1 Crown Office Row is in a strong position to offer family and children arbitration, and the group is highly capable across private and public law work, including wardship and inherent jurisdiction matters, as well as fertility law and LGBT co-parenting matters. It is also praised as ‘go-to chambers for Children Act proceedings’. The set is home to Timothy Bergin, who represents children, local authorities, and parents, and his practice encompasses both pubic and private law proceedings, with ‘a wealth of expertise in relation to care work’. ‘Strong and robust advocate’ Eleanor Battie is notable for her proficiencies in public law cases where there is conflicting medical evidence, and on the private law side, she is well-equipped to handle mandates with international elements. Clare Ciborowska demonstrates expertise in non-accidental injuries and fabricated and induced illnesses in children cases, while the ‘compassionate’ Kirsten Japp is particularly adept in the private family law arena. Adam Smith has experience in advising on cases involving allegations of serious and fatal injuries to children. Sarah Taite joined the team in September 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Phone
01273 625625
Email
Profile

Profile

Position

Eleanor has been specialising in family law since 2004. She has a wide ranging practice and is instructed in both private and public law matters in all tiers of the family court.

Eleanor has a predominantly private law practice and, in particular, represents parties in high conflict cases. Eleanor has represented many parents in complex proceedings, which may also involve fact-finding hearings concerning allegations of domestic abuse or harm of the child and those where parental alienation has been alleged.

Eleanor also represents children both in public and private law proceedings.

Eleanor accepts instructions on a public access basis.

Career

Call: 2004, Lincoln’s Inn.

Memberships
Sussex FJB (Private Law); Sussex FLBA (Secretary); Brighton & Hove City Council Safeguarding Adults Board (lay member 2017 – 2018)
Education

Hurtwood House; Leeds University (2002 2(1) English Literature); College of Law (2004 CPE commendation; Bar very competent).

Content supplied by 1 Crown Office Row Brighton

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Eleanor is always well prepared with thorough knowledge of the papers. Up-to-date in recent case law and a strong and robust advocate.’