Stuart Clark

Specialisms

Stuart Clark is a partner in the family law team at Thomas Mansfield Solicitors, with a particular focus on international family law matters.

He advises on complex international divorce cases involving jurisdiction and forum disputes and proceedings across multiple legal systems. His work often centres on determining where proceedings should take place, particularly in divorce and financial matters where individuals have connections to more than one country or where assets are held internationally.

Alongside his international practice, Stuart advises on all aspects of family law, including divorce, financial settlements and issues concerning children. He has particular experience with financial claims arising from relationship breakdowns, including Schedule 1 claims, TOLATA disputes and the negotiation of pre-nuptial and post-nuptial and cohabitation agreements.

Described in The Legal 500 as ‘a standout partner’, Stuart has notable experience handling cross-border financial disputes arising from divorce and separation, including matters involving international assets and jurisdiction issues.

He also advises on international relocation matters where children are involved, supporting clients through the legal and practical challenges that arise when proposed moves engage more than one jurisdiction.

Approach

Stuart takes a structured and strategic approach to family law matters, particularly where there are international elements or financial complexity.

He focuses on early, clear advice, helping clients understand their position under English law while assessing the wider implications of proceedings in other jurisdictions. This includes guiding clients through timing, risk and forum considerations, which can be critical in shaping the outcome of a case.

Stuart is a member of Resolution and is strongly focused on achieving resolution where possible. He encourages clients to explore settlement at an early stage, recognising the practical and emotional benefits of avoiding unnecessary litigation. At the same time, he is highly experienced in managing the technical demands of contested proceedings where a robust approach is required.

Clients value his measured and thoughtful manner, alongside his attention to detail and ability to handle complex issues with clarity. Where appropriate, he works closely with trusted professionals in other jurisdictions to ensure advice is aligned and coordinated throughout.

Experience

Stuart advises individuals on a broad range of family law matters, with particular experience in cases involving international or high value elements.

His experience includes:

• Advising on jurisdiction disputes in divorce and financial remedy proceedings.
• Acting in matters involving competing or parallel proceedings across multiple countries.
• Advising on complex financial settlements, including cases involving business interests and international assets.
• Advising on Schedule 1 and TOLATA claims.
• Supporting clients on arrangements for children, including sensitive and high-conflict matters.
• Advising on international relocation cases where children are involved.
• Working alongside overseas lawyers to deliver a coordinated cross-border strategy.
• Representing clients in court where necessary, alongside a strong focus on negotiation and resolution.

Stuart has also contributed to developments within the family justice system, including involvement in HMCTS digitalisation initiatives, and has written on family law issues for legal and industry publications.

He acts for a wide range of clients, including internationally mobile individuals and those with complex personal or financial arrangements, often where there are competing legal and jurisdictional considerations.