Partner, Solicitor
Head of Family Department
Frinton-on-Sea office
DL 01255 851000
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DL 01255 851000
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Chambers and Partners UK 2017: Nicola Coates (Band 1) advises on ancillary relief and private children law matters. Her practice also covers inheritance matters and Court of Protection issues. Sources value her "common-sense approach." The team is described as ‘‘pragmatic and easy to work with."

Chambers and Partners UK 2016: Nicola Coates [ Head of Family] is a "very level-headed and experienced" solicitor and collaborative lawyer, with a broad knowledge in ancillary relief and private children law matters. Her practice also covers inheritance matters and Court of Protection issues.

Chambers and Partners UK 2015: Nicola Coates’ team is described as: "My overall impression of the firm is that those who work there are extremely professional and efficient, and they act in their clients' interests whilst providing sound practical advice."

High-profile lawyer Nicola Coates is "somebody who has a terrific manner with clients, but also fiercely determined when it comes to negotiating the best outcome for her side." She is experienced in dealing with dependants whose cases involve the Court of Protection, and is recognised for her work on complicated financial matters, particularly ones that have agricultural aspects.

 

Chambers and Partners UK 2014: Department head Nicola Coates specialises in complex financial remedy claims and private Children Act proceedings. Sources admire her technical skills and sympathetic manner with clients.

Chamber and Partners UK 2013: ‘Nicky Coates excels at ancillary relief cases, many of which involve business considerations. Sources remark on her supportive manner: "She is down-to-earth and approachable and has a great relationship with her clients."’

 

The ‘straightforward, sensible and practical’ family law department, led by Nicky Coates, at the ‘respected firm’ Ellisons is ‘particularly good at financial divorce work and Children Act matters’.

(Legal 500 2017)

The Family department, led by Nicky Coates, is ranked as Tier 2. Nicky is noted for her financial arrangements during divorce proceedings.

(Legal 500 2016)

Nicky Coates is recommended by the Legal 500, 2015.

(Legal 500 2015)

‘‘Ellisons’ Nicola Coates advises clients in complex, high-value ancillary relief proceedings.’’

(Legal 500 2012)

Career

Nicky joined Ellisons in 1989 and was made a partner in 1996. Throughout her career, Nicky has specialised in family law and for 10 years was a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel.  Since moving to the Frinton office as the resident partner in 2004, Nicky has concentrated her work on ancillary relief claims and private Children Act proceedings. Nicky also undertakes some private client work and deals with claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependents) Act 1975. 

Nicky is a Resolution trained collaborative lawyer. Collaborative law encourages separating couples to resolve their disputes without making an application to the Court. 

Nicky is also a 'Dementia Friend'. A Dementia Friend learns a little bit more about what it's like to live with dementia and then turns that understanding into action. This helps our clients and their families just that little bit more. For more information please visit the Dementia Friends website: https://www.dementiafriends.org.uk/ 

Client Feedback

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the dedication and professionalism you have shown in resolving the case. Once you accepted the case things seemed to move on at a better pace with a certain positive outlook."

Mr E

"I felt that not only was I given good legal advice, and was consulted on what I wish to do, but I felt very supported at a difficult time. Nicky Coates was sympathetic and patient and has an excellent client manner. Thank you!"

Lynda

Chambers and Partners UK 2018: Nicola Coates stands out for her "commitment to her clients," as well as being "a really nice person to work with." She specialises in divorce proceedings involving complex financial issues and also advises on prenuptial and cohabitation agreements. 

Legal 500 2018: The Family department is noted within the directory once again. 

Areas of Specialism

• All aspects of family law
• Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependents) Act 1975
• Protection of family assets with pre-nuptial agreements relating to Rural Affairs

Outside the Office

Nicky enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, walking, swimming and re-building her house.