Spear’s Review

Recommended by numerous peers, with one describing him as ‘highly active and respected’ and one of the ‘most eminent practitioners in family law’, William Massey is head of the family law team at Farrer & Co. He has 30 years of experience and specialises in the financial aspects of relationship breakdown in cases that are often complex, involving international dimensions and valuation, trust and tax issues.

Prenups and postnups continue to be a ‘constant source’ of work for Massey, who has a string of high-profile reported cases to his name. ‘The issues can be very difficult,’ he says. ‘You are advising on a potential divorce and agreeing a divorce settlement at a time when two people are in love with each other and about to get married.’

Notable cases

• Goddard-Watts v Goddard Watts [2019] EWHC 3367 (Fam)
  

Adviser Profile

William is head of the Family team with 30 years’ experience in leading clients through issues arising on the breakdown of their relationships, however difficult and personal. He steers clients through often very troubling times with firm support and realistic advice to maximise early resolution and minimise collateral damage.

He has experience in resolving financial issues and disputes relating to children. He is well known for his ability to resolve situations where the family’s financial situation is complex and there are difficult issues that might involve trusts, private companies, tax, overseas assets, pensions and assets that cannot be realised. Many of his cases involve international considerations.