About
Catherine originally practised in crime, general civil and family law. She was delighted to join a chambers which pioneered and specialised in care proceedings long before that area became popular at the Bar. Her practice in care proceedings was originally very much in representing the parents, wider family, or the child both with and without a guardian. She continues to specialise in such work and has particular expertise in representing clients who have personality difficulties, mental health issues or are accused of very serious abuse.
Experience
Catherine originally practised in crime, general civil and family law. She was delighted to join a chambers which pioneered and specialised in care proceedings long before that area became popular at the Bar. Her practice in care proceedings was originally very much in representing the parents, wider family, or the child both with and without a guardian.
She continues to specialise in such work and has particular expertise in representing clients who have personality difficulties, mental health issues or are accused of very serious abuse. However, she has, for some years, been instructed also by local authorities. Her work as a Deputy District Judge means that she has experience and perspective from “each end and both sides of the counter”.
Catherine is a member of Islington Free Legal Advice Centre and continues to assist there as a committee member and when senior or specialist knowledge is needed.
Catherine undertakes “direct access” work.
Practice Areas
Public Law Children
Private Law Children
Education and Professional Memberships
University of London , Queen Mary College
Inns of Court School of Law
Family Law Bar Association
Association of Lawyers for Children
British Association for Adoption and Fostering
Amnesty International
Shelter
Inner Temple
Appointments
Catherine sits as a Deputy District Judge in the County Court in civil and family matters and also at the Principal Registry of the Family Division.
Cases
LM (By Her Guardian) v Medway Council, RM and YM [2007] EWCA Civ 9
RE E (Family Assistance Order) [1999] 2 FLR 512
RE P (Care Proceedings: Designated Authority) [1998] 1 FLR 80
Re W (Adoption Details: Disclosure) [1998] 2 FLR 625
G v G (Interim Custody Appeal) [1983] 4 FLR 327