Joanna Newton

Specialisms

Joanna is a Partner at Stowe Family Law’s Bristol office, having previously trained in the city. She is a member of Resolution and the Chair of Bristol YRes. She acts for a wide range of clients, advising in relation to divorce, dissolution, pre marital and cohabitation agreements.

She also advises in relation to financial matters upon relationship breakdown including complex issues relating to family trusts and business assets. She has particular expertise in private law children matters and circumstances involving domestic abuse.

Approach

Joanna recognises that not only is every case different, but so too are a client’s needs. Joanna therefore ensures that she takes time to understand the needs of her client and tailors her advice / approach to ensure that those needs are met.

Joanna is empathetic but also straight talking and ensures that a client is made aware of all of their options, alongside their prospects of success. Joanna prides herself on her personal skills and ensures that all clients are supported throughout her instruction and that a fair resolution is reached in both a timely and cost-effective manner.

Training & Employment

Joanna studied Law at the University of Reading and, having completed her training contract in Bristol, qualified as a solicitor in 2014 and since then has specialised in family law. Joanna is now Partner at Stowe Family Law’s South West & Wales offices; Bath, Bristol, Cardiff & Cheltenham.

Awards

Shortlisted for Lawyer of the Year 2021 by Bristol Law Society – “Joanna is an exceptional family lawyer. She combines a straight-talking and focused approach with empathy and compassion. She is quick to build a rapport with clients, and is well-regarded for her dedication and holistic approach. This dedication continues outside of work as Joanna supports several local charities, including Bristol One25.”

Joanna is ranked as Band 3 in the Chambers and Partners 2025 Guide.

Legal 500

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

“Joanna Newton has guided me with care and understanding through situations that have arisen during my divorce that have been emotionally charged for me, with clear practical solutions for the way forward.” Legal 500, 2026

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

Chambers and Partners

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

Chambers says: “I can’t rate her highly enough. She has a really good analytical brain.”

Read more about what Chambers has to say about Joanna.

Outside of Work

Outside of work Joanna leads an active life and enjoys cooking, cricket, travelling and exploring new places. Joanna also has a passion for food and when not experimenting in the kitchen, can regularly be found attending one of Bristol’s many food festivals.