Family law
Private Law:
Joanna has a busy family law practice, accepting instructions in private and public law proceedings and has appeared before all levels of Judiciary in the County Court.
Joanna acts in a variety of hearings in relation to applications for Child Arrangement Orders, including FHDRA’s, fact – finding hearings and final hearings. She is regularly instructed in matters which involve domestic abuse and child abuse allegations.
In 2024, Joanna was led by Owen Thomas KC, for the purpose of this hearing they represented a mother who was making allegations of a sexual nature against the Father. Joanna and Owen Thomas KC managed the client carefully and sensitively over the course of many days whilst the Court reached its conclusion in relation to any findings.
Joanna has acted for both Applicants and Respondents including both parents and wider family members, including grandparents.
Joanna has also made and responded to applications for non – molestation and occupation orders.
Public Law:
Joanna represents all parties in respect of public law matters. This includes, the Local Authority, Parents and the Child, through their Guardian. Joanna has dealt with all types of case including, urgent Interim Care Orders, Case Management Hearings, Issue Resolution Hearings and Final Hearings. Many of these hearings require cross examination of both professionals and lay parties. Joanna is used to dealing with sensitive topics and has covered many types of issues, including sexual allegations, domestic violence and child neglect.
In 2024, Joanna appeared before the Court of Appeal as a Junior to Matthew Rees KC. For the purpose of this hearing Mr Rees KC and Joanna represented the father, who was facing allegations of sexual abuse against his child.
Regulatory
Joanna has extensive experience in presenting cases on behalf of the Education Workforce Council. Joanna presents evidence on behalf of the EWC in relation to allegations made against Registered People. These hearings can be Interim Suspension Orders, Case Management and Fitness to Practice Hearings. Joanna has a detailed knowledge of the Code of Conduct and is able to apply the rules to the evidence in a fair and balanced way.
Civil law
Joanna represents both Claimants and Defendants in relation to Small Claims and Fast Track trials including road traffic accidents and personal injury disputes.