• Office
  • 1 Amphora Place
  • Sheepen Road
  • Colchester
  • Essex
  • CO3 3WG
  • Tel: 01206 217300

Philip Hoddell

Chairman

I am passionate about representing my clients’ very best interests, and am known for bringing a forthright, proactive and common sense approach to their cases. I am a member of Resolution, an organisation of family lawyers committed to the settlement of disputes in a constructive, fair and cost effective way. I would look to resolve your case out of court if possible, but would pursue it vigorously through the court process if necessary. I’m based in our Colchester office, and am available for a free 15 minute chat over the phone on 01206 217320.

My professional work concentrates exclusively on all aspects of divorce and family separation, including advising in high net worth, family business and agricultural cases. I qualified as a solicitor in 1989 and have been practising in this field of law ever since. I enjoy meeting people and helping them to solve complicated personal and financial problems.

I have been a Partner of the firm since 1994 and a Team Leader of various teams between 1994 and 2022. For 8 years I sat on the Birkett Long Management Board as Head of the Private Client Department. I am now the Chairman of Birkett Long, and chair the Oversight Board and Partners’ Meetings. Click here to read more on my role as Chairman.

I have been a member of the Law Society’s specialist Family Law Panel for the last 18 years, and am mentioned as a leading divorce lawyer in the influential Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners publications. I am a specialist collaborative lawyer. 

I am a member of Colchester Collaborative family law group. Please feel free to visit this site to find other local collaborative family lawyers who could assist your partner if it is the case that you both wish to deal with your separation in a collaborative setting.

I am a RFU accredited coach, and coached rugby at Colchester Rugby Club for 10 years. I am still a keen spectator, and also enjoy current affairs, hill walking and spending time with my family. 

For 16 years I was a member of Colchester Round Table; I am an ex-Chairman. I am currently a governor at Colchester Royal Grammar school and a member of the Court of Essex University. I am still involved in the Suffolk and North Essex Law Society and am a former President.

The Legal 500 – The Clients Guide to Law Firms The Legal 500 – The Clients Guide to Law Firms The Legal 500 – The Clients Guide to Law Firms

Divorce and Family team

Our divorce and separation team understands that the breakdown of a relationship, particularly if children are involved, can be a difficult and stressful time for all those involved. We listen to the needs of our clients and treat each client as an individual. This ensures we are able to tailor our advice and help guide you through the legal process. We can assist you to make important decisions at a time when you may feel unable to do so.

What our clients say

  • My heartfelt thanks to you for your unlimited support to me as and whenever needed. You are a truly brilliant and visionary lawyer.
  • Philip Hoddell provides very calm, straight-talking, business-like advice. He brings gravitas and commands confidence.Client testimonial from the Legal 500
  • The team inspires confidence due to their knowledgeable and extremely reputable practice.Client testimonial from the Legal 500
  • I have been very impressed by the professional manner my case has been dealt with. I would highly recommend Birkett Long.
  • Philip was a pleasure to work with in difficult circumstances, getting divorced is stressful. Philip was professional, knowledgeable and thoughtful at all times. I would recommend Philip to anyone who is in a similar situation to me without hesitation.
  • Birkett Long is the best firm by far. They have been such a strong supportive network to rely on in such breaking and hard times, nothing is ever too much trouble. I built a great rapport with them instantly, feeling listened to with the attention to detail and their excellent and clear communication skills they worked to resolve the issues. They are friendly, caring, warm and approachable. If my solicitor was unavailable, I received the same level of support and help from other staff members resolving issues immediately and with ease. Legal 500, 2023
  • Philip Hoddell is tenacious, courteous, approachable and gets things done. He stands up for his clients without being contentious.Legal 500
  • I wish I had used Birkett Long from the start. I have wasted time and money over the years with other solicitors. Philip Hoddell turned a bad situation around for me and worked tirelessly to ensure a good outcome with grace, patience and fairness. It is no exaggeration to say that without Philip's expertise I would be facing a very different, and very miserable future.
  • It has been the most traumatic of times and a very tough and emotional process to go through. However I have to say it was a privilege to have you represent me. I cannot thank you enough for your patience in dealing with all my panics and concerns but mostly for your measured professional guidance throughout the process.
  • Philip Hoddell, and his associates at Birkett Long, made the difficult process of divorcing my husband much easier. I was always treated, both in person and written correspondence, with sensitivity, understanding and professionalism. Everything was explained with clarity and all of my questions were answered promptly. Philip is an asset to his profession and the firm.
  • Engaging Philip Hoddell was the best decision I made regarding obtaining a divorce. He was so completely professional - dependable, responsible and hard working. He spoke with clarity, and was unemotive yet caring, kind and sympathetic. Because of his knowledge and experience he didn't give me questions I was ill advised to answer, but confidently explained the path we should take. His responses to questions were immediate and he always maintained a cool calm approach to everything.Legal 500
  • Philip is recognised for his "proactive nature and responsiveness as being among his key attributes".Chambers & Partners 2015
  • The team is strategic, pragmatic and - most importantly - honest and straightforward about the legal risks, costs and related issues.Client testimonial from the Legal 500
  • Philip Hoddell is a legend, a professional, an expert and legal Behemoth! He guided me through the most challenging period of my life and was a pillar of strength. Philip listened to my ramblings, my concerns and my heartache whilst providing me with advice, guidance and counsel in an understanding and considerate way. Marina Iskra was always available and engaged especially when I called as she knew my case, she spoke to me with knowledge and made me feel like I had all of Birkett Long with me.Mr David Clark
  • Philip Hoddell... is noted for his 'sharp focus'.The Legal 500
  • Philip Hoddell is recommended for his expertise in divorce matters.
  • I have been very impressed with Phillip Hoddell's professionalism and expertise. My matter was dealt with great efficiency and I would highly recommend Phillip and his team.
  • Birkett Long is a remarkable practice, which has gone from strength to strength.Client testimonial from the Legal 500
  • I had a difficult relationship issue to deal with. My call concerns and needs were effectively addressed and the desired outcome was achieved promptly and efficiently.