Steele Raymond family lawyer achieves Resolution specialist accreditation

The Resolution ‘Lawyers Accreditation’ scheme is designed to recognise and award Resolution members who have demonstrated excellence in the areas in which they specialise. Resolution describes its accredited specialists as ‘highly competent’ and the qualification itself as ‘a mark of excellence in practice which is recognised by the public, Resolution members, the judiciary and the Legal Aid Agency and demonstrates the outstanding level of skills and expertise of the members who achieve accreditation.’

In order to achieve the special accreditation, candidates must complete both a core assignment, which challenges candidates to exemplify an overall knowledge of family law, and a separate exam on their chosen specialist areas of practice.

Speaking on her achievement, Michelle said:

“The Resolution specialist accreditation is no small undertaking and required a significant amount of time and personal study. I have a real passion for child law and so to gain such a highly regarded and widely recognised specialism in this area of family law is fantastic.”

She continued:

“The additional accreditation in cohabitation and TOLATA will allow me to continue to provide really critical legal advice and guidance in an area of family law which is commonly misunderstood. Cohabiting couples do not have the same rights as married couples, or those in a civil partnership, and I am often required to dispel the myth of ‘common law’ marriage with my clients.”

Michelle qualified as a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives (now Chartered Institute) in 2007 and has practiced as a family lawyer since 2005. Since joining Steele Raymond’s family team in 2017. She has gained a reputation for expert legal guidance on all types of family matters, from cohabitation agreements, pre- and post-nuptial agreements and on all matters relating to separating, including divorce, dissolution of civil partnerships, injunction proceedings, cohabitation, financial settlements, and children disputes. Michelle is also an accredited mediator and specialises in the ‘child inclusive’ aspects of the process.

Partner and head of the family team at Steele Raymond, Daniel Sanders, heralded Michelle’s achievement, saying:

“Michelle is an incredible lawyer and is an asset to our busy family team. Her dedication and effort in becoming a Resolution accredited specialist is a testament to her commitment to her profession and her many valued clients. Michelle is always determined to find the best solutions for her clients and to help families navigate a positive path forward into the future.

“Her achievement in becoming a specialist will enhance her offering to our clients.”

For further information, or to discuss your specific family legal matters, please contact Michelle Bettell directly on 01202 294566 or by completing the form below.