Forsters mourns the death of founding partner Sophie Hamilton
Partners and staff at Forsters are mourning the loss of former senior partner Sophie Hamilton, who played a key role in setting up the firm in 1998.
Sophie Hamilton
Property lawyer Hamilton, who was senior partner between 2001 and 2008, died on 19 October.
In a statement the firm said: “Sophie was widely recognised as one of the most talented property lawyers of her generation, acting for UK institutional and international investors, as well as for tenants in major office relocations and clients in the leisure industry.
“Always demanding the highest standards of herself, Sophie inspired younger lawyers by her example, combining dedication to her professional work with unstinting support to others, both within the firm and in the world outside.
“Our grief at losing Sophie aged only 57 will be shared by all who knew and admired her – above all by her family, who are in our thoughts.”
Having studied classics and law at Cambridge, Hamilton began her legal career at City firm Frere Cholmeley, making partner there in 1985. Frere Cholmeley later merged with Bischoff & Co to create Frere Cholmeley Bischoff, most of which became part of Eversheds in 1998 (3 February 1998). At that point Hamilton was among a group of private client and property lawyers who split off to form Forsters (8 September 2008).
The firm added: “Sophie had a stellar career as a property lawyer and inspired successive generations of younger colleagues by her example. She played a pivotal role in the creation of Forsters in 1998, and despite a busy and varied practice found time during her working life for public responsibilities in the City of London, legal education, theatre and the church.”
The firm plans to hold a memorial service for Hamilton, details of which will be released in due course.
Readers' comments (10)
Anonymous | 24-Oct-2012 10:37 am
As a young lawyer I found Sophie quite inspiring opposite her on quite a few occasions. That is very sad and a terrible loss at what is a young age - my thoughts go out to her family.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Anonymous | 24-Oct-2012 1:02 pm
Condolences to Sophie's family and colleagues.
In her legacy, she leaves in place a top class law firm.
Rest in peace.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Nola Watson | 25-Oct-2012 4:28 pm
My condolences to Sophie's family, she was the most amazing woman who I knew from our morning dog walks for over 10 years in Kensington Gardens. She has been and will always be sadly missed in the gardens; and I shall remember her smiles and waves from a distance.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Anonymous | 26-Oct-2012 8:15 pm
I would like to thank Nola for her very thoughtful comment. I am Sophie's sister, and have wondered every time I walked Dougal in the park in the last few months who would be missing Sophie and wondering about her. It is heartwarming to find someone who did. Sophie and Peter (her husband, who died last year) loved the park and their walks with Dougal there, and often spoke of the people they had met. Kate
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
James Condliffe | 29-Oct-2012 12:31 pm
I was on the other side of a transaction to Sophie about 10 years ago. When I casually mentioned at a meeting that I was doing the London Marathon for charity, she immediately responded with a very generous donation, which was so kind as she didn't know me at all. I won't forget that and I am very sorry to hear this news.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Leigh Goodyear | 29-Oct-2012 11:49 pm
I knew Sophie for over 30 years working at Frere Cholmeley and then Fosters. Sophie was one of the nicest people ever. An awe inspiring lady with a brilliant sense of humour and fun; a more generous and caring person you couldn't find. I cannot believe she has gone but am so glad I had the privilege of knowing her.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Dan Lagimodiere | 31-Oct-2012 8:27 pm
I had the absolute pleasure to spend two lovely mornings every week for 3 years with Sophie as her personal trainer. It would be a massive understatement to say how generous, caring and kind of a person Sophie was. Although I gave her fitness advice she gave so much more in return, her positive support, great advice, and love are things I will continue to use in my journey, a journey I would be proud to say became as amazing as hers.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Anonymous | 2-Nov-2012 8:35 am
I was saddened and shocked to learn this morning about the passing of Sophie. I was a partner of her's many years ago. She was an excellent lawyer who didn't suffer fools gladly. I bumped into her on the tube a few years ago and she was truly delightful. My sympathies to her family and colleagues.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Marie Veeder | 6-Nov-2012 12:50 pm
We will miss Sophie in Kildare Terrace. So sad that both she and Peter are now gone. My husband and I send our condolences to her family.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment
Anonymous | 6-Nov-2012 9:43 pm
It is sad to hear of this loss, especially of someone so young and inspiring. I had the pleasure of working along side Sophie on a large transaction in 2001. I learnt so much from her, she will be truly missed.
My prayers are with Sophie's family and friends at this difficult time.
Unsuitable or offensive? Report this comment