" Legal 500

Family Law Barrister in London & Kent

 

I am a family law barrister at 1GC Family Law, London. 1GC is a leading family law set. I mainly practice in Kent, London and the Southeast, however I frequently handle cases nationally.

 

I’ve been in independent practice since 2004 and I regularly represent clients in complex child law proceedings, financial proceedings following divorce, and cohabitation disputes.

 

Relationship breakdowns, especially involving children, are often difficult and distressing. As a specialist family barrister in Kent, London and the Southeast, I offer an experienced, understanding and straightforward approach to giving advice and representation.

 

You can find useful guides on this website in each of the areas of law I practice, or click here to access more resources and legal information. If your family law matter relates to children, divorce, money, cohabitation disputes or domestic abuse I can assist. 

 

I am a qualified Child Arbitrator and member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. I also work with Kent University Law School to support law students develop their advocacy skills through mooting and competitions.

 

What is a Public Access Barrister

 

A Public Access (or Direct Access) Barrister allows you to get advice and representation directly, without needing to go through a solicitor first. This approach can save you time and money, while giving you full control over your case.

 

Working with a Public Access Barrister can reduce your legal costs because you only pay for the barrister’s time. You also have the opportunity to speak to them directly, ensuring a clear understanding of your case. 

 

As a Public Access client, you will be more involved in the management of your case. This may include gathering documents, providing statements, or preparing certain paperwork under the guidance of your barrister.

 

To get started, contact me for an initial consultation. Either complete the contact form or send an email to me at direct@barristerfamilylaw.co.uk. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your case and I’ll then guide you through the next steps to begin working together. 

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“Thank you for your help and guidance. It’s difficult to put into words what you have helped me achieve.

 

Thank you for helping bring my family together.”

 

Mr S Ogunyomi (October 2023)

“I cannot recommend John Thornton highly enough. His knowledge, expertise, experience and honesty enables him to successfully navigate a clear path through even the most complex and arduous of cases. I was lucky enough to instruct John on a public access basis. He was able to join my case towards the end of proceedings and with his ability to understand my case rapidly, digest the necessary facts and filter the documentation he successfully protected my children.

 

He is highly skilled in the documentation that he submits to the court. It is precise, factual and demonstrates his extensive knowledge, thus giving the Court a clear direction and basis for decision making. John is both reassuring as well as honest, he quickly instils a sense of trust which is exactly what I needed when walking into this particular hearing. Again, his authority and knowledge of family court law gave me confidence and security, which is often hard in proceedings where you are trying to protect your children. John’s calm, compassionate but focused manner enabled me to feel at ease when discussing my Case with him. John brought clarity and sense to my complex case which also supported the Judge as he too looked to John during this hearing. Don’t hesitate to contact him if you are embarking on a journey with the Family Courts.” 

 

Ms Chapman (December 2023)

“I have to say the John is masterful at his craft, a very professional individual, highly knowledgeable and his attention to detail is TOP NOTCH.

 

He is very honest in his assessments, his approach to his clients are not only professional but also very diligent. When I came across John’s profile online, I instantly knew he could be the perfect representative to take my case forward, but when I met him in person he gave reassurance in my choice. John has an impeccable approach to his work and has the best interest for his clients. He goes a step beyond his duties to make sure his clients are well taken care of.

 

I highly recommend John to anyone who is having family matters at court that require someone who is pragmatic, caring, honest, knowledgeable and very astute in his profession. Thank you John for your work.”

 

Mr E Rivers (March 2024)

“I don’t normally leave reviews, but my experience today in court and with John T representing me was unbelievable. I felt John listen to me and my concerns, read through all the paperwork (there was loads) that was provided and was honest throughout. I had to instruct John at short notice and he really did put the work in, he had a full understanding and his approach was brilliant. Thank you!”

 

Mr D Castello (September 2024)

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