Payne Hicks Beach LLP’s children practice is headed by the ‘supremely intelligent’ Nick Manners, whose work spans leave to remove, contested child arrangements, and abduction cases, often involving schooling and welfare issues. The ’incredible’ Fiona Shackleton continues to act in complex, high-profile, and confidential children matters involving public interest immunity, allegations of harm, and coercive control. The team also includes Harriet Errington, noted for her international relocation and surrogacy work and for acting in cases involving abuse, parental alienation, and children with additional needs. Other key lawyers include Matthew Booth, Charlotte Skea-Strachan, Camellia Buckmaster, and Katie Parkes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Nick Manners is a very assured lawyer who brings a calm confidence to his advice. He immediately captures the trust of clients. He is a very careful thinker and leads his team from the front. Fiona Shackleton continues to attract high-profile clients to the firm. They know that they will be in good hands. She has an unparalleled ability to give confidence to her clients. Her astute assessment of a case and strategic awareness is sought after and trusted. Katie Parkes is always on top of every detail of her cases. She is a wonderful person to have on your team as she is so dedicated to achieving the best for her clients. Luke Scarratt is definitely a name to watch for the future. He is a very effective and well-informed lawyer.'
‘Ben Parry-Smith is at his best when drawing on his exceptional network of counsel, solicitor colleagues and experts. He heads up his teams on individual cases with charisma and keen intellect.'
Key clients
- Y v Z [2024] EWFC 4
- Prospective Adopters v London Borough of Ealing (1), SK (2), NS (3), and E (by the children’s Guardian AS (4) [2023] EWFC 294
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Practice head
Nick Manners
Other key lawyers
Baroness Shackleton; Harriet Errington; Charlotte Skea-Strachan; Camellia Buckmaster; Katie Parkes; Laura Hallahan; Aoife Devereaux; Evelyn Collins; Rachel Tiffen; Luke Scarratt; Matthew Booth