25 Years in Practice: Reflections and Hopes for the Future

In the final article of her 25th anniversary series, Cherise reflects on her career in Dorset, her leadership at Nantes, and her hopes for the future of family law — focusing on collaboration, out of court resolution, and mentoring the next generation.
Cherise, Solicitor at Nantes, working at her desk in Dorset, representing her 25 years in practice and reflections on the future of family law and dispute resolution.

In the last 3 articles, Cherise, who is celebrating 25 years as a Solicitor, has reflected on her own career and changes in family law during her time in practice. In this last article, Cherise was asked to sum up the last 25 years and what she hopes for the future.

A Career in Dorset Law: Looking Back and Moving Forward

After completing my studies at Bournemouth University, I have always practised in Dorset.  I have worked at only three firms in my career, and I am extremely proud of my current position as Director and Head of Dispute Resolution at Nantes Solicitors.

Throughout my career, I have supported the local community with fundraising events, and I am a big advocate for business networking, having served many years on the Executive Committee of the Chamber of Commerce.  I have met and helped many inspiring clients who are navigating the changes that a separation brings to their lives.  I have had many successes in my career and built strong working relationships with colleagues at other firms locally, which help my non-adversarial approach to resolving disputes both in my family practice and civil litigation.

As a Solicitor who mainly conducts my own advocacy, I have seen numerous changes in court practice over the years, and I can see the system at present needs attention with court delays and administration issues leading to distress for those clients who have to resort to court assistance in a case.

My hope for the future is that we can continue to build on out-of-court resolution and a more holistic approach to assisting separating couples, as legal issues are a very small part of the trauma of separation. Clients need support from their Solicitor, and I truly believe I have developed a lasting legacy in this respect, which I hope to pass on to the trainee Solicitors at Nantes.

Looking for Legal Support You Can Trust?

At Nantes, our experienced Solicitors in Dorset combine compassion and practical expertise to resolve disputes efficiently. Whether you need advice on family matters, wills, or litigation, our team is here to help. Contact our Bridport, Dorchester, Weymouth, or Portland offices, or call us on 01305 771 000.

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About the author:

Picture of Cherise Luke-Bennett

Cherise Luke-Bennett

Cherise qualified as a solicitor in 2000 and has lived and worked in Dorset throughout her career. Cherise specialises in a number of areas: Matrimonial – divorce, separation, pre-nuptial and cohabitation agreements, financial settlements on divorce and separation including pension sharing. Children – helping separated parents resolve issues regarding the arrangements for their children Civil disputes – Inheritance disputes, personal injury, boundary disputes Residential conveyancing- the buying and selling of homes and flats.

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