Spear’s Review

Simkins partner Deborah Jeff’s career has been characterised by breakthroughs in major family law cases, including working ‘with two trust funds in the Isle of Man worth £13 million, and on a well-known singer/songwriter’s prenup’.

Noted for the law-changing case of SS v NS [2014], which shone a light on the needs-based assessment of maintenance payments to spouses, Jeff specialises in complex financial disputes between divorcing and cohabiting couples, often with offshore elements and intricate taxation issues. She has advised a wealthy Austrian property developer on a postnuptial agreement to protect £340 million in wealth, for example, as well as on a prenuptial agreement where there were inherited assets of approximately £1 billion.

She also has considerable experience with issues relating to children, and can offer support and insight around how divorce can affect the mental health of clients.

Read next: No-fault divorce has triggered a wave of enquiries for top family lawyers

Notable cases

• SS v NS [2014] 
• OS v DS [2004]