Department profile
Russell-Cooke

Education: Individuals

UK Guide 2026 : UK-wide

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Russell-Cooke

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Education: Individuals - UK-wide

Band 3

What the Team is Known For

Russell-Cooke has a notable education practice that sees its lawyers advise individual claimants in SEN cases. The firm has a strong emphasis on claims involving disability discrimination, specialist school placements and the Equality Act. It has substantial expertise in handling complex cases that span both children's and education law. The team frequently utilises judicial review to hold local authorities to account for unlawful conduct.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Russell-Cooke has shown wisdom and understanding in complex cases and has given excellent advice to clients.

    Education: Individuals respondentUK

  • Russell-Cooke offered compassion, empathy and understanding, and were clear in their communications.

    Education: Individuals respondentUK

  • The ability to put complex legal matters across to different audiences is an essential part of the firm's approach.

    Education: Individuals respondentUK

  • The team not only has a high level of expertise, but is able to adapt its communication and share knowledge in a very accessible way.

    Education: Individuals respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Eva Akins
    Eva Akins

    Eva Akins

    Eva Akins is particularly adept at handling disability discrimination cases involving breaches of the Equality Act. She is also noted for her proficiency in cases concerning exclusions and appeals against the contents of Education, Health and Care plans.

    • Eva's communication is very clear and helpful.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK

    • I am impressed with Eva's breadth of knowledge, and her candid and simple way of communicating things.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK

    • Eva provides excellent client care.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK

    • Eva offers in-depth knowledge and clear advice.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK
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  • Erin Smart
    Erin Smart

    Erin Smart

    Erin Smart is an associate in the family and children team at Russell-Cooke. She is noted for her work assisting clients on a variety of matters, including school placements and the implementation of Education, Health and Care Plans.

    • I have recently worked with Erin Smart and am struck by her efficiency, knowledge and clear communication.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK

    • Erin is an outstanding lawyer. She is technically strong but also responsive, diligent and assimilates complex facts and dynamics quickly.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK
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  • Lenka Wall
    Lenka Wall

    Lenka Wall

    Lenka Wall is a senior associate in Russell-Cooke's children and education team with extensive experience handling judicial reviews, SEND appeals and Education, Health and Care Plans. She also has expertise in community care and clinical negligence matters.

    • Lenka offers excellent client care and success with cases.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK

    • Working with Lenka is always a very smooth and positive experience. She is reliably contactable and willing to give the time needed to each case.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK

    • Lenka is practical, knowledgeable, tenacious and tremendously supportive through what is a difficult process for any parent.

      Education: Individuals respondentUK
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Ranked Individuals at Russell-Cooke (3)

UK-wide

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