About us
We created Mitchell Ryan Solicitors to provide a unique client experience at what is often one of the most stressful, emotional and frightening times in a client’s life.
We are not your traditional law firm but having both worked for the same traditional firm together for nearly 16 years, we have learnt a lot. Our aim is to provide clients with the best of both worlds; a high level of service and expertise that you would expect from a big law firm, with the personal and tailored approach of a much smaller law firm.
We believe that legal knowledge comes from experience, and experience is certainly something that we have in abundance. We both love being family solicitors and get a real sense of satisfaction from knowing that we are making a difference to our clients’ lives and their futures.
Due to our close working history, we both have a very similar work ethic. If you instruct one of us, you are guaranteed the same experience no matter which of us deals with your case and you will benefit from the shared legal knowledge of us both.
With us you will find solicitors free from the significant overheads of a traditional firm, meaning that we pass these savings directly on to you and offer a more cost-effective service, without compromising on quality. We are also able to devote all our time and energy to focus exclusively on what we do best. Our vision is to excel in providing an exceptional service to those who need it, when they need it.
We understand that an appointment with a solicitor is not an everyday event, often causing clients to feel anxious, apprehensive and out of their comfort zone. We understand this, we are real people. We pride ourselves on our friendly and approachable manner. When you are ready, get in touch with us to find out how we can help you.
We offer a FREE first appointment to all new clients, which is specifically tailored to your needs. We will meet with you where you feel comfortable and at a time convenient for you. We want you to leave your first appointment feeling better informed, confident of the path ahead and with all your questions answered.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. We will help you get there!
We look forward to meeting you.
The M & the R
director | solicitor
Nicola Mitchell
I qualified as a Solicitor in 2001 having graduated from the University of Leicester with an LL.B (Hons) in Law in 1997.
I have specialised exclusively in family law since 2001 and it is fair to say, that has given me a very broad experience. I have a particular interest and expertise in dealing with divorce and related financial cases.
My clients have ranged from professional individuals such as doctors, lawyers, business owners, police officers and international clients, to those being held at her majesty’s pleasure. I love the diversity of my work and have been fortunate to gain this experience.
Consequently, I am particularly skilled and experienced in adapting my style and approach to the unique set of circumstances before me. No two clients are the same, so why should the approach be.
Providing an excellent service is of paramount importance to me, especially as the majority of my clients come through recommendations. For me, a recommendation is the highest compliment!
I know how important it is to have a relaxed, sympathetic, understanding whilst professional relationship with my clients to help them through difficult times. My clients appreciate my organised, efficient and straight-talking style.
I promote a constructive and practical approach in family cases. Wherever possible, I will always seek to reach a solution between the parties by agreement. However, on those occasions where an agreement cannot be reached, I am not averse to taking a firmer stance.
I am a member of Resolution and the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme.
Prior to setting up Mitchell Ryan Solicitors with Sarah, we worked locally together for nearly 16 years. I was a Partner|Director and Head of Department at the same firm for 9 years.
I was brought up and educated locally and am proud to have set up a firm so close to my roots, allowing me to provide a service to the local community.
Outside of the legal world, I am the co-Chair of Governors at the local Primary School.
At the weekends, I can often be seen providing entertainment in the village by pursuing my 3 young children on their bikes with my crazy Labrador in tow!
director | solicitor
Sarah Ryan
I graduated with an LL.B (Hons) in Law in 2007 and subsequently received a Distinction in my Legal Practice Course from the University of Law in Guildford. I qualified as a Solicitor in 2010 although I have worked exclusively in Family Law since 2005.
I have been fortunate enough to work on a vast range of diverse cases, which has given me a wealth of knowledge and experience across the entire family law arena. As a result, I am able to assist and advise my clients comprehensively, to ensure the very best representation at all times, in accordance with my clients’ objectives. I will always take the time to fully understand my clients’ needs from the outset; which enables me to provide realistic, cost-effective and pro-active advice.
I would describe my approach as empathetic and effective. I strive to provide an excellent standard of service to each and every client, with a focus on resolving issues as promptly as possible, at what is often a difficult and emotional time. Over the years, I have established an excellent reputation locally and, consequently, a large proportion of my work comes from recommendations and referrals.
I frequently advise and assist clients across a very broad spectrum of Family Law issues, although I have a particular specialism in defended divorces, complex and high value matrimonial finances (often involving overseas assets or family businesses), pension issues, valuations and sharing on divorce, and spousal maintenance claims.
I am also regularly instructed in cases involving children, whether that be general issues surrounding who a child should live with or spend time with, or more specific issues involving schooling, religion or medical treatment. As a separated parent myself, I understand the importance of achieving the right outcome for a client, whilst maintaining family relationships during very difficult times and where tensions often run high.
I am a member of Resolution and am committed to conducting all cases in a constructive and non-confrontational manner.
Outside of work, I am a keen badminton player and regularly play for numerous teams across the Southampton and Winchester leagues.