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A Family Law Solicitor and High Court Advocate, Clare specialises in children law, domestic abuse, and safeguarding cases.
She regularly represents clients in serious and sensitive proceedings, including private and public law children matters, non-molestation orders, allegations of domestic and sexual abuse, and coercive and controlling behaviour. She also advises on cases involving drug or alcohol issues within the family, as well as jurisdictional matters where cases involve an international element.
Her recent representation in the High Court case of Lancashire County Council v M & Ors [2023] EWFC 30 (24th March 2023) exemplifies her exceptional skills and competence.
She is Children Law Accredited (April 2024) and a member of Resolution, the organisation for family lawyers committed to resolving disputes constructively.
Practice Areas
Practice Areas
Private Law Children
Public Law Children
Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Divorce
Financial Matters
Change of Name
Background & Qualifications
Clare has worked in family law since 2007 and was head of the family law department at a busy Blackpool firm before joining Scott-Moncrieff & Associates in 2013. She completed her legal education at the University of Central Lancashire and qualified as a High Court Advocate (Civil Proceedings) in December 2015.
Before training as a solicitor, Clare worked for the NHS Pension Scheme, where she gained early experience dealing with pensions on divorce.
Family law and children law expertise
Clare possesses a diverse range of expertise in family law matters. She specialises in children’s law proceedings, navigating complex cases involving child custody, child protection, and child arrangements.
Clare’s compassionate and empathetic approach allows her to handle emotionally charged situations with care and sensitivity.
Her extensive knowledge of the legal framework, combined with her strategic thinking, ensures that her clients’ best interests are always at the forefront.
Domestic abuse and non-molestation orders
In addition to her work with children, Clare is highly experienced in cases involving domestic violence and abuse. She has undertaken complex cases involving serious/life-threatening non-accidental injury cases and sexual harm.
She adeptly handles matters related to domestic violence, providing legal protection and support for victims. Clare is well-versed in the legal mechanisms surrounding non-molestation orders and restraining orders. She utilises her expertise to secure the safety and well-being of her clients.
Drug and alcohol issues in children cases
Clare has a deep understanding of issues surrounding drug and alcohol abuse within the context of family law. She assists clients in navigating the complexities of these cases, ensuring appropriate measures are taken to protect the welfare of affected family members, particularly children.
Combining detailed legal knowledge with close collaboration across relevant professionals, Clare provides her clients with clear, practical support.
Coercive control and safeguarding concerns
Clare recognises the importance of addressing the psychological and emotional impact on victims in cases involving coercive and controlling behaviour. She strives to empower her clients to break free from abusive relationships and guides them through the legal process with compassion.
Additionally, Clare has experience in cases related to sexual abuse, physical abuse, and the abuse of children. She has represented clients in findings of fact hearings, including where children have given evidence in proceedings.
Jurisdictional issues in family law
Jurisdictional issues can pose complex challenges in family law cases, especially in cases involving international elements. Clare has the knowledge and experience to navigate these intricate jurisdictional matters. She ensures that her clients’ cases are effectively presented and pursued in the appropriate legal forums.
Clare’s approach
Clare takes a client-centred approach, providing clear and practical advice so that clients can make informed decisions during what is often a difficult time. She is known for her careful preparation and calm, steady representation in sensitive and high-stakes cases. Her objective is to provide clear and practical advice, enabling her clients to make informed decisions that align with the best interests of their families. She upholds the highest ethical standards and believes in the principles of justice and fairness.
Clare Charnley is an accomplished and compassionate Family Law Solicitor and High Courts Advocate, specialising in a wide range of family law matters. Her extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and commitment to her clients set her apart as an exceptional advocate within the field of family law.
