The legal community in Yorkshire is mourning the loss of respected family lawyer Neil Dring, who has passed away following a period of illness.
Neil, a senior family law specialist, was widely known across the region for his deep expertise, professional integrity and compassionate approach. He joined the Harrogate office of Jones Myers in 2022, where he led the firm’s divorce and financial remedies team.
With a legal career spanning four decades, Neil built a formidable reputation in family law, particularly in complex financial disputes arising from divorce and separation. He was known for his skill in dealing with high-net-worth cases, advocacy, pension division, and property matters.
Tributes have poured in from across the profession. Richard Peaker, managing partner at Jones Myers, described Neil as “an extraordinary family lawyer whose unwavering dedication and compassion touched countless lives”.
“Neil’s passing is a great loss to the legal community and to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His valuable contribution to, and passion for, family law and most importantly securing the best outcomes for his clients, was outstanding and he will be sorely missed by all of us,” commented Richard.
A graduate of Nottingham University, Neil qualified as a solicitor in 1984. He dedicated his career to family law in both South and North Yorkshire. His love for the law was inspired by his late father and father-in-law and further fuelled by his favourite fictional barrister, Horace Rumpole from the TV show Rumpole of the Bailey.
Known for his belief in resolving disputes through non-confrontational methods, Neil was also active in his community. He represented Jones Myers at the Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce, where he was a popular and well-known figure.
Martin Mann, chief executive of the Chamber, said: “All of us within the Chamber and the wider business community in Harrogate will remember a kind, charming and generous man with a real passion for his work and zest for life. Neil lit up a room with his warmth and inimitable wit, and he will be sorely missed by those who knew him.”
Outside the courtroom, Neil was a strong supporter of the local charity Henshaws, which supports people living with sight loss and disabilities. He volunteered in the gardens of its Arts & Crafts Centre and regularly donated his time to help others.
He also contributed to public legal education through podcasts for Your Harrogate radio station, offering insights into divorce and financial legal issues.
Kate Banerjee, partner at Jones Myers, remembered her colleague as a mentor, a friend, and a source of support.
“Neil will be remembered not only for his expertise in family law coupled with his deep sense of empathy,” she said, “but also for the fact that he helped countless individuals navigate some of life’s most challenging moments.”
Neil is survived by his family, to whom the Yorkshire legal community extends its deepest condolences.
Image provided by Jones Myers Solicitors
Josie Geistfeld
Josie Geistfeld is Editor of Yorkshire Legal News. She welcomes comments and questions.