3DJB‘s practice is home to ’experts in all aspects of family law‘. Emily Beer is ’tenacious and has the ear of the judge‘, and Katie Williams-Howes is ’brilliant with vulnerable clients, who really warm to her‘; the duo routinely advise on cases concerning allegations of physical and sexual abuse brought against parents. Ben Birtchnell has expertise in handling cases involving jurisdictional issues, and Sandra Fisher is well versed in advising on complex care proceedings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'James Doble is just wonderful. He is so experienced, and has customer service skills that really are second-to-none. He is warm and funny, and will work hard to find the right fit for you and your client. He runs a tight ship but with warmth and it really shows.'
  • 'James Doble is legendary. He understands the individual talent of the barristers and matches them to criteria with honesty and fairness. He ensures all the other clerks follow suit and the approach across the board is uniform.'
  • 'Emily Waller and Catherine Farmiloe are both brilliant. They are organised, will keep on top of the diaries, and generally keep everyone going and on plan.'
  • 'The clerks at 3DJB are a credit to the chambers and deliver a prompt and friendly service. Emily Waller could not be recommended more. She is approachable, friendly, and always keen and able to assist.'
  • 'A friendly and efficient set who go the extra mile.'
  • 'A sound range of advocates.'

Lawyers

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

3
Emily Beer
‘Emily is an exceptional advocate. She is incredibly forensic, and asks questions that really gets to the root of the issues. She is kind and warm, and clients absolutely love her.’
3
Sandra Fisher
‘Sandra is a real asset. She is a very strong advocate, and goes above and beyond for her clients.’
4
Ben Birtchnell
4
Katie Williams-Howes
‘Katie excels in the details in cases - she is incredibly forensic. Her cross-examination is very strong.’
5
Lisa Peacock
‘Lisa is absolutely exceptional with vulnerable clients or clients with additional needs. Her advocacy is lovely and clear, and she is able to take on board clients’ needs in her approach when cross-examining.’
6
Amy Stout
6
Katherine Gittins
Katherine has exceptional attention to detail. She has a calm and reassuring manner with clients, quickly gaining their trust, and in court, her advocacy is measured, focused, and persuasive.’

Rising stars

Rising stars at the Bar are defined as barristers between four and eight years’ call who are seen as up-and-coming members of the Bar in their respective practice areas by clients and peers alike. They will already be instructed in high-profile, complex, and high-value contentious and non-contentious matters, working with and opposite more experienced leading counsel.

1
Elizabeth Wark
‘Elizabeth is a real asset. She is kind, caring, and goes above and beyond for her clients. Her advocacy is extremely strong, and she is able to get to the real root of the issue.’