Sharon Montgomery Retires
Crane & Staples LLP announces the retirement of Partner Sharon Montgomery following a distinguished 40-year career in family law. During her career, she has supported generations of clients across Welwyn Hatfield and the wider Hertfordshire community.
Sharon is widely respected for her direct, clear and committed approach to family law. Over four decades, she has advised hundreds of individuals and families, often at highly challenging and emotional times. Additionally, she has provided firm guidance, practical advice and steadfast support throughout.
Her professional excellence has been recognised independently through leading legal directories, including Legal 500 and Chambers. In these directories, she is individually ranked.
In 2023, she was also awarded the Hertfordshire Law Society Lifetime Achievement Award. This was in recognition of her long-standing contribution to the profession.
Sharon Montgomery wins the Hertfordshire Law Society Lifetime Achievement Award
Contribution to the firm and the profession
During her time at Crane & Staples, Sharon played an important role in the development and continued strength of the firm. Her work supported the firm’s long-standing accreditations, including Lexcel, as well as its continued recognition in national legal rankings.
Sharon Montgomery accepts Crane & Staples' first Lexcel Accreditation in 2003
A significant part of her contribution has been her commitment to training and development. As Training Principal for over 20 years, she has mentored and supported many trainee solicitors and junior lawyers, several of whom have gone on to senior positions across Hertfordshire and beyond. Her influence in shaping future legal professionals remains an important part of her legacy.
Sharon Montgomery with junior colleagues
Partner Danielle Peters commented:
“Sharon has been an incredible leader, colleague and friend. She has always shown real dedication to her clients, her colleagues and the success of the firm. She has also played a key role in developing and supporting future lawyers, and her impact will be felt for many years to come.”
Community involvement
Alongside her legal practice, Sharon has been closely involved in the local community. She served as Chair of the Welwyn Hatfield Domestic Abuse Forum for more than 15 years, contributing to local efforts to raise awareness and improve support services for those affected by domestic abuse.
Sharon Montgomery served as Chair of the Welwyn Hatfield Domestic Abuse Forum
She also served as a board member of First Garden City Homes and acted as honorary solicitor for the Citizens Advice Bureau for over 20 years, reflecting her long-standing commitment to supporting local organisations and community services.
Client feedback
Sharon’s impact on her clients is reflected in the feedback she has received over many years, including the following comment:
“Sharon, my life would not be as it is now if it wasn’t for your help. Your advice and support throughout was critical to keeping me going. Everything you advised was absolutely the right advice, for both me and my child. Thank you so much for all your advice and support.”
Reflections on her career
Reflecting on her career, Sharon said:
“One of the most rewarding parts of my career has been the people. I have been fortunate to work alongside supportive colleagues and professional contacts, and to build lasting relationships with clients and members of the local community.”
Sharon with Family Law Partner and close friend and colleague Danielle Peters
Retirement Party
Sharon’s retirement was marked with a gathering attended by colleagues, former colleagues, professional contacts and members of the local community at Knebworth Golf Club. The event provided an opportunity for those who have worked with Sharon over many years to reflect on her contribution and to wish her well for the future.
Colleagues celebrate with Sharon at her retirement party
Farewell, Sharon!
After 40 years of service, Sharon leaves behind a legacy defined by dedication, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to her clients, colleagues and the wider community. We have no doubt Sharon will make the most of retirement as she plans to travel, go on incredible adventrues and spend time with family and friends. We hope she is not too busy to come in and see us, and we look forward to seeing her on the dancefloor at our next social event!
Sharon Montgomery's contribution to Crane & Staples and to family law in Hertfordshire has been significant and enduring, and she will be greatly missed across the firm.