Chrissie is a dual-qualified solicitor and US attorney specialising in family law. Having spent time at a multinational brokerage house and securities regulation think-tank prior to commencing her legal career, she has particular expertise in the financial issues that arise from relationship breakdown.
Chrissie has a growing practice of acting for cohabitees on relationship breakdown, particularly where property interests are concerned, and regularly advises on the application of the ToLATA (in both family and chancery) to realise such interests where a dispute arises.
Experienced in dealing with the courts at all levels, including the Court of Appeal and UK Supreme Court, Chrissie has an impressive success rate in acting for clients in relocation cases. She also deals with allegations of domestic violence and the subsequent securing of injunctions.
Where appropriate, Chrissie guides clients through the alternative dispute resolution process and is a strong negotiator. If unavoidable, Chrissie draws on her experience as a fierce, New York-trained litigator and advocate.
Having researched several solicitors to deal with my difficult case I chose Chrissie and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.From the first consultation Chrissie clarified my position so I began to a see a way forward. My case turned out to be more complex and emotionally draining than I imagined but throughout she was my rock– professional, accessible and completely reliable. Her knowledge, skill and at times her New York litigator experience led to a much better conclusion than I ever expected for which I’ll always be grateful.
C.S
Chrissie’s knowledgeable, prompt and professional manner, coupled with her clear guidance and resounding commitment to my case won the day and has secured my future. I would recommend her to anyone.
S.K
I came to Chrissie Cuming Walters at a deeply disturbing time of my life when facing a divorce. Her professional, no-nonsense attitude helped me navigate that difficult time. I very much appreciated her professionalism and timely and accessible advice, and would definitely recommend her to anyone seeking legal representation in marital matters.
A.K
I found Chrissie to be thoughtful, insightful and not afraid to challenge my ideas and understanding, or, rather lack of understanding of the process and the conventions. Chrissie was always very conscious of cost and constantly referred back to me before proceeding with actions. As a result I felt in financial control at all times. As divorce is a stressful journey, it was a relief that Chrissie managed to help me find occasional humour along the way. Chrissie’s obvious experience in fairly positioning my case avoided the pitfalls of acrimony and long, drawn out arguments.“I am very pleased to be able to recommend Chrissie with confidence that she will help guide you through the sometimes daunting experience of matrimonial separation and divorce.
C.W
Chrissie has the advantage of a rare combination: she has an easy manner, whilst being bright and tenacious. A formidable civil litigator both in and out of court, I have had the pleasure of seeing her work on high-value and complex cases and would readily recommend her.
Simon Calhaem, Barrister
29 Bedford RowChrissie’s dedication and vigour pervade all the work that she does. She pursues her clients’ cases with drive and determination, whilst still exercising her own charming brand of pragmatic realism. Whether settling or fighting a case, Chrissie applies great attention to detail and her knowledge of procedure means that costs are only incurred effectively. She gets results. Her clients feel thoroughly supported by Chrissie, and it is no surprise that so much of her work comes about through referrals.
Victoria Francis, Barrister
29 Bedford RowChrissie took up my case with short notice and went above and beyond to get up to speed within a minimal period of time. She was thorough, professional and supportive during a very difficult period. I'm very appreciative of her hard work and commitment to getting an excellent result.
A.F
Expertise
- Negotiation of complex financial settlements
- Freezing injunctions
- Litigation in court including within the Chancery division
- ToLATA
- Schedule 1 and relocation matters
- Pre- and post-nuptial agreements
- Acting for third parties within divorce proceedings (trusts or family members)
- Disputes relating to property owned by family members
- Occupation and non-molestation orders
Experience
- Represented the non-party witness “D” through the disclosure process, at the final hearing and handing down of the judgment in the highly publicised matter of Chai v Peng & Others [2017] EWHC 792 (Fam) and following her prior receipt of advice, which was either inaccurate or incomplete.
- Advised the successful Applicant in NJ v OV [2014] EWHC 4130, upheld on appeal (Re B (Child)(Relocation: Sweden)[2015] EWCA Civ 286).
- Assisted Anne-Marie Hutchinson OBE in the successful appeal to the Supreme Court in the matter of Re S-B (A Child) (perpetrator: non-accidental injuries).
- Secured a significant deviation from the sharing principle in a highly acrimonious financial remedy matter, successfully defeating claims of contribution, wanton dissipation and third-party interests.
- Negotiated a settlement in complex ToLATA proceedings with related business interests and cross-allegations of misconduct, which resulted in the client being able to realise all interests held by him secured by all necessary indemnities.
Please note: The experience list above may include examples of work completed prior to joining Keystone Law.
Recognition
Recognised in Spear’s 500 2022 as a Recommended Family Lawyer
Recognised in the Spear’s 2021 Family Law Index as a Recommended Lawyer
Recognised in Spear’s 500 2021 as a Recommended Family Lawyer
Career
Chrissie qualified as a solicitor in 2010. Prior to joining Keystone Law in 2018, she worked at the following firms:
- Crisp & Co Solicitors
- Bindmans