Carla Fraser, Allsopp Campbell Rainey’s new Partner and Head of Family Law, has more than a decade of specialist experience and a reputation for guiding people through some of the most difficult moments in their lives with clarity, strength and compassion.
A former department head at a major Northern Ireland firm and a long-standing member of the Children (NI) Order Panel, Carla brings deep expertise in complex children’s and matrimonial matters – but also a calm, human-centred approach that clients value when everything feels uncertain.
Her commitment to empowering families with calm, pragmatic guidance makes her an outstanding addition to Allsopp Campbell Rainey’s client-focused team.
In the Q&A below, Carla reflects on her values, her approach, and what draws her to family law.
Q. Can you tell us a little about your background and your journey into law?
I studied corporate law at the National University of Ireland Galway. After graduating, I initially worked briefly as a paralegal before completing my training contract at a large Belfast city centre firm. During my time there, I gained experience across various areas of law, with a particular focus on family and matrimonial cases.
I went on to become Head of the Family and Matrimonial Department at a prominent Northern Ireland firm, which strengthened my expertise and understanding of complex family law issues.
Since qualifying as a solicitor 12 years ago, I have specialised mainly in family law, developing a strong understanding of the detailed legal and emotional challenges clients face.
I have been a member of the Children (Northern Ireland) Order Panel since 2016 and represented families in landmark children and matrimonial cases.
Q. What made you passionate about the law, and family law in particular?
What drew me to law initially was a desire to help people during their most challenging moments, providing clarity and support when they need it most. Family law, in particular, resonates strongly with me because it touches on some of the most personal and emotional aspects of people’s lives.
I have a genuine desire to make a positive difference during times of hardship, offering both legal expertise and compassion, to help clients move forward with confidence and dignity
The majority of my clients are facing a very difficult time in their lives. They are often vulnerable and sometimes have no one else to fight their corner. I am empathetic yet pragmatic and I enjoy helping client’s and guiding them through what can be very difficult times.
Q. What do you think a good family lawyer brings to people during moments of stress or major life change?
A good family lawyer provides clients with calm, clear advice and reassurance that someone is genuinely on their side. They offer structure when everything feels chaotic and help clients make decisions rooted not only in law but also in compassion and good sense.
My role is to listen carefully, understand each client’s unique circumstances and then advise with honesty and empathy. I aim to help clients move forward with confidence and dignity, ensuring their interests and those of any children involved are protected.
Q. Why is Allsopp Campbell Rainey a great fit for you and for the type of work you do?
What drew me to Allsopp Campbell Rainey is their strong reputation and unrivalled commitment to client’s needs. The firm expertly combines high-quality legal expertise with a down-to-earth, personal approach, which I find really important.
ACR offer a full spectrum of services, especially in property and corporate law, and I look forward to working alongside talented colleagues to be able to provide a full range of services to clients within the firm.
In divorce, financial matters can often be complex, involving conveyancing, pensions, and various business interests, and I believe being part of a firm that understands and handles these areas seamlessly will benefit clients significantly.
Q. Looking ahead, what are you hoping to achieve as Head of Family Law at Allsopp Campbell Rainey?
My goal as Head of Family Law is to build a department that combines expertise with approachability.
I aim to develop a team renowned for delivering practical outcomes while maintaining a deep sense of empathy and understanding. Collaborating with top experts, barristers, and specialists across various areas will be key to offering our clients a comprehensive service.
Over the coming years, I also hope to expand our range of services, strengthen links with community organisations, and grow the department into a trusted and respected hub for family law in Northern Ireland.
Ultimately, I want to help ensure that families across Northern Ireland can access practical, compassionate legal advice when they need it most.
Q. What message would you give to someone who is facing a family law issue but feels unsure about seeking advice?
Dealing with a sensitive family law issue can be daunting and emotional but it is very important to seek specialist legal advice at the earliest opportunity to save costly mistakes down the line.
You may have a friend who has been through a similar situation. Their advice may be well intended however every situation is different.
Sometimes clients are worried about legal costs or hope issues will resolve amicably. The reality is that expert legal advice at the outset will give you the knowledge to empower you to make informed choices about your entitlement on separation, how assets may be divided and how best to make arrangements for children. A pragmatic solicitor will always try to reach an amicable and fair outcome.
Matrimonial finances can be resolved outside of Court by way of a Matrimonial Agreement however sound legal advice will provide clarity and ensure any agreement is enforceable. We can provide a clear estimate of costs and payment plans to alleviate any concerns and to keep you abreast of legal costs on a regular basis.
Do you need expert help with family or matrimonial law issues? Contact Carla Fraser at carla@acrlaw.co.uk or anyone at the Allsopp Campbell Rainey team.
