Emma joined Ridley & Hall as a Partner in September 2020, bringing with her extensive experience as a family law specialist. She focuses on all areas of private family law, with a particular expertise in financial matters following separation, especially in cases involving unmarried couples. Her expertise has been consistently recognised by the Legal 500.

Emma studied at the University of Warwick and later at the College of Law in York, qualifying as a solicitor in 2007. Having spent many years working in both Leeds and York, she has built strong connections with professionals, businesses, and charitable organizations across Yorkshire, enabling her to offer holistic support to her clients. Known for her compassionate, clear, and practical approach, Emma is dedicated to providing thorough and straightforward advice.

Emma’s practice spans a wide range of family law matters. She helps clients navigate the complexities of separation, offering advice on divorce, dissolution proceedings, financial settlements, and arrangements for children. With a background at commercial law firms, Emma has particular expertise in high-net-worth cases but also understands that the most challenging situations often involve finding solutions to meet clients’ future needs. She is experienced in managing complex cases, including issues related to child safeguarding, domestic abuse, and parental alienation.

In addition to helping clients after separation, Emma advises on proactive planning for the future. Whether it’s advising on cohabitation agreements for couples moving in together or drafting pre-nuptial agreements for those planning marriage or civil partnerships, Emma’s expertise covers a broad spectrum of family law. She also assists clients who are conceiving a child through assisted reproduction in applying for parental orders in cases of surrogacy.

Emma is an active member of Resolution, a national organisation of family lawyers, and serves on both the regional West & North Yorkshire Resolution Committee and the national Resolution Cohabitation Committee. She is passionate about law reform, advocating for greater legal rights for cohabitants and a family law system that better serves families.

Outside of her legal practice, Emma is a keen follower of politics and current affairs, a yoga enthusiast, and enjoys spending quality time with her family.

Memberships: 

• Resolution
• Leeds Law Society
• Labour Party
• Women’s Equality Party