Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
Solicitor
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Solicitor & Founder of MBS Family Law
SRA ID: 375166
Since qualifying as a solicitor in 2007 Melanie has solely practiced family law. Her case load covers a wide variety of divorce matters, financial provisions arising out of the breakdown of a relationship and disputes involving children. As a dual French/British national, Melanie has always specialised in advising French expatriates on family law matters in England and Wales, usually in French. Melanie also regularly advises and works alongside law firms in France.
Melanie obtained a Bachelors degree from Bath University in French and Russian and a Masters degree from City University in Legal Translation. She speaks French and English fluently, and is also able to advise clients in Italian.
Melanie is committed to Resolution’s Code of Practice to resolve matters in a non-confrontational way. She has trained in mediation and is a Collaborative Lawyer, using these skills to negotiate the best possible outcome for her clients when this appropriate.
Melanie is actively involved in Resolution, the association of family justice professionals. She is Co-Chair of it’s Innovation Group, Chair of it’s Wellbeing Committee, and secretary of Resolution’s London Committee. She has sat on Resolution’s National Committee since 2018 and will become Resolution’s Vice Chair in May 2023.
Holborn Gate, 330 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7QH
Licensed for 16 years
Practice Areas
Family Law
Divorce advice
Melanie provided a really helpful and very thorough overview of my position, what I would need to think about and prepare, and the steps involved. Melanie's friendly and supportive approach was so reassuring at a difficult time and gave me the confidence and knowledge to begin to move forward.
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
A representative from MBS Family Law Ltd responded to this review on 27 June, 2023
Hi Tracey, thank you for sharing your positive experience with Melanie. We are delighted to hear that she provided you with a helpful and thorough overview of your situation, guiding you through the necessary steps and preparations. Melanie's friendly and supportive approach is something we highly value, and we're glad it reassured you during a difficult time. Your confidence and newfound knowledge to move forward are invaluable outcomes. If you ever require further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Was this review helpful? Yes
advice
Thank you Melanie for advice given readily, in a forthcoming and friendly manner, explaining with much patience the complicated matter that is divorce.
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
A representative from MBS Family Law Ltd responded to this review on 26 June, 2023
Thank you for taking the time to express your gratitude towards Melanie for her advice and support during your divorce process. Divorce is undoubtedly a complex and emotionally challenging matter, and having someone like Melanie who can patiently explain the intricacies and navigate you through the process can be invaluable. Should you need any further legal advice please don't hesitate to reach out. Best wishes, MBS Family Law.
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Expert advice
I initially contacted Mel through an Affordable Advice Service I used when starting divorce proceedings. She was very knowledgeable and I felt she made time to understand my particular situation and give me good, focused advice. I was so happy with the service I received I used her for further advice when it came to splitting our assets, and my husband and I also came back to her to assist with drawing up our final Consent Order(s). I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Mel to anyone looking for balanced, expert, practical advice on Family Law matters.
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
A representative from MBS Family Law Ltd responded to this review on 21 June, 2023
Sarah, thank you for leaving this detailed review regarding Melanie. We're delighted to hear that she provided you with valuable and focused advice regarding your divorce proceedings. It's great to know that her knowledge and understanding of your particular situation were evident in the guidance she provided. We appreciate your trust and recommendation of our firm. Should you need any further legal advice please don't hesitate to reach out. All the best in the future, MBS Family Law.
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Great counsel
Melanie has advised me in a very friendly yet direct and concise way on how to manage my case and what to expect step by step. Bravo 👏
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
A representative from MBS Family Law Ltd responded to this review on 21 June, 2023
Jeremie, Thank you for sharing your positive experience with Melanie. We're delighted to hear that she provided you with friendly yet direct and concise advice on how to manage your case. We appreciate your kind words, and should you need any further legal advice please don't hesitate to reach out. Best wishes, MBS Family Law.
Was this review helpful? Yes
Great service
Melanie Bataillard-Samuel provided advice on a family law matter, and she was excellent. Very responsive and knowledgeable. Also very personable. I highly recommend her.
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
Was this review helpful? Yes
Great support
Melanie supported us well during our pre-nup process. Clear communications and ownership throughout the process. We were very happy with Melanie and will use her services again.
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
Was this review helpful? Yes
Melanie will be my first port of call if I am ever in trouble again.
I cannot find the words to express how grateful I am to have had Melanie Bataillard-Samuel as my solicitor. Melanie is brilliant, tenacious and empathetic. I found her extremely knowledgeable when advising and fast at grasping complication situations. I could not have asked for a better lawyer. I would like to thank Melanie for all the efforts she made in supporting me in my legal case. She acted swiftly to ensure that we won while keeping me calm throughout a traumatic week of court hearings filled with false allegations.
I contacted Expatriate Law at very short notice after being handed a surprise court order while visiting England during the coronavirus pandemic: I was informed that a court hearing had taken place in my absence the day before, and that another hearing would take place in "two days time", to determine visitation/custody arrangements. This case involved two different jurisdictions, discussions about the implications of Brexit, already initiated divorce/custody/visitation proceedings in Germany, and carefully prepared allegations. I was swamped with feelings of shock, numbness and anxiety. Melanie took control of the situation and worked hard to present our case with less than two days notice, gathering all relevant evidence, as well as finding a great barrister. In the end, we "won" and the other party was ordered to pay my legal fees - quite frankly, I think that says it all.
Melanie will be my first port of call if I am ever in trouble again.
Solicitor named in this review: Melanie Bataillard-Samuel
Was this review helpful? Yes