Practice overview:
Sophie-Jade joined Cathedral Chambers as a tenant in January 2020 following successful completion of her pupillage under the supervision of Sara Owen.
In public law proceedings, Sophie-Jade has experience in the Family Proceedings Court, County Court and High Court. Sophie-Jade acts for Local Authorities, parents, Children’s Guardians and other parties from the initial stages of proceedings through to contested final hearings. Sophie-Jade has represented clients with learning disabilities and acts on behalf of the Official Solicitor. Sophie-Jade has experience dealing with cases involving non-accidental injuries, child neglect, substance misuse, emotional harm and physical harm. Sophie-Jade also has experience in adoption proceedings.
In private law proceedings, Sophie-Jade is regularly instructed in applications for Child Arrangements Orders, Specific Issue Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders and Enforcement proceedings at all stages of private law proceedings from urgent hearing for deliver up orders, First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointments, Dispute Resolution Appointments, Directions Hearing, Fact-Finding Hearings and Final Hearings. Sophie-Jade is instructed by applicants, respondents and appointed Guardians and has experience in Family Proceedings Court and County Court. Sophie-Jade is also regularly instructed for parties involved in applications for non-molestation and occupation orders.
During the 12 months prior to starting pupillage Sophie-Jade worked in the reputable family law department at Passmores Solicitors, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan. This provided Sophie-Jade with the opportunity to gain experience of serious childcare proceedings involving non-accidental injuries. Sophie-Jade also gained experience in cases with international dimensions which involved the Hague Convention and Wardship proceedings.
