The Bar - Regional Bar • Midland Circuit
Harcourt Chambers is a ‘really good set of quality barristers’ with a strong track record of advising on the full range of children law matters. Aidan Vine KC is a ’fearless advocate’ who regularly acts in children cases, often with an international element. Daniel Sheridan is ‘a skilful advocate’ who has extensive experience of representing local authorities, parents, and guardians in the full range of children law cases. Alex Forbes’ practice mainly focuses on public law matters. The team was further strengthened by the addition of public law children matters specialist Hannah Mettam.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
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.
‘John fearlessly presents his client’s position. He does so with skill and humour. His knowledge of the medicine underpinning experts’ opinions in head injury cases is phenomenal. His cross-examination never fails to produce a nugget to the client’s benefit.’
‘Aidan is invariably thoroughly prepared for cases and is a tenacious advocate. He is fearless in the face of judicial intervention. In court, he is thorough and determined. His advocacy is calm and quietly persuasive.’
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.
‘Alex has a very detailed and meticulous eye when considering the evidence. His preparation for hearings is thorough, and his greatest skills lie in his advocacy. He is a formidable advocate with whom you can have the greatest confidence.’
‘Hannah is an excellent advocate, and her preparation of cases is of high quality. She can respond to difficult and unexpected questions during a hearing and think on her feet. She is willing to go beyond her normal duties, assisting with enquiries and drafting applications.’
2‘Daniel is a skilful advocate in court with an ability to communicate effectively at all levels. He is meticulously prepared and has the ability to identify the key issues quickly and provide knowledgeable and cogent legal advice and solutions.’
‘Margaret is a strong advocate, very experienced in her cross-examination and detail-orientated. She is very supportive and willing to assist.’
‘Lucy is amiable and universally liked and regarded across the circuit. She is known for her thoroughness in preparing cases, realistic advice, client interaction and strong advocacy. She provides detailed and timely attendance notes following hearings.’
3‘Oliver's preparation and attention to detail are second to none. He is extremely knowledgeable and always up to date with current case law. His advocacy is outstanding, measured and thorough - often picking up on points missed by others.’
‘Simon is an accomplished and persuasive advocate. He is a safe pair of hands and is liked by the clients. He is good at cases that require a more forensic approach.’
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.
‘Alex has a very detailed and meticulous eye when considering the evidence. His preparation for hearings is thorough, and his greatest skills lie in his advocacy. He is a formidable advocate with whom you can have the greatest confidence.’
‘Hannah is an excellent advocate, and her preparation of cases is of high quality. She can respond to difficult and unexpected questions during a hearing and think on her feet. She is willing to go beyond her normal duties, assisting with enquiries and drafting applications.’
2‘Daniel is a skilful advocate in court with an ability to communicate effectively at all levels. He is meticulously prepared and has the ability to identify the key issues quickly and provide knowledgeable and cogent legal advice and solutions.’
‘Margaret is a strong advocate, very experienced in her cross-examination and detail-orientated. She is very supportive and willing to assist.’
‘Lucy is amiable and universally liked and regarded across the circuit. She is known for her thoroughness in preparing cases, realistic advice, client interaction and strong advocacy. She provides detailed and timely attendance notes following hearings.’
3‘Oliver's preparation and attention to detail are second to none. He is extremely knowledgeable and always up to date with current case law. His advocacy is outstanding, measured and thorough - often picking up on points missed by others.’
‘Simon is an accomplished and persuasive advocate. He is a safe pair of hands and is liked by the clients. He is good at cases that require a more forensic approach.’