Team Story – Kevan Hankinson

We strike a good balance between support and flexibility, it’s a good place to grow and develop.

Q: Can you introduce yourself and your role?

A: My name is Kevan Hankinson, and I am the head of the Family Law Team at Butcher & Barlow, based at the Bury office. I specialise in family law, focusing on difficult or complex cases, particularly involving children. I also oversee the department, which is one of the larger ones in the firm, helping plan and addressing any challenges that arise.

Q: You have a special qualification in Children’s Law, is that correct?

A: Yes, I have the Children Law Accreditation from the Law Society. It’s one of the more challenging professional accreditations in Family Law. It qualifies me to represent children in court, working with guardians from CAFCASS to ensure the child’s welfare. The accreditation process involves training and interviews to demonstrate experience and checks around safeguarding procedures.

It’s a career path within Family Law that not everyone takes, as you have to build a relationship with CAFCASS over a period of time and it is quite intensive, not every firm can offer it. There are four Solicitors at Butcher & Barlow who are Children Law accredited. Not every firm does this work, and it demonstrates I think two things: one, we’re good at what we do which encourages others to achieve; two, we have the right mechanisms and support in place to achieve the accreditation.

Q: How do you help Young Lawyers in their career development?

A: We aim to give our Team as much control over their career development as possible within practical limits, whist still giving them the support they need. For young lawyers, the big challenge is often getting and then completing their Training Contracts or Qualifying Work Experience.

We support them in finding their path, whether it’s more general or with a special interest in Children Law, financial cases, or other specialisations. Unlike smaller firms where one person might handle all Family Law matters, our size allows for some specialisation, ensuring clients get the best person for their case.

Q: Did you always want to specialise in Family Law?

A: No, initially, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to specialise in. Some people have a clear idea of their specialisation before starting, and others discover their interest through experience. For me, Family Law’s people-centred nature and the variety in cases drew me in. I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives and handling the unique challenges each case presents.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you? Are you in court most days?

A: Yes, I’m in court most weeks, sometimes for most of the week. It’s a demanding job, often requiring quick preparation where there are emergencies. However, the court community is supportive, and the advocacy aspect is something I’ve grown to enjoy.

Don’t get me wrong it can be nerve wracking, but it’s also rewarding.

Q: Do you think it takes a certain type of person to be a Family Lawyer?

A: Because of the amount of time spent in court, many people think Family Law is just for naturally confident public speakers. But that’s not the case. Most of us learn advocacy as a skill over time.

We support our Team through this process at Butcher & Barlow, starting them with less complex cases and gradually building their confidence and skills, initially allowing them to accompany other advocates in the courtroom and experience first-hand what it’s like. It’s about having a supportive environment where people can grow.

Q: Do you think Butcher & Barlow’s size facilitates better learning and support?

A: Definitely. We combine the advantages of a big firm, like offering varied career paths and support systems, with a personal touch. We provide flexibility and room for personal development, without the rigid structures of some larger firms. And we have regular conversations about career goals and progress. I like to think our teams feel supported and valued.

Q: What has been your Butcher & Barlow journey been like?

A: I joined as an Assistant Solicitor and was made a Partner. Butcher & Barlow took over the firm I was previously working at, and I have experience with different firm environments. I think we strike a good balance between support and flexibility, it’s a good place to grow and develop.

Q: Do you enjoy mentoring the team?

A: Yes, mentoring is very fulfilling. I enjoy seeing people progress and helping them develop their interests and skills. We have a clear focus on developing our Team, ensuring it’s a two-way street where they feel supported and heard. And it’s a learning process for me as well – I’ve definitely learnt things while mentoring and training my Team.

Q: How do you achieve work-life balance in Family Law?

A: It’s challenging because Family Law is very personal and often involves urgent cases. We try to manage this by offering flexibility, allowing homeworking, and balancing workloads. It’s not a nine-to-five job, but we try to mitigate stress and prevent burnout through support and flexible practices.

Q: Are there any standout moments in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

A: Confidentiality limits specifics, but the most rewarding moments often involve children’s cases. Knowing I’ve made a significant difference in a child’s life, even if they’ll never know me, is incredibly satisfying.

Q: Do you have any advice for Trainees or those starting their legal careers?

A: Pace yourself and explore different areas within law. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you have a clear goal, pursue it, but if you’re unsure, take the time to explore your options. Communication and curiosity are key to a successful legal career.

My three words to describe Butcher & Barlow are: friendly, open and flexible.