Family Law

Alex Verdan QC is Head of Chambers at 4PB, winner of the Family Law Chambers of the Year – London Award at the Family Law Awards 2017.

What is your position and what do you do on a day-to-day basis?

Head of Chambers at 4PB. As a barrister I specialise in complex children cases, particularly relocations. I am in court nearly every day and on the side try and find time to respond to hundreds of emails. 

How long have you been in this role and what brought you here?

5 years as head of chambers. 30 years plus a barrister. That is too long a story.

Any memorable stories from your career so far?

Yes and my five volumes of memoirs are full of them (still looking for a publisher). The day I was fiddling with a Bic biro whilst addressing a district judge and the biro split in two with half of it flying across the court and hitting the judge is till up there as a favourite

What is the best and worst part of the day for you?

Winning an argument in court. Drafting the order.

What keeps you motivated?

The people I work with.

Tea or coffee?

Flat white at 8am, English Breakfast at 4pm and mint tea at 10pm. Every day, no deviation.

What would you say to anyone thinking of a career in your field?

It’s knackering but really rewarding.

What song do you listen to the most?

The theme from Rocky each day before court.

Who inspires you within the world of family law?

Dr Eia Asen, the psychiatrist: wise, humane, intelligent, caring, insightful.

How do you enjoy your time outside of work?

Eating and wining; running and cycling to offset.

What book would you recommend to others?

Dissolution.

What would be your alternate career?

Restaurant critic.

If you could change one thing about the family justice system what would it be and why?

The cuts to legal aid in the last 15 years. They have deprived many of a fair hearing and justice. The saving amounts to a penny or two on a pint of beer or a few pennies on a packet of cigarettes. It’s all about priorities.

What has winning the Family Law Award meant to you?

Winning the best chambers award again has been a massive boost for all the members and staff at 4PB. Everyone works very hard to keep our position amidst increasing competition.