Philip Hoddell

Chairman

Accepting new clients via ReviewSolicitors

I am passionate about representing my clients’ very best interests, and am known for bringing a forthright, proactive and common sense approach to their cases. I am a member of Resolution, an organisation of family lawyers committed to the settlement of disputes in a constructive, fair and cost effective way. I would look to resolve your case out of court if possible, but would pursue it vigorously through the court process if necessary. I have been a member of the Law Society’s specialist Family Law Panel since 1999, and am mentioned as a leading divorce lawyer in the influential Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners publications. I am a specialist collaborative lawyer.

  • Regulated by: The Solicitors Regulation Authority

  • Regulator ID: 143292

  • Based in Colchester, Essex
  • Licensed for 36 years

Accepting new clients via ReviewSolicitors

I am passionate about representing my clients’ very best interests, and am known for bringing a forthright, proactive and common sense approach to their cases. I am a member of Resolution, an organisation of family lawyers committed to the settlement of disputes in a constructive, fair and cost effective way. I would look to resolve your case out of court if possible, but would pursue it vigorously through the court process if necessary. I have been a member of the Law Society’s specialist Family Law Panel since 1999, and am mentioned as a leading divorce lawyer in the influential Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners publications. I am a specialist collaborative lawyer.

  • Regulated by: The Solicitors Regulation Authority

  • Regulator ID: 143292

  • Based in Colchester, Essex
  • Licensed for 36 years

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5.0
Excellent
93%
Value for
Money
95%+
Success
Rate
95%+
Would
Recommend
Communication 5.0/5
Initial Impressions 5.0/5
Approachability 5.0/5
Documentation Accuracy 5.0/5
Legal Knowledge 5.0/5
Value for money 4.6/5
Expertise

Experience

  • Smith Morton and Long

    Articled Clerk

    September 1987 - September 1989 2 years

  • Birkett Westhorp and Long

    Solicitor

    October 1989 - May 1994 4 years and 7 months

Languages spoken

  • English

Opening hours

Monday (Closed)
Tuesday (Closed)
Wednesday (Closed)
Thursday (Closed)
Friday (Closed)
Saturday (Closed)
Sunday (Closed)

1 Amphora Place, Sheepen Road, Colchester, CO3 3WG

Reviews

5.0 /5 63 Reviews
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Anonymous

Verified
Family Law

Exceptional Support Through a Difficult Time

Philip has been a constant source of calm and reassurance throughout my divorce. From the very beginning, I felt completely supported — not just legally, but emotionally too. Every meeting left me feeling more grounded and safe, and I often joked that they felt more like therapy sessions than legal ones! He explained everything clearly, never rushed me, and always made me feel like I was in capable hands. I honestly don’t know how I would have coped with anyone else guiding me through this process. Thanks to Philip, I’ve come out the other side with my home, my peace of mind, and a sense of closure. I’m so grateful for everything he’s done and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone going through something similar.

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Jonathan Sargent

Verified
Family Law

Exceptional Family Lawyer – Highly Recommended

I cannot speak highly enough of Philip Hoddell of Birkett Long and the invaluable support he provided throughout my divorce case over a three year period covering Divorce, Financial & Children's matters. Philip's extensive experience - not only of Family Law but critically the Family Court system - enabled us to adopt a tactical and strategic approach that ultimately secured the best possible outcomes including a fair financial settlement and a 50:50 custody arrangement for my children. From our first meeting, Philip was incredibly knowledgeable, pragmatic, and reassuring. He helped me to navigate the complexities of Family Law with skill and clarity, always keeping my children’s best interests at the heart of the process. His ability to remain calm and composed, even in the most difficult moments, made all the difference in securing the outcomes we achieved. Thanks to Philip, I have the equal time with my children that they deserve and that I fought so hard for, so if you are seeking an exceptional Family Lawyer who combines professionalism with genuine care, then I wholeheartedly recommend him.

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Ruth Dobner

Verified
Family Law

Divorce settlement

Philip offered sensible and reliable advice to help finalize my divorce as quickly and smoothly as possible. I felt listened to and represented. Philip was understanding of my situation and did the best possible job considering all the circumstances. It was invaluable to have him fight my corner.

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A representative from Knights Professional Services Limited responded to this review

Dear ruth, We are glad to hear of your experience. It is good to know that Phillip eased the process for you. Sincerely, Birkett Long.

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Kathryn Flounders

Verified
Family Law

Excellent communication

I instructed Philip for my rather out of the blue divorce. He was fantastic from start to finish with advising me of what the process entailed, but also keeping me up to date along every step of the way. The whole process took 9 months which I am told is super quick. I know it’s down to each individual circumstance however I believe Phillip enabled that to happen. Thank you for making a stressful time for me, that little bit less stressful by being so knowledgeable and understanding. I would 100% recommend.

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A representative from Knights Professional Services Limited responded to this review

Dear Kathryn, Thank you for your review and recommendation. It is good to hear that Phillip's assistance made your stressful situation a little bit less stressful. Sincerely, Birkett Long

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Louise

Verified
Family Law

financial settlement

Having had a very long drawn out process of trying to negotiate a financial split from my ex husband using a different solicitor, it was refreshing to be told with some degree of certainty what we could realistically expect to happen. Given that it was not a huge case involving vast sums of money, at no time was I made to feel that it didn't matter or wasn't important. Rather, I felt understood and listened to for which I am grateful.

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A representative from Knights Professional Services Limited responded to this review

Dear Louise, Thank you for your kind words. We are pleased to have made you feel understood and listened to. Sincerely, Birkett long.

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