Jayne Pye
Call: 1995 (solicitor 1985)
Jayne Pye
Deputy District Judge dealing with Civil law and Public & Private family law
Recorder dealing with Private and Public Family Law
Contact
T: 0113 246 2600 / 01274 722560
Jayne has over 30 years experience of practising family law. She was a partner and head of the family law department in a large firm of solicitors before being called to the Bar in 1995. As well as undertaking cases for clients, Jayne sits as a Deputy District Judge and Recorder determining private and public law family cases. She was Chair of the Yorkshire Family Law Bar Association for 10 years.
Reputation
“Jayne Pye has experience across public and private children cases. She is particularly well regarded for her prowess in contact arrangement orders, which often involve parties with disabilities and mental health issues. She also assists with allegations of abuse and coercive behaviour. She's fantastic to work with." (Chambers and Partners, 2025)
“An excellent advocate in court. She is very quick on her feet and represents the client really well. A class performer who is very much in control. Very good in cases. She is very robust and well prepared." (Chambers and Partners, 2024)
“A first-class child law practitioner who brings common sense to the most difficult of situations.” (Legal 500, 2023)
“Jayne's approach to client care is very impressive. She is very warm, personable, and she really engages with what the client wants to achieve. Her cross-examinations are excellent." (Chambers and Partners, 2023)
“Jayne is a strong advocate, who is able to put clients at ease through her breadth of knowledge and personable approach.” (Legal 500, 2022)
"She's an extremely well-respected barrister whose advocacy is robust and powerful. Jayne is a terrific advocate who gets to grips with all the details of a case and is proactive in formulating a strategy for her cases. She is generous with her time and thorough both in her preparation and in her feedback. She is very good with clients and strikes the balance in terms of being empathetic." (Chambers and Partners, 2022)
Expertise
Family
Jayne has worked in all areas of public and private law matters relating to children. She has conducted complex cases which involve issues of physical, sexual, emotional abuse and neglect and complicated and/or conflicting medical evidence.
Jayne is currently primarily specialising in private law children matters.
She is highly regarded for her ability to manage extensive paperwork and complex issues in a thorough and efficient manner with an eye for the relevant detail; covering extensive issues in a succinct manner. She is a formidable advocate and has a commanding presence and style in court. Jayne relates well with her clients, gaining their trust through her sensitive and straightforward approach.
She represents clients in the Court of Appeal, High Court, County Court and Family Proceedings Court and is regularly instructed by Local Authorities, parents – including young parents, children and extended family members. She also leads junior barristers and instructing solicitors in cases against QCs.
She has undertaken training in mediation.
She accepts instructions directly from members of the public.
Clerks
Camille Morland
Call: 1996
Camille Morland
Interdisciplinary Human Studies BA (Hons)
Common Professional Examination
Bar Finals
Criminal Bar Association
Legal Aid Supplier Number 109QN
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Camille conducts Crown Court trials on behalf of both prosecution and defence. She is an accomplished Grade 3 prosecutor, with Grade 4 experience. She is a member of the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Panel and has acquired significant expertise in such cases. She has a particular interest in such allegations which are historic in nature, and those which take place within a religious setting. She is adept at dealing with the diverse needs of witnesses and those involving child witnesses and vulnerable adults, including those via pre-recorded cross-examination.
Reputation
Camille has been a member of Chambers for over 20 years practising almost exclusively in crime.
Camille regularly holds seminars for solicitors and the CPS. Camille has recently addressed:
- Law Practice Naming of Defending (2020)
- RaSSO Update (2021)
- Sentencing Update (2021)
Expertise
Crime
Camille is a skilled trial advocate who has a thorough understanding of the complex legal and practical issues which are common to all criminal cases. Camille is adept but not limited to cases involving controlled drugs, sexual offences, proceeds of crime, violence, firearms and driving offences.
Notable Cases
R v Anon (2025) Prosecution of 2 defendants convicted of blackmail and possession of a firearm.
R v Anon (2024) Prosecution of Catholic priest in respect of historic allegations under the 1956 and 2003 Sexual Offences Acts. Four complainants who had encountered defendant in pastoral settings.
R v Anon (2024) Prosecution in respect of Importation of Prohibited Items, Possession Indecent Images.
R v Anon (2024) Defence in respect of historic allegations under the 1956 Sexual Offences Act which had been committed in a family setting.
R v Anon (2024) Multi-handed prosecution in respect of supply Class A drugs.
R v Anon (2023) Defence of young man in respect of allegations recent sexual offences.
R v Anon (2023) Multi-handed prosecution in respect of Conspiracy to Burgle.
R v H (2021) – Prosecution - seven counts of indecent assault, three counts of attempted rape of a child and indecency with a child. https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/birmingham-beast-nigha-hussain-who-21212363
Clerks
Zira Hussain
Call: 1998
Zira Hussain
LLB (Hons ) Law
Legal Aid Supplier Number 305RU
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Zira has practised exclusively in family law for over 20 years and has extensive court experience. Her areas of practice are private and public law children, financial remedies, domestic abuse, forced marriage and honour based violence.
Zira is a fearless, tenacious, conscientious and hardworking barrister. She is known as a fighter and is a strong advocate. She is renowned for her thorough preparation and detailed knowledge of case papers. She combines strong client care skills with robust and effective advocacy. Zira has a reputation for always going the extra mile.
Reputation
Zira is ranked in the Legal 500 for both Financial Remedy and Children work. Legal 500 states the following:
2025:
‘A practical barrister and persuasive advocate who is incisive in cross examination’
‘A very personable junior, organised and has a great manner with clients’
2024:
‘Zira is utterly unflappable. She is a stalwart advocate who remains self assured in court’
‘Zira has an exceptional grasp of the facts in a case. Her advocacy is conducted with meticulous preparation’
‘The tenacious Zira Hussain has experience in advising on pre – nuptial agreements’
2018 “She has a great bedside manner with clients”
2019 “Very enthusiastic and a dynamic cross examiner”
Zira was shortlisted for the Family Law Award at the Yorkshire Legal awards 2021, 2022 and 2024. The Yorkshire Legal Awards is the pinnacle of professional excellence, showcasing the best and brightest lawyers, practices and firms the region has to offer.
Zira won the Family Law Award at the Yorkshire Legal Awards 2022.
Zira was also shortlisted at the Yorkshire Legal Awards 2024 in the category of Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year.
Zira was shortlisted at the prestigious Lexis Nexis Family Law Awards 2022 in the category of Family Law Junior Barrister of the Year. The Family Law Awards have firmly established themselves as a highly prestigious event, celebrating the success and achievements of family lawyers and the vital contribution that they make to society.
Zira was nominated by then Legal Services Commission for inclusion in the prestigious Muslim Women Power List 2009. The list was run and devised by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission in partnership with The Times to commend achievements of Muslim women at the top of their profession or on their way to the top and aimed to highlight their contribution to the socio-economic society.
Zira was also nominated for the European Muslim Women of Influence List 2010. Finalists were announced at a gala event in Spain which tied in with the EU Presidency.
Zira has featured in her former university’s marketing and promotional materials. Zira was featured in the Eastern Eye as an inspirational woman. Zira has also featured in a digital magazine as an empowered woman.
Zira accepts instructions to sit as a Private FDR Judge.
Expertise
Private Law Children
Zira has extensive experience in conducting hearings relating to all aspects of private law children proceedings including child arrangements orders, prohibited steps orders and specific issue orders. Zira represents mothers, fathers, grandparents and other family members. Zira also represents children through their Guardian ad Litem. Zira has a particular interest in applications for leave to remove children from the jurisdiction and applications under the Hague Convention.
Zira has been involved in cases involving complex cultural and jurisdictional issues. She has conducted lengthy finding of fact hearings in these cases. Zira is sought after counsel for findings of fact hearings due to her dynamic cross examination skills. Zira has interest in cases involving religious upbringing of children. She was led by Queens Counsel in a complex case where the court was being asked to determine the religious upbringing of a child Re N (A Child: Religion: Jehovah’s Witness) 2011 EWHC 3737
Public Law Children
Zira has vast experience in complex and difficult public law cases. She represents local authorities, parents, Children’s Guardians and extended family members at all court levels. Zira has a detailed knowledge of the children and adoption legislation and associated case law. She has been instructed in proceedings involving the most serious types of non accidental injuries, neglect, physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Zira is well respected for the quality of her court performance and robust advocacy where necessary.
Zira has interest and experience in matters involving complex medical evidence, mental health issues, problems associated with addiction and cognitive impairment. Zira has experience of acting for those with complex psychiatric issues. She is known for her ability to engage those with complex problems and her commitment to ensuring their rights are properly recognised. She remains committed to representing the most vulnerable. Zira’s approach to vulnerable clients is always sympathetic and sensitive.
Zira has experience advising and representing parties in applications involving children giving evidence. She is also experienced in cross examining children and vulnerable witnesses. Zira has significant experience in cross examining expert witnesses including psychiatrists and psychologists.
Financial Remedies
Zira undertakes all types of work relating to resolving financial issues between divorcing couples. She represents husband, wives and intervenors in proceedings in the Family Court and the High Court.
Zira has experience in dealing with straightforward to complex financial remedy cases including applications under s37 Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, third parties claiming beneficial interests in matrimonial assets, land and foreign property and maintenance pending suit applications.
Zira has experience of dealing with cases involving variation and capitalisation of maintenance, applications to set aside consent orders, appeals in financial remedy proceedings and applications under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989. Zira has experience in cases involving consideration and drafting of pre nuptial agreements. She was instructed to draft a pre nuptial agreement for a premier league professional footballer.
Zira is well placed due to her experience in the field of private law children matters to deal with those cases where issues of child arrangements are tied up with the issue of what orders the court should make in respect of the former matrimonial home.
Zira welcomes instructions at the early stages of the proceedings and would wish to see a case through from the First Directions Appointment to Final Hearing in order to provide informed and focused representation at every stage in the proceedings. She will advise realistically, practically and negotiate a settlement where it is in her client’s interests to do so. She will always advise on commerciality of proceedings
Domestic Abuse
Zira is renowned for her experience in the area of domestic abuse. She has the ability to deal with complex and serious domestic abuse cases. Zira represents both alleged victims and alleged perpetrators of such abuse and has conducted lengthy findings of fact hearings. Zira has extensive experience of applications under the Family Law Act 1996 including contested non molestation orders and occupation orders. Zira is known for her meticulous preparation and being able to quickly and expertly get to the core of the dispute and ensure her client receives the best and most robust representation.
Outside of work Zira has chaired a workshop which investigated the experiences of BAME women in accessing legal aid in domestic abuse cases. The ultimate aim of the consultation was to influence proposed legal aid reforms and gather ideas to improve access to legal aid and access to information. The consultation resulted in the publication of a national report titled “ Report on Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Women, Domestic Abuse and Access to Legal Aid”
Forced Marriage and Female Genital Mutilation
Zira has particular interest in applications for forced marriage protection orders and female genital mutilation orders having advised and represented local authorities and the police in making applications as well as representing respondents to such applications.
Notable Cases
Re N ( A Child: Religion: Jehovah’s Witness) 2011 EWHC 3737
Clerks
Ian Miller
Call: 1999
Ian Miller
LLB (Hons) (Pg Dip) (FLBA)
Legal Aid Supplier Number 385FD
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Ian is a renowned matrimonial finance and family trusts/TLATA Barrister. Ian also accept instructions in:
Breach of Confidence (and confidentiality)
Misuse of Private Information and how to protect privacy
Defamation (libel and slander)
Advice on publications, press releases and websites to as to ensure privacy is maintained, consents received, and that material published is not defamatory or in breach of copyright.
Ian is able to undertake private FDR hearings for Trusts of Land proceedings, Inheritance Act proceedings and Financial Remedy cases.
Reputation
In 2014, Ian joined the University of Bradford as a lecturer whilst maintaining his practice in Chambers. During his time at Bradford Ian set up the School of Law’s first Law Clinic, acted as Deputy Head for 3 years and was the Director of Clinical Legal Education. Ian resigned his associate professorship at Bradford in 2022 and was invited to head the School of Law and at Bloomsbury Institute London, where he was also appointed Director of the Institute’s Law Clinic programmes.
During Ian’s time in higher education he taught a wide range of core legal subjects including tort, family law, ethics and legal skills.
Ian enjoys teaching and is available to run training courses, upskilling and refresher courses for law firms in addition to more traditional seminars.
In the summer of 2024, Ian returned to practice full time.
Expertise
Family/Civil
Ian has worked in the field of matrimonial finance and TOLATA his entire career, but has focused principally on matrimonial finance and TOLATA since 2014, together with some civil/common law and 1975 Act cases. During his years of a mixed practice Ian undertook a broad range of civil and family work including child protection, professional negligence, Land Tribunal cases, employment law and general common law. These previous practice areas provide Ian with a good grounding in other areas of law that regularly pervade into complex financial remedy cases involving partnerships, third party property ownership, companies, and tracing.
Ian is able to undertake private FDR hearings for Trusts of Land proceedings, Inheritance Act proceedings and Financial Remedy cases. .
Sports Law
Having taught for several years at the University of Bradford, Ian has developed an expertise in defamation, privacy law, misuse of private information, breach of confidence and media law.
Ian developed modules on privacy and defamation law and taught law and media in the digital age to both undergraduate and post graduate students. Having now returned to full time practice with chambers, Ian is now accepting instructions in the following areas of media Law:
• Breach of Confidence (and confidentiality)
• Misuse of Private Information and how to protect privacy
• Defamation (libel and slander)
• Advice on publications, press releases and websites to as to ensure privacy is maintained, consents received, and that material published is not defamatory or in breach of copyright.
Notable Cases
B v B [2022]
Third generation family farm. Assets circa £2.5m gross. Wife well into retirement. Issue as to how the sharing principle should apply to the assets which were brought into the marriage solely by the H. Agreed that the H would pass the farm to the parties’ son. Matter compromised with the W receiving 25% of the assets.
S v S [2022]
In addition to a modest family home, the parties assets were comprised of a significant pension held by one party and valuable commercial land owned by the other with another family member and which was inherited. Should the court depart from equality after a very long marriage on the grounds that half the assets were inherited? If the party holding the inherited land could or should sell the land in question. How should the pension be divided? Matter compromised. Sharing was to apply to the inherited wealth given the length of the marriage (DJ). The inherited land could be released at some point when the party desired it and could be seen as akin to a pension fund for that party. Proceeds of sale of FMH sufficient to house both parties modestly if divided equally. Small pension share required to equalise capital position. 50:50 division of the whole of the assets was appropriate notwithstanding the inherited wealth.
M v C [2016]
Proprietary estoppel – declaration of trust – whether the court may vary the terms of a declaration of beneficial interest set out in a signed declaration on the grounds that the parties had entered into an explicit oral agreement post dating the original declaration.
M had agreed to re-mortgage their jointly owned home in order that C could inject capital into his business in order to support and promote it. The court found that the parties had explicitly agreed that C’s share in the home would be reduced accordingly, and that C would account to M for the benefit he had received on any future sale. The court finding also that C had agreed to meet the additional sums due each month under the mortgage as a result of the borrowing.
Court declaring that M was entitled to the same amount that C had borrowed as a first deduction before dividing the proceeds of sale equally between them. Hameed v Qayyam [2009] EWCA Civ 352 and Clarke v Meadus [2007] EWHC 352 relied upon. (a transcript of the judgment is available). Permission to appeal dismissed by the Court of Appeal.
Clerks
Joanne O’Shea
Call: 2000
Joanne O’Shea
Middle Temple
FLBA
Direct Access
Accredited Mediator
Vulnerable Witness Trained
Legal Aid Supplier Number 942MD
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Joanne O’Shea practises exclusively in Family Law.
Joanne is an experienced family practitioner who is regularly instructed in cases of considerable complexity covering the full spectrum of Children Act proceedings where she represents parents/ grandparents and guardians ad litem. Joanne has specialised in Children Act proceedings for over 15 years and has an insightful and sensitive approach while robustly representing her clients to achieve the best outcomes.
Joanne is able to distil the real issues in a case quickly and is an accomplished negotiator achieving sensible realist outcomes for clients both by agreement and via litigation.
There is a frequent overlap between Children Act and criminal proceedings where Joanne’s previous practice in crime gives her further insight and advantage.
Joanne is a well-respected member of the Family Team at Broadway House Chambers; she has extensive and broad experience in terms of her legal knowledge and client care. Joanne has a depth and breadth of experience in terms of range of cases undertaken and is able to draw on and share those necessary insights when advising clients.
Joanne’s experience as a practitioner enables her to be incisive, practical and pragmatic in order to resolve cases effectively for clients including resolving matters by way of agreed orders with represented and non-represented parties.
Joanne is registered with the Bar Council to undertake direct access work.
Reputation
Joanne hosts seminars for Broadway House Chambers. Joanne speaks at the Family Law Annual Conference and discusses care and private children in the family law webinar series. Seminars have included but are not limited to:
• Children Act Updates
• Private Law: Parental Alienation from a Practitioner’s Perspective
• Role of courts and social workers in care proceedings; role of Official Solicitor
Client testimonials:
“Joanne was amazing, she really is a talented barrister, and so considerate and easy to work with. I really appreciated working with her.”
“Client over the moon with the outcome.”
“Joanne was amazing and achieved everything I wanted.”
“Thorough and searching in cross examination whilst being tactful and sensitive.”
Expertise
Private Law
Joanne has a wealth of experience in representing parents and children in all private law matters at all court levels ranging from non-molestation and occupation orders, s8 /child arrangements orders/91(14) orders, internal and international relocation to cases, same sex parent cases where legal parenthood is raised by a party as an issue, to complex multi party fact find cases where alienation and fabricated sexual abuse allegations feature..
Public Law
Joanne undertakes a wide range of Public Law work; she represents parents and children at all levels including at High Court and Court of Appeal. She has a wide range of experience in all key areas which include FGM, inflicted injuries and neglect cases. She has also conducted public law proceedings through the Official Solicitor.
Notable Cases
West Yorkshire (2024)
Child arrangements order application by F. Representing father. Mother opposed the application. Mother sought fact find. Proceeded to fact find. Very limited findings made. S7 report. Father did not have face to face direct contact with children for majority of life of case. District Judge made Shared care as final order in respect of both parents.
West Yorkshire (2024)
Child arrangements application . Same sex couple .Issues of legal parentage raised by respondent parent. Ultimately agreed that both had legal parentage. More complex and nuanced in that multiple children of the family with different birth parents.
South East Midlands (2024)
Long running case with repeated applications.
Findings made against one parent that had alienated the child. S37 and S7 reports ordered. Other parent sought initially a change of residence. Shared care with both parents ultimately ordered by Circuit Judge in respect of the child . Costs order made against the parent who alienated the child.
Wakefield (2023)
Child Arrangement Order application by father. Representing father. Mother opposed father’s application for shared care on basis of child’s young age, her primary relationship with the child and the low level of contact agreed to date by mother. Both parents local to one another. Shared care highly workable and no welfare issues. Justices made shared care order made.
Newcastle (2023)
Enforcement/ CAO application by father. Representing mother. Father acted as a litigant in person. Resolved orders by agreement.
York (2023)
Enforcement/ Child arrangement application by father. Representing mother. Father acted as litigant in person. Resolved matters by agreement at first hearing.
Scarborough (2023)
Child arrangement application by father. Finding of fact hearing listed. Findings made against father. Father completed DAPP. Mother psychologically assessed as traumatised by father’s conduct. Mother needed very specific therapy before being able to consider or manage contact between father and child. No contact recommended including indirect. Father’s application for contact dismissed.
Multi day Fact Find Lincoln (2022)
Represented father where mother had alleged domestic abusive in terms of coercive control, excessive drinking, over chastisement of the children and rape. No findings made of the above. Ultimate outcome was that father’s unsupervised contact was restored with an order for overnights in term time and holiday contact.
Relocation Case, Middlesbrough (2021)
Multi day hearing. Representing father where Mother’s application was to relocate with children from Teesside to Home Counties. Shared care already in place for children in Teesside. Application refused on basis of ages of children, their wishes and feelings, disruption/harm caused by the proposed move and the need to maintain a close and consistent relationship with both parents. Term time contact, if the children moved, would be insufficient to maintain relationship with father and would have detrimental effect on the children. Concern that children may become resentful of frequent travel and contact arrangements to Teesside. Shared care order continued.
Clerks
Helen Williams
Call: 2000
Helen Williams
LLB Hons
Inner Temple
Legal Aid Supplier Number 547EL
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Helen is a specialist in both public law and private children law. Helen is known for being ‘down to earth’ and ‘pragmatic’ and is highly sought after by local solicitors.
Reputation
Helen presents seminars on behalf of the Family Team including training the local authority on various public law matters.
Expertise
Family
Public Law
Helen has a particular interest in representing respondent parents and the child. Helen has expertise in working with vulnerable adults and children.
Private Children
Helen deals with all aspects of private law children cases including those where there are significant welfare issues.
Clerks
Emma Downing
Call: 2002
Emma Downing
Middle Temple
Legal Aid Supplier Number 872FN
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Emma now combines her practice at the Bar alongside a part-time position of University lecturer in law. Throughout her career Emma has specialised in all aspects of both criminal and regulatory law together with prison/parole law and mental health work.
Languages: Chinese (Mandarin), French and German
Reputation
Emma is recognised in the publication ‘Chambers and Partners 2022’ in the practice area of crime.
Expertise
Crime
Emma now combines her practice at the Bar alongside a part-time position of University lecturer in law. Throughout her career Emma has specialised in all aspects of both criminal and regulatory law together with prison/parole law and mental health work.
Notable Cases
R -v- Hussain EWCA Crim 1564
Substantial departure from the Sentencing Council Guidelines on ‘Assault and Other Offences Against the Person’ justified by an element of deterrence in the sentence
R -v- Cordingly EWCA Crim 2428
Legality of the imposition of a sentence of imprisonment for public protection upon an offender who had committed a specified and serious offence, whilst subject to licence conditions, in respect of which he had already been recalled administratively
R -v- Price EWCA Crim 1757
Guideline case on sentencing for the importation of offensive weapons
R -v- Slaven EWCA Crim 2967
Application of the Criminal Justice Act 2003, s.240
Clerks
Semaab Shaikh
Call: 2002
Semaab Shaikh
LL.B (Hons), University of Birmingham (1999)
LL.M, Comparative, European & Public Law,
University of Birmingham (2000)
Lincoln’s Inn
Legal Aid Supplier Number 835PA
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Semaab Shaikh was called to the Bar in 2002 (Lincolns Inn) and completed her pupillage at Cloisters in London. Prior to coming to the Bar she was employed as a legal adviser and support worker for a domestic violence organisation in the North of England.
She practises in the area of Family Law. Semaab is a highly-rated barrister who since 2010 has been regularly recommended by the Legal 500 for her specialist knowledge and ability to represent clients in the most difficult situations. As an experienced family law barrister she specialises in all aspects of private and public children law; radicalisation cases; domestic abuse; removal from the jurisdiction; international child abduction, forced marriage and female genital mutilation. Semaab appears on behalf of parents, local authorities and children. She has been involved in high profile cases that have attracted local and national media interest. She has a strong interest in the area of forced marriage and cases with an international element.
In addition to her practice, Semaab provides training on children law, domestic abuse, deprivation of liberty, forced marriage, female genital mutilation, the interplay between family law and immigration law and related areas. In November 2018 she provided training on gender based violence as part of the Hong Kong Justice Centre’s annual symposium held at the University of Hong Kong.
From 2008 to 2014 Semaab was appointed to the Bar Council’s Equality and Diversity Committee. In 2018 she was invited to sit on the Advisory Board of the School of Law of the University of Bradford.
Other languages:
Urdu
Reputation
“Semaab is a highly skilled advocate: very persuasive and methodical. She is very empathic and understanding, and provides very strategic and sound advice.” (Legal 500, 2025)
“The ‘exemplary’ Semaab Shaikh has an excellent reputation for handling cases involving allegations of international child abduction, sexual abuse, forced marriage, domestic abuse and fabricated or induced illness.” (Legal 500, 2024)
“A formidable court advocate who is excellent under pressure, and demonstrates good empathy with clients.” (Legal 500, 2023)
“Semaab is simply excellent. She works incredibly hard and is always well prepared. Good with difficult clients.” (Legal 500, 2022)
“Tier 1.”(Legal 500 2021)
“Tier 1.”(Legal 500 2020)
“Tier 1.”(Legal 500 2019)
“She has particular expertise in forced marriage cases.” (Legal 500 2018)
“She fights her corner and is very good on her feet.” (Legal 500 2017)
“Demonstrates impressive knowledge of the complexities of children and domestic abuse issues.” (Legal 500 2015)
“In addition to her childcare work, she is experienced in forced marriage cases.” (Legal 500 2014)
“Has a comprehensive understanding of children law and domestic abuse matters.” (Legal 500 2013)
“Totally professional and reliable.” (Legal 500 2012)
“Approachable, very thorough – one step ahead.” (Legal 500 2010)
Expertise
Family
Semaab is a highly rated barrister and established family law practitioner. She has provided advice and representation from first instance to Court of Appeal level and has experience of making an application to the High Court for permission to “leapfrog” to the Supreme Court. She regularly represents and advises individuals, local authorities and children’s guardians in cases involving the following:
Private children disputes, including where allegations of serious domestic abuse have been raised and in relation to contact, living arrangements, education, temporary and permanent removal from the jurisdiction Public law proceedings , including care and placement order proceedings Adoption Child Abduction, Wardship and applications under the Inherent Jurisdiction Forced Marriage Female Genital Mutilation Cases with an international element Human Rights Act 1998 * Applications under the Family Law Act 1996
Children (Public Law)
In relation to public law care proceedings Semaab has been instructed in cases involving the death of a child, serious non-accidental injuries, sexual abuse (including grooming cases and inter-sibling abuse), factitious illness syndrome and parents with serious drug and alcohol addictions. She has particular experience in advising and representing parties in applications in respect of children giving evidence in family cases and is experienced in cross-examining children and vulnerable witnesses.
Cases of Interest:
Led in a case before Holman J representing a child complainant where allegations of inter-sibling sexual abuse had been made and were successfully proven
Instructed to represent a step-father facing serious allegations of sexual, physical and emotional abuse of children; requiring cross-examination of the eldest child complainant
Advised and represented a local authority in two separate cases seeking and obtaining forced marriage protection orders in respect of victims outside the jurisdiction
Represented a local authority in a case in which children were at risk of significant harm due to the risk of removal by the parents to ISIL controlled areas
Instructed in a case in which the local authority had concerns that a teenage child had been groomed by a paedophile ring and was being sexually exploited
Instructed and led in a case representing a foreign national mother and a “stranded spouse” abroad. At the conclusion of the case, successfully persuaded the local authority to assist the mother in returning to the jurisdiction enabling her to care for the children.
Children (Private Law)
Semaab has in depth knowledge of private children law cases in which domestic abuse has been raised. She has a particular interest in private children law cases with an international element. She has experience of representing vulnerable parties and parents with serious drug and alcohol addictions.
Cases of Interest:
Represented a high profile individual in the entertainment industry facing allegations of serious illicit substance misuse and at the final hearing secured extensive unsupervised contact ;
Instructed to represent a mother with limited leave to remain in the UK where her dual national child had been left in the care of his extended paternal family abroad;
Represented a mother in wardship proceedings , lengthy private law proceedings and public law proceedings. The case concerned complex and protracted proceedings with an international element and the unusual feature of two siblings each living with one parent and for a period of time having no contact with the other sibling or parent.
Notable Cases
Re M (Placement Order) EWCA Civ 214 [2025]
Represented father in complex appellate proceedings relating to international placement and its interplay with the 'nothing else will do' adoptive standard (https://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWCA/Civ/2025/214.html)
BMDC v P [2019]
Represented a child complainant where allegations of inter-sibling sexual abuse had been made and were proven.
BMDC v A [2018]
Instructed to represent a step-father facing serious allegations of sexual, physical and emotional abuse of children; requiring cross-examination of the eldest child complainant.
LCC v VM [2014]
Instructed in a public children law case in which the local authority had concerns that a teenage child had been groomed by a paedophile ring and was being sexually exploited.
LCC v Y [2016]; LCC v N [2016]
Advised and represented the local authority in two separate cases seeking and obtaining forced marriage protection orders in respect of victims outside the jurisdiction.
LA v A [2015]
Represented a local authority in a case in which children were at risk of significant harm due to the risk of removal by the parents to ISIL controlled areas.
BMDC v SK [2014]
Instructed and led in a case representing a foreign national mother stranded abroad and the initial plan for the children was to remain in long-term foster care. At the conclusion of the case, successfully persuaded the local authority to assist the mother in returning to the jurisdiction enabling her to care for the children.
LCC v SB [2019]
Instructed and advised in a case representing a foreign national mother abroad with children in foster care in England. The children’s father was a British national but was deceased. The local authority undertook assessments through CFAB and were persuaded to assist the mother in coming to the UK for the purposes of a further assessment.
HC (A Minor Deprivation of Liberty) [2018] EWHC 2961 (Fam)
Represented the local authority in an application for determination as to whether a placement of a 13 year old child constituted a deprivation of liberty and in the event it did for the Court to grant declaratory relief under its inherent jurisdiction.
Clerks
Alexander Modgill
Call: 2002
Alexander Modgill
LL.B. (Hons) (University of London)
LL.M. (University of London)
Bar Vocational Course
College of Law London (2002)
Lincoln’s Inn, ELA
Legal Aid Supplier Number 133HP
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Alex Modgill is a prominent member of Broadway House Chambers’ Family and Civil Law teams. He is a barrister of over 18 years’ standing and has consistently been recommended as a leading practitioner by the Legal 500. He was appointed to the Attorney General’s Panel of Junior Counsel to the Crown from 2012 to 2018.
Reputation
Appointed to the Attorney General’s Panel of Junior Counsel to the Crown from 2012 to 2018.
Regular speaker at Chambers’ law seminars.
Individual entry in the Legal 500 for over 12 years.
- Alex Modgill “provides robust advice” – Legal 500 UK
- “Always very thorough and well prepared, and consistently produces good results” – Legal 500 UK
Expertise
Family
Alex is an integral member of Broadway House Chambers’ Top Tier-rated Family Law Team. His practice covers all aspects of financial proceedings, from matrimonial finance, claims under the Civil Partnership Act 2004, the Inheritance Act 1975, the Married Women’s Property Act 1882, and the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996. He is regularly instructed to advise and represent parties and intervenors in financial proceedings, including trusts and estoppel cases.
Alex is often instructed in high value cases including those involving complex business structures, family trusts and inheritances. Alex’s reputation in this area is characterised by his legal knowledge, the depth of his preparation and his attention to crucial detail.
Business, Property and Probate
Alex Modgill has a strong civil law practice. In commercial and chancery matters he advises and acts in cases involving freehold and leasehold property ownership, trusts (including TOLATA 1996 proceedings), contractual matters and the sale of goods and services. Alex is frequently asked to draft pleadings and advise on liability and quantum, especially in high-value cases.
Alex has considerable experience in personal injury law: he is regularly instructed in cases regarding employers’ liability, public and occupier’s liability, and road traffic accidents.
Notable Cases
A v A, B and C [2022]
Represented B and C, intervenors in financial remedy proceedings between A and A, at a 6-day hearing. Complex issues including trusts, proprietary estoppel, debts and freezing injunctions (s. 37 MCA 1973) relating to several residential and commercial properties, shareholdings in businesses and other assets in the UK, plus other alleged assets overseas.
B v B [2022]
4-day hearing involving high value assets including real property, shares in a business with a greatly disputed value, high income, family commitments in England and overseas.
B v B [2020]
Financial remedy proceedings, large asset case including high income professional parties, large pensions in UK and Europe. Expert evidence regarding the implementation of pension sharing regarding a pension in Europe.
A v A [2019]
Financial remedy proceedings, high asset case, long marriage, shares in a private oil company in England with subsidiary in Asia.
F v G [2021-22]
Advised and represented the Respondent in complex claims brought by one formerly engaged party against another under MWPA 1887, MC(PM)A 1958, MPPA 1970, and LR(MP)A 1970. Beneficial interests alleged in two properties (plus equitable tracing) as a result of substantial contributions in money or money’s worth.
R v S [2021]
Advised and successfully represented the claimant at a very complicated, potentially career-threatening 10-day employment tribunal hearing in claims for unfair dismissal. Significant issues about non-disclosure.
Clerks
Nick Power
Call: 2004 (Solicitor 1998)
Nick Power
BA (Hons) Law and European Business Studies
FLBA
Arbitrator MCIArb
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Nick is a highly sought after financial remedy specialist with over 20 years' experience. He is instructed by solicitors across the north of England who welcome his expertise and team approach. He is consistently ranked as a leading junior in the professional directories and has been described as a "first choice junior for many solicitors handling money work" and as "a measured and unflappable advocate who has an excellent rapport with solicitors, judges and clients". He is committed to NCDR, is a qualified arbitrator and sits as private FDR evaluator.
Reputation
Legal 500 – 2025 – Tier 1
'Nicholas is an unflappable and measured advocate, who has excellent rapport with solicitors, judges and clients. An incredibly persuasive barrister.”
Chambers & Partners - 2025 – Band 1
"A great barrister who is always well prepared and knows the case inside and out. He is great with clients, very knowledgeable and has strong advocacy skills. Nick has a great manner with clients, ensuring that they fully understand even the more complex issues in cases."
Legal 500 – 2024 – Tier 1
“Nicholas Power garners praise for his ‘exceptional knowledge.”
Chambers & Partners - 2024 – Band 1
“Nick Power is noted for his prowess in handling diverse and complex financial remedy proceedings and family separations often involving pensions, properties and inherited wealth. He is particularly skilled at handling cases with overseas assets and further assists clients with private FDR.”
Legal 500 – 2023 - Tier 1
“A junior with a first-class mind who is great in all areas of financial remedy proceedings. He has an exceptional eye for detail.”
Chambers and Partners – 2023 - Band 1
“Nick Power is noted for his prowess in handling diverse and complex financial remedy proceedings and family separations often involving pensions, properties and inherited wealth. He is particularly skilled at handling cases with overseas assets and further assists clients with private FDR.”
Legal 500 – 2022 - Tier 1
“A highly skilled negotiator and advocate. He provides sound, measured advice and has a good rapport with clients.”
Chambers and Partners – 2022 - Band 1
“He has a really good manner with clients and can explain complicated matters in a really easy way. He has a team approach which consists of himself, the instructing solicitor and the client. He is sharp, on the ball and enthusiastic, as well as great with clients.”
Legal 500 – 2021 – Tier 1
“Nick is a strong advocate and is my barrister of choice for financial remedy cases. He is always very well prepared and is very thorough in his approach. Again, he provides sensible and realistic advice and instils confidence in clients and instructing solicitors.”
Chambers and Partners – 2021 - Band 1
“Highly accomplished family law barrister who concentrates on financial remedy cases, especially those with offshore earnings, pensions and business issues. His instructions often concern assets spread over multiple jurisdictions. He manages expectations very well and has a reassuring effect on the client. He’s very balanced when presenting the case. He has the rare ability to distil a complex situation into simple issues. He has a lovely reassuring manner with the client and is very calm and focused but tough in court. He’s just a brilliant advocate.”
Chambers and Partners – 2020 - Band 1
Nick has the very valuable skill of distilling complex situations down into the key issues. Well-prepared with an excellent grasp on the issues as well as a confident manner with clients.Ideal for a range of financial orders applications.”
Expertise
Nick’s practice encompasses all aspects of financial remedy proceedings including applications for financial provision for children under the Children Act 1989 Schedule 1. He is regularly instructed to advise prior to the issue of proceedings and is committed to alternative dispute resolution where appropriate. He has extensive experience of representing business owners, professionals and their spouses, as well as third parties, in cases where the assets are up to £10m. His case load regularly involves the following issues:-
- Property portfolios
- Companies and business interests
- Significant pension assets
- Inherited assets
- Assets outside the jurisdiction including overseas Trusts
- Complex income structures including those offshore
- Farms
- Trusts
- Third party applications and dispute over ownership of assets
Notable Cases
- Recent cases have included:-
- Disputed actuarial evidence in relation to pension sharing and the instruction of separate experts
- An overseas trust and pre-nuptial agreement
- Significant offshore earnings
- Conflicting company valuations with experts giving evidence; contested section 37 applications in relation to share transfers.
- Company and property holdings with arguments as to non-matrimonial property and post-separation accrual
Clerks
Sharn Samra
Call: 2002
Sharn Samra
LL.B. (Hons)(London School of Economics), 2:1
Bar Vocational Course (2002), Very Competent
Member of Lincoln’s Inn
Recorder of the Family Court (North Eastern Circuit)
Recorder of the Financial Remedies Court (North Eastern Circuit)
Deputy District Judge (Civil and Private Children: North Eastern Circuit)
Member of FLBA
Legal Aid Supplier Number 162YG
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Sharn is a family law specialist and has developed a strong reputation across all areas of her practise during 20 years at the Bar. She is a formidable advocate who is known for both her meticulous case preparation and personable manner.
Reputation
Sharn regularly presents seminars to lawyers and non-lawyers both regionally and nationally. Recent presentations include: The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and Fact-Finding Hearings within Public Law Proceedings.
Expertise
Family Law
Within financial remedy proceedings, Sharn is particularly renowned for her ability to grapple with complex finances and has considerable experience in multi-party cases involving third party interests and bankruptcy matters.
In public law cases, Sharn acts on behalf of all parties at all levels of the Family Court, including regular representation of Local Authorities. She has significant experience in cases involving an international element including forced marriage cases.
Within private law cases, Sharn has a long standing interest in cases involving domestic abuse and is known for her sensitivity in representing vulnerable parties for which she has undertaken specialist training.
Notable Cases
X v. Y [2022]: Sharn successfully represented a Mother within private law proceedings at a 5 day finding of fact hearing, securing all findings as sought in respect of domestic abuse against the Father. There was a central element of controlling and coercive behaviour. Special measures were sought on the Mother’s behalf and the issues highlighted in Re H-N were addressed.
A Local Authority v. S v. S v. S [2021]: Sharn represented the LA in respect of its application for a forced marriage protection order. Sharn provided ongoing advice and representation during the proceedings on issues of: habitual residence, jurisdiction and care planning. A forced marriage protection order was made at the conclusion of the proceedings and a transfer of jurisdiction to Romania.
A Local Authority v. X (A Mother) & Ors [2020] EWFC B7:Sharn represented the LA in its application for care and placement orders and was successfully able to persuade the court that deemed service could be granted in circumstances where direct personal service on the parents had not been possible.
A Local Authority v. B v. E v. E [2020]: Application for care and placement orders lasting over 2 years. Sharn represented the child throughout. The mother had a learning disability, requiring an interpreter and an intermediary. Listed for an 11 day hybrid final hearing in November 2020; care and placement orders made.
DS v. LS v. JS [2019]: Successful private law appeal on behalf of a grandmother against the decision of lay magistrates within private law proceedings. The case concerned an 8 year old who had lived with his grandmother for the majority of his life. The appeal was allowed and the case remitted with CAFCASS being invited to allocate a new officer; child stayed with grandmother.
Clerks
Asma Chaudhry
Call: 2003
Asma Chaudhry
Gray’s Inn
Legal Aid Supplier Number 02FBL
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Asma is Head of the Immigration Law Team and a member of the Family Law Team.
Asma practices in Asylum, Immigration and Human Rights. She has extensive experience in Nationality and EEA Law. Asma has first-hand experience of initial application stage, appeal preparation and representing clients before the Tribunal.
Asma is instructed in all aspects of child arrangements cases and is keen to accept instructions in the fields of divorce and financial settlement.
She is a fluent speaker of Urdu, Punjabi, Pothwari and Mirpuri languages
Reputation
"A robust cross-examiner with a very natural way of putting the client at ease" (Legal 500, 2024 & 2025)
"Asma's strengths include her command of the law, strategic thinking, oral advocacy, and attention to detail. She is incredibly client-focused"(Legal 500, 2023)
"Asma is a fierce advocate who articulates her arguments in a persuasive and eloquent manner. She has a strong eye for details and is very compassionate"(Legal 500, 2022)
Expertise
Immigration
Asma has long standing experience of presenting complex Asylum, Immigration, EU Law and Human Rights appeals, including Deportation and Bail. She has experience across the spectrum dealing with very varied and unique cases. She is accessible for early instructions from solicitors and keen to work with them advising on how best to prepare cases to achieve the best outcome for clients. She is a true believer that preparation is key to success.
She has practical experience of appearing before the First Tier and Upper Tier Tribunal. Asma takes instructions in drafting grounds for permission to appeal and undertakes judicial review work. Asma is regularly instructed to present cases on behalf of the Secretary of the State for the Home Department.
Asma has invaluable experience and skill in representing vulnerable clients and victims of modern slavery, torture and children. She has a particular interest in representing females, and a focus on representing their Human Rights issues.
Family
Asma accepts instructions to advise and represent clients in Private Child Arrangement proceedings. She can be instructed on a direct acess basis also advice on merits and representation. She has experience from very initial stages of proceedings, through to the contested final hearings. Asma can be relied upon to provide pragmatic and realistic advice, supported by robust representation in court hearings.
Her practice includes the following types of cases:
• Contact and Residence (Child Arrangements Orders)
• Prohibited Steps Orders
• Specific Issue Orders
• Non-Molestation Orders
• Occupation Orders
• Domestic Abuse
• Alcohol and Substance Abuse
• Fact-finding Hearings
• Parental Responsibility
• Applications to Enforce orders
In addition to her busy practice in child arrangements cases, Asma is keen to accept instructions in the fields of divorce and financial settlement.
Notable Cases
VK v SSHD
Appealed the Secretary of State’s decision to refuse the Appellant protection on the basis that he could return to Kazakhstan with an outstanding extradition request from Turkey. He was alleged to have been a FETO member - an organisation considered to be terrorist organisation in Turkey.
HHA v SSHD
Appealed the decision of the Secretary of the State to refuse protection to a Somali female who was found to have been persecuted by majority clan members. Substantial evidencefrom experts was provided in relation her being a victim of torture.
RP V SSHD
Successfully appealed the Secretary of State’s decision to refuse protection to a woman facing deportation to Pakistan after serving an 18 month custodial sentence for perverting the course of justice having fled a marriage due to domestic violence and was at risk of honor killing on Pakistan
AN V SSHD
Successfully appealed a decision to deport a Nigerian national after having served a 3.5 year custodial sentence for the use of firearms, on the basis of his family life with his British children in the United Kingdom.
TJ v SSHD
Deportation appeal decision challenged of a Norwegian national who was convicted of child related offences.
DP V SSHD
Albanian woman found to be a victim of modern slavery would be at risk of being re-trafficked upon return to Albania was granted protection.
SA v SSHD
Coptic Christian appeal dismissed by the First Tier successfully challenged and allowed by Upper Tier.
JG
Nigerian national brother wanting to join his sister in the UK who was a refugee and accepted to be a victim of human trafficking. Appeal allowed on the basis of exceptional circumstances.
LS V SSHD
Successful appeal for Appellant seeking protection from international criminal gangs in South America.
Clerks
Rachel Mellor
Call: 2004
Rachel Mellor
LL.B (Hons)
LL.M, Human Rights Law
Lincoln’s Inn
Attorney General’s Regional Panel A
Recorder
Fee-paid Employment Judge
Chambers & Partners
Legal Aid Supplier Number 181HG
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Rachel Mellor is an integral part of Broadway House Chambers’ Employment Law and Family Law Teams. Formerly a freelance advocate on the Midland and Western Circuits, she is a respected barrister who is a popular choice in cases involving complex areas of law.
Reputation
‘"Rachel has a good reputation and is an excellent advocate."
(Chambers and Partners, 2025)
‘"Rachel Mellor is a distinguished advocate who is highlighted for her handling of a range of employment cases including those concerning discrimination and unfair dismissal. She is recognised for her ability to draw from her human rights law knowledge. She is a very impressive barrister: confident and professional with clients and a strong advocate in hearings"
(Chambers and Partners, 2022-2024)
Rachel is a member of the Attorney General Regional Panel as Panel A Counsel.
Rachel Mellor is a fee-paid Employment Judge of the Employment Tribunals (England and Wales), assigned to the North West Region (part-time).
Rachel is also a Recorder assigned to sit on the North Eastern Circuit dealing with family cases (part-time).
Rachel delivers webinars and seminars on behalf of Broadway House Chambers’ Family Law and Employment Law Teams. Recent seminars include:
Employment Law
- Breakfast @ Broadway – A monthly Employment Law Update
- Equality Act 2010 (2019)
- Annual Conferences:
- Employment Law- Privilege (2019)
- Employment Law- Continuity of Employment and the Impact of Furlough (2020)
- Interim Relief (2021)
Family Law
- Unregulated Placements - Public Law Children(2020)
- Adoption and Children (Coronavirus)(Amendment) Regulations (2020)
Expertise
Family
Rachel has practised family law since she joined Chambers in 2006 during which time she has built up extensive experience. For the last 5 years Rachel has specialised in Public Law proceedings and regularly receives instructions on behalf of Local Authorities, parents and children. Rachel has an understanding of the different needs of clients and tailors her approach accordingly; she is acutely aware that many parents are vulnerable, often with their own particular needs who require additional support. She welcomes the opportunity to meet with clients in advance of forthcoming hearings.
She appears at all levels of the Family Court and conducts cases ranging from neglect cases to complex cases involving multiple experts including inflicted injuries, child sex exploitation and sex abuse and removal from the jurisdiction.
In addition to her advocacy experience Rachel undertakes advisory work and is more than happy to assist with any drafting such as Part 25 applications or Human Rights claims for example in misuse of section 20 agreements.
Rachel also, along with the rest of the Broadway House Family Team, provides CPD training and delivers seminars both at the Annual Family Conference and in house at Solicitors’ offices.
Employment
Rachel has practised employment law since she joined Chambers in 2006 and has consequently built up varied and extensive experience this is reflected in her appointment to the Attorney General’s Panel of Counsel (employment law) in 2012. Representing both claimants and respondents in the Employment Tribunal she is regularly instructed on matters ranging from unfair dismissal to discrimination, parental rights, breach of contract and redundancy. Rachel has an interest in discrimination claims in particular disability and sex discrimination and has received instructions from wide ranging clients in these areas from individual claimant’s to public bodies such as NHS England, Local Government and schools.
As well as her advocacy experience Rachel undertakes advisory and drafting work including pre action and settlement agreements.
Along with the rest of Broadway House Employment Team she also provides CPD seminars and other training including mock tribunals which can be tailored towards both lawyers or non lawyers such as HR staff.
Notable Cases
Cyprien v Bradford Grammar School [2013] UKEAT 0306_12_1503
Disability discrimination – exclusions/jurisdiction – Jurisdictional points – claim in time – effective date of termination – negligent omissions of employer – application of principle in Mateuszowicz v Kingston upon Hull City Council – extension of time – whether just and equitable to extend time.
Clerks
Kiran Dhillon
Call: 2005
Kiran Dhillon
LL.B (Hons), King’s College, London (2004)
LL.M University College, London (2006)
Neville Laski Scholarship, Inner Temple (2006)
Inner Temple
Legal Aid Supplier Number 217XJ
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Kiran Dhillon previously practised in London and joined chambers in 2012. Since then, she has built up a strong practice in the following areas: Family and Civil law.
Reputation
Kiran is fluent in Punjabi.
Expertise
Family
Kiran Dhillon has established a busy practice in this field. She accepts instructions in private and public law Children Act 1989 matters and has experience in representing parents and Local Authorities in cases of considerable complexity. Kiran can be relied upon to combine frank yet sensitive advice in Children Act matters, as well as in cases where injunctive relief is sought. She is a robust advocate.
Civil
Kiran Dhillon has considerable expertise in civil litigation. Regularly instructed on fast and multi-track cases. Her practice covers both Claimant and Defendant work. Her attention to detail is consistently noted.
- Personal Injury law: cases ranging from employer’s liability and workplace injuries to road traffic accidents and infant approvals. She has been briefed in cases involving singular as well as multiple injuries and is often asked to advise on complex issues on liability and quantum. Kiran can be relied upon to produce high-quality statements of case and aims to complete paper briefs within 14 days of receipt.
- Medical Negligence: advises on prospects of success; drafts concise statements of case and aims to complete within 14 days of receipt of instructions.
- Breach of contract: examples of work- breach of restrictive covenants; payment of debt; consumer and commercial contracts. Has appeared in the Court of Appeal in a breach of contract matter.
- Costs: precedent cost budgets; advises on costs in general.
- Housing: regularly instructed in possession proceedings; acts both for tenants and landlords.
- Property: landlord and tenant disputes e.g. disrepair, possession, leases, freeholds, boundary disputes, easements etc.
Notable Cases
Represented a vulnerable young mother with mental health difficulties before the President of the Family Division, who referred to her as being “very capable”.
Represented a Local Authority in a baby shaking case, which resulted in multiple injuries, including retinal haemorrhages.
Represented a Mother accused of intentionally burning her young daughter.
Advised a Local Authority on jurisdiction- specifically on BAII not applying where there was a placement order application.
Represented a Father in prolonged private law proceedings (high level of adult conflict), which resulted in a transfer of residence in his favour.
Clerks
Abigail Langford
Call: 2005
Abigail Langford
LL.B (Hons), Leeds University (2003)
LL.M, Newcastle University (2005)
Lincoln’s Inn
Legal Aid Supplier Number 201LJ
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Abigail is Head of the Criminal Team and undertakes both prosecution and defence work across the North Eastern Circuit. A Grade 4 prosecutor and a member of the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Assault Panel, she is experienced in dealing with cases involving vulnerable witnesses, particularly young witnesses and defendants. Abigail has experience in working with Defendants with mental illness, including conducting conferences/ hearings in a hospital setting.
Abigail has a particular specialism in disclosure and has conducted a number of complex operations in this area. Abigail has particular expertise in firearms cases and has been involved in a number of high profile cases of this kind.
Abigail is also a member of the Professional Discipline, Regulatory and Licensing Team.
Reputation
Abigail is Head of the Criminal Team and regularly presents webinars to the CPS, the Police and Solicitors.
Expertise
Crime
Abigail’s expertise also includes:
- Murder, Attempted Murder and Manslaughter
- Sex and Drug Trafficking
- Cases involving high profile individuals, public bodies and politically sensitive cases
- Terrorism
- Cases involving vulnerable victims such as Baby Shaking
- Modern Slavery
- Kidnap
- Cyber Crime
- Armed Robbery
Regulatory
Abigail has previously undertaken work on behalf of the NMC and understand the levels of client care needed in this area of work. Through her crown court practice Abigail has additionally been able to work with the police on non-crown court work, liasing with the force solicitor and other professionals . Abigail has also been instructed in mental health tribunal work and enjoys this area. Through her sound knowledge of police procedure and practice Abigail is keen to undertake inquest work.
Notable Cases
R v Mafaune (2025)
Prosecuted Patson Mafaune, who was sentenced to 32 years for attempted murder after he shot at a man in the streets of Leeds in July 2024. Abigail was instructed by the CPS and worked with the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team. News Coverage: https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/crime/drive-by-shooter-jailed-for-attempting-to-kill-foe-outside-burger-bar-5019886
R v Anon (2024)
Stephen led Abigail Langford prosecuted two teenagers for hacking to death Harley Brown, using machetes. News Coverage: https://news.sky.com/story/harley-browns-killers-sentenced-to-life-for-stabbing-him-to-death-after- chance-meeting-outside-huddersfield-shop-13033725
R v Francis (2024)
Stephen Wood KC leading Abigail Langford were instructed by Yorkshire and Humberside CPS to prosecute Francis for the brutal murder of a woman and the rapes of a further woman. The defendant was convicted of all counts and was sentenced to life imprisonment and ordered to serve a minimum term of 28 years. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3rwprlx7e8o7
R v Mohsin Hussain (2023)
Prosecution of Mohsin Hussain for causing death by dangerous driving after 7-year-old boy was killed in Bradford. Hussain received nine years and nine months imprisonment. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-67512817
R v Dale Osborne (2023)
Prosecution of nine rapes, six actual bodily harm offences, one attempted rape, one sexual assault, three threats to kill and two false imprisonments. Defendant received 22 years imprisonment. https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/news-appeals/man-jailed-multiple-rapes-bradford
R v Fanty and Others (2022)
Prosecution, Obtained convictions after trial of all Defendants on all counts for murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to possess modified firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, and conspiracy to supply controlled drugs of Class A.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-61964013R v Taylor Meanley & ors (2021)
Drive-by shooting which led to the death of a 21 year old. Abigail’s main responsibility was dealing with the technical and phone evidence.
R v Anthony Atha (2021)
Successfully defended Anthony Atha who was tried in relation to an offence of murder. The defendant had mental health problems and he was the only defendant in the trial to be acquitted. The case was high profile.
R v Rehan Baig (2020)
Prosecuted man who admitted to having sexual intercourse with live chickens. There was video evidence.
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/12969101/sick-dad-sex-familys-pet-chickens/
R v Matthew Herring [2019]
Prosecution of firearm discharge in Sheffield. Sentenced to 14 years.
R v Elizabeth Childs [2019]
Female defendant who stole £30,000 from children’s centre.
R v Ashraf Khan [2018]
Prosecuted defendant who fathered three children by his own daughter. The victim admitted to her husband on her deathbed that the father of the children was her father. Received a 4 year and a half year sentence.
R v R [2019]
Defence of a mentally impaired defendant in relation to serious sexual offending against young members of his family . The case involved consideration of both psychiatric and psychological expert evidence.
Clerks
Kathryn Pitters
Call: 2008
Kathryn Pitters
The London School of Economics: Law LLB
The University of Oxford: Criminal Law and Policy MSc
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Kathryn Pitters has an extensive background in regulatory work, criminal defence and prosecution, representing clients in complex and high-profile cases. Kathryn previously held positions as an associate within Irwin Mitchell LLP and Capsticks Solicitors. With over a decade of practice at the independent Bar on the Northern, Eastern, and South Eastern circuits, Kathryn has solidified her experience in regulatory and criminal work.
Kathryn has advised and represented families, professionals, and companies during inquests, particularly when there were concerns related to the care provided to the deceased by the Trust. Her expertise includes managing intricate inquests that have garnered significant press attention. Additionally, she has successfully defended professionals such as solicitors, doctors, nurses, accountants, dentists, and psychotherapists before their respective regulatory bodies during interim, review, final hearings and at the High Court.
Kathryn has provided advice on Care Quality Commission and Ofsted investigations and crafted written representations, as well as defended multiple cases prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive and appealed against DBS barring decisions.
In her criminal work, Kathryn has represented defendants in a variety of cases, including fraud, sexual offenses, possession of indecent images, violence, and drug offenses within the Crown Court.
Kathryn has provided advice or Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Waterloo Road.
Kathryn holds Direct Access qualifications with practicing certificate litigation rights and has been listed in the 2025 edition of the Legal 500 for her contributions to criminal work. Whilst at the Independent Bar Kathryn was listed on multiple occasions within the Legal 500 for professional discipline.
Reputation
Expertise
Regulatory
• Advised and represented families, professionals, and companies during high-stakes inquests where significant concerns were raised regarding the care provided to the deceased by the Trust. These complex inquests often attracted substantial media attention.
• Provided exemplary representation for professionals, including solicitors, doctors, nurses, accountants, dentists, and psychotherapists, before their respective regulatory bodies during interim, review, and final hearings.
• Presented cases on behalf of Social Work England and for the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) before fitness to practice committees and before the High Court.
• Achieved considerable success in preparing representations for the General Dental Council’s (GDC) case examiners on behalf of numerous members of the British Dental Association.
• Skillfully appeared before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service to advocate for doctors, including senior consultants, in intricate cases presented by the General Medical Council (GMC).
• Delivered expert advice concerning Care Quality Commission (CQC) investigations and meticulously prepared written representations.
• Defended a multitude of cases prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive. • Represented teachers before the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA).
• Provided robust defense for solicitors facing serious professional misconduct allegations before the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
• Representation for students during university disciplinary investigations/hearings and representation with appeals to the ombudsman.
• Appeals against Ofsted and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
• Training support for Trusts regarding the Coronial Process.
• Regularly listed in the Legal 500 for regulatory work.
Financial Services Regulatory Work
Advised various clients in relation to FCA issues, including:• European Insurer selling insurance products in the UK post Brexit; review of the Insurers PRIIPS KID documentation to ensure compliance with recent UK regulations and FCA’s consumer duty obligations.
• Several M&A deals valued at between £35 – £60m; submission of multiple change of control applications to the FCA and advice on notification of breaches of FCA regulations.
• International bank regarding investigations on conduct rule breaches and provision and submission of FCA regulatory references.
• FCA regulated parts of Irwin Mitchell business/ financial instructions regarding application for FCA’s clawback provisions.
• AML advice and reviews of documentation, policies and procedures.
• Senior executive (CEO) regarding FCA conduct rules breaches.
• Board of Directors of a FTSE 250 company around potential AML breaches and a fraud committed by an employee; reporting to the Police and regulator.
• Provided training to the Board of Directors on Bribery and Corruption, Fraud and Corporate Manslaughter.
• A motor finance business regarding finance agreements.
• Director accused of fraud by the FCA at Southwark Crown Court.
Criminal Work
• R v S (and others) 2024: Represented D1 in a 7 million fraud at Hull Crown Court• R v A 2022: Represented a defendant who was charged with historic sexual offences during a fitness ot plead trial at Hull Crown Court leading to most of the offences not being proved and an absolute discharge imposed.
• R v B 2023 (Sheffield Crown Court): Defendant charged with historic sexual offences against his daughter.
• Representation of numerous defendants’ charges with the possession of indecent images.
• Representation of numerous defendants charged with offences of violence or with drug offences within the Crown Court.
• Provision of advice in respect of appeals to the Court of Appeal against conviction/sentence
• Acted as led junior (Grade 3 Prosecutor) in cases prosecuted by the Crown Prosecution Service, Serious Fraud Office, the FCA, HMRC and the Pensions Regulator.
• Advised on private prosecutions.
• Advisor to ITV in respect of their scripts for Emmerdale. Previously advised Coronation Street and Waterloo Road.
• Direct Access Qualified with practicing certificate litigation rights.
• Listed in the 2025 edition of the Legal 500 for criminal work.
Notable Cases
R v S (2024) (Hull Crown Court)– Represented the first defendant in an 8 million pound VAT Fraud
R v A and Others (Southwark Crown Court) – Prosecuted as led-junior multiple defendants convicted of a multi-million fraud involving the importation of counterfeit goods.
R v D – Prosecution of a widely reported significant fraud involving a ponzi scheme.
R v A (2022) (Hull Crown Court) – Represented the Defendant in fitness to plead proceedings involving allegations of historic sexual offences.
R v B (2023) (Sheffield Crown Court) – Defendant charged with multiple historic sexual offences on his daughters.
R v Cn – A leading case on costs.
R v D – Representation of a doctor during an inquest and GMC proceedings involved in a maternal death.
SWE v P - Representation of a social worker charged with multiple allegations of historic sexual assault.
Legal advisor for ITV (Emmerdale and Coronation Street)
Clerks
Clare Walsh
Call: 2009
Clare Walsh
M.A. (Hons) Classics, University of Cambridge (2007, Upper Second Class)
Graduate Diploma in Law, BPP Law School, Leeds (2008)
Bar Vocational Course, BPP Law School, Leeds (2009, Very Competent)
Legal Aid Supplier Number 245TY
Clare is a member of the Criminal Bar Association.
In 2022, Clare was appointed as Deputy District Judge (Magistrates Courts)
Grade 3 Prosecutor
RASSO Panel
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Clare Walsh (née Benson) first joined Broadway House Chambers in 2009 as a pupil to Sophie Drake, now HHJ Sophie McKone. She accepted tenancy in 2010 and has remained at Broadway House Chambers ever since.
Clare practices predominantly in criminal law and is a regular feature in the Crown Courts of Yorkshire. She also has significant experience in regulatory matters, as well as mental health and prison law.
In addition to her busy practice, Clare now sits as a Deputy District Judge in the Magistrates’ Courts.
Clare is on the RASSO panel and is a Grade 3 prosecutor.
Reputation
In May 2017, Clare wrote an article entitled “The impact of the Ched Evans case on the law surrounding a Complainant’s sexual history” which can be found on the Broadway House website.
In July 2020 Clare gave a presentation on Cross-Admissibility at the Broadway House Annual Prosecution Seminar.
Expertise
Crime
Clare prosecutes and defends in the Crown Court in all areas of crime. She regularly deals with cases involving violence and is often instructed in matters involving young and vulnerable witnesses. Clare’s experience in the Crown Court ranges all the way from cases involving assault occasioning actual bodily harm, robbery, benefit fraud and indecent image offences, to s.18 wounding with intent, aggravated burglary and armed robbery, the supply of drugs, possession of firearms, high value fraud and serious sexual offences.
Clare has recent experience as Led Junior for both the Prosecution and the Defence.
Clare is on the RASSO panel and is a Grade 3 prosecutor.
Clare is also often instructed for the Defence as lone Junior in matters of serious sexual offences.
Sports Law
Clare joined the Sports Law Team as a consequence of her experience in disciplinary and regulatory proceedings in other professional fields. She also has a keen interest in Anti-Doping.
Clare’s experience as a criminal advocate has meant she has developed a particular interest in how the media treat those involved in sport who are accused of crimes and how this affects their careers.
Regulation + Judicial Review
In addition to her busy criminal law practice Clare has experience of representing lay clients and Local Authorities in taxi licensing matters and in environmental law cases. She has significant experience representing clients in Mental Health Act tribunals. Clare also practices in prison law and has appeared in Disciplinary and Parole Board hearings. Clare has also appeared before the Nursing and Midwifery Council on behalf of registrants in both interim and full hearings.
Notable Cases
COURT OF APPEAL (Criminal Division)
R v Iqbal (Rashid) [2022] – Clare represented this Appellant convicted of historical sexual offences. The appeal centred on the way the sentencing Judge had dealt with the issue of totality. The Court of Appeal agreed with her submissions in this regard and reduced the overall sentence from 12 to 10 years.
R v Craggs (Patrick John) [2018] EWCA Crim 1117 - Clare represented this Defendant, charged with Causing Serious Injury by Dangerous Driving and multiple Hanoi burglaries. The case involved issues surrounding fitness to plead, credit for plea and ultimately, when it came to sentence, matters of totality. There were sensitive matters to raise in mitigation. Following sentencing in the Crown Court, Clare took the case to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division), where she successfully persuaded the Court that the sentence imposed was manifestly excessive, resulting in the total period of imprisonment being reduced from 12 years 2 months to 7 years 2 months.
CROWN COURT
R v Feve, Wattam and ors (2023) Led junior and successfully prosecuted defendants for Murder, Manslaughter and Perverting the Course of Justice.News coverage: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/news/grimsby-news/kian-feve-guilty-murdering-jack-8960407 and https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2e20rv7g22o
R v W (2021) Clare was led Junior for the Defence in this trial for Murder.
R v C (2021) Clare represented a young woman who pleaded guilty on the day of trial to a matter of Assisting an Offender, where her co-accused stood convicted of Attempt Murder and ultimately received a sentence exceeding 15 years. Clares client was made subject of a Suspended Sentence Order.
R v C (2021) Clare was led Junior for the Prosecution in this trial involving historical serious sexual offences against multiple victims. There were issues involving loss of historical ABE interviews and accounts, as well as hearsay and cross-admissibility. The case resulted in convictions on all Counts and the Defendant receiving a sentence of over 28 years’ imprisonment.
R v W (2018) Clare represented the Defendant in this complex POCA matter in which the benefit figure exceeded £4,000,000 and in which it was alleged there were hidden assets. Ultimately the available amount was agreed at just over £85,000, which was half what the Prosecution had originally applied for.
R v H & B (2017) Clare prosecuted this case in which a firearm was discharged in a busy nightclub, causing injury to a bystander. One of the Defendants, H, took the matter to trial. The case involved consideration of a large amount of CCTV, all of which had to be presented to a jury. Furthermore, following sentencing, Clare advised the Crown as to the unduly lenient sentencing of H. Based on this advice, the case was taken up by Treasury Counsel who successfully presented the matter before the Court of Appeal.
Clerks
Paul Smith
Call: 2008
Paul Smith
B.A. (Hons) History & Politics, University of York (2005)
LL.M. Law, University of Leeds (2007)
Inaugural Gray’s Inn ICSL Scholarship Award Winner (2007)
Junior Counsel to the Crown (2015 to date)
Equality and Human Rights Commission panel member (2019-2023)
Employment Lawyers Association
Employment Law Bar Association
Gray’s Inn
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Paul Smith is an employment law specialist who acts and advises in complex litigation in Employment Tribunals, the EAT, the High Court and the Court of Appeal. He has particular experience in discrimination, whistleblowing, TUPE and equal pay claims, as well as those relating to the termination of employment.
He has been described by the Legal 500 UK as a Tier 1 barrister, “an exceptional court advocate, who is highly personable and also provides carefully considered, commercial advice” (2023) and as having “an encyclopaedic knowledge of employment law. He is intellectually powerful and explains things in a very clear and concise way to clients” (2022).
Paul is also recommended in Chambers & Partners UK Bar, with clients commenting that he is the “ultimate professional” (2025), "an excellent barrister: forensic, knowledgeable and practical in the factors he considers. He has that dogged determination and the tenacity to the best result for the client. Clear, concise and tenacious in his approach, his excellent breadth of knowledge is a real asset when dealing with unusual and complex matters" (2022).
Paul Smith is accredited under the Bar Public Access Scheme and may, in appropriate circumstances, accept instructions directly from members of the public in employment matters.
Reputation
Legal 500 UK Tier 1
Tier 1 (2024 and 2025)
“An exceptional court advocate, who is highly personable and also provides carefully considered, commercial advice” (2023)
“Paul has an encyclopaedic knowledge of employment law. He is intellectually powerful and explains things in a very clear and concise way to clients” (2022)
Paul Smith “has an excellent breadth of knowledge across the field of employment law” (2020)
Clients like his “approachability and dedication to cases” (2017)
He is “a committed and enthusiastic young barrister” (2015)
He “quickly grasps the key issues” (2014)
Chambers & Partners UK
"Paul is the ultimate professional. He is very knowledgeable." (2025)
"Paul Smith is an employment law expert with experience representing clients in tribunals across the country. He frequently works in cases relating to breach of contract, equal pay, unfair dismissal and whistle-blowing. He acts for both claimants and respondents" (2023 & 2024).
"He's an excellent barrister: forensic, knowledgeable and practical in the factors he considers.He has that dogged determination and the tenacity to get the best result for the client. Clear, concise and tenacious in his approach, his excellent breadth of knowledge is a real asset when dealing with unusual and complex matters" (2022)
Expertise
Paul Smith is a popular choice for solicitors across the full range of employment matters and regularly appears against senior practitioners and KCs. His Employment Tribunal practice covers complex unfair dismissal and discrimination claims through to disputes concerning whistleblowing, part-time working, equal pay and TUPE. He is often instructed in hearings lasting in excess of two weeks. Paul has considerable experience of appellate work and has appeared for business, group and individual clients in both the Employment Appeal Tribunal and the Court of Appeal. He also advises and appears in the High Court in injunctive relief actions arising from restrictive covenants in contracts of employment, the misuse of confidential information by employees, and in respect of notice pay claims.
Notable Cases
CJ v PC [2024] EAT 182 (October 2024). Paul Smith successfully represented the employer in resisting an appeal concerning victimisation, ill-health retirement (IHR) benefits, the quantification of loss in such cases, and the duty of retired persons to mitigate loss. The successful resistance included a defence based on new points being raised by an Appellant in the EAT which were not raised below.
Dr S v Priory Group Ltd, High Court (August 2024) Paul acted unled against a KC, representing the employer in an injunction application brought by a doctor in respect of her suspension and an investigation into her conduct. Ashworth & others v Department for Work and Pensions (2024, ongoing). Paul Smith is currently representing the DWP in a national, multiple claim brought by past employees in respect of holiday pay. al-Taweel v Stichting Female Journalists Network [2023] EAT 159 (November 2023). Paul Smith represented SFJN in an appeal relating to the employment status of a journalist engaged by the Network but who also traded through her own limited company. The appeal also concerned the correct approach to cases of a “temporary cessation of work” for continuity of service purposes. Sposito & ors v BCA Automotive & another, Bristol ET (October 2023). Paul Smith successfully represented the Second Respondent in defending a complex TUPE case involving HGV drivers, an alleged service provision change (SPC) and the determination of whether there was an “organised grouping of employees” dedicated to the client. J v K & L [2022] EAT 131 (June 2022). Paul successfully represented the employer parties in resisting an appeal brought against a costs order made by the Employment Tribunal. The grounds of appeal were exposed as being misconceived in their entirety and a further costs order was made against the Appellant by the EAT. Bayo v Ministry of Defence [2022] EAT 17 (August 2021). Paul represented the employer in an appeal brought in respect of an Employment Tribunal’s reconsideration of its earlier judgment striking out a claim, and the application of the Ladd v Marshall “new evidence” test. Paul Smith advised a large care home operator in relation to a Covid-19 vaccination policy and defending claims brought against it as a result of action taken under the policy (2021 to 2023). Hussain v Home Office, Leeds ET (2021). 8-day unfair dismissal claim brought by an employee who had been the subject of an anti-corruption investigation but an unsuccessful criminal prosecution. Paul Smith represented the Home Secretary. Duxbury v University of Huddersfield, Leeds ET (April 2021). 11-day unfair dismissal and indirect age discrimination challenge to the employer’s compulsory PhD policy and the dismissal that resulted from the application of the policy. Paul Smith represented the University. Butt & others v Reading Borough Council [2020] EWCA Civ 1642, Court of Appeal (October 2020). Paul Smith acted as junior counsel, led by Daphne Romney QC, in an appeal concerning the interpretation of claim forms in order to ascertain whether a claim could be said to exist. Ehsan v Markazi Jamait ahl-e-Hadith, EAT (September 2020). Paul Smith successfully appealed a first instance decision in a wages claim which concerned the definition of “deduction” and whether that included payments said to have been made to the employer. Paul Smith represented the mosque. GT v RV, London Central ET (2019-20). Paul Smith represented the Claimant in claims of unfair dismissal, victimisation, failure to make reasonable adjustments and disability-related harassment, in an 8-day trial. The claims were subject to r.94 restrictions and proceeded under the Employment Tribunals (National Security) Rules of Procedure. Birmingham City Council v Adams & others [2019] ICR 531, EAT. Part of the Birmingham equal pay litigation, this appeal concerned the interpretation of r.1(4) of the 2004 Employment Tribunal rules as to what must be included in a claim form for it to have been validly presented, and whether a failure to comply is jurisdictional. Paul Smith represented the employees.Clerks
Abdul Latif Shakoor
Call: 2010
Abdul Latif Shakoor
LL.B (Hons), Law, University of Leeds (2008)
LL.M, Human Rights Law, University of Nottingham (2009 – Distinction)
Bar Vocational Course, BPP Law School (2010 – Outstanding)
Sir Thomas More Bursary (2009)
Lincoln’s Inn
Criminal Bar Association
North Eastern Circuit
Legal Aid Supplier Number 02CDV
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Abdul Shakoor joined Broadway House Chambers in September 2012 following the completion of his Criminal Law pupillage under the supervision of Giles Bridge. Since then, Abdul has developed a practice prosecuting and defending across a broad range of criminal offences in the Crown Court. He has also appeared successfully in the Court of Appeal on several occasions.
Reputation
Expertise
Abdul Shakoor has been practising at the Bar since 2012 and has a strong practice both prosecuting and defending. His practice encompasses the full range of criminal law, including serious violence, firearms, sexual offences and drug trafficking. In particular, he has a strong practice involving multi-handed drug conspiracies.
He is adept at conducting paperless trials and presenting cases to the jury digitally. He is also experienced in sensitive cases involving young and vulnerable witnesses.
Notable Cases
R v Shafiqul Ali (2025) – Prosecution – Conspiracy to Supply Class A (Encrochat) – Convicted after trial – 14 years imprisonment.
R v Frances Fargie (2024) – Defence – Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm with Intent to Cause Fear of Violence – Successful Submission of No Case to Answer.
R v Aneem Sheraz (2024) – Defence – Conspiracy to Pervert the Course of Justice – Acquittal after trial.
Operation M (2021) – Defence –Multi-handed conspiracy to supply class A drugs in the Lancashire area.
Operation E (2021) – Prosecution –Trial in relation to supply of 6kg of cocaine involving multiple defendants.
Operation S (2021) – Defence – Defence at trial in a multi-handed conspiracy to supply class A drugs in the Accrington area.
Operation P (2020) – Defence – Led Junior. Defence at trial of youth charged with Assisting an Offender in the Denholme Murder Case.
Operation H (2019) – Defence – Defence in a large scale violent disorder in Halifax involving rival gangs.
Operation T (2019) – Defence – Defence at trial in a multi-handed conspiracy to burgle and steal. After a successful legal argument to exclude fingerprint evidence, the prosecution dropped the case before half time against Abdul’s client.
Operation D (2018/19) – Defence – Defence at trial and re-trial in a multi-handed case involving a historical sex grooming gang targeting vulnerable girls in care.
Operation P (2017) – Defence – Defence at trial in a large scale benefit fraud involving 37 defendants alleged to have submitted false claims for tax credits and housing and council tax benefits.
Clerks
Emily Ward
Call: 2011 - Deputy Head of the Family Law Team
Emily Ward
LL.B (Hons) University of Manchester (2010, First Class) (six prizes)
Bar Professional Training Course (2011)
Middle Temple, Godfrey Heilpern Scholar
Deputy District Judge (2019) - Civil, Public & Private Children, and Financial Remedies
Arbitrator
Farquhar Committee Member
Transparency Implementation Group Member
Resolution FLBA
Secretary of Regional FLBA (Yorkshire & Humber)
Women in Law
International Association of Women Judges
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Emily is Deputy Head of the Family Team and has a strong, busy practice both on and off the North Eastern Circuit. She is a particularly sought after in matrimonial finance and cohabitation disputes, as well as complex children cases. Emily is consistently recognised as a leading junior in family law in the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. She has a keen eye for detail and quickly grasps the key issues in the case.
Emily is also a member of Broadway House Chambers’ Business, Property & Probate Team, and acts in cases where there is a cross-over in jurisdictions and issues.
Emily was appointed as a Deputy District Judge in 2019, at the age of 30, and she holds children (public and private law), civil and financial remedy tickets.
Keen on all forms of alternative dispute resolution, Emily is instructed to act for clients at round table meetings, mediations, private FDRs and early neutral evaluations, as well as arbitrations. She also acts as a Private FDR practitioner/evaluator in financial remedy, Schedule 1 and TOLATA cases, offering her assistance from an neutral perspective with the aim of assisting parties to reach a swift resolution to their disputes.
Emily frequently delivers CPD accredited seminars to groups of lawyers, and is regularly approached to conduct bespoke training in her areas of expertise. She is published in the Family Law Journal, is a case reviewer for Nagalro, Seen & Heard Journal, and has recently taken up the position of Blog Editor of the Financial Remedies Journal. Emily is a published author, being responsible for chapters in both ‘Cohabitation: Law, Practice and Precedents’ and ‘Butterworths Family Law Service’.
Able to accept instructions under the Direct Access scheme, Emily can also provide advice and representation direct to the public.
Reputation
• Author contributor of the leading text ‘Cohabitation: Law, Practice and Precedents’.
• Author contributor of two chapters in Butterworths Family Law Service.
• Lectures for Resolution, FLBA and the Judicial College, as well as for solicitors/lawyers.
• Blog Editor and a member of the Financial Remedies Journal Editorial Board.
• Multiple publications in Family Law Journal.
• Case reviewer for Nagalro.
Consistently recommended as a Leading Junior in the legal directories since 2017:
"Emily builds a great rapport with clients and is a determined advocate.Emily is a fantastic advocate and she has a great way with clients. She is calm, collected and sensible. She is focused on finding the best outcome for clients, with a sensible approach. She's very technical, good on her feet, and judges like her." (Chambers and Partners - Band 1 Finance and Band 2 Children, 2025)
'Emily is a very high quality junior: sensible, intelligent and respected, she fights hard when needed. The family law world is her oyster.Emily Ward‘s ’eye for detail is phenomenal. Emily is an excellent communicator, who quickly makes clients feel at ease. She is well prepared, fights hard when she needs to, and knows how to land the killer blow in her papers and cross-examination. Emily Ward is ’a high quality junior on financial cases‘, and is often instructed in cases involving complex trust structures, pre-acquired wealth and pre- and post-nuptial agreements.” (Legal 500, 2025)
Emily Ward is a high-quality junior who covers a broad range of topics across family law. She is respected for her work on highly complex financial remedies, often involving various asset types and acting for high net worth individuals. She is further experienced in handling sensitive children cases including relocations, in which she acts on behalf of children and parents alike (Chambers and Partners - Band 1 Finance and Band 2 Children, 2024)
‘Emily is phenomenally bright and personable - a combination that puts clients at ease from the outset. Her cross examination is first rate, and she will fight tooth and nail for the client to achieve the right outcome.' (2023)
‘Emily Ward is a high-quality junior who covers a broad range of topics across family law. She is respected for her work on highly complex financial remedies, often involving various asset types and acting for high net worth individuals. She is further experienced in handling sensitive children cases including relocations, in which she acts on behalf of children and parents alike. Emily Ward is a high-quality junior who covers a broad range of topics across family law. She is respected for her work on highly complex financial remedies, often involving various asset types and acting for high net worth individuals. She is further experienced in handling sensitive children cases including relocations, in which she acts on behalf of children and parents alike. Emily combines a great legal brain with her feet firmly on the ground. She has a good manner with clients, who appreciate her pragmatic approach, as well as sound legal advice.' (2023)
‘A high quality junior.’ ‘She is a highly skilled advocate, knowledgeable, and clients like her down-to-earth manner and caring approach.’ ‘Emily is an outstanding advocate who is also fantastic with clients. She always goes the extra mile and works very hard on her written work.’ (2022)
‘A very talented junior, with an extremely bright future. She is a calm and measured advocate, who presents her clients' cases in a strong and persuasive manner. ’ (2022)
‘She punches well above her weight and is not afraid to tackle very complex cases and holds her own against senior opponents. Good knowledge of the law, very down to earth with clients, easy to contact with instructions provides excellent feedback on how a case has progressed or settled in court proceedings. Strong advocate.’ (2021)
‘She's superb - she's got a brain the size of Britain! She has worked on some complex cases where the chances of winning would be slim but pulled off some good results.’ ‘She is very down to earth and can put a client at ease within minutes. She's good at delivering difficult advice clearly.’ ‘She's just an all-round great performer and wise beyond her years.’ (2021)
‘She holds her own against far more senior opponents.’ (2020)
‘A rising star whose expertise spans a range of family law matters, with a focus on matrimonial finance and child-related cases. She represents parents and local authorities in various care proceedings which often involve complex medical evidence.’ ‘She is an exceptional advocate with a great eye for detail who consistently impresses with her representation in both financial and children proceedings.’ ‘She offers great client care and is fearless.’ (2020)
Expertise
Financial Remedy & Schedule 1
Emily is an established matrimonial finance specialist and is highly sought after in financial remedy and schedule 1 cases. She acts for clients from pre-issue, where focus is primarily upon strategy, settlement and advice as to evidence, through to final hearings and on appeal. Her case load comprises high net worth clients with large incomes and substantial capital, business, trust assets and/or extensive pension provision, as well as difficult cases where needs exceed the available assets.
Emily is experienced in advising in cases where the issues include pre-acquired wealth, inheritance, complex business and trust structures, liquidity issues and nuptial agreements. She is also often approached to advise in cases where there have been substantial personal injury awards. Her recent and current cases include:
• Advising in relation to a substantial discretionary family trust, created after a lottery win (+£9m).
• Representation of a party with significant company assets, including a limited company valuation of £5.9m.
• Securing findings of undisclosed assets and foreign income in China. Complex issues concerning jurisdiction and enforcement.
• Advising and drafting pre-nuptial agreement in a high value case with assets in the UK, Russia, Germany, Austria and Iran.
• Currently instructed in a case where assets exceed £12m.
Private Children
In addition, Emily’s family practice encompasses all areas Private Children Law. She advises and represents clients in a wide range of applications, and she is a favourite in cases involving intractable contact disputes, implacable hostility and vulnerable individuals. She is frequently praised for her sensitive yet sensible approach with clients. Recognised for her sensitive approach, Emily has dealt with a significant number of cases in which there has been a parent death or terminal diagnosis of a parent.
Emily also represents clients in cases involving domestic abuse, including coercive and controlling behaviour allegations and also cases where false allegations of abuse against parents and/or children have been made.
Her latest children cases include:
• Representation of a parent at a finding of fact hearing concerning multiple serious allegations of physical, psychological, emotional and sexual abuse against the resident parent and the children, including multiple rape and GBH.
• Representing two professional people at multi-day fact findings hearings in which allegations of coercive and controlling behaviour were found proved.
• Acting for a parent in a case where false allegations of sexual abuse were made against him, and found after trial to have been fabricated by the other parent.
• Acting for grandparents in a case where their son had been killed, contact with grandchildren stopped by the other parent and allegations of sexual abuse made against one of the grandparents. Findings of fabrication were made and contact was reinstated.
Civil
Emily’s civil law practice incorporates a range of matters, including land and trust disputes (to which she brings extensive legal knowledge from her authorship and editorship in leading practitioner cohabitation texts), Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 claims, and bankruptcy and insolvency in a family law context.
Given her family law practice, Emily has particular specialism in civil and chancery matters with a family element, including advising in professional negligence issues stemming from family law proceedings/advice and land and trust disputes in a family setting.
Emily’s recent cases include:
• Acting for a client resisting an application to annul his bankruptcy petition. Linked financial remedy proceedings.
• Representing an intervener in civil proceedings (the family proceedings having been stayed pending the outcome of the civil dispute) concerning various property transactions and arguments as to beneficial interests in property.
• Currently instructed in two cross-over cases where issues of financial remedy and probate collide.
• Currently instructed in five farming cases, which include partnership disputes and third party property rights.
Notable Cases
Re W [2016] EWCA Civ 793 (July 2016) – Representation of grandparents on pro-bono basis unled against three silks. Important and leading case in relation to adoption.
Re W (Adoption – Contact) [2016] EWHC 3118 (Fam) – Re-hearing of Re W (below). Appeared against a silk unled.
Re W [2016] EWHC 2437 (Fam) - First instance contested adoption case.
IC v RC [2020] EWHC 2997 (Fam) – Important case in relation to the slip rule and legal principles associated thereto.
SH (A Child) [2020] EWHC 1510 (Fam)
O v O (2020): Finding of fact hearing in private children proceedings where Emily’s client was accused of sexually abusing his step-daughter over a prolonged period of time. Careful consideration and handling of the child witness was required taking account of advocates toolkits and special measures.
W v W (2021): Representation of the respondent in high value and complex financial remedy proceedings in a civil partnership dispute. Significant issues in the case included the respondent’s: (i) substantial pre-acquired assets; (ii) the respondent’s interest in a by-pass trust (c.£1M); (iii) significant inherited assets; (iv) shareholding in a company with a value of £16.6M; and, (v) interest in a newly incorporated company. Expert evidence was required, including in relation to the impact of Covid-19 and extraction of funds for the settlement. The added complication in this case was the short length of the marriage, but also the applicant’s health needs and the potential for ongoing spousal maintenance payable by the respondent. Case settled on a clean break basis, which excluded the majority of the pre-acquired assets.
F v M (2021): Representation of a father contested jurisdiction proceedings in the High Court. The final hearing, which ran over four days, involved complex issues of fact, with multiple witnesses giving evidence from different countries, and complex issues of law (including Qatari law) were considered.
Clerks