Lisa Stephens

Areas of Practice

Lisa has a well-developed and busy family practice and regularly appears before senior courts on complex cases. She has significant experience dealing with cases with an international element and has been led by leading counsel on cases where jurisdiction has been contested.

Lisa regularly represents local authorities, parents and guardians in public law cases from the first hearing through to the final hearing. She also has experience on non-accidental injury cases, including undertaking fact finding hearings in shaken baby cases. In addition to this, she has significant experience in private children matters, including those involving vulnerable parents, domestic abuse, parental alienation and 16.4 Guardians.

As well as Children Act proceedings, Lisa has a strong practice in family finance and is able to advise on all aspects of financial settlement. She also regularly receives instructions on Family Law Act applications including on injunctions and occupation orders.

Background

Prior to commencing pupillage, Lisa gained considerable experience within a reputable firm of specialist criminal solicitors operating in the Dorset area. She provided assistance on a number of complex cases that included matters of white collar crime and serious violent and sexual offences, including against minors. She maintained her own caseload and gained particular experience of handling cases involving offences against children.

Lisa’s experience has been enhanced through her work volunteering in prisons on a programme aimed at the rehabilitation of inmates, particularly vulnerable adults and juveniles; encouraging them to seek employment when released and providing career advice. She also worked with experts, helping to prepare them for court through mock trials. She is also dedicated to cases involving human rights and is a passionate supporter of Amnesty International.