When Is a Child Made a Party to Family Court Proceedings?

Jess King

July 16, 2026    ∙     4 min read

Nla 2025 Award Winners 12

Cygnet Law has been recognised for its outstanding legal work after taking home a total of three awards at the Northern Law Awards. The Redcar-based firm, which recently expanded into Middlesbrough and Whitby, won Family Law Team of the Year, Private Client Team of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, cementing its reputation as one of the region’s leading law practices.

The entire team was praised by judges for its exceptional technical expertise and passion for the practice of family law, as well as its focus on continuous learning and deep-rooted community engagement. The Private Client Team was also singled out for its commitment to accessibility, particularly through regular outreach sessions in local market towns designed to support clients unable to visit the office.

Team Family Law Team Private Client

Employment Judge Stephen Gowland, who presented the award, said:

“The team tailors their approach to meet the needs of clients requiring additional support, making the process as simple and comfortable for them as possible.”

Capri Lindo, Trainee Legal Executive, was named Apprentice of the Year, highlighting her initiative, academic achievement and significant contribution to the business as a whole.

Speaking on her award success, Capri said:

“Being named Apprentice of the Year is a huge personal achievement, but it’s also a reflection of the incredible support I’ve received from my colleagues at Cygnet Law. Their mentorship has been invaluable in helping me grow both professionally and personally, and I can’t wait to keep growing and making a real difference in the team and community.”

Apprentice

The triple win comes amid a period of expansion for the firm, which has recently launched a new office in Middlesbrough and opened a further drop in branch in Whitby. Cygnet Law’s growing presence across Teesside and North Yorkshire was seen as a strong contributing factor to its continued success.

Following the event, Gemma Brooke, Director at Cygnet Law, said:

“We’re absolutely over the moon. Winning not one, but three awards is an incredible moment for all of us at Cygnet Law. These awards mean so much because they recognise the heart we put into our work and not just the legal side, but the real care we have for our clients and communities. It’s been an exciting year with our growth into Middlesbrough and Whitby, and this just feels like such a proud moment for the whole team who work so hard day in day out for the community we serve.”

The Northern Law Awards, held at the Hilton in Gateshead and now in its 10th year, celebrates the success and talent of legal professionals across the North of England, with entries judged by a panel of industry experts.

Cygnet Law has built a strong reputation in the North East for expert family and property law services and was previously recognised with awards in 2022 and 2023.

The team has a wealth of experience in many areas of law, including conveyancing, domestic violence, child protection, divorce and separation, court of protection, wills and probate.

Operating for over 20 years, the firm is known for its client-focused approach, legal expertise and commitment to supporting some of the region’s most vulnerable individuals.

 

About Cygnet Law

Founded in 2001, Cygnet Law is a specialist law firm based in Redcar, with offices also in Middlesbrough, Drop in locations in Loftus and Whitby. The firm is recognised for its expertise in family law, Court of Protection matters, private client work and property and residential conveyancing. With a values-driven approach, Cygnet Law is committed to providing accessible, compassionate and high-quality legal services to individuals and families across the North East. Its team of experienced solicitors and legal professionals work collaboratively to deliver practical advice, strong client relationships and meaningful outcomes, particularly for those facing complex or vulnerable circumstances. Additionally, they are a dementia friendly solicitor practice.

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