Annabel Hayward

Specialism

Annabel is a highly experienced family law solicitor with over 20 years of expertise in divorce, cohabitation disputes, and cases involving substantial assets. She is an Accredited Specialist in complex financial matters, including pre-nuptial agreements and co-habitation cases. Annabel’s focus is on negotiating bespoke financial settlements and resolving disputes outside of court whenever possible.

Approach

Renowned for her client care and practical, empathetic approach, Annabel is known for striking the right balance between compassion and achieving results. As a collaboratively trained solicitor and family mediator, she is dedicated to finding amicable solutions at an early stage, helping clients avoid prolonged court battles.

Training and Experience

Annabel’s extensive career spans law firms in Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridge, and London before joining Hawkins Family Law in 2014. Recognised by The Legal 500 as a “pragmatic lawyer with a cool head,” she is a recommended family lawyer with significant experience handling high-value cases and providing tailored advice for each client.

Legal 500

Annabel is one of Legal 500’s recommended lawyers, with them saying:

“Annabel Hayward has worked on my account for the last 5 years approximately and has given my requirements real focus and attention. She has been empathetic and supportive, always giving excellent advice and predicting outcomes far into the future.” Legal 500, 2026

Read more about what Legal 500 has to say about Annabel.

Chambers and Partners

Annabel is ranked as Band 3 in the Chambers and Partners UK guide 2026 for Family and Matrimonial matters.

Chambers says: “Annabel Hayward is very sensible, listens well and provides good advice that she acts on.”

Read more about what Chambers has to say about Annabel.