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Joana is Head of Litigation at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors and leads the firm’s Disputes Department. An experienced solicitor, she advises individuals, landlords, businesses and property owners across a broad range of contentious matters, with particular experience in property litigation, commercial and residential landlord and tenant disputes and disputed probate matters.
Having specialised in litigation since the beginning of her legal career, Joana understands that disputes can be stressful, disruptive and sometimes highly personal. She focuses on giving clients clear, practical advice so that they understand their position, the options available to them and the best way forward.
How I Can Help You
I advise clients on a wide range of disputes, with particular experience in:
I enjoy getting to the heart of a problem and helping clients work through what can often feel like a complicated situation. My approach is to be clear and straightforward, explaining the legal and practical issues without unnecessary jargon.
Litigation is not simply about taking a case to court. A good outcome depends on understanding what really matters to the client and identifying the most sensible route to achieving it. Where a dispute can be resolved effectively without proceedings, that should always be considered. Where firm action is needed, I make sure my clients understand the strategy and what to expect at each stage.
My Legal Journey
I studied Law at Liverpool John Moores University, where I also completed the Legal Practice Course before qualifying as a solicitor.
My legal career began in Liverpool in 2015 when I joined a specialist property litigation firm. This gave me an early grounding in contentious property work and the opportunity to develop litigation as my specialist area.
I later moved to Kent and, before joining Martin Tolhurst Solicitors in August 2026 as Head of Litigation, spent several years with another local law firm, where I continued to broaden my litigation practice and experience.
About Me
Outside work, I enjoy switching off with a good documentary and I have always been interested in the stories behind people and events.
If I were not a lawyer, I would be...
Probably a documentary maker. I particularly enjoy crime documentaries and can become completely absorbed in how a case unfolds.
If I were stranded on a desert island and could take three pieces of music with me, they would be...
Choosing only three songs might be harder than surviving the island. If I had no other choice, I would have to take any three songs by SaulÄ—s Kliošas to remind me of Lithuania.
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