Summary
Zoe maintains a varied and growing practice in Public Law Children, Private Law Children and Mental Health.
Public law Children
Zoe has significant experience in a wide range of public law cases and has represented Local Authorities, Parents, Grandparents and children through their Guardians. Her experience includes non-accidental injury, sexual abuse, neglect and death of a child. This has ensured that she has significant experience in dealing with a range of experts and is able to effectively present and challenge such evidence. She has particular experience in dealing with difficult clients and parents with learning difficulties.
Lancashire County Council v M and Others [2016] EWFC - led by Jeremy Weston QC in case that involved accusation Parents were taking children to Syria. Represented Mother who was absolved from knowledge and children returned to her care.
Re L and C - led by Darren Howe QC - case involving suspicious death of young child and drug issues. Represented Mother and challenged significant expert evidence
AB (A Child) [2015] WL 3404765 - representing Applicant Local Authority in case involving cross applications for placement order by Local Authority and discharge of care order by Parents. Court ultimately made a placement order. This was unsuccessfully appealed by the Parents before the Court of Appeal.
Private Law Children
Zoe has significant experience in private law children and has represented parents, children and other family members. The cases have included complex issues such as allegations of sexual and physical abuse, domestic and honour based violence and parental alienation. This has regularly involved appearing against litigants in person.
Mental Health
Zoe has appeared before mental health tribunals at a number of venues across the country and has provided a positive experience for clients in often difficult circumstances.
Memberships
North Eastern Circuit
Family Law Bar Association
Seminar/Training
Court skills and statement writing for Social Workers
Court skills for independent midwives
Public Law update for Solicitors
Education
Zoe completed her undergraduate law degree at the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne in 2008 and attained a 2:1. She received a scholarship from Inner Temple and gained a Very Competent on the BVC at BPP Leeds in 2009.
Interests
Zoe enjoys reading, live music, film and travel.
