Our People

Matthew Robbins – Solicitor & Senior Partner

Commercial Property

Qualified in 1997. Founded Viva-Law in the Summer of 2004.

Matthew is married with two children. He enjoys cycling, competing in Adventure Races and going on family days out.

Matthew has been involved in the Southampton legal scene since pre-qualification and is an active member of the Hampshire Incorporated Law Society as well as seeking to promote greater inter-business relationships across the South through the medium of Connect South.

Tom Watkins – Solicitor & Partner

Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Qualified in 2000.

Tom is married with two children. Prior to retraining to become a solicitor 15 years ago Tom spent a number of years in the Police and subsequently as a self employed business man. This experience has given Tom a keen commercial awareness and the ability to analyse evidence effectively. When he isn’t fighting his client’s corner he enjoys cricket, rugby and fishing.

Richard Thornback – Solicitor & Partner

Company and Commercial

Qualified in 1973.

Richard enjoys sailing, fine wine, eating out and attending the gym (when he is so inclined!).

He is a born and bred Southampton man and has been keenly involved in the business, legal and social communities for many years.  He is an active member of the Planning and Transportation Committee of the Southampton and Fareham Chamber of Commerce and Industry, now the Hampshire Chamber.

He is a Governor of King Edward VI School Southampton and is actively engaged as a trustee of a number of local charities, including the Southampton Citizens Advice Bureau.