Biography
I am a Resolution accredited partner and mediator. I help separating couples deal with the many issues that arise following the breakdown of a relationship, both in relation to divorce/civil partnership dissolution, and children.
I practise exclusively in Family law, with a particular emphasis on complex financial cases, often with international elements and those involving business interests, trusts and pensions.
I also have extensive experience in cases involving children disputes, as well as advising unmarried couples in relation to cohabitation issues and prenuptial agreements.
I am a committee member of Resolution, whose 6,500 members comprise Family lawyers and other professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes. Members adhere to a code of practice which promotes a non-confrontational approach to such disputes. Members also encourage solutions which consider the needs of the whole family and, in particular, the best interests of children.
I also sit as treasurer to Greater Manchester's Resolution committee.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
Irwin Mitchell's best asset is its people. I really enjoy working with my colleagues in the Family team, both locally and nationally. There is a wonderful collegiate atmosphere.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
Working in Family law offers a unique insight into peoples' lives. Quite often, we are approached by clients at incredibly difficult and stressful times. It is immensely satisfying that, through advice and support, we are able to help clients achieve outcomes that might have seemed unachievable at the outset of their case. Making a positive difference to them is by far the most rewarding aspect of my role.
What inspired you to get into law?
My grandfather worked for a firm of solicitors. Listening to his stories of working in the legal profession inspired me to study law at university and then pursue this as a career. The rest, as they say, is history!
What do you do away from the office?
Spending time with my family and friends.
Testimonials
Phillip Rhodes is listed as a Leading Lawyer by Wiselaw
Chambers 2024: Band 2 (individually ranked):
Phillip Rhodes is particularly highlighted for his work as a trained family mediator. His broad practice spans matrimonial finance cases, including cross-border matters, in addition to experience working on child care disputes.
"He is a force to be reckoned with and does everything in his power to get the best possible outcome."
Legal500 2024: Phillip Rhodes is a go-to for nuptial agreements, fielding a roster of high-net worth clients from sport and media backgrounds; he is also a resolution accredited mediator.
“Particular mention should be given to Phil Rhodes and his assistants who went the extra mile and were always available for help. He displayed exceptional expertise and achieved the very best outcome for me.”
Chambers 2023: “A technically able lawyer who is very supportive and commercially aware.” “Phillip does good work and fights for his clients well.”
Legal500 2023: “Phillip Rhodes is a strategic thinker, pragmatic, leaves no stone unturned, outstanding legal knowledge and wonderful client care. A star turn.”
Chambers 2022: "Everything he does is to the letter, he never puts a foot wrong in his case preparation and he is constantly on the ball, which clients love." "He will stick to his guns but is reasonable in negotiations."
Legal500 2022: “Phillip Rhodes is superb and in my view the stand out partner. He is extremely personable and clients feel extremely reassured by him and fights very hard for his clients. He is technically also very skilled.”
