Barrett & Thomson, based in Slough, is well-regarded for its expertise in public children law, and its specialist knowledge of care proceedings and cases involving domestic violence. Practice head Claire Fitzgerald acts for children and parents, utilising her strong knowledge domestic abuse issues. The 'exceptional' Tracey Haynes regularly assists vulnerable clients in complex cases including alleged sexual abuse and non-accidental injury. Sue Scott is a key name for private children law, while Rizwana Khan regularly represents children and their guardians in care proceedings.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Sue Scott kept me informed all the way through my case as well as being very supportive.’

  • ‘The firm are very professional and very honest in their dealings with all issues that come up regarding my case. I have felt like a valued and important client, if one person can’t help they easily ask others for help and guidance before coming back to me.’

  • ‘Claire Fitzgerald was so amazing with helping with my case. If there was anything I didn’t understand she would explain it more and made sure I was happy with everything, she gave lots of advice which was very appreciated.'

  • ‘Claire Fitzgerald was my solicitor and she was amazing. I no longer had to deal with my abusive ex as she and her office became the barrier. There were many court cases - very unpleasant when you're going through it but made so much easier with Claire's confidence and communication skills. As a client I always felt the work she did mattered. ’

  • ‘Claire Fitzgerald has been extremely kind and caring. All staff have always been very patient with and made sure that they speak to me in a way that supports me to understand the 'legal jargon'. I could not have got through the last 5 years without the support Claire and her team have given me.’

  • ‘Riz Khan is in a league of her own. She provides realistic, robust advice and leaves no stone unturned for those she represents. Riz is a force of nature in court; she is respected by the judiciary, those she instructs and her clients.’

  • ‘Riz Khan is simply an exceptional lawyer. She is fierce and determined in representing her clients. She has decades of experience and has an excellent reputation with fellow advocates and judges.’

  • ‘Tracey Haynes is exceptional in the work she does, particularly with vulnerable clients. She goes the extra mile in ensuring they are resourced in the right way and they are able to access the proceedings that they are part of. Tracey always gets back to you, and works well with other professionals. her instructions are always clear, she is extremely well organised and approachable as well as being very professional.’

Lawyers

Leading partners
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Next Generation Partners
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Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Claire Fitzgerald

Other key lawyers

Tracey Haynes, Sue Scott, Rizwana Khan