Tom accepts instructions across the entire spectrum of family law, with a particular interest and experience in children matters (both public and private). Tom frequently acts on behalf of both parents and local authorities, conducting a wide variety of different hearings, from interlocutory applications to complex, multi-day fact-finding hearings. He also has significant experience of injunctive applications under the Family Law Act 1996, including non-molestation orders, occupation orders and transfers of tenancy.
Tom has a particular interest in cases involving allegations of significant harm, which often involve an intersection with criminal law. Tom has experience of cross-examining professional witnesses (including police officers and social workers) as part of his family practice.
Tom prides himself on his down to earth, personable manner, which helps put clients at ease when facing often distressing, emotionally charged situations. His ability to relate to the widest cross sections of society is aided by his employment history, having worked an eclectic variety of jobs prior to coming to the Bar, including in primary healthcare, retail and the arts.
Tom has a significant background in the performing arts, having acted in and directed plays and musicals at amateur and professional level. He is confident in court, with an ability to communicate sensitive issues with empathy and directness.
Tom is keen to grow his practice in both family finance and Court of Protection/adult care matters, and will happily accept instructions in both.
Notable cases:
H v W: Represented the father in a 5-day private law fact-finding hearing within the first month of his second six, which saw a Rule 16.4 Guardian appointed due to the complexity of the case. Successfully defended an allegation that the father had repeatedly sexually assaulted the concerned child.
E v E: Represented the mother in a 5-day private law fact-finding hearing within his second six. Successfully obtained a finding that the father had recklessly caused serious injury to the mother, as well as successfully defending an allegation against the mother of coercive & controlling behaviour.
Contact Tom’s clerks
Claudine Cooper on 0113 202 8604
Arnela Siranovic on 0113 213 5212
Tom accepts instructions covering the full spectrum of criminal matters. He regularly prosecutes and defends in the Magistrates’ Court, with him being an accredited Level 1 CPS Panel prosecutor. He has also appeared as defence counsel in the Crown Court.
Throughout pupillage Tom was exposed to a wide variety of criminal matters, having acted on cases involving violence, dishonesty, public disorder, as well as road traffic offences. He has conducted summary trials, as well as first appearances, bail applications & sentencing hearings.
Tom prides himself on his down to earth, personable manner, which helps put clients at ease when facing often distressing, emotionally charged situations. His ability to relate to the widest cross sections of society is aided by his employment history, having worked an eclectic variety of jobs prior to coming to the Bar, including in primary healthcare, retail and the arts.
Tom has a significant background in the performing arts, having acted in and directed plays and musicals at amateur and professional level. He is confident in court, with an ability to communicate sensitive issues with empathy and directness.