Hayley Trim

Partner

Family Law

Bristol

Call Hayley on +44 (0)117 9261507 Email Hayley

Biography

I'm a partner in our national Family Team with particular links to the South Coast, Chichester and Southampton, although my clients come from all over the country and abroad. I handle all kinds of family law work including matters with an international element. I have a specialist interest in wealth protection for my clients, and I lead our Pre- and Post-Nuptial Agreements Team of Excellence.

I’m passionate about the law and using it to the best advantage of my clients. But expert legal knowledge is just one aspect of my role. For me, it is essential to truly understand my client’s priorities and objectives and take a strategic and tactical approach. I provide my clients with pragmatic and commercial advice.

What inspired you to get into law?

I wanted to be a lawyer from an early age. A passion for justice and wanting to help people combined with enjoying problem solving (and finding out I’m probably too squeamish to be a doctor).

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?

Clients often consult us at a very low point in their lives. It’s great to see a client grow in confidence by the end of their case.

I also love to work with our bright junior lawyers and help them develop their knowledge and experience (and they also keep me on my toes!)

What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?

Where to start?! Irwin Mitchell colleagues are the most genuinely caring, client-focused and supportive people I have worked with. And there is always someone who can help, no matter what the issue: there are specialists in everything - not just family law but every legal discipline - so we can give our clients a truly holistic and complete service.

What do you do away from the office?

I enjoy food and drink and getting out on the water when I can. An early morning bootcamp helps me to keep fit.

Publications

A Practical Guide to Inherited Wealth on Divorce

Testimonials

"Hayley Trim is excellent. Very responsive, extremely knowledgeable, and will always answer any questions that we have. Also is very pragmatic and straightforward, will be very honest with clients and not sugarcoat things or give unrealistic expectations. Excellent caring manner with clients, really putting them at ease. Such a wonderful manner." - Legal 500, 2025

"I used Irwin Mitchell to help with my divorce. Hayley Trim was professional and responsive at all times. Communication was excellent via email and everything clear and understandable. While not acrimonious it was complicated - these guys made it sound easy and at least some of the stress was taken away. Thank you" - 5* Trustpilot review

"Hayley was very helpful and punctual with my legal assistance. She is professional but also warm and approachable. I would recommend the company as a whole too." - 5* Trustpilot review

Expertise In

Hayley is based in the following location(s)

Bristol

2nd Floor, One Castlepark, Tower Hill, Bristol, BS2 0JA.

0117 911 6329(Telephone)

Opening Hours

Mon – Fri: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Sat – Sun - Bank Holidays: Closed

View office details

Chichester

Thomas Eggar House, Friary Lane, Chichester, PO19 1UF.

01243 888 504(Telephone)

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri: 8am–6pm

Sat - Sun - Bank Holidays: Closed

View office details

Southampton

One Dorset Street, Southampton, SO15 2DP

02380 988 648(Telephone)

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri: 8am–6pm

Sat - Sun - Bank Holidays: Closed

View office details

Bristol
2nd Floor, One Castlepark, Tower Hill, Bristol, BS2 0JA.
0117 911 6329(Telephone)
Opening Hours
Mon – Fri: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Sat – Sun - Bank Holidays: Closed
View office details
Chichester
Thomas Eggar House, Friary Lane, Chichester, PO19 1UF.
01243 888 504(Telephone)
Opening Hours

Mon - Fri: 8am–6pm

Sat - Sun - Bank Holidays: Closed
View office details
Southampton
One Dorset Street, Southampton, SO15 2DP
02380 988 648(Telephone)
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 8am–6pm

Sat - Sun - Bank Holidays: Closed
View office details

More about Hayley

Which clients do you usually work with?

I work with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, often where there are significant financial resources, complex financial structures and/or international connections. I help them to find solutions in the context of separation and divorce, both in relation to their financial matters and arrangements for their children.

I also work with individuals and families who want to plan for the future and avoid the uncertain financial impact that can flow from a divorce. Prenuptial agreements and post-nuptial agreements can be used effectively as part of a wider wealth protection strategy, or simply to avoid future uncertainty and potential arguments when a relationship breaks down.

What notable cases have you worked on?

What notable cases have you worked on?

Although significant assets can often be a feature of the work I do, the cases which are most notable in my own estimation are those where the outcome has been particularly meaningful for the client. Some examples include:

Protecting a limited compensation fund required to meet lifelong needs for a severely disabled client on his divorce when their spouse sought a 50% share.
Working creatively to enable a client to retain a beloved property rather than it being ordered to be sold.
Supporting a vulnerable client to move on from a dangerous and abusive relationship to personal and financial independence with confidence.
I acted in the reported case of K v K (No. 2) [2022] EWFC 171, where we secured orders protecting the welfare of three children.

How do you help your clients achieve the best outcome?

Every client’s situation is different, and my priority is to help them achieve their personal objectives, so there is no “one size fits all” approach. It’s often possible and preferable to reach a positive resolution which does not involve the court, and I will support my clients through the most appropriate process for them.

Whatever the process, I ensure my clients are supported by a team with the relevant legal and other expertise, and that there is a holistic approach to give them the best possible foundation to move on with their life.

What can I expect from my first meeting with you?

Deciding to speak to a family lawyer can be a big step. When we first meet, I want to understand what really matters to you, so I'll take the time to listen carefully to everything you have to say.

It's not just about the facts and figures. My aim is for you to leave our meeting feeling heard, reassured and better informed about the law, the process, and the options available to you, with a clear understanding of the potential next steps.

Our first meeting can take place face to face at one of our offices or by video call, depending on what works best for you and your circumstances.

Call Hayley on +44 (0)117 9261507 Email Hayley

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