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Partner & Head of Family (North)
People
Christopher Burns is a Partner and Head of the Family, joining the firm’s Leeds office in September 2025.
With over 30 years’ experience, Chris specialises in complex financial and children’s cases, often involving jurisdictional or relocation issues. He also regularly advises on pre- and post-nuptial agreements and cohabitee disputes.
Chris is known for his calm, measured, and practical approach, providing clear advice and presenting options in a straightforward, no-nonsense manner. His empathetic style allows clients to feel confident in asking questions and trusting him to guide them through highly emotive and life-changing situations. He represents a wide range of professional and private clients, delivering incisive legal solutions while maintaining a personable and approachable manner.
People
Chris approach utalises both traditional legal approaches and collaborative alternatives, tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Over his career, he has handled intricate financial settlements, child arrangements, and relocation disputes that require strategic thinking, careful negotiation, and meticulous attention to detail. He is often called upon to advise clients navigating sensitive personal and professional intersections, including high-net-worth estates and family business matters.
Chris places great importance on building trusted relationships with his clients, offering clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance at every stage. By combining deep expertise with a thoughtful and empathetic approach, he helps clients navigate complex situations and achieve the best possible outcomes.
Testimonial
I was nervous about restarting divorce proceedings after previously trying to handle the separation without solicitors. Five years had passed, financial circumstances had changed, and I was unsure how a new financial order might affect me.
From my very first call with Chris, I felt reassured. He listened carefully, explained everything clearly, and made a potentially stressful process feel manageable. I always knew what to expect next and felt supported throughout.
What stood out most was Chris’s combination of friendliness and clear, precise advice. I never felt intimidated—in fact, I felt completely at ease. This was a stark contrast to my earlier experience with another local solicitor, which felt impersonal and focused only on costs.
I would recommend Chris and Sally without hesitation.
Family Client
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