Public Law

Alexandra regularly represents parents and local authorities in contested final hearings involving decisions about children's care, placement and long-term arrangements. She has experience of complex proceedings requiring detailed analysis of evidence, careful consideration of care plans and robust challenge to the proposals advanced by the parties.

Recent Cases:

• Represented a local authority in a complex, multi-day final hearing involving contested evidence and long-term placement planning. Care and Placement Orders were made.

High Court and International Children Cases

Alexandra represented a mother at a contested final hearing in the High Court involving international issues. The judgment restricted a Special Guardianship Order to circumstances in which the child would remain in the UK. The local authority and Children's Guardian had recommended special guardianship arrangements either in the UK or internationally.

The case involved complex considerations concerning the child's future placement and the cross-examination of a Turkish legal expert.

Recent Cases:

• Represented a mother in complex High Court proceedings concerning international placement and the operation of a Special Guardianship Order. Successfully advanced the mother’s position on the international issues in the face of opposition from both the local authority and the Children’s Guardian. The hearing involved cross-examination of a Turkish legal expert and resulted in restrictions on the circumstances in which the order could operate.

Fact-Finding and Non-Accidental Injury Cases

Alexandra regularly represents parents and local authorities in fact-finding hearings involving allegations of non-accidental injury. Her experience includes cases involving complex medical evidence, detailed review of documentary and electronic evidence, and the cross-examination of expert witnesses.

Recent Cases:

• Represented a parent in contested fact-finding hearing involving allegations of non-accidental injury. The hearing required detailed analysis of complex medical evidence, competing explanations for the injuries and expert testimony.

Media Law and Reporting Restrictions

Alexandra has experience of court proceedings involving media attendance, including hearings attended by journalists and the consideration of orders restricting or preventing publication. She has knowledge of the issues arising where media interest intersects with family proceedings, including reporting restrictions and the protection of confidential information.

Alongside her legal practice, Alexandra has a professional background in journalism and has worked as an Account Director in crisis communications for an international public relations and public affairs company. This experience gives her an understanding of media dynamics, reputational risk and the demands of communicating complex and sensitive issues in high-pressure situations.

Alexandra is a freelance journalist and podcaster and welcomes opportunities to collaborate on media projects. She is available for media comment within her areas of knowledge and expertise.

Approach to Client Care

Alexandra believes that effective advocacy begins with thorough preparation, clear advice and an understanding of the people at the centre of proceedings. She adopts a sensitive, non-judgemental and professional approach, while remaining robust and strategic in representing her clients' interests.

She places particular importance on building constructive working relationships with instructing solicitors, maintaining clear communication and providing a responsive, reliable and high-quality service throughout proceedings.