Emma Shortland

Education

Emma completed her BA (Hons.) in Law LLB at Liverpool John Moores University, before completing the Legal Practice Course with LLM (Distinction) and the Practical Skills Course at the University of Law.

Emma also completed the Law Society Family Law Microcredential in June 2024, achieving 95%.

Career

Emma trained at a national law firm, qualifying as a solicitor in 2023. Upon qualification, she was promoted to the role of Assistant Solicitor. She then joined Vardags in May 2025, and became an Associate by December 2025.

Emma specialises in financial remedy matters, particularly those with complicating factors. She has experience handling divorces which take place years after separation, advising on post-separation contributions, seeking disclosure orders against non-compliant spouses, and representing intervenors to divorce proceedings. Emma also has experience in complex children cases and representing clients in court, including those where serious allegations have been raised by her clients or by the opposing side. 

VOLUNTEERING

Emma has volunteered for the Citizens Advice Bureau and the East Manchester Legal Advice Clinic.

MEMBERSHIPS

Emma is a member of Resolution, an organisation of professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family law disputes. 

Personal

Emma was born in Yorkshire and then lived in Scotland until she was 6 years old, before moving to Cheshire/Stoke.