I offer expertise in at all levels of the family court system, whether initial hearing, trials or appeals. My practice has ranges from financial remedy issues including variation of orders, Inheritance and Family Provision trials to Residence and Contact cases. I have a particular interest is jointly owned property where the shares are in dispute.
Court proceedings in this area can be extremely costly and must be managed sensibly. As a barrister who is able to go on the record and has a reasonable and conciliatory approach, I offer a service designed to resolve these issues in a cost effective yet dynamic way. I have found that a key element is simplicity which means comprehensively exploring settlement and if this is not possible taking court proceedings in the most economical way possible.
I have considerable experience in conducting this sort of litigation.
My approach
I am thorough and well organised. Where necessary, I like to thoroughly analyse and agree with my clients at an early stage the best way to approach their case.
Costs: I usually set fixed fees where possible, so that you know exactly how much you will have to pay.
My work
• In 2017 I acted for a client in intervenor proceedings in a divorce where a transfer of a property to my client was being challenged. After an 9 day hearing the challenge was defeated, my client’s costs were a small fraction of the other parties.
• Also in 2017 I contested a 6 day fact finding acting for Father successfully. As a result an application to relocate by the Mother was abandoned.
• In 2018 I was involved in significant financial remedy cases seeking a variation and capitalisation of previous periodical payments order. In both cases I achieved successful outcomes
About me
I have practised as a family lawyer and civil barrister since 1980. I have extensive experience at all levels of the court system, whether initial hearing, trials or appeals.
I now specialise in work as a direct access barrister and as an accredited litigator. I have the Litigation Extension which means that
I can go on the record in the same way as a solicitor.
What my clients say
David’s handling of my divorce financial issues resulted in a very cost-effective settlement in the long run. David took over the ongoing case from a previous barrister and from the first meeting, I knew I had made the right decision, especially with the personal attention he gave the matter and was always easy to contact and have an open frank discussion with.
David’s approach to the case, in addition to addressing the necessary facts and figures, was also focused on how the other party and the judge/court would view the circumstances and situation and plan two steps ahead and to put forward my case in the best possible circumstances and to negate any adverse impact by the other party and the court.
I am truly satisfied with his expert knowledge in Family Law and handling of my case and I can now leave my troubles behind and plan a new life.
Overall, I had confidence in David as my Barrister and that his approach was very comforting. I would highly recommend him.
Professional & academic
I was called to the Bar in 1976. I practised have practiced in the Temple since then family and general civil law, including property.
I am a fully accredited mediator.