Experience

Year of Call: 1986

Education

LLB (Hons)

Profile

Fiona specialises in family law concerning children.

Her particular expertise is in public law where she is instructed in complex cases concerning non-accidental injury, physical and emotional abuse and neglect, fabricated and induced illness and sexual abuse, frequently at High Court level.

Her excellent advocacy skills developed in early years of practice at the criminal bar, combined with many years of experience at the family bar make her ideally suited to expert cross examination in cases where factual matters are in dispute.

Fiona’s preparation is meticulous, and she is quick to establish a good working relationship, with an approachable manner which puts clients at ease. She is able to manage the most evidentially complex cases in a practical and calm way. She is often instructed on such matters from the start and is able to provide advice and support to her instructing solicitors at all stages to achieve the best possible outcomes.


Public Children Law

Fiona is a specialist in Public Law.

She represents local authorities and parents as well as children’s guardians in the most serious matters, as well as children who are able to instruct directly. She has considerable experience in representing parents who have substance misuse issues or mental health difficulties, as well as those who need additional support due to cognitive or capacity difficulties.
Her practice also encompasses care proceedings with an international element.

She acts for all parties in adoption cases. Fiona also has a wealth of experience in Deprivation of Liberty matters in addition to cases in Wardship involving complex medical issues for children.

Private Children Law

Fiona accepts instructions in private law matters and has a particular strength in fact finding hearings. Her very careful preparation and expertise in cross examination enable her to pinpoint the relevant issues ensuring a highly focussed approach which brings positive results. Fiona is particularly able to provide valuable expertise in cases in which a local authority has been or might become involved. She is also experienced in sexual abuse and Female Genital Mutilation cases.

International Children Law

Fiona accepts instructions in cases of international child abduction.

Professional Memberships

Association of Lawyers for Children
Family Law Bar Association

The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn

Testimonials

Fiona was amazing yesterday what a lovely lady. I really felt calm and no stress with her, thank you for that.
Feedback to instructing solicitor from a vulnerable mother.

“LA needs to be called out for special mention for the high-quality social work, good engagement and work with the family and for the funding of expensive assessments. The SW team and legal team and Counsel are all to be commended.”
From a judgment in complex care proceedings.

Received good feedback from the client – they said the schedule of findings is very comprehensive. Thanks lots, great job.
LA solicitor.

I cannot thank you enough for your assistance. I hope to work with you again soon.
Instructing solicitor feedback when acting for a 15 year old child instructing directly.