3PB‘s education specialists are well-regarded for their understanding of education matters, with particular experience acting in tribunal claims and judicial reviews related to SEND matters and academic and disciplinary decisions in schools and universities. Charlotte Hadfield is noted for her expertise acting in claims concerning student and parent matters, including disability discrimination claims and SEND Tribunal appeals. Emma Waldron notably acted for a childminder in successfully appealing an Ofsted suspension notice, and Alice de Coverley successfully represented the respondent in the London Borough of Croydon v K-A (SEN) Upper Tribunal appeal, a widely reported case that sided with parents when weighing the healthcare benefits of a school placement against the public cost to the council.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
2'Charlotte is extremely knowledgeable, clam under pressure, and a sophisticated advocate. Her expertise in special educational needs matters is unrivalled, and she is greatly respected by peers and the judiciary alike.'
2‘Emma is a joy to work with. She is incredibly professional. Her knowledge of the law in all things SEND tribunal is second-to-none, and her advice is always very clearly explained and accurate.’
3‘Jennifer is approachable and knowledgeable. Her calm demeanour puts clients at ease. She has strong advocacy skills.’
3'Alice is an exceptional barrister who quickly establishes a relationship of trust and confidence with her clients. She can get to the root of complex issues with speed and ease.'
4‘Katherine is forensic in her approach. She looks at all angles and considers all options. A very diligent advocate. ’
4‘Aimee’s knowledge of the family court, that forum's understanding of special educational needs law, and the overlapping issues is second-to-none.‘
‘Matthew is quick to get to the crux of a case and exhibits particular expertise in cases involving special educational needs. His ability to look at a case from all sides is a particular strength.’
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
2'Charlotte is extremely knowledgeable, clam under pressure, and a sophisticated advocate. Her expertise in special educational needs matters is unrivalled, and she is greatly respected by peers and the judiciary alike.'
2‘Emma is a joy to work with. She is incredibly professional. Her knowledge of the law in all things SEND tribunal is second-to-none, and her advice is always very clearly explained and accurate.’
3‘Jennifer is approachable and knowledgeable. Her calm demeanour puts clients at ease. She has strong advocacy skills.’
3'Alice is an exceptional barrister who quickly establishes a relationship of trust and confidence with her clients. She can get to the root of complex issues with speed and ease.'
4‘Katherine is forensic in her approach. She looks at all angles and considers all options. A very diligent advocate. ’
4‘Aimee’s knowledge of the family court, that forum's understanding of special educational needs law, and the overlapping issues is second-to-none.‘
‘Matthew is quick to get to the crux of a case and exhibits particular expertise in cases involving special educational needs. His ability to look at a case from all sides is a particular strength.’