Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Legal Services in Eastbourne
Hart Reade LLP is a long-established legal practice founded in 1910, serving East Sussex and beyond. Our team of qualified lawyers and legal executives specialise in family law, property conveyancing, probate, commercial law, and employment law. We are Lexcel-accredited, demonstrating our commitment to client care and professional standards. Our approach prioritises clear communication, transparency, and tailored solutions for individuals and businesses. With offices in Eastbourne, Hailsham, and Polegate, we combine local knowledge with national expertise. Our solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and maintain rigorous continuing professional development.We offer free initial consultations for family law matters and provide accessible services including home visits and large-print documents. Our accreditations include membership of Resolution, the Conveyancing Quality Scheme, and The Association of Lifetime Lawyers. We operate with professional indemnity insurance and adhere to strict anti-money laundering protocols. Our client-focused approach ensures practical, cost-effective legal advice delivered with professionalism and care.
Services
Family Law
Property Conveyancing
Probate Services
Commercial Law
Wills & Estates
Employment Law
Dispute Resolution
Lasting Power of Attorney
Collaborative Law
Mediation Services
Details
- Year established: 1910
Highlights and features
- We offer over 110 years of legal expertise in East Sussex
- Our practice holds Lexcel accreditation for client care excellence
- Free 30-minute initial consultation for family law matters
- Three accessible offices in Eastbourne, Hailsham and Polegate
- Specialist departments covering family, property, probate and commercial law
Associations and certifications
- Lexcel
- Solicitors Regulation Authority
- Law Society's Conveyancing Quality Scheme
- Resolution
- STEP
- The Association of Lifetime Lawyers
Services
Family Law
Our family law specialists handle divorce, civil partnerships, financial settlements, child arrangements, and pre-nuptial agreements. We provide compassionate guidance through relationship breakdowns while protecting client interests. Our team includes Resolution members and collaborative law practitioners committed to minimising conflict.
Property Conveyancing
Recognised by the Law Society's Conveyancing Quality Scheme, we manage residential and commercial property transactions. Our services include purchases, sales, remortgages, leasehold enquires, and boundary disputes. We ensure smooth processes with clear communication from instruction to completion.
Probate Services
We administer estates, draft wills, and manage lasting powers of attorney. Our STEP-qualified specialists handle trust creation, tax planning, and Court of Protection applications. We provide sensitive support during bereavement and ensure clients' wishes are legally protected.
Commercial Law
Our commercial department advises on business transfers, employment law, commercial leases, and dispute resolution. We support local businesses with contract drafting, litigation, and landlord-tenant matters. Our services combine legal expertise with practical commercial understanding.
Mediation Services
We offer alternative dispute resolution for family, property, and commercial conflicts. Our accredited mediators facilitate constructive negotiations to achieve mutually acceptable solutions. This cost-effective approach often avoids court proceedings while maintaining relationships.
People
Guy Brown
Co-Head of Family Department
Specialising in family law with particular expertise in divorce and financial settlements. Recognised for compassionate representation in complex cases. Regularly handles child arrangement disputes and pre-nuptial agreements.
Alexandra Funnell
Co-Head of Family Department
Experienced family law specialist with collaborative law accreditation. Focuses on achieving amicable resolutions in divorce proceedings. Provides strategic advice on child custody and financial settlements.
Andrew Pluck
Head of Commercial Department
Commercial law expert with extensive experience in business transactions and property law. Manages complex commercial leases and corporate disputes. Provides strategic legal advice to local businesses.
John Benson
Head of Private Client Department
Specialist in wills, probate and lasting powers of attorney. STEP-qualified with particular expertise in estate planning and Court of Protection matters. Provides sensitive support for elderly clients.
Sebastian Hale-Smith
Commercial Litigation Solicitor
Employment law and dispute resolution specialist with litigation expertise. Handles complex commercial disputes and employment tribunal cases. Provides practical solutions for business conflicts.
Questions
What areas of law does Hart Reade specialise in?
We specialise in family law, property conveyancing, probate, commercial law, employment law, and dispute resolution services.
Are your legal fees transparent and predictable?
Yes, we provide clear cost estimates upfront and maintain transparent billing practices with no hidden fees.
Do you offer initial legal consultations?
We offer free 30-minute initial consultations for family law matters to discuss your case and options.
How can I make payments for your services?
We accept credit card payments online for legal costs and provide secure payment options through our website.
What accreditations does Hart Reade hold?
We are Lexcel-accredited and members of the Law Society's Conveyancing Quality Scheme, Resolution, and STEP.
Do you provide services outside Eastbourne?
Yes, we serve clients across East Sussex including Hailsham, Polegate, and surrounding areas.
Reviews (4)
Bucklers Catering
Dec 31, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism
Hart Reade acted for me in the purchase of my businesses. They were knowledgeable and professional and I felt extremely well supported and in safe hands throughout the whole process. Communication and responsiveness was excellent and I would have no hesitation in recommending them.
Hart Reade acted for me in the purchase of my businesses. They were knowledgeable and professional and I felt extremely well supported and in safe hands throughout the whole process. Communication and responsiveness was excellent and I would have no hesitation in recommending them.
Abi Craven
Dec 16, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Greg Saunders dealt with my matrimonial matters professionally. A divorce is never easy for anybody but Greg made the process much easier with his excellent communication and understanding.
Greg Saunders dealt with my matrimonial matters professionally. A divorce is never easy for anybody but Greg made the process much easier with his excellent communication and understanding.
Jordan West
Dec 16, 2021
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I cant thank Alexandra Funnell enough, from start to finish she was so professional, reassuring and so understanding which made me feel at instant ease. I couldnt believe how quick all the paperwork was completed in a timely and efficient manner. I would recommend Alexandra to any family member or friends that found themselves needing representation.
Debra Butler
Dec 15, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
I have always received a professional service from Hart Reade. Would recommend.
I have always received a professional service from Hart Reade. Would recommend.
