Business Details
48 Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Christchurch
We are a bright, modern, and accessible law firm with over four decades of experience serving businesses and individuals across the UK. Our team of experts combines deep legal knowledge with a proactive, client-focused approach, prioritising clear communication and practical solutions. We invest heavily in technology to enhance efficiency while maintaining a personal touch through direct lawyer-client interaction.Our commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through free initial consultations, plain-English advice, and flexible communication channels. Recognised by Legal 500 and CQS-accredited, we maintain industry-leading standards while fostering a progressive workplace culture that values work-life balance and continuous professional development.
Services
Commercial Property
Wills & Tax Planning
Employment Law
Family Law
Property Transactions
Business Disputes
Probate Services
Corporate Restructuring
Landlord & Tenant
Commercial Contracts
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We provide direct access to specialist solicitors with decades of combined experience
- Our proactive approach has saved clients significant costs through early risk identification
- 98% client satisfaction rate based on independent third-party reviews
- We maintain CQS accreditation for excellence in conveyancing services
- Flexible communication options including email, video calls, and home visits
Associations and certifications
- CQS
- Legal 500
- STEP
What people say
Efficient and knowledgeable service
Outstanding ethics
Excellent communication
Proactive approach
Value for money
Services
Commercial Property
Our commercial property solicitors handle transactions, leases, and development projects for businesses. We specialise in minimising legal risks while maximising commercial outcomes. Clients benefit from our deep local market knowledge and established relationships with property professionals across the South Coast.
Wills & Tax Planning
We create tailored wills and inheritance tax strategies for individuals and families. Our specialists provide clear guidance on trusts, probate, and lifetime gifting. Clients receive practical advice to protect assets and ensure smooth wealth transfer across generations.
Employment Law
Our employment team advises businesses on contracts, disputes, and HR compliance. We offer proactive guidance to prevent workplace issues and represent clients in tribunal proceedings. Services include policy development and management training tailored to specific industry needs.
Family Law
We handle divorce, child arrangements, and financial settlements with sensitivity. Our collaborative approach prioritises amicable resolutions while protecting client interests. Specialist mediators help families reach agreements without court proceedings where possible.
Commercial Contracts
Our corporate solicitors draft and review contracts for businesses of all sizes. We specialise in partnership agreements, supply contracts, and intellectual property licensing. Clients receive clear risk assessments and negotiation support to secure favourable commercial terms.
People
Matthew Fretten
Managing Partner
Leading the firm since 2005, Matthew combines 30+ years' legal experience with strategic vision. He oversees service quality and business development while maintaining hands-on client work in corporate transactions.
Oonagh McKinney
Commercial Property Partner
Specialising in commercial real estate for 25 years, Oonagh handles complex property transactions and development projects. She leads the Christchurch office and mentors junior solicitors in best practice standards.
Catharine Snow
Operations Manager
With 20 years at Frettens, Catharine manages day-to-day operations and client service standards. She ensures seamless cross-department collaboration and implementation of the firm's flexible working policies.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialise in?
We specialise in commercial law, property transactions, family law, employment law, and private client services including wills and probate.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, all new clients receive a free initial consultation via phone or video call with a specialist solicitor.
Are your legal fees transparent?
We provide clear cost estimates upfront with no hidden fees. Payment options and fixed-fee arrangements are available for many services.
How accessible are your solicitors?
Clients receive direct contact details for their solicitor and can communicate via phone, email, or video call at convenient times.
What accreditations do you hold?
We maintain CQS accreditation for conveyancing excellence and are recommended in the Legal 500 directory for multiple practice areas.
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