News | 1GC|Family Law

24 November 2022

1GC Family Law are recruiting for Practice Managers to join our clerking team

Our clerking team is currently made up of ten clerks with varying years of experience. Due to recent growth in members and their increasingly busy diaries, we are now looking to strengthen our practice management team. We are seeking experienced family law clerks who wish to further their career within our established and successful set.

23 November 2022

Sharon Segal has been elected as Co-Chair of the Association of Lawyers for Children and door tenant Lorraine Cavanagh KC has been appointed Co-Vice Chair

Chambers would like to congratulate Sharon Segal who has been elected as Co-Chair of the Association of Lawyers for Children (ALC) and door tenant Lorraine Cavanagh KC who has been appointed Co-Vice Chair.

26 October 2022

Eleri Jones has been appointed as a fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL)

Our congratulations go to Eleri Jones who has been appointed as a fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL).

24 October 2022

Oliver Woolley has been appointed as Deputy District Judge.

Oliver Woolley has been appointed as Deputy District Judge. Oliver will sit within the civil and family jurisdiction on the South Eastern Circuit.

20 October 2022

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2023 – Leading Set in Family: Children

We are pleased to announce that we have been included as a leading set in Family: Children in the 2023 edition of Chambers and Partners, with 35 barristers ranked in this category.

20 October 2022

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2023 - Leading Set in Family: Matrimonial Finance

We are pleased to share that we have been invluded as a leading set in Family: Matrimonial Finance inthe 2023 edition of Chambers and Partners, with 11 barristers ranked in this category.

20 October 2022

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2023 - Leading Set in Court of Protection: Health & Welfare

It is very pleasing to see Chambers as a Top Ranked set in Court of Protection in the 2023 edition of Chambers & Partners.

05 October 2022

Louise Verroken-Jones has been appointed to the Court of Protection Bar Association Committee

It is very pleasing to see that Louise Verroken-Jones has been appointed to the Court of Protection Bar Association (CPBA) committee as one of the representatives under 7 years call.

28 September 2022

The Legal 500 2023 – Leading Set in Court of Protection

We are pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Court of Protection and Community Care in the 2023 edition of Legal 500.

28 September 2022

The Legal 500 2023 – Leading Set in Family Finance

We are pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Family (Including Divorce and Financial Remedy) in the 2023 edition of the Legal 500 guide.

28 September 2022

The Legal 500 2023 – Leading Set in Children Public and Private Law

We are pleased to share that we are ranked as a Top Tier set in Children Public and Private Law in the 2023 edition of the Legal 500 guide.

28 September 2022

The Legal 500 2023 – Marlene Cayoun included as a Leading Junior for Inquests and Inquiries

Following her involvement in several important Inquests and Inquiries Marlene Cayoun has been included as a Leading Junior in this area in the 2023 Legal 500 directory.

06 September 2022

Welcome to our new pupils Monica Young and Roseanna Cawthray Stern

Everyone at 1GC Family Law would like to welcome our new pupils, Monica Young and Roseanna Cawthray Stern

05 September 2022

Family Law Awards 2022 Shortlist Announced

We are delighted that Chambers and our members have been shortlisted in four categories for the 2022 Family Law Awards.

05 September 2022

Elizabeth Darlington joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Elizabeth Darlington has joined Chambers with immediate effect.

01 September 2022

1GC Family Law welcomes Emma Colebatch and Mark Blundell as tenants of Chambers

We are pleased to welcome Emma Colebatch and Mark Blundell as tenants of Chambers following the successful completion of their pupillages.

31 August 2022

The 2022 Chambers UK Bar Awards Shortlist

We are delighted to have been shortlisted in the Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards Family Law Set of the Year category.

15 August 2022

Tom Wilson has been appointed to the Attorney General’s London B Panel of Junior Counsel to the Crown

Congratulations to Tom Wilson who has been appointed to the Attorney General’s London B Panel of Junior Counsel to the Crown.

05 August 2022

Eleri Jones joins the team of editors for the Red Book

We are pleased to announce that Eleri Jones has joined the team of editors for the Lexis Nexis The Family Court Practice (Red Book).

01 August 2022

Mark Rawcliffe joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Mark Rawcliffe is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

25 July 2022

1GC Family Law welcomes Lorraine Cavanagh QC as a door tenant

Chambers is delighted to announce that Lorraine Cavanagh QC, who practices from St John’s Buildings, Manchester, has joined Chambers as a door tenant.

14 July 2022

Simon Sugar appointed to Resolution Cohabitation Committee

We are delighted to annouce that Simon Sugar has been appointed to the Resolution Cohabitation Committee.

06 July 2022

Charles Geekie QC, Deirdre Fottrell QC and Laura Briggs QC listed as Top Recommended Family Law Barristers in the Spear’s 500 Family Law Index 2022

Congratulations to Charles Geekie QC, Deirdre Fottrell QC and Laura Briggs QC who have been included in the Spear’s FamilyLaw Index 2022 as 'Top Recommended Family Law Barristers' for high-net-worth clients.

05 July 2022

Chambers shortlisted for Legal 500 Bar Awards 2022

We are delighted to announce that 1GC Family Law and our members and clerking team have been shortlisted in five categories for the Legal 500 Bar Awards.

07 June 2022

We take great pleasure in announcing that three more members of Chambers are now qualified as arbitrators

Julien Foster, Emily Verity and Lucy Sprinz have qualified as arbitrators for children matters.

05 May 2022

Malcolm Chisholm has been appointed to sit (part time) as a legal member of the Guernsey Mental Health Review Tribunal

Chambers is delighted to announce that Malcolm Chisholm has been appointed to sit (part time) as a legal member of the Guernsey Mental Health Review Tribunal

11 April 2022

Emily Verity joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Emily Verity is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

14 March 2022

Emily James joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Emily James is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

26 January 2022

Recorder Appointments

We are delighted to announce that Alev Giz, Claire Heppenstall, Louise MacLynn and Gemma Kelly have been appointed as Recorders with effect from 26th January 2022.

13 January 2022

Charles Geekie QC and Laura Briggs listed as Top Recommended Family Law Barristers in the Spear’s 500 Family Law Index 2022

We are pleased to announce that Charles Geekie QC and Laura Briggs have been listed as Top Recommended Family Law Barristers in the Spear's 500 Family Law Index 2022.

22 December 2021

Laura Briggs appointed as Queen’s Counsel

We are delighted to announce that Laura Briggs will be appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2022.

14 December 2021

Sarah Morgan QC appointed as a High Court Judge

Chambers is delighted to announce that the Queen has appointed Sarah Morgan QC to be a High Court Judge.

25 November 2021

Success for 1GC Family Law at the Family Law Awards 2021

Chambers came away from the Family Law Awards on the 24th November with two awards.

18 November 2021

Sharon Segal has been awarded Family Junior of the Year at the Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards 2021

It is a pleasure to announce that Sharon Segal has been recognised as Family Junior of the Year at the Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards 2021.

26 October 2021

Craig Vickers has been appointed as Deputy District Judge

We are delighted to announce that Craig Vickers has been appointed as Deputy District Judge.

22 October 2021

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2022 – Top Ranked Set in Court of Protection: Health & Welfare

It is very pleasing to see Chambers as a Top Ranked set in Court of Protection in the 2022 edition of Chambers & Partners.

22 October 2021

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2022 – Top Ranked Set in Family: Matrimonial Finance

It is very pleasing to see Chambers as a Top Ranked set in Divorce and Financial Remedy in the 2022 edition of Chambers & Partners.

22 October 2021

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2022 – Top Ranked Set in Family: Children

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Family: Children Public and Private Law in the 2022 edition of Chambers & Partners.

18 October 2021

Sam Whittam joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Sam Whittam is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

07 October 2021

Advocate Bar Pro Bono Awards 2021

Elisabeth Andrews, Louise Verroken-Jones and Tiffany Daniels have been nominated for recognition in this year's Advocate Bar Pro Bono Awards.

04 October 2021

Jack Rundall joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Jack Rundall is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

30 September 2021

The Legal 500 2022 – Leading Set in Court of Protection

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Court of Protection and Community Care in the 2022 edition of Legal 500

30 September 2021

The Legal 500 2022 – Leading Set in Family Finance

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Family (Including Divorce and Financial Remedy) in the 2022 edition of Legal 500.

30 September 2021

The Legal 500 2022 – Leading Set in Children Public and Private Law

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Children Public and Private Law in the 2022 edition of Legal 500.

29 September 2021

The Legal 500 2022 – Leading Set

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2022 edition of Legal 500.

27 September 2021

Andrew Venables has been appointed as Deputy District Judge

We are delighted to announce that Andrew Venables has been appointed as Deputy District Judge.

14 September 2021

We take great pleasure in announcing that two more members of Chambers are now qualified as arbitrators

David Burles and John Stocker have qualified as arbitrators for financial matters.

09 September 2021

Welcome to our new pupils Emma Colebatch and Mark Blundell

Everyone at 1GC Family Law would like to welcome our new pupils, Emma Colebatch and Mark Blundell.

08 September 2021

Susan George has been appointed to a part-time post as a nominated judge of the Court of Protection

We are pleased to announce that Susan George has been appointed to a part-time post as a nominated judge of the Court of Protection.

07 September 2021

Family Law Awards 2021 Shortlist Announced

We are delighted to announce that Chambers and several of our members have been recognised in three categories for the prestigious Family Law Awards.

06 September 2021

Karen Kabweru-Namulemu joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Karen Kabweru-Namulemu is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

03 September 2021

1GC Family Law welcomes Lucy Bennett and Beth Hibbert as tenants of Chambers

1GC Family Law welcomes Lucy Bennett and Beth Hibbert as tenants of Chambers following the successful completion of their pupillages.

31 August 2021

The 2021 Chambers UK Bar Awards Nominations

We are pleased to announce that Sharon Segal has been shortlisted in this year's Chambers UK Bar Awards for Family Junior of the Year.

04 August 2021

We take great pleasure in announcing that five more members of Chambers are now qualified as arbitrators

Doushka Krish, Philip Perrins, Olivia Magennis, Penelope Clapham and Elizabeth Darlington have qualified as arbitrators

04 August 2021

Annabel Barrons appointed to the National YRes Committee

We are happy to announce that Annabel Barrons has been appointed to the National YRes Committee.

02 August 2021

Craig Vickers joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Craig Vickers is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

26 July 2021

Niamh Daly joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Niamh Daly is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

19 July 2021

Henry Lamb joins Chambers

We are pleased to announce that Henry Lamb is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

13 July 2021

Elisabeth Andrews appointed to the Young Bar Advocate Executive Committee

We are very pleased to announce that Elisabeth Andrews has been appointed to the Young Bar Advocate Executive Committee

07 July 2021

Charles Geekie QC and Laura Briggs listed as Top Recommended Barristers in the Spears Family Law Index 2021

We are pleased to announce that Charles Geekie QC and Laura Briggs have beeen listed as Top Recommended Barristers in the Spears Family Law Index 2021

13 May 2021

1GC Family Law are recruiting new tenants

We welcome applications from exceptional practitioners with at least 5 years’ experience practicing in the fields of public law and family finance. We would look favourably on candidates whose practice also includes Court of Protection work.

05 March 2021

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Tom Wilson appeared in a live streamed Court of Appeal hearing concerning transparency

The case concerns transparency, and in particular the right of an investigative journalist to have access to all of the documents contained in the court bundle in care proceedings.

20 January 2021

Nine members of 1GC Family Law instructed in linked appeals in the Court of Appeal in cases involving allegations of Domestic Abuse

The Court of Appeal is this week hearing four linked appeals in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse.

21 December 2020

Frances Orchover appointed as a District Judge

Chambers is delighted to announce that the Queen has appointed Frances Orchover to be a District Judge on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, the Right Honourable Robert Buckland QC MP and the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Lord Burnett of Maldon.

17 December 2020

Denise Gilling and Sally Stone appointed as Queen’s Counsel

We are delighted to announce that Denise Gilling and Sally Stone will be appointed Queen's Counsel in 2021.

14 December 2020

1GC Family Law Pupillage Open Evening

Join us on the Wednesday 20th January 2021 to find out about 1GC Family Law, the work we do and pupillage at 1GC.

Location: Online - Recording Available

20 November 2020

1GC Family Law has been awarded Family Set of the Year at the Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards 2020

We take great pleasure in announcing that 1GC Family Law have been awarded Family Set of the Year at this year's Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards.

20 November 2020

Sally Stone has been awarded Family Junior of the Year at the Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards 2020

It is a pleasure to announce that Sally Stone has been recognised as Family Junior of the Year at the Chambers and Partners UK Bar Awards 2020.

05 November 2020

Publication of the final report of the President’s Working Group on Medical Experts in the Family Courts

Sharon Segal represented the Association of Lawyers for Children on the Working Group which makes 22 recommendations aimed at reducing expert shortages.

26 October 2020

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2021 – Top Ranked Set in Court of Protection: Health & Welfare

It is very pleasing to see Chambers as a Top Ranked set in Court of Protection in the 2021 edition of Chambers & Partners.

26 October 2020

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2021 – Top Ranked Set in Family: Matrimonial Finance

It is very pleasing to see Chambers as a Top Ranked set in Divorce and Financial Remedy in the 2021 edition of Chambers & Partners.

26 October 2020

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2021 – Top Ranked Set in Family: Children

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Family: Children Public and Private Law in the 2021 edition of Chambers & Partners.

26 October 2020

Chambers & Partners UK Bar 2021 – Top Ranked Set

It is very pleasing to see Chambers as a Top Ranked set in the 2021 edition of Chambers & Partners in three Family Law categories.

12 October 2020

FLBA Award and National Committee election announcement

Darren Howe QC receives the first ever FLBA ‘Special Contribution Award’ for his significant work in supporting the Bar with paperless working and Melissa Elsworth is re-elected to the FLBA National Committee.

02 October 2020

The Legal 500 2021 – Leading Set in Court of Protection

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Court of Protection and Community Care in the 2021 edition of Legal 500

02 October 2020

The Legal 500 2021 – Leading Set in Family Finance

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Divorce and Financial Remedy in the 2021 edition of Legal 500.

02 October 2020

The Legal 500 2021 – Leading Set in Children Public and Private Law

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in Children Public and Private Law in the 2021 edition of Legal 500.

02 October 2020

The Legal 500 2021 – Leading Set

1GC Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2021 edition of Legal 500.

28 September 2020

The 2020 Chambers UK Bar Awards Nominations

We are pleased to announce that 1GC Family Law has been shortlisted in two categories in this year's Chambers Bar Awards.

28 September 2020

1GC Family Law shortlisted for “Clerking Team of the Year” 2020

We are delighted to announce that our clerking team has been shortlisted for the prestigious Family Law Awards.

17 September 2020

Nkumbe Ekaney QC and Andrew Norton QC elected Joint Heads of Chambers

1GC Family Law Chambers is delighted to announce that Nkumbe Ekaney QC and Andrew Norton QC have been elected Joint Heads of Chambers, with effect from 1 October 2020.

17 September 2020

Sally Stone and Patrick Paisley - “Managing Fabricated and Induced Illness Cases (FII)”

Thursday 17 September 5.30pm

Surrey Local Family Justice Board invites you to a remote training session on "Managing Fabricated and Induced Illness Cases (FII)."

14 September 2020

Tahmina Rahman joins Chambers

1GC Family Law is delighted to announce that Tahmina Rahman is joining Chambers with immediate effect.

08 September 2020

Family Law Awards 2020 Shortlist Announced

We are delighted to announce that our clerking team and four of our members have been shortlisted for the prestigious Family Law Awards.

07 September 2020

Welcome to our new pupils Lucy Bennett and Beth Hibbert

All at 1GC|Family Law would like to welcome our new pupils, Lucy Bennett and Beth Hibbert.

02 September 2020

1GC|Family Law welcomes Costanza Bertoni and Louise Verroken-Jones as tenants of Chambers

1GC|Family Law welcomes Costanza Bertoni and Louise Verroken-Jones as tenants of Chambers, effective on 2 September 2020, following the successful completion of their pupillages.

28 July 2020

Malcolm Chisholm has been appointed to a part-time post as a nominated judge of the Court of Protection

We are delighted to announce that Malcolm Chisholm has been appointed to a part-time post as a nominated judge of the Court of Protection (effective November 2020).

10 June 2020

Charles Geekie QC listed as a Selected Barrister in the Spears Family Law Index 2020

05 June 2020

Equal Treatment, the Rule of Law and Inclusion

1GC Family Law fully supports the Bar Council's statement on equal treatment, the rule of law and inclusion:

04 June 2020

Elizabeth Hartnett - Hadkinson Orders

Thursday 04 June - 4:30pm

Anecdotally there are increasing numbers of orders that are not being complied with during lockdown. Elizabeth Hartnett will be discussing whether Hadkinson Orders are a useful weapon of enforcement in financial remedy cases during the pandemic.

28 May 2020

John Stocker - Thwaite/Barrell jurisdiction

Thursday 28 May - 4:30pm

John Stocker will be talking about how the Thwaite and Barrell jurisdictions might apply to pre-Covid orders and decisions so as to avoid the consequences of executory court orders and decisions that have yet to be drawn up.

21 May 2020

Helen Jefferson - Private FDRs - for Life, not just for Lockdown?

Thursday 21 May 2020

Private FDRs – for the many not just the few.

18 May 2020

Elisabeth Andrews Returns to Chambers

We are delighted to welcome back Elisabeth Andrews, who has recently returned from a few months in Toronto.

14 May 2020

David Burles - The New Costs Rules in Financial Remedy Cases

Thursday 14 May 2020

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic new costs rules have been introduced in financial remedy cases.

12 May 2020

Susan Pyle, Keeley Lengthorn (MW Solicitors), Luke Eaton and Anna Lavelle - Contact in the time of quarantine

Tuesday 12 May - 4.30pm

A short webinar looking at some legal and practical issues arising since the Covid-19 pandemic in both private and public law contexts.

07 May 2020

Simon Sugar – Is Covid-19 a Barder event?

Thursday 7 May 4.30pm

Parties who have resolved their financial remedy claims may now be thinking that the outcome was unfair due to the consequence of the pandemic. Is Covid-19 a Barder event?

06 May 2020

Andrew Norton QC MCIArb and Claire Heppenstall MCIArb of 1GC Family Law - Arbitration - A “How To” Guide

Wednesday 6 May - 4.30 pm

A short webinar which will explain the basics about how to set up a child or finance arbitration and what to expect from the process.

05 May 2020

Matthew Fletcher - How “Remote” are Remote Hearings supposed to be?

Tuesday 5 May - 4.30pm - Recording Available

A preliminary exploration as to the development of remote hearings during "Lockdown".

30 April 2020

Jon Dodge of Walton Dodge Forensic - Company Valuations During the Pandemic - tips and traps?

Thursday 30 April 2020

Covid-19 and the lockdown have significantly affected company valuations. How we handle existing and future company valuations is now more critical than ever.

28 April 2020

Richard Jones and Thomas Wilson of 1GC Family Law - Intractable Contact Disputes: Recent Developments and the Impact of Covid-19

Tuesday 28 April 2020

Richard Jones and Tom Wilson explore issues relating to intractable child arrangements disputes, including recent developments and what to do when you either suspect there is parental alienation or your client is facing such an allegation.

27 April 2020

Family Arbitration 2020 – Past, Present and Future in the New Normal

Monday 27 April - 5.00pm - Recording Available

The Institute of Family Law Arbritrators and 1GC Family Law invite you to a Webinar, with addresses from both the President of the Family Division and Lord Justice Baker followed by a welcome and introduction by HH Donald Cryan, on Family Arbitration 2020 - Past, Present and Future in the New Normal.

23 April 2020

George Mathieson of Mathieson Consulting Ltd - ‘Pension sharing during the pandemic – tips and traps’

Thursday 23 April 2020

Anyone contemplating pension sharing at a time when market and pension values have dropped alarmingly needs to act with caution and on an informed basis.

20 April 2020

The Court of Protection Team at 1GC Family Law - Challenges, Easements and Suggestions during the Pandemic

Monday 20 April - 5.00pm

Andrew Bagchi QC and Malcolm Chisholm of The Court of Protection Team at 1GC Family Law , warmly invite you to a webinar at 17:00 Monday 20 April, to discuss questions arising from the current COVID-19 Pandemic.

16 April 2020

Annabel Barrons - ‘Variation of periodical payment orders in the time of a pandemic’

As the economic consequences of the pandemic start to be felt there will be many orders for periodical payments that will immediately become unaffordable. How should parties respond to these changed circumstances and how can disputes best be resolved?

14 April 2020

Lucy Maxwell - ‘Non-molestation and occupation orders during lockdown’

A rise in domestic violence is an inevitable consequence of lockdown.

26 March 2020

COVID-19 - 1GC Update

BUSINESS AS USUAL. 1GC Family Law is continuing to operate at full capacity via remote working.

26 March 2020

1GC at the forefront of Family Arbitration in light of the imminent expansion in scope of the IFLA children arbitration scheme

We have had numerous enquiries about arbitration, particularly in light of the imminent expansion in scope of the IFLA ...

24 March 2020

COVID-19 – Movement of children between the homes of separated parents permitted.

It may be reassuring to know that the ‘Staying at home’ requirements under the regime announced by the Government on 23 March 2020 do allow one separated parent to leave home to take their children to the home of the other parent.

23 March 2020

Eleri Jones has been awarded the prestigious IAFL European Chapter Young Lawyers Award 2020

We are delighted to announce that, out of a very strong field, Eleri Jones has been awarded the prestigious IAFL European Chapter Young Lawyers Award 2020.

19 March 2020

COVID-19 Family Division Guidance

The President of the Family Division has circulated guidance as to the conduct of business in the Family Justice System in light of the current public health emergency.

12 March 2020

Charles Geekie QC is named Lawyer of the Week in The Times

Charles Geekie QC is named Lawyer of the Week in The Times newspaper today. Charles represents Her Royal Highness Princess Haya in the highly complex children proceedings before the President of the Family Division.

06 March 2020

Charles Geekie QC, Sharon Segal and Lucy Maxwell represent Her Royal Highness Princess Haya bint Al Hussein in highly complex children proceedings

Charles Geekie QC, Sharon Segal and Lucy Maxwell represented Her Royal Highness Princess Haya bint Al Hussein in the highly complex children proceedings before the President of the Family Division and Court of Appeal.

04 March 2020

Financial Remedies Courts e-bundles protocol - paperless training

1GC is proud to be at the forefront of paperless training for family lawyers.

Due to demand and previous positive feedback, Darren Howe QC is providing training on 12 and 24 March at 1GC Family Law.

17 December 2019

Charitable donations by 1GC Family Law for Christmas

Rather than sending out Christmas cards in 2019, we made donations to two very worthy charities.

We were proud to support the Family Justice Centre in Croydon and also to help The Richmond Christmas Dinner for care leavers.

09 December 2019

1GC Family Law Pupillage Evening

We're hosting a pupillage evening on Thursday, 9 January 2020, between 6.00pm and 8.00pm. The event is now at capacity after being advertised with numerous universities, law schools and the Inns of Court.

However, we have created a waiting list to ensure that those who would still like to attend have the opportunity to come along.

A place on the waiting list can be booked here.

28 November 2019

Success for 1GC Family Law at the Family Law Awards

There were two prestigious accolades for members of 1GC Family Law at the Family Law Awards on 27 November 2019.

11 November 2019

Sarah Morgan QC appointed as Deputy High Court Judge

The Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, the Right Honourable The Lord Burnett of Maldon has appointed 24 Deputy High Court Judges, under section 9(4) of the Senior Courts Act 1981, for a single fixed four-year term.

01 November 2019

Two members of Chambers have been nominated for recognition in this year's Advocate Bar Pro Bono Awards.

Janet Bazley QC, one of our joint Heads of Chambers, and Katherine Dunseath have been nominated for Pro Bono QC of the Year and for Junior Pro Bono Barrister of the Year, respectively.

31 October 2019

Deirdre Fottrell QC named Family Silk of the Year 2019

Chambers congratulates Deirdre Fottrell QC on her recognition as Family Silk of the Year 2019 by Chambers and Partners UK. The award was announced at the Chambers UK Bar Awards on 31st Oct 2019.

31 October 2019

Financial Provision: Privy Council to deliver judgment in C v C

Family Law Week has reported that the Privy Council will promulgate its judgment in the cases of C v C on Thursday, 31 October 2019.

18 October 2019

1GC Family Law welcomes Ruth Henke QC as a Door Tenant

Chambers is delighted to announce that Ruth Henke QC, who practices mainly from 30 Park Place, Cardiff, has joined Chambers as a door tenant.

11 October 2019

Chambers UK 2020

1GC Family Law is proud to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2020 edition of Chambers UK across three practice areas. Our skills in Family: Children, Family: Matrimonial Finance and Court of Protection: Health and Welfare are recognised, with many individual silks and juniors listed.

03 October 2019

The Legal 500 2020

1GC|Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2020 edition of Legal 500.

10 September 2019

Recorders’ appointments

We are delighted to announce that Michael Liebrecht, Julien Foster and Matthew Fletcher have been appointed as Recorders with effect from 16th September 2019, all assigned to the South-Eastern Circuit.

04 September 2019

Andrew Norton QC appointed as Deputy High Court Judge

It is with great pleasure that we announce that Andrew Norton QC has been appointed as a Deputy High Court Judge, pursuant to s9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981.

02 September 2019

Family Law Awards 2019 Shortlist Announced

We are delighted to announce that Chambers and eight of our members have been shortlisted for the prestigious Family Law Awards.

08 July 2019

Elpha LeCointe joins Chambers

1GC Family Law is delighted to announce that Elpha LeCointe will join Chambers with immediate effect.

08 July 2019

Susan George joins Chambers

We are pleased to welcome back Susan George to 1GC Family Law.

03 June 2019

1GC|Family Law welcomes Elisabeth Andrews as a tenant of Chambers

1GC Family Law welcomes Elisabeth Andrews as a tenant of Chambers, effective on 1 June 2019, following successful completion of her third six pupillage.

28 May 2019

Sam Momtaz QC appointed as the QC member on the Family Justice Council

16 May 2019

“When Parents Split” by BBC Radio 4

Francesca Wiley QC appeared on BBC Radio 4 with host Philippa Perry discussing the increasingly recognised phenomenon of Parental Alienation, the psychological manipulation of children during divorce.

02 May 2019

A New York Legal Education

Oliver Woolley has recently returned to Chambers after spending the last eighteen months living and working in New York City and has written this short blog upon his return.

09 April 2019

“Challenging a TR1 express declaration of trust: setting the record straight”

This month’s edition of the Family Law Journal includes an article which is significant for those whose practice includes advising cohabitees. Written by Elizabeth Darlington, door tenant at 1GC|Family Law, and Chris Bevan, Associate Professor in Property Law at Nottingham University.

01 April 2019

CM v CM [2019] EWFC 16

Mr Justice Moor commends the use of arbitration to decide the wording of a letter of instruction to an expert and similar issues.

25 March 2019

Elizabeth Hartnett has been appointed as Deputy District Judge

We are delighted to announce that Elizabeth Hartnett has been appointed as Deputy District Judge.

19 March 2019

Court of Protection Bar Association

We are delighted to announce that Andrew Bagchi QC and Malcolm Chisholm will be serving on the committee of the newly formed Court of Protection Bar Association.

14 March 2019

Re ST (A Child) (Surrogacy: Iran) [2018] EWHC 3439

Tom Wilson appeared on behalf of the applicants in the first known case involving an Iranian surrogacy arrangement. Newton J granted the parental order and his judgment has now been published.

25 February 2019

Michael Liebrecht Appointment

We are delighted to announce that Michael Liebrecht has accepted an appointment as of 25 January to sit part-time in the First Tier Tribunal, HESC, allocated to the Special Educational Needs Tribunal.

29 January 2019

Case management and FPR 2010, PD 12J (A v C)

Olivia Magennis considers the decision in A v C and the application of Family Procedure Rules 2010 (FPR 2010), Practice Direction 12J (PD 12J) to interim contact decisions in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse.

24 January 2019

Pupillage Open Evening

Thursday 24th January 2019
6.00pm - 8.00pm
At 1GC| Family Law, 10 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3BP

09 January 2019

Chambers Director

We are delighted to announce the appointment of a new Chambers Director, Marie-Christine Willis, with effect from 7 January 2019.

08 January 2019

Order in Court

Julien Foster examines good practice, bad practice and the pitfalls when it comes to local authorities and public law children proceedings.

04 December 2018

Legal 500 UK Awards 2019

Chambers is delighted that 1GClFamily Law has been shortlisted in three categories at the Legal 500 UK Awards 2019.

29 November 2018

Clerking Team of the Year

We are delighted to announce that the 1GClFamily Law clerking team was awarded the accolade “Clerking Team of the Year” at the 2018 Family Law Awards.

12 November 2018

The Future of the Family Division: a discussion between Sir James Munby and Sir Andrew McFarlane

Blog post by 1GC|Family Law pupil Natalie York after attending the recent breakfast seminar held by the Personal Support Unit.

01 November 2018

Chambers UK 2019

1GC|Family Law is proud to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2019 edition of Chambers UK across three practice areas. Our skills in Family: Children, Family: Matrimonial Finance and Court of Protection: Health and Welfare are recognised, with many individual silks and juniors listed.

30 October 2018

The Legal 500 2019

1GC|Family Law is pleased to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2019 edition of Legal 500, with our skills in all forms of children work being highlighted and also our expertise in Family Law (Divorce and Financial Remedy) as well as modern families, Court of Protection and Community Care being recognised, with many individual members being ranked.

25 October 2018

Advocate Bar Pro Bono QC of the Year

We are thrilled to announce that Deirdre Fottrell QC won the “Advocate Bar Pro Bono QC” of the year award at last night’s annual awards.

16 October 2018

Bar Pro Bono Awards 2018

We are proud to announce that 1GC|Family Law has been shortlisted in 3 categories in this year's Bar Pro Bono Awards.

01 October 2018

1GC Family Law clerking team praised for client service

Chambers & Partners have recognised the clerking team at 1GC Family Law for their client service. Senior Clerk Paul Harris and First Junior Clerk, David Mcdonald, are particularly highly praised.

06 September 2018

The Chambers Bar Awards 2018

We are pleased to announce that 1GC|Family Law have been shortlisted in 2 categories in this years’ Chambers Bar Awards.

03 September 2018

Welcome to our new pupils

All at 1GC Family Law would like to welcome our new pupils, William Vaudry and Natalie York.

03 September 2018

Lucy Maxwell and Anna Lavelle

1GC|Family Law welcome Lucy Maxwell and Anna Lavelle as tenants of Chambers following successful completion of their pupillage.

03 September 2018

1GC|Family Law shortlisted for “Clerking Team of the Year”

We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted for “Clerking Team of the Year” at the 2018 Family Law Awards.

31 August 2018

‘Lawyers behind the cases’

Elizabeth Darlington, along with 7 other leading land law barristers have helped produce a series of videos that explore their involvment in recent seminal land law cases.

26 July 2018

Infected Blood Inquiry

Chambers is delighted to announce that Marlene Cayoun has been appointed as junior counsel to the Infected Blood Inquiry.

09 July 2018

Families Need Fathers Annual Conference

On the 25th June Francesca Wiley QC chaired the AGM for Families Need Fathers.

03 July 2018

Junior Clerk Vacancy

Following a period of expansion, during which time Chambers has grown to over 81 members including 11 silks, an additional Junior Clerking post has been created in order to assist the Clerks’ Room.

29 June 2018

The inquest into the death of Alexander Monson in Kenya returned a verdict of unlawful killing

Francesca Wiley QC and Iain Daniels from Ely Place have assisted the family in Kenya for the last 3 years of proceedings.

21 June 2018

Katherine Dunseath joins Chambers

1GC|Family Law is delighted to announce that Katherine Dunseath has accepted an offer of tenancy.

24 May 2018

Oliver Woolley writes from New York

Towards the end of last year, Oliver travelled to New York City, taking time away from Chambers, with the goal of being able to gain exposure to the workings and functioning of a US family law system...

09 May 2018

1GC|Family Law is delighted to announce that Fareha Choudhury has accepted an offer of tenancy.

Fareha was called in 1995 and her practice encompasses all areas of Family Law...

02 May 2018

Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards 2018

Alev Giz has been shortlisted as a finalist for “Legal Aid Barrister of the year” at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards 2018.

11 April 2018

Chambers welcomes Helen Jefferson, Andrew Venables and David McDonald.

We are delighted to welcome Helen Jefferson and Andrew Venables, former members of Hind Court to 1GC|Family Law. We also welcome David McDonald, who joins us as 1st Junior Clerk.

28 February 2018

1GC|Family Law is delighted to announce that Helen Jefferson and Andrew Venables will be joining Chambers in April

Helen was called in 2000 and her practice encompasses all areas of Family Law with a particular emphasis on Matrimonial Finance...

28 February 2018

Melissa Elsworth and Annabel Barrons

1GC|Family Law welcome Melissa Elsworth and Annabel Barrons as tenants of Chambers, effective from 1 March 2018...

23 February 2018

Susan Jacklin QC appointed a Circuit Judge

Chambers is delighted to congratulate Susan Jacklin QC on her appointment to the Circuit Bench...

14 February 2018

Williams V LB of Hackney

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Louise MacLynn are at the Supreme Court today in the case of Williams v LB of Hackney for the Appellants...

01 February 2018

Sharia Law Review

The independent review into the application of sharia law in England and Wales has been published today. The review was chaired by Professor Mona Siddiqui, who was supported by a panel of experts including Sam Momtaz QC.

22 January 2018

Y and Z v W and X [2017] EWFC 60

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Eleri Jones appeared for the successful applicant in a new decision about domicile in respect of international surrogacy applications.

15 January 2018

Special Advocate Panel

We are delighted that both Louise MacLynn and Gemma Kelly have been appointed to the Attorney General’s Special Advocate Panel.

21 December 2017

Ian Bugg appointed as a Circuit Judge

Chambers congratulates Ian Bugg on his appointment to the Circuit Bench. Ian has been a highly valued member of these Chambers over his 11 Years here and has contributed much to the life and work of Chambers, including, for several years, as our Treasurer.

05 December 2017

The Legal 500 2018 Awards – Set of the Year!

Chambers is delighted to have been awarded Family and Children Set of the Year at the Legal 500 2018 Awards.

29 November 2017

The Legal 500 UK 2018 awards

1 Garden Court are proud to announce we been shortlisted for The Legal 500 UK 2018 awards with the following nominations:

03 November 2017

Chambers and Partners UK 2018

1 Garden Court are delighted to announce that we have been ranked as a Leading Set in the 2018 edition of Chambers and Partners UK with 23 individual Members of Chambers being listed.

01 November 2017

Francesca Wiley QC and Andrew Norton QC have qualified as accredited Arbitrators

Chambers is delighted to announce that Fran Wiley QC and Andrew Norton QC have qualified as accredited Arbitrators.

11 October 2017

Legal 500 2017

Chambers is delighted to announce that we are again ranked as a leading set in the 2017 edition of Legal 500, with our skills in all forms of children work being highlighted but also our expertise in Family Law (Divorce and Financial Remedy) as well as Court of Protection and Community Care being recognised, with many individual members being ranked.

02 October 2017

1 Garden Court are delighted to welcome Annabel Barrons and Melissa Elsworth as third six pupils.

Annabel has joined Chambers from 29 Bedford Row and Melissa from QEB.

28 September 2017

1 Garden Court is delighted to announce that Elizabeth Hartnett, Steven Ashworth and Sophie Prolingheuer are joining chambers.

Elizabeth was called in 2005 and is an established Family Finance specialist who represents clients in applications for Financial Remedies on divorce, Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989 and TOLATA claims.

14 September 2017

MBE Private Children Law Conference 2017

Andrew Bagchi QC and Frances Orchover were delighted to join a panel of highly experienced experts in Family Law at the MBE Private Children Law Conference 2017, examining a wide range of important and topical issues in relation to private law children work.

04 September 2017

Family Law Awards Nominations

We are delighted to announce the following nominations for the 2017 Family Law Awards; Janet Bazley QC for Family Law QC of the Year and Tom Wilson for Family Law Young Barrister of the Year.

29 June 2017

1GC is moving

Chambers is delighted to announce that in early 2018 we will be moving to exceptional modern, spacious and bespoke premises at 10-11 Lincoln’s Inn Fields.

23 May 2017

Nkumbe Ekaney QC appointed as Deputy High Court Judge

Chambers is delighted that Nkumbe Ekaney QC has been appointed as a Deputy High Court Judge.

03 May 2017

F v M & Others [2017] EWHC 949 (Fam)

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Tom Wilson appeared pro bono on behalf of the Applicant, instructed by Goodman Ray solicitors who also acted pro bono. Andrew Norton QC appeared on behalf of the Secretary of State for the Home Department.

07 April 2017

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Richard Jones Re M [2017] EWCA Civ 228

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Richard Jones in the first case where surrogate retains child.

28 March 2017

Laura Briggs Joins Chambers

Chambers is delighted to announce that Laura Briggs has accepted an offer of tenancy.

24 March 2017

Financial remedy update: latest article from Christopher Sharp QC

The article continues Christopher’s regular reviews of the more important recent financial remedy cases, this one covering the period from October 2016 to March 2017.

23 February 2017

In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case K) [2017] EWHC 50 (Fam)

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Thomas Wilson appeared on behalf of the applicant in the case of In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case K) [2017] EWHC 50 (Fam).

22 February 2017

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Marlene Cayoun successful in the Court of Appeal in case concerning habitual residence under the Brussels II Regulation

Deirdre Fottrell QC led Marlene Cayoun and Georgina Rushworth of Coram Chambers in the Court of Appeal in the matter of Re J (A Child) (Finland) (Habitual Residence) [2017] EWCA Civ 80 about the Court's jurisdiction under Brussels IIA (Council Regulation (EC) No 2201/2003).

06 February 2017

Arbitration in Children Cases

Chambers is delighted to announce that Charles Geekie QC & Claire Heppenstall are now accredited Arbitrators.

06 February 2017

Janet Bazley QC – Article on Arbitration in Counsel Magazine

Janet Bazley QC and Gavin Smith of 1 Hare Court have been commissioned to write an article for Counsel Magazine on Arbitration.

03 February 2017

Janet Bazley QC, Sarah Morgan QC and Marlene Cayoun - Re S (A Child) [2017] EWCA Civ 44

Janet Bazley QC, Sarah Morgan QC and Marlene Cayoun appeared in the Court of Appeal case of Re S (A Child) [2017] EWCA Civ 44, a decision relating to findings of fact in a long-running private dispute about a child.

27 January 2017

Article on Costs in Financial Remedy

Mark Ablett, one of our pupil Barristers, has an article on a new approach to Costs in Financial Remedy proceedings published in Family Law Week.

12 January 2017

Sam Momtaz Appointed as Queen’s Counsel

Chambers is delighted to announce the forthcoming appointment of Sam Momtaz as Queen’s Counsel, taking our tally of Silks to 13. The appointment will be effective on 13 February 2017.

23 December 2016

1GC Jordan’s Family Law Chambers of the Year Win

Chambers is delighted to have been awarded the accolade of Family Law Chambers of the Year at the Jordan’s Family Law Awards 2016.

30 November 2016

Deirdre Fottrell QC & Gemma Kelly - N (A Child), Re [2016] EWHC 3085 (Fam)

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Gemma Kelly represented the child in an application before the President for recognition of her adoption in India and an adoption order under the Adoption and Children Act 2002.

17 November 2016

Charles Geekie QC and Gemma Kelly Successful Appeal

Charles Geekie QC and Gemma Kelly successfully appealed on behalf of a local authority in the Court of Appeal in Re W (a child) 2016 EWCA Civ 1140.

06 November 2016

Bar Pro Bono Award 2016 Nomination

Chambers is delighted to announce the nomination of 1 Garden Court's rising barrister Tom Wilson for the selfless and voluntarily Bar Pro Bono Award 2016.

02 November 2016

Chambers & Partners - 1GC Guide

Chambers & Partners' UK Bar ranks and recommends the most outstanding sets and barristers throughout the Bar of England and Wales.

02 November 2016

Chambers & Partners 2017 Rankings

1 Garden Court is proud to be listed and recommended in the Chambers & Partners Guide 2017.

19 October 2016

The Legal 500 Awards Shortlist

1 Garden Court is delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for the 'Family Set of the Year’ and Janet Bazley QC 'Family Silk of the Year' at The Legal 500 Awards 2017.

17 October 2016

Olivia Magennis Joining 1 Garden Court

1 Garden Court is delighted to welcome Olivia Magennis our newest member of chambers. Olivia was called in 2005.

05 October 2016

Tom Wilson appeared pro bono on behalf of the appellant in the case of Re K (A Child) [2016] EWCA Civ 931

Tom Wilson appeared pro bono on behalf of the appellant in the case of Re K (A Child) [2016] EWCA Civ 931.

03 October 2016

1GC Family Law Welcomes Luke Eaton and our New Pupils

We are pleased to announce that Luke Eaton has joined chambers as a tenant after successfully completing his pupillage.

20 September 2016

The 2016 Chambers UK Bar Awards Nominations

Chambers is delighted to announce the nomination of 1 Garden Court's renowned barrister Deirdre Fottrell QC in the Family category for Silk of the Year.

14 September 2016

Legal 500 2016

Chambers is delighted to announce that we have been ranked once again as a leading Children Law set in the 2016 edition of Legal 500 and, furthermore, that our expertise in Family Law (Divorce and Financial Remedy) has been similarly recognised.

13 September 2016

In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case O) [2016] EWHC 2273 (Fam)

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Tom Wilson appeared on behalf of the child in the case of In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case O) [2016] EWHC 2273 (Fam).

12 September 2016

In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case L) [2016] EWHC 2266 (Fam)

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Tom Wilson appeared on behalf of the applicant, Sarah Morgan QC and Lucy Sprinz acted on behalf of the respondent and Charles Geekie QC and Sharon Segal appeared on behalf of the children's guardian in the case of In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case L) [2016] EWHC 2266 (Fam).

01 September 2016

Chambers’ Success in Nominations for the Jordan’s Family Law Awards 2016

We are delighted that our barristers, Deirdre Fottrell QC and Sharon Segal have been shortlisted in the Family Law QC and Family Law Junior categories respectively in this years Jordan’s Family Law Awards and Chambers has been shortlisted for the award of Family Law Chambers of the Year.

01 August 2016

Family Finance Arbitration – Claire Heppenstall accredited arbitrator

Chambers is delighted to announce that Claire Heppenstall is now an accredited Family Finance Arbitrator.

20 July 2016

Darren Howe QC appointed as a Deputy High Court Judge

It is with great pleasure that we announce that Darren Howe QC has been appointed as a Deputy High Court Judge, pursuant to s9(1) of the Senior Courts Act 1981.

18 July 2016

Arbitration in Children Cases – Janet Bazley QC and Gilly Stanley are accredited arbitrators

1 GC is delighted to celebrate the launch, on 18 July 2016, of IFLA’s Scheme for Arbitration in Children Cases.

01 July 2016

Nkumbe Ekaney QC Joins Chambers

Chambers is delighted to announce that Nkumbe Ekaney QC, previously a door tenant, has accepted an offer of full tenancy.

30 June 2016

Z (surrogacy agreements: Child arrangment orders) [2016] EWFC 34 (30 June 2016)

Landmark surrogacy case where Ms Justice Russell granted the surrogate mother the the care of the young child (Z) with the biological father and his same sex partner being granted contact every 8 weeks for the next 2 years.

27 June 2016

Jessica Lee Joins Chambers

Chambers is very pleased to announce that Jessica Lee has accepted an offer of tenancy.

22 June 2016

KB and RJ v RT [2016] EWHC 760

Deirdre Fottrell QC acted for the commissioning parents in the case of KB and RJ v RT [2016] EWHC 760

26 May 2016

Independent Review Panel on Sharia Law

1 Garden Court would like to congratulate Sam Momtaz for being appointed on to the Independent Review Panel on Sharia Law launched today by the Home Secretary, Theresa May MP.

13 April 2016

The problem of litigants in person and vulnerable witnesses

Keep an eye out for Tom Wilson's article in the April edition of Family Law.

06 April 2016

In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case G) [2016] EWHC 729 (Fam)

Deirdre Fottrell QC and Lucy Sprinz appeared on behalf of the applicant parent and Janet Bazley QC and Sharon Segal appeared on behalf of the children's guardian in the case of In the Matter of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 (Case G) [2016] EWHC 729 (Fam)

25 February 2016

DB v DLJ [2016] EWHC 324 (Fam)- Mostyn J on 24 February 2016

Jeni Kavanagh acted as junior counsel in this significant case which considers the link between the Family Law Arbitration Scheme and the Arbitration Act 1996 and how that Statute fits in with s25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 and the Agreement cases in family law.

27 January 2016