Hampshire Family Legal Solutions

20/05/2026

Hello!

I am Cathy Sousa. I am one of the founders of the HFLS group, which was established in 2015 with the aim of providing separating couples with a joined up approach to reduce conflict and acrimony, making any children the centre of all discussions. Upon separation, trust and communication can deteriorate quickly and early assistance with the legal, financial and emotional aspects of decision making will be crucial to the outcome, including time and money spent, but also the physical and mental health and wellbeing of the couple and any children involved.

Separating couples should not have to repeatedly explain the same relationship history several times (which may be traumatic) or hear separate and conflicting advice, which is a common approach. Working with HFLS means we can provide tailored and joint support and advice and ensure emotional blocks (which are often the reason for couples not being able to agree or engage) are managed sensitively and early to ensure communication and trust are rebuilt where possible.

I am exceptionally proud of how many families HFLS have helped over the years and the wonderful feedback we receive, which makes the work so rewarding for me personally and professionally. I am a collaborative solicitor, an accredited family mediator, a Resolution Together solicitor (One Couple, One Solicitor) and an Arbitrator for both children and financial matters.

Outside of the office, I spend time enjoying the company of my teenage daughter before she disappears off to University, New Forest walks with my 2 dogs, and I love to travel having lived in Italy, Portugal and Australia.

13/05/2026

It’s fantastic to see family arbitration receiving national recognition in the Law Gazette, as FLAG (Family Law Arbitrators Group) raises awareness of arbitration as an effective alternative to court proceedings.

As a form of Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR), arbitration can offer families a more flexible, private and often quicker way to resolve disputes outside of court. This is one of the options HFLS members can offer to support constructive, child-focused outcomes.

We are proud that two HFLS members, Rebecca and Cathy, are qualified family law arbitrators.

To find out more or to contact Rebecca or Cathy, please visit: https://www.hfls.co.uk/members

Read the article here: https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/lawyer-in-the-news/family-lawyers-fly-the-flag-for-arbitration/5126610.article

Organisation hopes to raise public awareness of non-court dispute resolution option and become a valuable family law resource.

01/05/2026

I’m Ann Herd; an accredited mediator, collaborative lawyer and One Couple One Lawyer Resolution trained solicitor.

HFLS is a cohesive group of like-minded professionals that I am proud to be part of so that we can offer a fully rounded, emotionally considered way of separation and forward co-parenting. This approach ensures that consideration is given to the most important issues facing the couple involved to ensure they are fully involved with any decisions and outcomes and avoiding the court imposing those decisions upon them. Professional advice is available from financial neutrals and family consultants to ensure all facets of the separation are considered and resolved.

Outside of the office I am a keen gardener, static cyclist, runner and yogi, I am also often to be found striding across the New Forest with my black Labrador. Now my two boys are grown up having more time for this kind of pursuit!

22/04/2026

We’re proud to celebrate that one of our HFLS members, Grant Cameron of Trethowans, has won Legal Personality of the Year at the 2026 LexisNexis Legal Awards!

This is a fantastic and well-deserved achievement, recognising Grant’s outstanding contribution to the legal profession and his dedication to driving positive change in family law.

Congratulations, Grant, on this incredible success — we are delighted to celebrate with you!