Tom is regularly instructed to represent parents, local authorities, children, and interveners in care proceedings, from the first hearing to contested interim hearings, fact finding hearings and final hearings.
Tom has recently been instructed in cases involving:
- Serious non-accidental injury to children (including multiple fractures and brain injury)
- Serious sexual abuse
- Cross-jurisdictional terrorism and wardship
- Trafficking and modern-day slavery
- International child abduction
- Issues under the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008
- Chronic neglect
- Domestic violence
- Contested applications for adoption orders
Court of Protection
Tom often acts for protected parties via the Official Solicitor in claims linked to, or arising out of, care proceedings. He has particular experience in cases involving vulnerable adults who have been subject to alleged trafficking and modern-day slavery and the interplay between the Mental Capacity Act and the Inherent Jurisdiction of the High Court of Justice.
Recent cases:
A & B (Fact Finding: Head, Bony, Eye and Soft Tissue Injuries) [2020] EWFC 104
To find out more, email familyclerks@stiveschambers.co.uk.
Scholarships/Awards
Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn: Lord Denning Scholar 2012
Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn: Sir Roger Cholmeley Scholar 2013
Recommendations
Chambers & Partners 2022: “Tom is an excellent advocate who will put an exceptional amount of effort into understanding and preparing a case.” “He provides excellent pre-hearing and post-hearing care and service.” “Tom is an excellent communicator and is also very sensible and pragmatic in his advice.”
Legal 500 2022: “Tom is an impressive, reassuring, and commanding advocate. He has a meticulous attention to detail and is thoroughly prepared with a confident presence. Authoritative and eminently sensible.”
Legal 500 2021: “Unflappable and authoritative, with a thoughtful and intellectual approach to complex cases.”
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