Kate Brooks

As a qualified mediator and member of Resolution, Kate is committed to helping clients find practical, workable solutions without unnecessary confrontation. She strongly believes that non-court dispute resolution puts clients back in control, avoiding the rising costs and unreliability of the courts. Kate actively promotes mediation, as well as encouraging clients to consider private Financial Dispute Resolution hearings or arbitration where appropriate, with the aim of achieving fair and efficient outcomes.

Kate explains: “My philosophy is to give pragmatic advice and keep couples out of court whenever possible, without compromising on the outcome.”

Clients appreciate Kate’s commercial mindset, gained during her earlier career as a senior marketing professional with Shell Europe, which gives her a sharp eye for financial negotiations and settlements. She is known for her practical, realistic approach, making sense of the legal process and cutting through jargon, while maintaining empathy and flexibility throughout. Legal 500 has recognised Kate as a Recommended Lawyer in the East Midlands, describing her as a “very solid litigator when the case gets tough,” yet equally capable of negotiating settlements outside the courtroom.

Kate qualified as a solicitor in September 2007 and joined Woolley & Co in August 2011 after working at a family law firm in Warwickshire.

Outside of work, Kate enjoys walking, cycling, cooking, cinema and theatre and is currently learning Turkish.