Family: Children

Spire Barristers is a notable set with particular expertise in all matters related to children, ranging 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 has an excellent number of highly skilled, competent, experienced barristers who are able to handle complex matters with skill, patience and compassion."

"All of the clerks are fantastic at Spire. The service they offer is invaluable."

"The clerks offer a great service and are very organised."

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. "Jacqui Thomas KC is very approachable. She is an unflappable and very conscientious KC with a great attention to detail." "She has an excellent knowledge and provides sound and timely advice in complex cases." "She is always incredibly well prepared, fantastic with the lay client, very capable and great with judges."

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. "Taryn is a thorough, diligent and skilful advocate with great attention to detail. A great asset to have on your side." "She's very quickly able to get to the nub of the issues and identify those aspects that are ultimately the key to the case. Her analytical skills make her the silk that she is."

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 Lord is well regarded and thorough and he will absolutely fight his client's corner. He's very impressive on his feet." "Ashley is an impressive barrister. He is approachable and is prompt in responding and assisting with queries. A very safe pair of hands."

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. "Liz has a great ability with clients. She is also a thorough and formidable advocate."

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. "She's tenacious and extremely well prepared and she takes no prisoners." "Reagan is an extremely impressive advocate and has excellent communication skills with clients." "Reagan is clearly very passionate about her work and will always strive to get the best outcome for the client.." "Reagan is beyond excellent. She is an all-rounder. Her advocacy skills are focused and sharp, her preparatory work is second to none and her written work is concise, accurate and fair."