Merseyside law firm Maria Fogg Family Law is crowned ‘best family business in the UK’ in a national awards – five years after the death of its founder. Tony McDonough reports

Knowsley law firm Maria Fogg Family Law has scooped a top national award five years after one of its three founders died unexpectedly.

Based in Huyton, Maria Fogg Family Law was founded by Maria Fogg and her two daughters, Andrea and Charlotte, in 2012. Following the passing of their mother the pair took over the running of the firm.

As non-lawyers they had the difficult task of obtaining the approval of the Solicitor Regulations Authority to take on the business.

Now their efforts have been recognised by the national Small Awards. Founded in 2017 the Small Awards seek to offer recognition to the UK’s 5.8m small businesses who provide the majority of the UK’s private sector jobs.

At a ceremony in London hosted by presenter, writer, actor and comedian, Sue Perkins, Maria Fogg was named as the winner of the Legacy Award. This is given to the business judged to be the best family enterprise in the country.

It recognises the unique characteristics, challenges and strengths of family-run businesses. The winners must demonstrate involvement and contribution from family members as well as business success over a period of time.

Andrea and Charlotte have grown the business from four to 17 employees. They were determined to maintain and continue their mother’s legacy which has a real family ethos and excellent reputation within the local community.

The firm specialises in domestic violence and child protection. It aims to help women, men and children obtain protection from domestic violence in the local community and child protection.

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Charlotte said: “Winning the Legacy Award means so much to Andrea and I. We are so thankful to be able to continue our mother’s legacy and help the most vulnerable people in our community. 

“We could not be prouder of the environment we have created and the wonderful team we work with each day.”

Maria Fogg Family Law won the award alongside 10 other winning small firms from across the UK.

Michelle Ovens, founder of Small Business Britain and the Small Awards, added: “Congratulations to Maria Fogg Family Law who impressed our team and judges with their inspiring entrepreneurship and commitment to serving customers and their community.”