Debbie Chism

Spear’s Review

One of the most respected family solicitors in London, Debbie Chism is known not only for winning fierce court battles, but also for devising creative out-of-court methods to settle complex disputes. ‘It’s always best to find a solution that both parties can live with,’ she says. ‘One of the defining features of my practice is collaborative law, and I always have collaborative cases on the go.’ 

The former Spear’s Award winner has spent more than 16 years at Stewarts and possesses a formidable reputation for working on complex issues that arise from divorce, ranging from asset valuation and business interests to trusts and wealth protection structures.

She is a member of Resolution, the International Academy of Family Lawyers and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

Notable cases

• ES v SS [2023] EWFC 177
  
• IR v OR [2022] EWFC 20
• HRH Prince Louis v HRH Princess Tessy [2017] EWHC 3095 (Fam)

Adviser Profile

Debbie has over 20 years’ experience advising high-net-worth individuals on all aspects of family law, including complex asset valuation, business interests, trusts and wealth protection. She regularly advises on international pre- and post-nuptial agreements.

Her recently reported cases include IR v OR [2022], securing a £70 million award for the wife, and acting for the husband in ES v SS [2023], a financial remedies claim relating to private equity valuations and tax risks. Debbie acted in the landmark Court of Appeal case XW v XH, redefining the law on special contribution.

She also is known for her expertise in collaborative law, offering clients a private, efficient and family-focused alternative to court proceedings.