Nicola specialises in both public and private children law cases.
Public Law
Nicola represents Local Authorities, Parents and children through the Children’s Guardian and Interveners. Nicola Receives regular instructions on cases involving some of the most serious injuries to children such as fractured bones, brain injuries, sexual abuse, Factitious illness, neglect and emotional harm.
Alongside this Nicola has an extensive background in Forced Marriage, Brussels II, Wardship and Inherent Jurisdiction.
Her Local Authority work includes drafting of threshold documents, advising social work team in conference and representing the Local Authority at Case Management, fact finds and final Welfare hearings.
Nicola has represented parents who are vulnerable and being represented by the Official Solicitor but also supported by an intermediary.
Nicola has also dealt with adoption cases including applications to oppose an adoption order and contact pre and post adoption.
Private Law
Nicola is frequently instructed in private law cases from FHDRA to final hearing. Her knowledge in this field includes parental alienation, Hostility domestic violence and sexual abuse. She is regularly instructed to act for 16.4 guardian. Nicola has also dealt with internal and external relocation to both Hague and non-Hague convention countries.
Direct Access
Nicola is registered as Direct Access.
Recommendations
“Nicola is a phenomenal advocate who demonstrates excellent attention to detail. She has a brilliant level of client care and will take time to build a rapport with the client. Her knowledge is remarkable and extends across her expertise in family law.”
Legal 500 2024 – Family: Children and Domestic Violence – Tier 3
“I cannot speak highly enough of Nicola. She was brilliant from start to finish. Took the time to explain the relevant complex legal issues to the client who has cognitive difficulties. Her preparation for the fact-finding hearing was second to none. She has made my instruction of this matter much easier. The detail in her position statements/skeleton arguments has been complimented on a number of occasions by Judges which has in turn, has greatly impressed clients. I would not think twice about instructing Nicola again”
“Nicola is my first port of call when I have a delicate or complex care matter . I particularly appreciate her measured approach - Nicola does not feel the need to go on at great length just for the sake of it when the case does not call for it . I wish I could say the same for all counsel !”
“Nicola is a fantastic advocate! On every complex case I have had with her she has been able to navigate with a great level of knowledge. Throughout my time working with Nicola, she is always prepared and has taken time to understand the key issues of the case, and been able to identify where best to challenge evidence. Nicola will take time to build a rapport with the lay clients to ensure she is able to communicate effectively with them.”
Memberships
Nicola is a member of both the West and East Midlands Family Law Bar Association.
Midlands Circuit
Lincoln’s Inn
Qualifications
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LLM Advanced Litigation -Nottingham Trent University
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BA Joint Honours History and Law-Cardiff University
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Solicitors Finals
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Bar Conversion course
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Advocacy and Vulnerable Training Course ran by the FLBA
