Jo Backwith

Training & experience

Jo graduated in 2005 with a 2;1 History BA from the University of Reading. She received a commendation for her graduate diploma in Law in 2009 from Oxford Brookes University. She gained a distinction on her legal practice course in at the University of Law in 2010.

Following completion of her LPC she worked as a paralegal at a sole practitioner in Hampshire for circa 7 months.

She then commenced employment with Ratcliffe Duce & Gammer (RDG) in Reading in May 2011 as a paralegal. They supported her qualification via CILEX initially as a Graduate member. She has solely worked in Family Law since May 2011.

In June 2014, RDG were acquired by Clifton Ingram LLP. Jo became a Chartered Legal Executive in September 2015 following completion and submission of a work portfolio showcasing her work.

On completing the Professional Skills Course in early 2016 she was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in April 2016.

Jo was promoted to Associate Solicitor in November 2017.

Specialisms

Jo advises clients on all aspects of divorce, financial matters and children. Her caseload has historically been largely split equally between children and finances and she would like that to continue.

She has advised in cases of parental alienation and really enjoyed this type of work.

Jo generally advises on low – mid range finance matters, although she often assisted on mid to high net worth matters when working alongside her former Head of Department who was a Partner.

She has on occasion advised clients on separation agreements, cohabitation agreements, pre-nuptial and post- nuptial agreements.

Approach

Jo is calm and considered in her approach.She is empathetic to clients but also manages their expectations. She will say if a client has unrealistic expectations, and is willing to have those difficult conversations with clients. Jo considers herself as someone who is straight talking and clear. She can be robust but not combative. She encourage clients to see the bigger picture and to consider alternative approaches to try to settle matters outside of Court, so they have an outcome they can live with having compromised rather than an outcome imposed by the Court.

Accreditations, memberships & awards

Jo is a member of Resolution.

She was recommended in the 2017 Legal 500.

Outside of work

When she is not working, Jo likes spending time with her family, whom she goes on frequent walks with. She also likes to socialise with friends.
Her other hobbies include going to music concerts / festivals – in which she also takes her children.
She also is an avid sports fan, enjoying football and cricket.