Introduction
Lucy has a busy practice in all areas of children law – both public and private law, and cases concerning domestic abuse. She was called to the bar in 2017 and joined Staple Inn Chambers shortly after. Lucy has extensive experience in cases involving coercive control, domestic abuse violence, and sexual exploitation.
In court Lucy is known for her fearless advocacy, forensic examination of the evidence and ability to put her clients at ease by maintaining an understanding, empathetic and sensitive approach yet is still able to be direct and pragmatic with the advice she gives. Lucy will always prioritise the needs of her clients and vigorously fight their corner in court no matter what stage the proceedings are at. Lucy is never fazed by aggressive opponents and is known to be a robust advocate.
Lucy is founder of The Faisal Luke Pro Bono Project and in 2022 she was short listed for the prestigious Emma Humphreys Memorial Prize given to campaigners and to campaign groups who have, through writing or campaigning, raised awareness of violence against women and children.
Public Law
Lucy acts for parents, grandparents, and children in all types of public law children cases, Care proceedings including where there have been allegations of sexual abuse, mental health problems, neglect, substance misuse and domestic abuse. She works closely with her clients, building trust but giving robust and realistic advice where necessary. Crucially Lucy has a practical and collaborative approach which allows for her client’s position to be furthered at every step of the proceedings.
Private Law Children and Domestic Abuse
Lucy is regularly instructed in complex Fact-Finding hearings involving allegations including coercive control, physical, financial, and psychological abuse, and parental alienation. Due to Lucy’s excellent incisive understanding of these issues, she has an outstanding record of successfully obtaining findings for her clients even in cases where the evidence may appear to be weak.
Lucy has an equally excellent record of successfully obtaining Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation for her clients at contested hearings.
Previous Experience and Interests
Prior to commencing pupillage, Lucy worked as a full-time firefighter for the London Fire Brigade for 12 years. Whilst working as a firefighter, Lucy became an elected union official for the Fire Brigade Union (FBU) and was responsible for representing employees when they faced disciplinary action from their employer.
Following the Grenfell fire tragedy, Lucy was seconded full time into the FBU and assisted with the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, working closely with the union’s legal team. Lucy’s role included working alongside barristers, advising on relevant matters and sitting in and advising firefighters during their police interviews. Lucy also regularly participated in media interviews and debates for BBC News, ITV News, Sky and Channel 4 in relation to Grenfell Tower and ensuring that the FBU position was put forward.
Lucy has a particular interest in the Middle East and regularly volunteers in the West Bank in Palestine as a ‘protective presence’. Lucy is also an outspoken feminist and speaks out, and campaigns for the rights of women and girls.
When not working, Lucy works with the Centre for Women’s Justice, advising women on a pro bono basis. Lucy also acts as a proud trustee for domestic abuse and sexual violence charity Aurora New Dawn, and Kids on the Green, an organisation set up in the aftermath of the Grenfell tragedy to support local children who had been impacted and traumatised by the fire.
Appointments
Faisal Luke Pro Bono Project – Founder and lead barrister
Woman's Place UK - Director
Aurora New Dawn – Trustee
Kids on the Green – Trustee
Centre for Women’s Justice – Panel member
Memberships
Family Law Bar Association – Member
Fire Brigade Union – Member
Qualifications
BPP University: BPTC (VC)
BPP University: LPC
Middlesex University: GDL
University of Greenwich: Politics BA (Hons)