Gorvins Solicitors prides itself on the top-quality legal services we offer to our clients. We’re only able to achieve that by having the very best staff on hand to support you through your legal matter.
In our ‘Meet the team’ series, we’re pulling back the curtain on some of the fantastic people we have on staff here at Gorvins. This month, we’re talking to Partner and Co-Head of Family Law, Patricia Robinson.
What’s your role?
I’m fairly new to Gorvins, having joined as a Partner and Co-Head of the Family team alongside Nicola, last summer. I came from Slater Heelis, and I’ve worked exclusively in family law for over 20 years with some of the region’s leading family law teams.
I specialise in complex financial matters arising from divorce and separation, and I have a particular interest in nuptial agreements, something I’m frequently instructed on. I also advise and represent clients in difficult children disputes, including Schedule 1 financial claims.
Over the years, my clients have included business owners, media personalities, and high-profile individuals in sport. I’m known for my good judgment, people skills, and a constructive, solution-focused approach. Much of my work comes via referrals from former clients, fellow professionals, and longstanding contacts.
I’m a trained collaborative lawyer and a big believer in resolving disputes without court where possible. That said, when cases need to be fought, I’m more than prepared, one example being a complex financial case I recently concluded following a successful appeal in the Court of Appeal: Ratcliffe v Ratcliffe [2021].
I’m also a long-standing committee member of Resolution and was Chair of the Greater Manchester region for nine years. I remain actively involved at both local and national levels.
My role and why it matters
As a family lawyer, you’re in a privileged position. People are trusting you with very personal information at one of the most difficult times in their lives. The most important part of my job is being empathetic and a good listener. It’s essential to understand what matters most to the client—because that’s not always the same as what we may think as the lawyer..
You can’t lose touch with that. As lawyers, we can focus on the legal side, but often the client’s biggest concerns lie elsewhere. Helping them feel heard and supported is just as important as advising on legal outcomes.
Most of my work is problem-solving and helping people find a fair resolution. Family law isn’t about winning; it’s about reducing conflict. Of course, there are cases where you have to fight hard, but many situations – especially those involving children – require a more balanced, sensitive approach. The goal is to minimise the emotional impact on everyone involved where possible and provide realistic advice.
Why Gorvins?
The family team at Gorvins is now led by two experienced lawyers with over 60 years of combined expertise being Nicki and myself. I was recruited with a clear vision to help grow the team, and we’ve already welcomed two new members.
I’m really enjoying working here. There’s a genuine family feel to the firm, and a shared commitment across all levels to delivering the best possible service to our clients. Everyone, from partners to support staff, work together as custodians of the firm and we all want to see it grow and thrive.
One piece of advice
Never underestimate the value of advice from a specialist family solicitor at the early stages of separation or in some cases before taking that step. Knowing your options from the outset is absolutely invaluable.
What I enjoy outside of work
I love live music, and every year my husband and I take our two children to a music festival with friends for the weekend. It’s my children’s highlight of the year and I love that it exposes them to all kinds of music, although I could do without the three nights of camping!
I’m also excellent at Name That Tune—one note is usually all I need subject to which music decade!