Partners and staff at MFG Solicitors have paid tribute to a former colleague who was one of the region’s leading experts on divorce.

Michael Cox, aged 68, of Kidderminster, died after a short illness on September 14. He had retired from MFG Solicitors’ Kidderminster office in 2004.

He joined the firm in 1974 from Wansboroughs in Bristol, where he was a managing clerk specialising in divorce.

His expertise in this field grew over the years to the extent that he was acknowledged as one of the leading authorities and guiding lights on the subject – and yet he never qualified as a solicitor.

MFG Solicitors’ former senior partner Jim Quinn said: “He was the experienced rock that trained many of our young solicitors – a very intelligent, very principled man who took his work seriously and expected nothing less from those around him.

“He made divorce law his speciality, in particular the transfer of property, and became the driving force behind our matrimonial work.

“He was at the forefront of the introduction of new matrimonial legislation in the 1970s and led the way in the exploration and amplification of the new laws.

“I have no doubt that had circumstances been different in his younger days he would have gone to university and later qualified as a solicitor. He would have been a very able partner and I am sure would have been senior partner of a law firm at some stage.”

Maynard Burton, chairman of MFG Solicitors, said: “With Jot Price, Michael Cox built up what was probably the best matrimonial practice outside of the city. His expertise was recognised by partners in other law firms and by the courts.

“His knowledge of the law concerning divorce and related property matters saw him recognised as a legal expert.”

Following his retirement in 2004, Mr Cox continued his passion for his garden and holidaying frequently, with The Canaries a favourite destination. He was also a keen lover of classical guitar music and had rekindled a passion for reading.

He is survived by his son Alastair, daughter Amanda, and grandson James.