Meet  – Charlotte Symes

Meet Charlotte Symes, a Director here at FLiP.

Charlotte is a solicitor, collaborative practitioner and mediator. She deals with complex financial issues arising from divorce and separation. Her work has a strong international dimension. As a French speaker she also has the expertise to advise French clients in French on English law matters, and on cases with a French element.

1. So, Charlotte, how long have you been at FLiP?

A decade!

2. What does your role entail at FLiP?

I am a director, which means I spend time managing the firm as well as my client facing work. I assist clients either as a solicitor, through the court process, out of court negotiation or via a collaborative process, or I assist clients as a mediator when I work with a couple together to find a solution.

3. What is the best thing about your job?

I love the variation of my job – every client’s situation is different and being able to offer all the above process options means it keeps my job challenging. It is rewarding to support people through one of the most difficult times in their life and to see them come out of it stronger and with the confidence to rebuild.

4. Are you a tea or a coffee drinker?

In the morning I am often found at the coffee shop, Marquise, near the office at Aldwych.

5. What is the hardest thing about your job?

Working with people who are suffering: whether that is grieving the breakdown of a relationship, being a victim of abuse, or sharing concerns about the impact of family breakdown on children.

6. When you are enjoying some well-deserved leave, describe your perfect day?

A combination of a stroll around the city, probably via a food market, visit an exhibition or a matinee, followed by dinner at a restaurant recommended by Grace Dent.