Gilson Gray launches family law division headed by Philippa Cunniff

Gilson Gray has announced plans to launch a family law division after hiring Philippa Cunniff.

Ms Cunniff, who comes fresh from her role as partner and head of family law at HBJ Gateley, brings over 16 years of specialist family law experience to the firm.

According to Gilson Gray, Ms Cunniff’s decision to leave HBJ Gateley ahead of its merger with Addelshaw Goddard will immediately see Gilson Gray offer market-leading family legal expertise.

Ms Cunniff, who is dual qualified, will be joined by paralegal Michelle McNaughton with whom she has 15 years’ working experience.

Ms Cunniff said: “It is fantastic to be joining at such an exciting time as the firm continues to attract top talent and the respected clients that come with that. The ambition and ethos of the firm perfectly fits my aspirations to build the leading family law practice in Scotland.”

A University of Aberdeen graduate, Cunniff started her career at Loudons WS as a family law trainee before moving on to Turcan Connell where she became a Partner. Originally from Kildare, Ireland, she moved to Edinburgh as a teenager and has lived in Scotland since.

Glen Gilson, managing partner at Gilson Gray, said: “Philippa is without question one of the country’s very best family lawyers. With her appointment we are able to offer one of the top family law services in the country, in line with our overarching ambitions for the business.

“Philippa was our prime candidate for leading a service line that requires sophistication, technical excellence and exceptional people skills.

“Her joining our partnership is another case of us being able to attract the brightest and best in the market, drawn here by a modern business approach that benefits both our team and our clients.”