Claire originally read Psychology at Newcastle University before going on to study the Graduate Diploma in Law and the Bar Vocation Course in Manchester.

Claire’s interests have always been in the family law arena. Before joining Chambers, Claire gained invaluable experience working at Forest Bank Prison contact centre and Preston women’s refuge.

She was, and still is an active member of The Children’s Society and when work commitments allow she continues to take part in various events and fundraising activities with the charity.

Since 2009, Claire has been an Independent Visitor for a young person within the care system. This role involves offering support and advice to a child in care who has little or no contact with their family, taking part in activities and events with them and advocating on the child’s behalf in group meetings, conferences and social service reviews. Claire says the role allows her to insert a bit of fun in a child’s day and gives her the perfect excuse to take part in activities like Go Ape and to watch Disney films at the cinema without question.

Claire undertook a specialist family pupillage with Paul Hart and quickly established a busy practice in both private and public family law.

Claire accepts instructions in both public and private law cases across a range of tribunals from the Family Proceedings Court to the High Court. She conducts hearings at all stages of proceedings, including finding of fact hearings and final hearings.

She regularly represents local authorities, parents, extended family members and guardians. Claire has been instructed on cases involving sexual abuse, physical abuse, drugs/alcohol abuse, emotional abuse and neglect. Claire has experience in acting for parties with learning difficulties and/or mental health problems both directly and through the Official Solicitor.

Claire also undertakes private law cases involving implacable hostility to contact, rape/sexual abuse and domestic violence, declaration of parentage, specific issue applications and applications under the Family Law Act 1996.

Claire has undertaken (alongside Jayne Clark) court skills training of social workers, health care professionals and legal officers.

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) in Psychology, University of Newcastle, Graduate Diploma in Law (Commendation) Manchester Metropolitan University, Bar Vocational Course (Very Competent), Manchester Metropolitan University.

Areas of Expertise

Family Law

Professional Organisations

Family Law Bar Association, Northern Circuit