Stewarts Law has made a high-profile hire from Manches, recruiting family law partner Helen Ward along with a team of solicitors and support staff.

Ward, who has been at Manches for 18 years, will join litigation firm Stewarts' five-partner divorce and family team in November, bringing four solicitors and two support staff with her.

Ward has been involved in a number of landmark divorce cases including securing a payout reportedly worth almost £50m for client Guy Ritchie after his split from Madonna in 2008, in one of the largest divorce settlements in UK history.

Ward also represented Beverly Charman – the former wife of insurance magnate John Charman – in 2007, successfully securing a £48m settlement for her client, and advised Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone on his divorce from Slavica Ecclestone in 2009.

Stewarts divorce and family chief Stephen Foster commented: "Helen's appointment endorses and strengthens our current market position as a leading UK divorce and family department.

"Our strategy has been to create a team comprising the very best divorce lawyers at every level to meet the complex and sensitive needs of our clients.  Helen, who we regard as the leading family lawyer in the country, will add significant strength and depth to the team."

Manches' family team now has 10 remaining partners.

Manches commented: "Helen has made a significant contribution to our firm and our family department in particular, since she joined 18 years ago. We would like to thank Helen for all she has contributed and we wish her every happiness for the future."

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