Welcome to our series ‘Meet the Entrepreneur’, where we meet the people behind start-ups in the Channel Islands to find out what they’re doing and what makes them tick.
Alexandra Cohen is an Advocate and Founder of Cohen Family Law. Alexandra talked to Channel Eye to share her journey of launching a modern, values-led family law practice in Jersey and how she’s redefining the client experience during life’s most challenging moments.
Tell us a bit about your background – what led you to start your own practice?
I spent almost a decade at the same firm specialising in family law (acting in high net worth cases, complex financial cases and challenging children cases) which is a field I am really passionate about.
Launching my own firm has given me the freedom to do things differently and to truly focus on helping people in a way that aligns with my values.
I had always had the idea of going solo in the back of my mind, and after ten years, the timing just felt right. I realised that I could build something of my own using experience I had built but executing things in a more family friendly way.
Launching my own firm has given me the freedom to do things differently and to truly focus on helping people in a way that aligns with my values.
What does your firm do, and what makes it different?
I specialise in all areas of family law which includes divorce, financial disputes, pre and post nuptial agreements (which are becoming increasingly important for many couples), child matters and disputes between unmarried parents.
What makes my practice different is the way I approach each unique case. I offer a modern, personal, and values led service. Clients deal directly with me and that one-to-one relationship makes sure everything is more flexible, efficient and human. I respond quickly, work flexibly around their schedules and do everything I can to be accessible (whether that’s jumping on a call, meeting out of hours, or using tech to make things simpler and less stressful).
I avoid wearing a suit unless I am in court because meeting a lawyer in full formalwear while going through one of the hardest times in your life can feel pretty intimidating. I keep things grounded, speak in plain English and focus on the bigger picture (always trying to resolve things as constructively as possible).
Who are your clients, and how do they find you?
My clients are all confidential of course!
But in all seriousness, most of my clients come through word of mouth. After years of dedicated professional growth and expanding my network, I have built a reputation I am really proud of; it is this kind of trust and continual recommendations that matter more than anything in Jersey.
Family breakdown isn’t something that is easily marketed or promoted, so visibility in this area is more about being the name that comes up when someone really needs help.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
Honestly, just having the confidence to go on my own.
Starting your own firm can feel impossible before you actually do it; but I did, and that in itself is something I am really proud of. I expected a slow start, but I had client enquiries almost immediately and it has been busy since day one. That kind of response has been incredibly validating and hopefully it’s a sign of things to come.
What’s it like running a business in Jersey?
I am touched by how supportive the local legal community has been especially amongst family lawyers. I have had so many kind messages and offers of help which has really meant a lot.
There are also so many local groups and networks that offer support to small businesses and entrepreneurs, which has been incredibly helpful.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an entrepreneur?
“If you don’t do it now, you’ll never do it.”
That really stuck with me. I was at a point in my life where I could give 110% to the business. I don’t have children yet, so I had the space and energy to fully commit. It also made sense long term; building the business now means I’ll have something solid in place for when I do start a family. I’m setting the foundations early so I can create a life and career that work together.
Another piece of advice was “surround yourself with people that are positive about your business and avoid those that are negative”. To make sure you do it, you need positivity otherwise you start doubting yourself. Those that were negative usually realise that it was the right decision eventually.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about starting out?
As long as you have built your reputation and have a good support network around you – just do it. Since starting on my own, it’s been amazing. It is hard work, but the sense of ownership and flexibility makes it so worth it.
What’s next for you and the business?
Right now, I’m focused on building the business and really shaping it into a business that reflects who I am and how I work. I want to spend the next few years growing it steadily, staying true to my values, and building something that’s both sustainable and genuinely impactful.
And finally – how do you switch off outside of work?
Spending time with my family is everything to me – I have four nieces and nephews (with hopefully more on the way), and they keep me grounded and they are a good distraction.
At home, I get stuck into DIY and painting projects – I recently painted my garden wall leopard print, which probably says a lot about me!
Each year, I try to take a proper break and spend a good couple of weeks in South Africa for some real R&R – it’s become a non-negotiable reset for me. Day to day, I love a sea dip to unwind, long walks, and training at the gym. It’s all about balance.
Alexandra (pictured) is a Jersey Advocate and English Solicitor, and the founder of Cohen Family Law. For more information, contact Alexandra at [email protected] or on 01534 660 560. Please also visit her website (which is currently under construction) for more information in the future.
