The education team at Russell-Cooke LLP has in-depth experience in representing parents, children and young people in education matters such as disability discrimination, SEND tribunal appeals, judicial review challenges, and school exclusions. Two partners lead the practice: Eva Akins, who specialises in advising on discrimination cases, and Sarah Richardson, who heads the children’s law department. Lenka Wall has extensive experience in EHC plan disputes and specialist school placements, while Erin Smart has a broad practice and advises on a wide range of issues in the sector. Douglas Hamer, noted for his focus on disputes related to Education, Health and Care plans, recently joined the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘As education specialists, the team provides support across a wide range of potential issues in education - appreciating that challenges faced by clients in the education sector are unique.'
‘Erin Smart is a first-rate lawyer - pragmatic, knowledgeable, efficient, and responsive. Her approach is focused and results-driven, and strategically seeks to manage a matter for the right outcome.'
‘Eva Akins is very kind, empathetic and understood exactly how to approach the problem I was facing. Her support and legal expertise have been invaluable in achieving the outcome I was looking for.’
‘We have instructed Russell-Cooke to assist us with securing and then enforcing an EHC plan for our son. We have found the team to be responsive, efficient and supportive, with a very pragmatic attitude. They are knowledgeable and effective. They have saved our sanity on numerous occasions.’
‘Wonderful team, excellent at SEND and disability discrimination matters.’
‘Eva Akins is SO sharp and a vastly experienced litigator. A true street fighter in criminal defence turned firecracker in the SEND Tribunal. An absolute force! Lenka Wall is a dream to work with. Vastly experienced in SEND matters, kind, dedicated, organised and pragmatic- everything you could want in a solicitor.’
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Eva Akins; Sarah Richardson
Other key lawyers
Lenka Wall; Erin Smart; Douglas Hamer