Philip Barnsley, Head of Family at Higgs LLP, is running for election to the Resolution National Committee, bringing with him a wealth of experience, a deep passion for family justice, and a proven track record of advocacy and commitment to ensuring family law professionals get what they want, and need to be able to perform in the best interests of separating families.
Resolution is a collective of family justice professionals who work to resolve family issues. Since 1982, Resolution has championed non-confrontational approaches to family law, emphasising that such methods lead to better outcomes for families and children going through separation.
Having previously already served on both the Resolution National and Executive Committees, Philip played a significant role in reshaping the Resolution Code of Practice and driving crucial membership changes during a pivotal lobbying period, including direct lobbying in Parliament on the issue of no-fault divorce, which ultimately lead to a change in the law in April 2022.
Philip is passionate about the law, has sat on numerous different local committees and as those who have witnessed gives a brilliant Financial Remedies update every year. Philip will represent Resolution with verve and determination and I have no doubt will be a driving force that will in short, get things done!
Steve McCrone
Senior Clerk at 1 Hare Court
I have worked with Philip closely on a number of cases. During that time, I have come to know him well. He is a fine technical lawyer and a skilled litigator. But more than that, he has skills which can’t be taught - empathy and good sense. When he commits to something, he commits wholeheartedly. I hope he gets the opportunity to serve the members of Resolution. If he does, I know he will do a first rate job.
Brent Molyneux KC
Barrister at 29 Bedford Row
Philip’s experience and wealth of expertise means he is uniquely positioned to make a significant impact and speaking passionately about his campaign, he said:
“My commitment to finding the right solutions for separating families runs deep. As a Family Lawyer with almost 30 years of experience and a leading reputation at Higgs LLP, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of non-confrontational legal solutions. But I also know that there is more work to do - it’s about ensuring that the voices of family justice professionals are heard loud and clear.
I have known Philip for more than 20 years. I have worked with him (and against him) regularly over this time, including on some very complex matters. He is very clever, strategic, creative, extremely knowledgeable and has a very strong and real commitment to family law.
He is also very personable, tactful, collaborative, hugely experienced and he knows the law, procedure and problems facing family law inside out.
These qualities make him the perfect candidate for a seat on the Resolution National Committee
Jonathan Nosworthy
Barrister at St Philips Chambers and 4PB
“The challenges ahead that I am committed to lobbying for reform include cohabitee rights, nuptial agreements, reforming financial remedy law, and tackling domestic abuse in cases to name but a few. I will work tirelessly to make sure Resolution doesn’t just react to change but leads it and I am determined to make sure we have a family justice system that works for everyone involved. With the right leadership, we can make that happen."
I have known Philip for many years and, having worked closely with him on several occasions, I could think of no-one more suited for the position on the Committee.
Not least, he has solid experience of Committee membership previously, that coupled with his unwavering dedication to seek justice for separating families as Head of Family Law at Higgs LLP leaves him steadfast as THE ideal candidate.
Phil is proactive, passionate and collaborative – his approach to campaigning for progression within the law and his tireless dedication to ensuring members are fully heard and represented should instil members with every confidence that he truly has their best interests at heart.
James Shortall
Senior Clerk at 29 Bedford Row
