Practice Areas
Dispute Resolution
Direct Access
Awards
‘Charming in conference and compelling in court, he just never has a bad day.’
‘It is incredibly rare to find an all round exceptional advocate able to master both financial and children issues. In Charles you have that – he has so much to offer all clients.’
Chambers and Partners, 2025
Experience
Year of Call: 1992
Year of Silk: 2014
Qualifications
Arbitrator (MCIArb)
Education
LLB (Hons)
Blackstone Scholar
Middle Temple
Appointments
Elected member of the Bar Council of England and Wales 2002 – 2012
Appointed to the President of the Family Division’s, Transparency Implementation Committee (2021 – )
Appointed member of the International Committee of the Bar Council (2022 – )
Profile
Joint Head of Chambers of 4PB, the leading Family Law barristers Chambers in the UK. Family law specialist advocate and Arbitrator, recognised as leading King’s Counsel in both, Chambers and Partners and Legal 500. Shortlisted as Silk of the Year, Legal 500, 2019, 2021 and 2022.
As a leading family KC with expertise in all aspects of financial, international and private law family cases, Charles is regularly instructed in international family disputes for high net worth individuals and often provides expert advice in foreign divorce matters. Charles has a reputation for dealing with the most complex cases involving financial disputes and trusts, also cases arising out of same sex/modern families disputes. As one of the few recognised leading family UK barristers in both matrimonial finance and children work, Charles is often instructed to represent high profile clients in all issues arising out of their separation. He is qualified to receive instructions directly from overseas lawyers and lead teams multi-jurisdictional cases.
Charles has a significant ADR practice. As an Arbitrator, a private FDR judge and early neutral evaluator in both finance and children cases, Charles offers the full spectrum for out of court solutions to complex family disputes.
Charles is a member of the Family Law Bar Association and was a National Committee member from 2004-2014 and an elected member of the Bar Council for 10 years. He was appointed to the International Committee of the Bar of England and Wales (2022). Charles is one of two KC’s appointed by the President of the Family Division to the Transparency Implementation Group (TIG).
He has previously lectured at Kingston University and regularly lectures domestically including to Resolution and at the Judicial College (the training college of UK family judges). Internationally, Charles has lectured widely, including at the South African National Family Conference, in Dublin to the Irish Bar, and in the Cayman Islands and Jersey. Charles writes thought leader articles in leading journals and publications and is often ask to provide comment to the media. He is a lead author of several chapters in Rayden and Jackson, Relationship Breakdown, Finance and Children (Butterworths LexisNexis).
A specialist family KC in finance, private law, children and international cases.
Private Children Law
Regularly instructed by HNW, celebrity, business clients and leading sports stars in respect of their children private law disputes including leave to remove (relocation) cases and domestic care arrangements. Recent cases include:
Acting for a prominent international footballer over several years to secure a child arrangements order to reflect his wish to share the care of his daughter despite his career commitments.
Acting in a complex financial and relocation dispute involving a prominent Scandinavian family and international care/custody issues.
Re C (Parental Alienation: Instruction of Experts) [2023] EWHC 345 (Fam) the leading authority on the instruction of experts in children proceedings. SM v PM [2023] EWHC 3446 (Fam). acting for the successful mother from a HNW Indian family who had been subjected to horrific sexual and other abuse (including during the litigation) and had fled to India with her children. Father ordered to pay all the costs of the proceedings.
Acting for the successful father in the Court of Appeal in Re T (Children: Non Disclosure [2024] EWCA Civ 241.
Public Children Law
Instructed in cases where private law disputes cross over into public law cases, in particular complex cases involving multiple experts or complex legal points (see HB v A Local Authority and Anor (Wardship – Costs Funding Order) [2017] EWHC 524 (Fam)
Family Finance
Leading finance silk involving in high net worth, complex cases involving family businesses, trusts, international finance, farms and pre/post nuptial agreements. Recent cases include, Teasdale v Carter and Teasdale [2024] Fam Law 51 a complex farming cases and VS v KS [2023] EWHC 3475 (Fam) acting for the successful husband in obtaining a stay of English divorce proceedings in favour of Monaco.
Also recently acted Pro Bono for parties in a trans divorce action for a declaration of nullity. UK government brought in as intervenors after an application was made to “read down” Section 11 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1979 (see P v P (Transgender Applicant for Decree of Nullity: Human Rights) [2024] EWHC 1197 (Fam)
International Children Law
Renowned international family KC involved in abduction, summary return and complex relocation cases where high significant advice and advocacy is required. Fellow of the International Association of Family Lawyers and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. Appointed to the International Committee of the Bar Council of England and Wales. Often leads international teams where several jurisdiction are in play. Recent examples including, an abduction/relocation case involving Curaçao, successfully defending a summary return application for a mother who had returned to her home country from London.
Acted for the father in the Supreme Court in Re C (Children) [2018] UKSC a leading authority on the interpretation of the Hague Convention 1980.
Non-court dispute resolution
Charles is a CIARB qualified arbitrator in both children and finance cases and regularly appears in arbitration cases. He sits as a private FDR judge and early neutral evaluator in children cases. He has lectured and trained family arbitrators internationally. Charles is also instructed on behalf of the Divorce Surgery to provide expert advice to both sides of a family dispute. He is recognised in the legal directories for his extensive practice in non-court based resolution.
Publications/Training
Lead author in Rayden and Jackson: Relationship Breakdown, Finance and Children. Regular lecture domestically and internationally including at the Judicial College training English Judges. Regular contributor and commentator on practice and policy in family justice.
Professional Memberships
Fellow of the International Association of Family Lawyers (IAFL)
Commonwealth Lawyer Association
Family Law Bar Association
Association of Lawyers for Children
South Eastern Circuit
Middle Temple
Directories
“Charming in conference and compelling in court, he just never has a bad day.”
“It is incredibly rare to find an all round exceptional advocate able to master both financial and children issues. In Charles you have that – he has so much to offer all clients.”
“A man with a very persuasive style of oral advocacy, he is a remarkable storyteller, who brings you along with him. So smooth and relaxed, he often carries the day.”
“He has incredible empathy and is very good at bringing clients along with him. His soft skills are second to none.”
“He has an informal approach which clients like and he engages counsel in discussions that really progress the matter.”
Chambers & Partners, 2025
“Charles is tenacious and dedicated. He has an assertive court presence and is always committed to getting the best possible result for his clients.”
“Charles has a wonderfully accessible advocacy style. A pre-eminent silk for complex cases.”
Legal 500, 2025
“A man with a very persuasive style of oral advocacy, he is a remarkable storyteller, who brings you along with him. So smooth and relaxed, he often carries the day.”
“Charming in conference and compelling in court, he just never has a bad day.””Charles’ unflappable, laid-back approach is very reassuring for clients – he instils complete confidence in them. He is extremely well respected and has the ear of the court. His advocacy is understated but very effective nonetheless – when he speaks, judges listen.”
Chamber and partners, 2024 (Family & Matrimonial ADR)
“Charles has a great manner with clients, and is always on top of the case.”
“Charles is a smooth operator, who has clients and judges alike eating out of the palm of his hand.”
Chamber and partners, 2024 (Family & Matrimonial ADR)
“He approaches cases with great care and thoughtfulness.”
“He’s got a nice understated manner and is pleasant to deal with.”
“Charles has a great way with clients.”
Chamber and partners, 2024 (Matrimonial Finance)
“Very client friendly and very knowledgeable, he has a disarming manner which cuts through tension and conflict to get the best result for his client.”
“Charles is a perfect all-rounder. His client care is sublime and his advocacy is off the charts. Clients absolutely adore him as they know he’s so dedicated and committed to them.”
Chambers and Partners, 2023 (Children & Matrimonial Finance)
‘Charles’ advocacy is second to none. He can turn the hardest case into a win and is charming with opponents and the judge alike.’
Legal 500 2023, Family (Including Divorce and Financial Remedy)
Charles is a phenomenal advocate with a great bedside manner with clients. He is able to explain complex issues in a simple fashion. He never forgets the emotional aspect of a case and that these are deeply personal issues for the clients.’
Legal 500 2023, (Children Law)
Top Tier
‘ A superb advocate, always going the extra mile to defend the client’s position. He prepares meticulously, reading all papers. His advice on all children matters is always spot on. ’
Legal 500, 2022
Top Tier
‘ Has strong advocacy skills and the ability to cut through information to find the important issues. He quickly instils confidence in his clients.” “Charles is down-to-earth, hugely bright and willing to go the extra mile for solicitors and clients alike.” “He has the ability to relate and connect with clients from many different backgrounds.’
Chambers & Partners, 2022
Renowned family silk who specialises in complex matters in both the private children and matrimonial finance spheres. He routinely handles significant cases on behalf of an impressive client base of high-profile individuals including those with alternative family arrangements. His practice includes international child abductions and jurisdiction disputes.
Strengths: “Has a suave way of ensuring he gets what he wants in cross-examination, delivering subtle but killer blows. He has a real ability to relate to any type of client and to make them feel listened to and supported.” “Judges warm to Charles immediately. He is a highly persuasive advocate and negotiator who gets results.”
Chambers & Partners, 2021
Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
‘Is a superb advocate. He has a knack of understanding both the client and how best to present their case.’ ‘Is a phenomenal advocate and extremely persuasive. His other great skill is with lay clients. He puts them at their ease and is able to explain difficult legal concepts in a down to earth, friendly manner.’
Legal 500 2021, Children
Top Tier
‘Is a phenomenal advocate and extremely persuasive. His other great skill is with lay clients. He puts them at their ease and is able to explain difficult legal concepts in a down to earth, friendly manner.’
Legal 500 2021, Family (Including Divorce and Financial Remedy)
Renowned family silk who specialises in complex matters in both the private children and matrimonial finance spheres. He routinely handles significant cases on behalf of an impressive client base of high-profile individuals including those with alternative family arrangements. His practice includes international child abductions and jurisdiction disputes.
Strengths: “Amazing on his feet and unflappable. His technical knowledge and ability to put clients at ease in complete confidence is second to none.” “Charles Hale can present the most complicated issues almost effortlessly.”
Recent work: Acted in Re C, a Supreme Court appeal on behalf of a legal charity on the issue of repudiatory retention in a 1980 Hague Convention case.
Chambers & Partners 2020 Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
‘Forms strong relationships with clients and immediately puts them at ease.’‘Is recommended for his command of the courtroom, his honeyed advocacy skills and user-friendliness.’
Legal 500, 2020
Top Tier
Renowned family silk who specialises in complex matters in both the private children and matrimonial finance spheres. He routinely handles significant cases on behalf of an impressive client base of high-profile individuals including those with alternative family arrangements. His practice includes international child abductions and jurisdiction disputes.
Strengths: “Razor sharp and unflappable, he’s consistently good, and can always be relied upon to rise to the occasion. He is able to deliver advice, even in very difficult circumstances, in a calm, measured and client-focused way.”
Recent work: Acted in an appeal to the Supreme Court regarding the concept of ‘anticipatory breach’ in Hague Convention proceedings.
Chambers & Partners 2019 Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
‘A master of persuasion and charm, the archetypal iron fist in a velvet glove.’ ‘The don. An unparalleled ability to turn the ear of the court in his client’s direction.’
Legal 500, 2019
Renowned family silk who specialises in complex matters in both the private children and matrimonial finance spheres. He routinely handles significant cases on behalf of an impressive client base of high-profile individuals including those with alternative family arrangements. He earns praise for his ability to connect with the full spectrum of clients.
Strengths: “An excellent advocate who is able to put across his client’s case in a persuasive and effective manner. He inspires judicial respect, his cross-examination skills are excellent and he always seems unflappable. He is calm with clients, who feel confident with his representation. He has great attention to detail and is always well prepared.”
Recent work: Represented a father in the Court of Appeal whose child had been relocated to another area of England. Hale argued that internal relocations should be treated in the same way as international abductions.
Chambers & Partners 2018 Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
‘He describes the most complicated circumstances in ways that are accessible to clients and judges alike.’ ‘He simplifies complicated information extremely well.’
Legal 500, 2017
Renowned family silk who specialises in complex matters in both the private children and matrimonial finance spheres. He routinely handles significant cases on behalf of an impressive client base of high-profile individuals.
Strengths: “A very commanding presence in the courtroom. He’s wonderfully pragmatic, very persuasive and very thorough. He has one of the best client manners going.”
Chambers & Partners 2017
Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
He comes alive when he gets on his feet and leaves clients feeling supported and comfortable.”
“A master tactician with a fine grasp of detail and an excellent manner with clients.”
Legal 500, 2016
Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
A barrister with “gravitas,” who brings an authoritative approach to both private children and money cases. People are also quick to emphasise his ability to empathise and engage with clients.
Strengths: “Handles children and money with equal aplomb and efficiency. A powerful advocate, he brims with authority and common sense. Clients adore him for his calmness and unflappability. He is a shrewd negotiator and can be steely when needed. Judges trust his judgement and instinct.”
Chambers & Partners 2016
Ranked for Children & Matrimonial Finance
‘His demeanour inspires confidence in even the most difficult or nervous clients; he is an excellent advocate.’ ‘Very intelligent, hardworking, and responsive; clients love him and he gets results.’
The Legal 500, 2015
Deals with both very high-value matrimonial finance proceedings and complex children law matters. He is regularly sought out for cases pertaining to cross-border children disputes and for his advice to alternative families.
Expertise: “Charles is the ultimate negotiator. If there is a good deal to get, he will get it.” “When he speaks people are drawn to what he says; he’s a very persuasive and powerful advocate. His bedside manner is great, and he captures the trust of a client instantly.”
Chambers & Partners 2015 – New Silk
Charles Hale QC – ‘A very accomplished advocate and a calm port in stormy seas.’ ‘Meticulous in preparation and a master of cross-examination.’
The Legal 500, 2014
Charles Hale is a family practitioner who is a master at both matrimonial finance and children related cases. He is regularly instructed by leading London and national solicitors and has handled cases of the utmost complexity and sensitivity such as A, B and C (2012), a matter concerning the relationship of a gay birth father to a child of lesbian mothers. Other recent matters of note include Re T (Children), which raised a very significant point in respect of costs in children proceedings involving local authorities. “A very smooth operator with clients, he shows an empathy and understanding of their emotional issues which is second to none. Clients are made to feel that he is really part of the fight.”
Chambers 100 List UK Bar
The Chambers Bar 100 ranks the top barristers practising at the Bar of England and Wales.
Elicits much acclaim for his work on both the matrimonial finance and children law sides, and is routinely sought out for his strengths on high-value divorce cases and large-scale cross-jurisdictional children disputes.
Expertise:”His delivery is well judged and he is very easy to work with. He inspires a lot of confidence.”
Recent work: Hale acted on behalf of the Grandparents Association in a widely publicised Supreme Court appeal regarding the liability of a local authority to pay the costs of a party to care proceedings.
Chambers & Partners, 2014
Band 1 for both Children and Matrimonial Finance
The ‘very personable’ Charles Hale is ‘one of the very few senior juniors around who can tackle both financial remedy and children cases with equal facility’. ‘He is meticulous in preparation and a master of cross-examination.’
The Legal 500, 2013
Charles Hale climbs the rankings for both children law and matrimonial finance matters, and receives strong plaudits for his work pertaining to international children disputes and high net worth divorces. Sources reveal that he “never takes a bad point,” while adding that he is a “smart advocate” who is “good at finding solutions to intractable problems.”
Chambers & Partners 2013 – Band 1
The ‘impressive’ Charles Hale, who is ‘a number-one choice for complicated children cases as well as financial issues’.
The Legal 500, 2012
Charles Hale “is very good at both money and children cases,” and is thus a popular choice amongst solicitors for cases that contain both elements. He has a “very conciliatory approach and is extremely popular with clients,” say sources.
Chambers & Partners 2012
Charles Hale is an ‘exceptional performer’ who is ‘outstanding at both children and money work’. Charles Hale is ‘a formidable advocate, particularly in cross-examination ’.
The Legal 500, 2011