Kate Hughes KC
‘Kate is a phenomenal practitioner and advocate. She is unflappable.’
9 Park Place is a go-to set for public children law proceedings, including those surrounding care, adoption, wardship, and special guardianship. Kate Hughes KC is a key silk at the set, and her practice is predominately centred around South Wales. Rhian Kirby is highly sought after for her expertise in care proceedings and representing local authorities, parents, guardians, and children. She also receives instructions from the Official Solicitor on behalf of adults with cognitive difficulties. Family law specialist David Gareth Evans handles complex private children law applications concerning sexual abuse, domestic violence, and internal and international relocation. Kayleigh Simmons is also of note for her strong capabilities in handling paediatric medical evidence and experts.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'James Watson and Lee Fifield are always able to answer any queries promptly.'
- 'The clerks at 9 Park Place chambers are proactive, personable, and highly responsive, making collaboration seamless even in time-sensitive situations.'
- 'The clerks are excellent and cannot do enough to assist.'
- 'The family clerks are helpful and accommodating.'
- '9 Park Place is the premier set for family work in South Wales. They have considerable strength in depth in all areas.'
- 'A very strong set for all family matters.'
Lawyers
Leading Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
Rhian Kirby
‘She prepares all of her cases with exceptional care, diligence and thoroughness. She undertakes her work with a passion, and holds her own against silks.’
James Lewis
‘James puts a client completely at ease within seconds. He is calm, warm and incredibly supportive, and robust, persuasive and thorough in court. His cross-examination is a masterclass.’
William Seagrim
‘William’s use and knowledge of the law in the area of Children Law proceedings is exceptional. He has a persuasive and respectful manner and an ability to put both his client and the court at ease in respect of whatever point he is making or addressing.’
Kelly Chamberlain
David Gareth Evans
‘He is extremely responsive and communicative, and is very popular with clients who warm to his friendly approach and straightforward and clear advice.’
Joseff Morgan
‘A thorough and tenacious junior.’
Dafydd Paxton
Angela Ricciardi
Kayleigh Simmons
‘Kayleigh stands out not only for her legal acumen but for the quiet strength she brings to every case. Her presence in the courtroom is one of composed authority, never overstated, always assured, allowing her to advocate with both clarity and impact.’