As Bridget Barford begins her retirement, everyone at NLS would like to thank her for the commitment, care and energy she has brought to her work over many years. Since joining NLS in 2017, Bridget has made a lasting difference to the people she has supported, the colleagues she has mentored and the teams she has helped to shape. Her determination, high standards and readiness to stand up for others have been evident throughout her career.
“Over the years, Bridget has become a warm and familiar presence on the Kent Court circuit, and countless Judges and clerks will fondly remember her dedication, kindness, and professionalism in everything she’s done.”
A career defined by commitment
Before moving into family law, Bridget spent many years working on the criminal circuit. Her resilience and strong sense of justice have remained central to her approach, alongside a deep commitment to supporting people through difficult circumstances. At NLS, Bridget returned to the court work she enjoyed and became a familiar and respected presence at Hastings Family Court. She led her team with energy and purpose while supporting people experiencing domestic abuse across Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
“Many people know Bridget as a great family solicitor, but family law wasn’t where her it started. She spent many years on the criminal circuit, her determination and resilience became her trademarks.”
NLS also recognised the scale of Bridget’s contribution over the course of her career:
“The many thousands – yes, thousands – of people she’s supported along the way will be forever grateful for her compassion and hard work. Bridget truly leaves a lasting, positive mark on every life she’s touched.”
A mentor who created opportunities
Bridget’s impact can also be seen in the careers of those she has supported and encouraged. Her approach has often been direct, practical and demanding, but colleagues have valued the confidence she has helped them build.
James Skidmore first joined Barford Fraser on work experience when he was 17. It was the start of both his career in law and a long-standing friendship with Bridget.
“She gave me my opportunity in law, which I was not necessarily wanting, but due to her convincing personality, I soon realised that going into law probably wasn’t the worst career choice I could make.”
He remembers how Bridget encouraged him to take opportunities before he had time to doubt himself:
“Bridget well and truly threw me in at the deep end with all the work, but I have found this to be the best way to learn. Despite pushing me, she was always there to support and guide me threw challenging cases.”
For James, Bridget’s support has extended well beyond training and work:
“She has been my biggest champion, and there are fewer and fewer people in this world like Bridget, which I think is only a bad thing for the rest of us. Bridget is selfless and a person you can completely rely upon.”
A loyal colleague and friend
Nicola first began working with Bridget in early 2013 at Barford Fraser. What began as a Legal Cashier role soon developed into a much broader position, including accounts management, office management and support for the wider team.
When Barford Fraser disbanded in 2018, Nicola did not initially move to NLS with the rest of the team. Bridget worked hard to ensure that there was a role for her, and Nicola joined NLS in January 2019.
“Bridget, however, fought tooth and nail to ensure I had a place here. Eventually, a role was created for me, and I joined NLS in January 2019. I will always be grateful the support she showed me during that time.”
Nicola
Bridget’s loyalty was also clear when she joined NLS, bringing with her a close-knit team that had worked alongside her for many years. She has poured her heart into supporting colleagues and clients alike, leaving a strong and positive legacy within the firm.
There have also been plenty of happy memories along the way, from team meals at The Shard and the Oxo Tower to a memorable day trip to Paris and dinner at the Eiffel Tower.
Thank you, Bridget
Bridget leaves NLS with the respect and affection of the many colleagues who have worked alongside her. Her contribution to clients, her team and the wider firm will be remembered for years to come.
“On behalf of everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside her: thank you, Bridget, for your extraordinary years of service, compassion, and commitment. You have made a difference that will be felt for years to come.”
We wish you a happy retirement filled with holidays, time with family and friends, the occasional pub drink and, of course, the annual Eurovision Song Contest photos.
Congratulations, Bridget, and thank you from everyone at NLS.
