Work Department

Family - Children, Court of Protection

Position

Karl represents local authorities, parents and extended families, and children (whether directly or by their Guardians) in the public law arena. He has appeared at all levels up to and including the Supreme Court and regularly represents parties in the Court of Appeal.He has a particular interest in cases involving complex medical evidence, including NAHI; alleged bone disease; child death; and purported poisonings. His experience covers applications such as for contact by former parents after the death of adopters; those involving foreign adoption; care cases with international elements; inherent jurisdiction cases concerning proposed medical treatment of minors; and applications to restrict publicity.

In private law proceedings Karl’s practice has included multifaceted residence applications involving sexual abuse or homicide, protracted contact cases, international relocation, and cases concerning children with special needs.

Karl advises and appears for local authorities and families in welfare cases. There is considerable overlap between his work in medical treatment cases and those in respect of children resolved under the inherent jurisdiction.

Education

Holden Lane High School; City of Stoke on Trent Sixth Form College; Oxon (MA Philosophy and Theology); Staffordshire (Dip Law).

Mentions

Northern Circuit • Regional Bar

Family: children and domestic violence

HALL OF FAME1

Karl Rowley KC – St John’s Buildings ‘Karl is one of the best public law children silks in the entire country, as his written arguments are focused but comprehensive and always compelling to read, his oral advocacy is measured but powerful, and judges, whether at first instance or in the Court of Appeal, always listen to him carefully. He is a truly formidable opponent, always courteous, and at the top of his game in every respect.’