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 625 625
- Profile
Profile
Position
Sarah is a highly regarded Family Law specialist, regularly instructed in complex and sensitive cases. Prior to being called to the Bar, she qualified in Mental Health Nursing, a background that enables her to work with particularly vulnerable clients with empathy and insight.
Career
Call 2008
Education
- FLBA/ICCA trained in cross examination of vulnerable witnesses
- BA (Hons) first class
- BVC (very competent)
- DipHE (mental health)
Content supplied by 1 Crown Office Row Brighton
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Jamie Thornton is extremely helpful. He responds promptly to enquiries. The clerks as a whole are approachable and great to work with. Jamie has continuously been able to find counsel to represent clients at short notice.'
- '1COR Brighton's clerks room is superb. They look after their clients and provide an exceptional service. They go above and beyond to help. Stand out clerks are Gemma Welling, David Bingham and Ben Earle.'

