Back to rankings
England - Regional Bar • Northern Circuit
1

Family: children and domestic abuse

Kate Burnell KC

Kate Burnell KC

More information
St John’s Buildings logo

St John’s Buildings

St John’s Buildings is a preeminent family law set with ‘excellent strength in depth’. Frances Heaton KC is praised as ‘tactically astute’ and is sought after by a multitude of clients in complicated public law children proceedings, including local authorities and intervenors, parents and grandparents, and children; her cases encompasses the murder of children and serious injuries, allegations of significant sexual abuse and exploitation, and contested adoption proceedings. Court of Protection specialist Joseph O’Brien KC boasts reputable expertise in complex fact finding hearings surrounding public law children cases involving medical evidence. Kate Burnell KC boasts ‘a great reputation in family justice’ and harnesses her extensive experience in both private and public children law to handle cases with international elements, as well as those concerning serious and fatal injuries. Lorraine Cavanagh KC predominantly handles public law cases and is especially skilled in proceedings surrounding brain and fatal injuries. Private family law expert Christian Durham Hall joined the set from 15 Winckley Square in October 2024. The set also saw the arrival of assistant senior family clerk Matt Rigby in September 2024. Rachael Banks has left the set.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Phone
0151 243 6000
Email
[email protected]
Profile
stjohnsbuildings.com

Profile

Work Department

Family - Children, Court of Protection

Position

Kate practises solely within Family Law and has specialised in children cases for over 15 years. Her practice involves both public and private law proceedings and she represents local authorities, parents, carers, members of the extended family and children, whether via their Guardians or directly. Kate has extensive experience dealing with vulnerable clients.

Kate has a developing Court of Protection practice covering health and welfare cases and property and affairs. She has a particular interest in deprivation of liberty cases.

Career

Kate read Law of the University of Liverpool before studying for the Bar Vocational Course at the Inns of Court School of Law, London. Kate was awarded a Jules Thorn Major Scholarship by Middle Temple. She was called to the Bar in 1998 by the Honourable Society of Middle Temple. In 2006 Kate was admitted as an Attorney to the New York State Bar.

Content supplied by St John’s Buildings

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Had great dealings with Sarah Philpotts and Sophie Dobson. Great communication and professional prompt responses. Clerks are extremely reliable in urgent situations.'
  • 'Chambers are joy to work with. They are friendly, responsive and professional. Paul Laverty is both friendly and a consummate professional.'
  • 'Sarah Philpotts and Mark Williams are both incredibly approachable and responsive.'
  • 'The clerks are very knowledgeable. Gail Wheelan and Matthew Rigby are rated highly.'
  • 'The clerks are extremely helpful and professional and are always available when needed. Matthew Rigby and Annette Boxall are extremely helpful.'
  • 'The clerks are consistently available for any need and there is consistent correspondence to provide any service which is required. Clare Grundy has ensured she is available for all hearings on the matters she is instructed on.'
  • 'Elisa Clements and David Harrald both offer consistently good service.'