Karen Dovaston is the owner and founder of Dovaston Law, a leading family law firm. With over 30 years of experience as a family law solicitor, Karen specialises in:
- Divorce and separation
- Family financial matters
- Child arrangements (formerly known as custody and access)
- Prenuptial agreements
- Separation agreements
- Child maintenance
Karen holds several prominent positions in the legal community:
- Chair of The Law Society Family Member Advisory Commitee
- The Law Society Council Member for Essex
- Assessor for The Law Society Family Law Micro Credential, delivering education in family law
- Recognised by The Law Society as an advanced level specialist in family law
Her book, Matrimonial Financial Toolkit, 2nd Edition, was published in October 2024.
Karen is actively involved in various organisations:
- Vice President of The Southend on Sea and District Law Society
- Member of the Pensions Advisory Group, providing essential guidance on pensions in divorce cases
- Member of Resolution
- Judge for Lexis Nexis Family Law Awards
- Supporter of the Law Clinic at Anglia Ruskin University and DEWA (Deaf Ethnic Women’s Association)
- Member of The Worshipful Company of Arbitrators
- Freeman of the City of London by redemption
- Advisor to the Board for Essex Rugby Football Club
- Former non-executive director and member of a local multi-academy educational trust
- Former Chair CIArb East Anglia Branch
She worked with HM Courts & Tribunals Service in the development of the online divorce, financial remedy and private law children digital court system and she continues to work with HMCTS across digital and court issues. Karen is known for her love of technology and its use to support her clients.
Karen has appeared on BBC News and several radio shows, discussing changes and advances in family law. She has also spoken alongside senior national and international judiciary, participated in numerous lectures, webinars, and panels on family law.
Gill Tobin – CILEx Lawyer | consultant
Gill Tobin is a CILEx Lawyer and CILEx Probate Practitioner, with over 25 years’ experience in the areas of Wills, Estate Administration and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, being one of only a select few STEP members in the Southend area who has been able to qualify for this highly recognised accreditation.
Gill has joined us as a consultant after a long term role as the Head of Wills and Probate Department with another local law firm. She brings her knowledge, skills and expertise to Dovaston Law. She professional and efficient, whilst remaining approachable and friendly.
From a local Independent Financial Advisor: “I have always been comfortable referring clients to Gill, knowing how professional, honest, diligent, kind and simply nice to deal with that she is”. Reviews of her work from her clients speak for themselves.
Natalie Fletcher – Solicitor (Wills & Probate)
Natalie Fletcher is a highly experienced solicitor specialising in Wills, probate, and estate administration. She is known for her compassionate approach, practical advice, and ability to guide clients through often complex and sensitive matters with clarity and reassurance.
Natalie advises individuals and families on all aspects of private client law, including the preparation of Wills, inheritance tax planning, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and the administration of estates. She is particularly skilled at supporting clients during bereavement, ensuring that estates are handled efficiently and in accordance with legal requirements while easing the burden on executors and beneficiaries.
Over the course of her career, Natalie has built a strong reputation for delivering clear, tailored advice that reflects each client’s personal circumstances and long-term objectives. Her attention to detail and commitment to providing a thorough, client-focused service underpin her work.
Natalie prides herself on building lasting relationships with her clients, many of whom return to her for ongoing advice as their circumstances evolve. Her approachable manner and ability to explain legal matters in plain English make her a trusted adviser to individuals and families alike.
Natalie is President of The Southend on Sea & District Law Society.