Vanda joined Birketts in 2023 and is a Partner and Head of our Sevenoaks Family Team.
Vanda is an expert in all aspects of family law and specialises in complex financial cases or those with an unusual element and has notable expertise in international child relocation and other highly sensitive family issues. Vanda also regularly drafts and advises on Pre/Post Nuptial Agreements and is a member of Resolution and has been a trained collaborative lawyer since 2006.
Vanda is passionate about getting the right outcome for her clients and has been described as formidable. When needed, she enjoys carrying out a forensic analysis of financial information especially those cases involving family businesses and trust assets. When required, Vanda can be tenacious and has a reputation for giving clear advice both as to the strategic way forward and potential outcome. Vanda is empathetic and is always determined to achieve the right outcome for her clients which she does with diligence, focus and determination.
Vanda has been ranked as a leading matrimonial specialist by Legal 500 and Chambers UK since 2007.
Vanda is the former President of Kent Law Society and is listed in the Citywealth Leaders List. She is also identified as one of the top 10 pioneering family lawyers transforming matrimonial law in Kent 2023 by Business Today.
Recent work highlights
Instructed by a young entrepreneur to draft a Pre-Nuptial Agreement to protect significant assets held in the UK and the Middle East which were to be gifted by way of an advancement of inheritance.
Acting for a husband on a collaborative basis where there were complex financial assets including a large family home and substantial pension assets which involved complicated tax planning.
Acting for a wife in contested financial remedy proceedings in circumstances where she had been the subject of coercive/ controlling behaviour and successfully uncovering hidden assets and securing a favourable award.
Experience & education
2023 joined Birketts LLP
2016 Partner, Cripps LLP
2011 Partner, Rix & Kay LLP
2004 Partner, Warner LLP
2003 qualified as a Solicitor
1994 qualified as a Legal Executive
Areas of Expertise
Accreditations
Citywealth Leaders List 2023/2024
Recommended by private clients
Legal 500 [UK 2025]
Leading Partner
Chambers [UK 2025]
Top Ranked
Resolution
Member
Birketts Family teams offers strength and depth in terms of experience and quality of advice and representation. Headed by the hugely experienced and dedicated Vanda James the Sevenoaks office is already a go to firm in the area, and she is now supported by a team of excellent solicitors providing a first class service to clients.
Niki Langridge MCIArb, Barrister and Mediator, 2024
