As listed in Chambers & Partners 2018…
What the team is known for:
Well-regarded children practice that handles serious cases relating to non-accidental injuries and abuse, often requiring technical medical examination. Also engaged in significant international children cases in developing areas of law, including surrogacy and adoption. Expertise extends to a range of matrimonial finance issues.
Strengths:
Sources say: “The team as a whole offer a high-quality service. They are dedicated and will always do their utmost to provide the best solution for their clients.”
Commentators add: “They’re a fantastic boutique practice. They punch consistently above what you might consider their weight. They are equal to any of their competitors. They’re clear, concise and efficient.”
Notable practitioners:
Peggy Ray is a widely respected name in children-related matters. She is held in particularly high regard for her excellent work in public law issues, and also handles adoption and radicalisation cases. One source calls her “one of the doyennes of family law,” adding: “When you have something that’s really difficult, she’s going to be top of your list.”
Emma Sherrington is experienced in dealing with a range of public law children cases. Interviewees report: “She’s very bright, she’s very astute and she really fights for her clients.” Her expertise includes allegations of fictitious illness, domestic violence and sexual abuse, among other serious issues.
Kevin Skinner specialises in cross-border children matters, and has a particular focus on Hague and Brussels II proceedings. He is also accomplished in dealing with public law matters. Sources say: “He’s very knowledgeable and always gives his clients sensible, proper advice. He’s well prepared, and his advocacy is always thorough and well considered. He’s a very respected lawyer.”
Janet Broadley is a cross-border practitioner who has earned a strong reputation for her work in wardship, Hague Convention and Brussels II proceedings. “She has in-depth knowledge of international law, plus a lot of experience representing children. Her preparation is meticulous and her skills in handling litigation are very well honed,” according to interviewees.
Jemma Dally has extensive knowledge in the developing area of adoption and surrogacy as well as a range of cross-border children issues. “In her surrogacy and alternative families practice, she is one of the best people one could go to for very knowledgeable advice,” according to one source. She has particular expertise in artificial insemination work.
Trudi Featherstone heads the firm’s divorce and matrimonial finance team. Her practice encompasses complex finance and private children work. She is described as “a standout practitioner, and consistently so,” as well as being “sensible, pragmatic and good at looking for solutions.”
