Prominent Family Solicitor Retires

A legal career spanning over 40 years came to an end last month when former Deputy District Judge and Family Law Solicitor John Mitchell retired.

Oxford Graduate John joined Sills & Betteridge in 1981, following a brief period practising as a Barrister in Nottingham. He became a Partner of the firm in 1985, quickly gaining himself an enviable reputation for his handling of complex matrimonial matters. John was accredited by the Law Society Children Law Panel and Resolution Family Mediation Panel. He was recommended by the Legal 500 and a member of the Lincolnshire Family Justice Board.

A natural leader, John held a number of senior positions in the firm including Head of Family Law, Managing Partner and member of the Leadership Team.

Among his many achievements, John will be best remembered for the expansion ambitions he had for the firm, and the key part he played in achieving them – and for being a career-shaping mentor to aspiring young family lawyers.

Senior Partner Karen Bower-Brown worked with John for 22 years.

“John was a highly respected and widely popular colleague. He always gave 100% and played a substantial part in the development of our firm. I am sure I will not be the only one who will miss him on both a professional and personal level. We wish him a long and happy retirement.”

John now looks forward to spending more time with family including his first grandchild who is due this month, catching up with old friends, traveling and keeping active at the gym and in the garden!