William is a dual French and English national, he is a bilingual speaker, and many of his cases have a Francophone angle. Most cases involve high net worth assets. He has practiced family law for over 20 years. Although many of his cases involve significant court disputes, he seeks to settle out of court those cases which can be resolved early.
Many of William’s cases have an international element. He is a widely acknowledged expert on European family law issues.
William is Vice-President of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (European Chapter).
He advises on international prenuptial agreements for clients involving significant assets. He is a trained mediator. William has had important reported cases raising significant points of law (Khreino (2000) – successful wife in case about the powers of the English court to freeze family assets, M v V (2010) – successful husband on the validity of a French jurisdiction agreement about maintenance, and EDG v RR (2014) – successful mother on cross border enforcement of maintenance which correctly predicted a later European Court of Justice case).
William frequently writes articles on international family law for a wide variety of publications and speaks at international conferences. He has been quoted in virtually all the broadsheet newspapers in England and France as well as appearing on national radio and television in both countries.
''William Healing thinks deeply and critically about cases like nobody else. He is completely on top of what his clients want and what they need and is creative and tactical when approaching how to achieve that.''
Legal 500, 2023
''William Healing advises on international divorce and nuptial agreements for clients involving significant assets.''
CHAMBERS & PARTNERS UHNW, 2023
“Impressive Anglo-French practice,” which sees him regularly act on cross-border family disputes. His practice includes relocation matters and multi-jurisdictional prenuptial agreements.
Chambers UK, 2019
Well known for his international family law practice…Wins praise from across the market for his French practice and frequently advises on international prenuptial agreements. A fellow lawyer comments that “he is an impressive individual and he has an impressive Anglo-French practice.”
Chambers Global HNW, 2019
“Excellent knowledge of private international law within the EU so far as it relates to divorce, children and finances…an enviable client base among London’s French-speaking community.”
Legal 500, 2018
“Of all the solicitors in London, he has the best knowledge of European and cross-border issues.”
Chambers UK, 2017
“…reassuring, but he’s also quite business-like. He’s a fighter when he thinks it’s the right thing to do.”
Chambers Global HNW, 2017
“Quick to suggest practical solutions, rather than letting the parties dwell on who might be right or wrong’. “Strong on advising on foreign law issues.”
Legal 500, 2017
“A highly effective mediator with particular experience in cases involving French nationals…”
Citywealth Leaders List, 2016
European jurisdictions expert… who is “stunning in his commitment.”
Legal 500, 2015