Angus is a member of the Dere Street Family Law Team and is happy to accept instructions on behalf of Local Authorities, Parents, Children / Guardians and extended Family Members.
He has gained extensive experience from previous roles having served as a soldier in the Royal Marines, a Police Officer in Northumbria Police and as in-house counsel within two North-Eastern Local Authorities.
Angus was originally a member of our Criminal Team where he regularly dealt with cases of child abuse / neglect, domestic assaults and sexual offences involving children. As a result, he has acquired a wide knowledge of the criminal sentencing regime and its relevance to Family Law Proceedings.
Areas of Practice
- Public Law – Children (Care proceedings including interim, directions, finding of fact and final hearings)
- Private Law – Children (including Child Arrangements, Specific Issues and Prohibited Steps Orders)
- Domestic Violence – (preventative measures including Non-Molestation / Restraining Orders)
- Public Interest Immunity – (disclosure of education, medical and social services documentation)
Education / SEN Law
Angus is a fully trained Clerk to the Independent Admissions Appeal Panel regarding the refusal of school places.
He also clerks and advises Independent Review Panels dealing with children who have been permanently excluded from school.
As a result, Angus is able to provide clerking services and training to both Local Authorities and Academy Trusts where required.
Angus also has experience of appearing before the First Tier Tribunal in Special Educational Needs matters regarding EHC plans.
Reported Cases
DP -v- South Tyneside NHS Trust & South Tyneside Council (2011) Admin Court 14/7/11. Application for a Writ of Habeas Corpus refused in circumstances where it was not practicable to contact a nearest relative under the Mental Health Act 1983.
Qualifications
LL. B (Hon’s) 2:1 Northumbria University
LPC (commendation) Northumbria University
Admitted Solicitor (2007)
Accredited Police Station Representative
BSB Authorised to Conduct Litigation
Professional Associations
Family Law Bar Association
North Eastern Circuit
Lincolns Inn
Personal
Angus is a seasoned traveller and has visited 21 different countries outside the UK. He is a regular squash player and in his spare time likes to keep fit. Angus is an avid follower of Non-League football but also takes a keen interest in the misfortunes of the “Magpies” at Newcastle United!
