Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Family: Children - North Eastern (Bar)
What the Team is Known For
Spire Barristers is a notable set with particular expertise in all matters related to children, from public to private children law. Its members are respected for their advice in highly sensitive cases such as those involving sexual and physical abuse, fabricated and induced illnesses, and child removals. The cases often involve lengthy evidence and medical assessments. The set's members regularly act for parents, intervenors and local authorities. A source states that: ''Spire Barristers are able to handle the most complex and sophisticated matters."
Donna Gaughan is the senior family clerk.
Strengths
The clerks are very knowledgeable. Jennifer Bridgeman, family clerk, is always two steps ahead.
The clerks are excellent at responding to enquiries on availability, chasing for briefs and keeping up to date.
The clerks are very good and know us very well. They will anticipate who we want to instruct as they know us so well and try their best to accommodate us.
Spire's clerks are very professional, always appear knowledgeable in the area they are dealing with and are very quick to respond.
Notable practitioners
Jacqueline Thomas KC is an excellent silk who is recognised for her work on highly sensitive children matters, particularly those involving complex medical evidence and serious allegations. She is well versed in handling public law cases, regularly advising local authorities and institutions.
A truly exceptional silk.
Taryn Lee KC is a leading family silk widely recognised for the breadth of her expertise in medically complex children cases, including those with negligence and bodily harm allegations. She is further noted for her experience with serial sexual abuse cases and regularly acts for parents and local authorities.
A tireless champion for her clients and with a first-rate analytical mind.
An excellent KC. Her client care, knowledge of her paperwork and leadership is second to none.
Taryn Lee is an exceptional advocate and a real asset to the Bar.
Reagan Persaud is a highly regarded children family law practitioner. She handles the full gamut of children law work, including public and private law, international cases and child abduction. She receives particular praise for her expertise in cases involving LGBTQ+ issues.
Reagan Persaud is dynamic, strong and capable. She is a courageous counsel who cannot and should not be underestimated.
Her advocacy is excellent, her preparatory work is extremely detailed and tailored to the case and client.
Ashley Lord specialises in children law and is frequently instructed in serious cases concerning fabricated or induced illness, care proceedings, deprivation of liberty, and sexual abuse. He has significant experience of appearing in many levels of court, including the High Court and the Court of Appeal.
Ashley is a very committed barrister who goes the extra mile; his judgement, intelligence and commitment shine through.
Elizabeth Shaw is an established expert on children matters, specialising in complicated care proceedings. She offers expertise in both private and public law, regularly acting for children, parents, guardians and local authorities in cases involving allegations such as negligence and sexual and physical abuse.
Barristers like Liz Shaw do not come around often - she is exceptionally competent and able to ensure her client feels supported throughout the court process.
Liz is great and very experienced. I would instruct her on complex matters and clients who need steering and a gentle touch.
Liz is a skilled advocate who is always meticulously prepared.
Elizabeth is the person of choice to represent people with complex personalities, emotional trauma or significant vulnerability. Her advocacy is compassionate and feisty when required.