Biography
I’m a solicitor based in our Leeds office. I help people across Yorkshire and beyond, dealing with all aspects of family law. I regularly work with professionals in need of advice.
I’ve lived and worked in different cities and understand how the family courts operate in each region. I grew up in Harrogate, live in Leeds and spent significant time in London.
I specialise in divorce and dissolution, and resolving any related financial matters. I work with Helen Revill on cases involving high-net worth individuals on issues such as: division of property, pensions, non-disclosure, business interests and inheritance. I also advise unmarried and/or cohabiting couples on the financial remedies available to them.
I’m also involved with children law and cases involving the following issues:
- Future child arrangements where parents don’t agree on how the week-to-week contact and holidays will be split
- Allegations of domestic abuse, specifically control and coercion
- International relocation
- Factitious illness (fabricated induced illness)
- Parental alienation issues
- Vulnerable clients who lack or have fluctuating capacity.
I work with Scott Halliday on a number of complex private children law cases. In particular those involving Practice Direction 12J (controlling behaviour and coercion), domestic abuse and how that links to future arrangements for children.
During my clients’ most stressful times in their lives, my aim is to make sure that they feel supported and reassured by their representation. For me, it’s crucial that I keep their focus on never losing track of the financial and emotional cost of the case. I am pragmatic and client-focused.
I hold a Master’s of Law LLM degree in which I concentrated on the use Alternative Dispute Resolution in the Family courts in England and Wales. I understand that this route may not always be suitable for clients, but I am able to provide balanced and sensible advice to consider the benefits that this can bring. Still, I am an effective and meticulous litigator if court is the only option.
Previous Cases
I have been involved in cases before the High Court with leading Queen’s Counsel. Most notably, I worked on the case of AB v CD and Anor [2021] EWHC 819, a private law children case involving cross-allegations of domestic abuse between the parents.
What inspired you to get into law?
I’ve always been a strong advocate for social justice and equality. I’m passionate about fighting for a fair outcome for everyone. My team and the work we do for clients continue to inspire me each and every day.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
As a family law solicitor you meet people at one of the most difficult times in their lives. It’s a privilege to know that you are helping someone navigate such an unfamiliar and challenging situation, and for them to trust you to do so. The tangible difference you’re able to make to a client’s life is truly rewarding.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
What I like most about working for Irwin Mitchell is the chance to work alongside leading experts in the field. I like working for a firm where everyone genuinely cares and works towards making a difference.
I chair the Leeds office Wellbeing Committee as raising mental health awareness and supporting colleagues with these issues is something that is very close to my heart. It's a role that has evolved (quite a lot!) over the pandemic. I am so pleased and proud to work somewhere that recognises the importance of promoting the wellbeing of both its colleagues and clients.
What do you do away from the office?
To unwind from work I enjoy Pilates and running, from Park Run to half-marathons. My marathon goal is London 2023 (due to postponed entry as a result of the March 2020 lockdown!).
I’m an avid Newcastle United supporter and music lover – I will forever be a massive Bob Dylan fan. On a weekend, I can often be found in the company of family and friends with good food and wine.
