Claire Schneck

People

Claire Schneck

Partner

Claire has been the head of the family law team since 2008. She graduated from the University of Westminster with a 2:1 LLB Honours degree and a distinction on the legal practice course. She qualified as a solicitor in 2000 working in the family law department, becoming a partner in 2005.

Claire is named in the Chambers Directory 2023 (a leading guide to the UK legal profession) as a leading individual in Kent for Family law. She is a past president of the Bromley & District Law Society and is registered on the Law Society Press List as an expert in family law.  Claire has been referred to as a 'Noteworthy Individual' in the prestigious Legal 500 and has written an article for the Family Law Journal. Claire also appeared live on Channel 4 News, BBC News 24, Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Kent and Legal TV to discuss the issues surrounding cohabitants rights and other family law issues. She regularly writes articles for local publications and has previously contributed to a monthly Family Law page for Woman magazine.

Claire has been listed by Business Today in the Top 10 pioneering family lawyers transforming matrimonial law in Kent 2023.

In her spare time, Claire enjoys travel, live music and spending time with her family.

Expertise

  • Divorce
  • Financial claims
  • Matters relating to children
  • Cohabitee disputes
  • Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act (TOLATA)

Highlights

In the landmark case of Oxley v Hiscock in 2004, Claire acted for Elayne Oxley, the cohabitee who was awarded 40% of the house she had shared with her partner despite having paid only 22% of its original purchase price and never having contributed to the mortgage repayments. The case clarified the legal position that once a beneficial interest has been established, the Court may award whatever it considers to be a fair share of the property to each party, taking into account the whole course of dealings between the parties. This led to Claire appearing on a live debate for Channel 4 News and being quoted in several national publications..

Claim to fame

"Appeared on Channel 4 News for a live debate with a Barrister to discuss the rights of cohabitees."

Articles

Common questions raised following a separation