Spear’s Review

Lidia Cantele became partner within Harbottle & Lewis’s family law team in 2022, having started at the firm in 2011. She trained to become a media lawyer due to the breadth of reputation and media work the firm is known for, but her interest in human emotions drew her to the family seat instead.

‘It’s [about] getting into people’s heads,’ she tells Spear’s. ‘[Psychology] is so important for knowing how to deal with a case, in terms of grief of the end of the relationship, [or] anger. That is absolutely key to managing it well. I like reading people and then adapting your style to get it right.’

Cantele covers the spectrum of family law, including financial claims and private children cases, whether through court proceedings or using alternative forms of dispute resolution. Her clients come from the media, finance, fashion, sport and business world and are highly international.

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Adviser Profile

Lidia advises on all aspects of private family law and the ramifications of relationship breakdown, including divorce and financial claims, whether via court proceedings or, wherever possible, using alternative forms of dispute resolution. She also acts for parents in children disputes; for example, applications for child arrangement orders and obtaining financial provision for children of unmarried parents.

Lidia thinks tactically and creatively to achieve the best outcomes for her clients. ‘Her seemingly effortless efficiency and endeavour, combined with her intelligence, enthusiasm and charm, meet the varying demands of clients,’ claims one prominent KC, whilst another commends her ‘admirable coolness under pressure’.