Biography
I work in the Public Law and Human Rights department, as part of a team of specialist public lawyers. I support solicitors on cases involving mental capacity law, civil liberties, judicial review, public law, community care and Court of Protection (health and welfare).
Working directly with a Partner in the team I have assisted with a variety of cases, using different aspects of the law. I have a keen interest in children’s rights, which mainly consists of representing children in bringing judicial review proceedings under the Children Act 1989.
I also support my supervisor to represent vulnerable adults in the Court of Protection in s16 and s21A proceedings and bring public law challenges against public bodies to ensure that they are receiving the services that they need. This includes damages claims.
Key Highlights
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We acted for 'P' in Court of Protection proceedings under s16 Mental Capacity Act 2005 to challenge the decision in placing P in a residential home, instead P successfully moved into her own home with carers. 'P's family described her as the happy person she was years prior, as a result of our work.
- We secured support and accommodation for 'F' a 17-year-old girl who had been placed out of borough by the local authority. We successfully argued that the local authority had a duty to her under s17 and s20 of the Children Act 2007.
What inspired you to get into law?
Prior to working in law, I qualified as a mental health nurse and completed a further Psychology degree. I worked in various healthcare settings, including acute psychiatric inpatient units, Child and Adolescent Mental Health services and community eating disorder services.
During my time in the NHS, I gained a wealth of experience and skills, I became acutely aware of how important it was to protect patients' rights whether detained under the Mental Health Act or residing in a care home detained under the Mental Capacity Act. Working in CAMHS eating disorders opened a new aspect of capacity law which is an area of interest when it comes to sometimes lifesaving treatment.
I decided to take the leap and change careers in 2023 because I have always been passionate about fairness, protecting people's rights and ensuring equitable treatment.
