Summary
Matthew joined KCH Garden Square from Senate House Chambers in July 2022.
Matthew specialised in family law after completion of pupillage and by initially having a such diverse practice background, Matthew has been able to develop the unique skill to understand and appreciate how the different areas of law can interconnect at times.
Since this time, he has worked in the full spectrum of matters in both public and private proceedings. Matthews caseload has ranged from the Magistrates Court up to the High Court, comprising all interim hearings up to final hearing, and has included multiple junior briefs in extensive multi-day fact-finding hearings with allegations of Non-Accidental Injuries.
Matthew is regularly sought out for instruction on behalf of Local authorities, parents, respondents and also intervenors.
Within his practice to date he has dealt with a catalogue of more complex issues including, but not limited to:
- Appeals
- Deprivation of Liberty and Secure Accommodation Orders (DOLS) including issues of cross-border Jurisdiction
- Cases with international elements and foreign consulate involvement
- Sexual abuse allegations
- Disclosure and publication applications
- Alienation and intractable contact disputes
- Designation
Matthew’s private law practice includes legally aided and privately funded cases, and contains representation of Rule 16.4 Guardians, along with also representing clients under the auspices of Family Law Act 1996 Applications.
Matthew regularly receives instructions to act in all aspects of private law proceedings and has experience of matters with allegations of domestic violence, substance misuse, neglect and parental alienation. Matthew is also instructed in relation to non-molestation and occupation orders.
Matthew also regularly represents vulnerable clients including those with severe learning and mental health difficulties including working alongside interpreters and intermediaries.
As within his care proceedings caseload, Matthew acts for all parties up to and including complex fact finding matters and final hearings.
“I cant recommend him enough, he is straight to the point, professional, knowledgeable and pleasant to work with, he had my children’s best interests at heart and relayed it perfectly.”
Client, 2023
“The client was really impressed with him, as was I. My trainee was sitting in and Matthew took the time to discuss with her, without the client, the Hague Convention as he knew she was a Trainee. I was really impressed with his handle on the case given the late instruction.”
Family Law Partner, 2022
East Midlands Family Law Bar Association liaison