Melanie Stafford

I am a CILEX Lawyer with over 18 years of experience working in family law. As such, I provide specialist legal advice in all aspects of family law, including divorce, financial proceedings and matters relating to children.

I started my career in family law at a firm in Peterborough, where I gained a great deal of satisfaction in helping people through what can be an emotionally difficult time. I stayed at the firm for 12 years, pursuing my ambitions to become a qualified specialist Family Lawyer as a Fellow of CILEX.

Shortly before qualifying I joined a small legal aid firm in 2019 where I supported victims of domestic abuse; something I had already experienced in my previous role and that has helped shape the lawyer I am today.

I joined Burnett Barker Solicitors in July 2021.

Having assisted clients with family law matters for many years, I understand the emotional upheaval that comes with relationship breakdowns and dealing with important family decisions.

I am a Chartered Legal Executive Litigator (Family Litigation) which means that I am a fully qualified lawyer, specialising in family law and having similar rights and experience as a Solicitor, including representing clients in court.

As an accredited member of Resolution, I take a constructive and non-confrontational approach, making it easier to reach an agreement on your behalf.

I am a very approachable family lawyer. When you first meet me, I will take the time to understand your situation and give you the information to make an informed decision about how to proceed, if you wish.

At every step, you will feel supported as I offer carefully considered pragmatic legal advice, stepping in to take the heat out of situations when needed.

What motivates me is knowing that I have helped someone. It’s what drives me in every aspect of my life and that shared passion is one of the many reasons I joined the firm.

It is a refreshingly approachable, friendly firm that is down-to-earth and community-oriented. Through Burnett Barker Solicitors, I also offer free advice on family legal matters to those being supported by the Anglia Ruskin University Law Clinic, which is something I am passionate about.

Plus, being a dog lover, it’s great to work in an office that’s regularly visited by the team’s four-legged friends!