Family: children and domestic abuse

Leading Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

1
Kate Burnell KC
St John’s Buildings
 composed and measured approach to cross-examination is second-to-none.'
1
Lorraine Cavanagh KC
St John’s Buildings
 'Lorraine's finger-tip knowledge of the law is envied by many and her written work is exceptional. A fearless opponent who tackles the seemingly unwinnable, often with surprising results.'
1
Julia Cheetham KC
Deans Court Chambers
1
Susan Grocott KC
Deans Court Chambers
1
Frances Heaton KC
St John’s Buildings
‘Frances is approachable above anything else, as well as friendly, helpful, and deals with her work with compassion and humour, which is very welcome. She responds quickly to difficult situations which arise in complex cases and she is very clear in her advice.’
1
Karl Rowley KC
St John’s Buildings
 'Karl combines intellectual acumen of the first order with beguiling advocacy, which has judges, witnesses, and opponents alike carried along to where he wants to take them. He is of that rare breed where you find yourself taking note of what he has said not just for the purposes of the case he is speaking about but to be able to use it yourself in other cases.'

2023 Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

1
Michael Jones KC
Deans Court Chambers
 'Michael has extensive knowledge of all aspects of children law and procedures. His ability to quickly grasp complex cases is exceptional, his advocacy is impressive, and it is a pleasure to watch and listen to him advocate on behalf of his clients.'
1
Shaun Spencer KC
St John’s Buildings
Alongside that is his ability to make our professional clients feel at ease and comfortable in his presence, and he is able to deliver his legal advice in simple terms such that clients often ask for him to be specifically instructed.’