Bio

    I qualified as a solicitor in 2002 and since then have practised exclusively in Family Law in the South West.

    I am a Resolution accredited specialist in complex financial matters on divorce/separation, a trained Collaborative Lawyer and a member of the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme.

    I have advised many clients with complex financial affairs including those with businesses, farms, assets abroad, trusts and pensions in the context of relationship breakdown and pre-nuptial agreements.

    However, whatever your problem or circumstance I am here to work through it with you and help you obtain the best outcome whether that be via the “traditional” court process or through the use of dispute resolution including collaborative law.

    As an experienced family lawyer and understanding how any family issue can be overwhelming and stressful, I believe in:

    - Taking time to listen and understand – everyone’s circumstances are different.

    - Providing realistic and solution focused advice from the outset – so you know where you stand.

    - Helping people acquire the confidence to make decisions – meaning you can move forward and take control.

    Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family whether that be trekking across the moors on foot/horseback, scrambling up mountains or kayaking off the coast.

    Testimonials

    Communication has always been clear and emails and queries responded to promptly by Zoe and her secretaries. Zoe clearly has great experience and insight with matrimonial difficulties and have an innate wisdom in reading the situation which is very reassuring. I knew I was in safe hands and believe that Zoe genuinely has a duty of care toward her clients, which was so evident in my case. 

    Matrimonial client
    I am incredibly thankful for everything you have done. You have not only provided your expertise, but also offered a very friendly, reassuring and kind ear to the ‘matrimonial’ situation.
    Mr P
    Thank you so much for everything you have done for me. You have achieved the exact outcome that I wanted when we first started. I didn’t think we’d get there but we did. I’m so pleased. Thank you again.
    Mrs P
    You have been so professional and more importantly to me so kind that I cannot thank you enough, I only wish I had found you sooner.
    Mrs S

    Zoe Gaitskell is a class act; able to provide insightful advice at an early stage, saving clients huge amounts in costs and resolving conflicts that seemed intractable. In the financial remedies space Zoe is diligent, accurate and persistent, working effectively to secure outcomes for her clients that achieve their goals. She is known for her keen eye for detail and client-friendly manner. A local superstar.

    Legal 500 UK 2024
    Your patient and wise advice during my recent divorce ensured that the sad process was completed as painlessly as possible.
    Mr D New

    Divorce is a painful time, however Zoe was always there at the end of the phone, providing prompt responses to emails and taking me through the process. I have no hesitation in highly recommending Zoe (and her wonderful supporting colleagues).

    Warren

    After so many delays and complications with my name Change Deed  I was so relieved to be treated with such efficiency and understanding. All my worries were put to rest and I felt in safe hands at last.  I highly recommend Porter Dodson and would not hesitate to contact Zoe Gaitskell again for any legal matters that might arise.

    Mrs K

    Zoe was professional throughout beyond question and an outstanding ambassador to Porter Dodson and her legal profession. She always responded swiftly and was there to follow up with the other parties. I truly felt in safe hands and that there was indeed a rock hard ‘buffer’ to represent me. Zoe’s calm and clear approach was very reassuring throughout the lengthy process of my case. Her astute understanding and awareness is invaluable. Thank you, Zoe.

    Family Client

    Although it was a long process, Zoe Gaitskell is a fabulous divorce lawyer to work with. Zoe listened to my requests to keep things simple and didn’t try to complicate any of it. She got me, and did everything she could to make the process as easy as possible. I would definitely recommend Zoe.

    Family Client

    Zoe Gaitskell was recommended to me and from the off, Zoe was highly professional and soon clarified all of the legal issues I had to deal with. With Zoe’s help, guidance and advice I have just heard that all of these matters have finally come to a close. I feel completely confident that things are as they should be. Zoe always kept me up to date and also never hesitated to ensure that I knew all the options available to me. I would also like to mention Jackie Bandyszewski, Zoe’s Legal Secretary, who was kind and patient.

    Jessica

    Contact Zoe Gaitskell