Swinburne Maddison LLP, one of the North East’s leading law firms, is delighted to announce the promotion of Catherine Lowther to Head of its Family Department.
Managing Associate Catherine has been a key member of the firm since joining as a Trainee Solicitor in 2014. Qualifying in 2016, she has progressed rapidly and was appointed as Managing Associate in 2022. Swinburne Maddison is delighted to announce her appointment as Head of the Family Department, marking over a decade of exceptional service and commitment to the firm.
Catherine is widely recognised for her technical excellence and client-first approach in complex family law matters, including divorce, financial remedy cases, and child arrangements—often acting for high-net-worth individuals with diverse asset portfolios. Her focus on bespoke solutions and empathetic, honest guidance has earned her a trusted reputation among clients and peers alike.
Reflecting on her appointment, Catherine said:
“I’m incredibly proud to step into this new role. Swinburne Maddison has been the foundation of my career, and I’m excited to lead our talented team into the next phase of growth.
“We have ambitious plans to establish our Family Department as one of the leading teams in the region, offering a modern, holistic, and supportive approach to family law.”
Catherine now leads a growing team that includes Solicitors Ellie Straughan and Niamh Wilson, and is also at the forefront of developing the firm’s Private Wealth Team—a multidisciplinary service that delivers joined-up legal advice across family, private client, corporate, and property matters.
Commenting on the appointment, Jonathan Moreland, Managing Partner and Head of Dispute Resolution, said:
“Catherine’s career trajectory reflects her unwavering determination, technical strength, and genuine passion for supporting her clients. From her first day as a trainee to now leading one of our key departments, she has demonstrated outstanding commitment and professionalism.
“Catherine is a brilliant asset to the firm, and we’re excited to see the Family team continue to grow under her leadership.”
This announcement comes as Swinburne Maddison continues a period of strategic growth and transformation. With a team now 90-strong, the firm recently unveiled a new brand identity. The project was rooted in the voices of its people and shaped by the firm’s enduring values, alongside its commitment to innovation and modern legal expertise.
The refreshed brand, under the new positioning statement “A contemporary law firm rooted in tradition”, reflects the firm’s progressive outlook and its desire to offer legal services that are both technically excellent and deeply reassuring. The firm’s new theme—“Reassuring to know”—captures its mission to provide clarity, confidence, and care to every client.
Swinburne Maddison is proud of its people, its heritage, and its forward-thinking culture. Catherine Lowther’s promotion is the latest milestone in its ambitious plans to grow and continue providing exceptional legal support to clients across the North East and beyond.
