Ranked in Band 2 for Family/Children Law in Chambers & Partners 2024, previously ranked in Chambers & Partners 2022 and 2023
Catherine practises the full range of private family law cases and has particular expertise in complex and international financial matters. She was a known expert on the now-obsolete, esoteric European Maintenance Regulation and advises many clients all over the world on cross-border maintenance disputes. Catherine’s career in family law began with seven years at top-tier firm Hughes Fowler Carruthers Limited.
Catherine is also a trained Collaborative Lawyer and a member of Resolution.
In recent years, Catherine has developed an expertise in bitterly fought children cases, which have often involved parental alienation and abuse.
Catherine is highly respected amongst other family lawyers for being a fierce and tenacious yet reasonable litigator. She is known by her clients for combining great empathy and sensitivity with the ability to provide accurate and realistic advice.
Catherine speaks fluent French and Nepalese and also speaks German to an intermediate level.
Catherine has acted on the following reported cases:
- Glanville v Mahmoud [2024] EWHC 1739 (Fam)
- X v Y (Permission to Appeal) [2019] EWHC 1713 (Fam)
From Legal 500 UK 2024:
“Catherine Silwal is a brilliant technical lawyer and very academic in her aptitude for legal issues, but what really sets her apart is her commitment to client care…”
“Catherine Silwal is highly intelligent and able, and she brings her intelligence to bear on all her case work. She is very ably assisted by Fiona O’Connell.”
From Chambers & Partners UK 2024:
“She is wonderful with clients and has an extremely good brain to analyse legal problems.”
“Catherine is knowledgeable and concise… She also has an extremely calming approach and huge empathy.”
“Catherine understood my situation and believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. She supported me in all areas while handling the case and managing the outcome I wanted.”
From Chambers & Partners UK 2023:
“Catherine…. knows how to handle complex cases and provides pragmatic solutions. She is personable, very friendly and has an empathic approach.”
“She always has her eyes on the final goal to get the best outcome and treats her clients with utmost care and respect.”
“Catherine inspires confidence. She is … thoughtful about keeping costs reasonable for her clients.”
From Chambers & Partners UK 2022:
“She is extremely sympathetic and sensitive towards clients.”