Liza Gatrell

Specialisms

Described in the Legal 500 as “approachable, constructive when on the other side of a matter and generous with her knowledge”.

Liza has specialised in family law since 2008 and she is well known for her personal and practical approach. Her speciality is dealing with complex financial disputes, including matters where there are substantial assets, business and trust assets and cases with an international aspect. Liza also routinely advises on prenuptial agreements, issues that arise for cohabiting couples and complex children cases especially those involving an international element and narcissistic personalities.

On numerous occasions, Liza has conducted litigation with an international element, and she is able to work as a team with lawyers in other jurisdictions where necessary.

Having worked on the South Coast for several years, and previously having attended legal clinics at the Portsmouth Naval bases, she has substantial experience of the intricacies of Armed Forces Pensions.

Finally, Liza has been advising on surrogacy law since 2014 and regularly provides advise to parties starting their surrogacy journey, represents parties applying for a financial order and assists with drafting known donor agreements.
Liza is a member of resolution, and she is an accredited specialist.

Approach

Liza can quickly put clients at ease and ensures that they benefit from clear and concise advice tailored to their individual needs. She is solution focused and committed to helping clients achieve their desired outcomes in a constructive and cost-effective way.

Liza is the co- host of the Stowe Talks family law Podcast and is committed to making family law accessible for all.

Training & Employment

Liza studied at Cardiff University before qualifying in 2008. She then went on to work at a highly regarded South Coast firm before joining Stowe in May 2021. Liza is now Managing Partner and Head of the Thames Valley team, which includes Stowe’s offices in Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

Outside of Work

Liza is often found running around after her 3 young boys or at the beach where she enjoys swimming all year round.

Legal 500

Liza leads the Hampshire family law team ranked Tier 3 by The Legal 500 2027 and is recognised for her experience in international family law and fertility matters. The latest guide describes her as “one of the best family solicitors” and praises her clear, straight-talking approach, knowledge and focus on achieving the best outcome for her clients.

“Liza is, quite simply, one of the best family solicitors I have worked with. I trust her completely with some of my most important clients. She has a clear, straight-talking approach, is incredibly knowledgeable, and always focuses on achieving the best outcome for her clients. She explains complex issues in a way clients can understand and brings both professionalism and empathy to every case.” – Legal 500, 2027

“My experience was with Liza Gatrell who was thorough and responsive.” – Legal 500, 2027

“Liza Gatrell – she conducted a difficult case with professionalism. She was firm, polite, thorough, and responsive.” – Legal 500, 2027

Her long-standing recognition includes praise for being “approachable, constructive” and “generous with her knowledge”, as well as for her supportive approach, pragmatic advice and patience

Pronouns: She/Her