AREAS OF PRACTICE

Family Law
Criminal Law

PARTICULAR SPECIALISMS/AREAS OF INTEREST

Frances is Head of Chambers at 36 Bedford Row, London, a Deputy High Court Judge (Family Division), Crown Court Recorder and a Bencher at Gray's Inn. Former Leader of the Midland Circuit 2002-2005. Chambers and Partners 2010 cited her as a Leading Silk in Criminal Law, London.

Frances is regularly instructed in high profile cases and has substantial experience in Family Law and is regularly instructed by Local Authorities, Parents and Guardian-ad-litem. Her Criminal practice includes all aspects of serious crime particularly murder, manslaughter, sex offences, armed robbery and drug related offences. Many cases involve complex medical and scientific issues, and mental health issues. In the Family Division she appears in substantial matters and has extensive experience of cases involving S.I.D.S; factitious illness syndrome and sexual abuse

Notable Cases:

Regina v Karen Matthews  - High Profile Child Abduction case of own daughter (Shannon) -  Defence.

Calderdale MBC-v-Adams - appeared for Mother in care proceedings re: alleged drowning of first baby and later scalding in bath and death of second baby. Led Taryn Lee.

Northampton CC-v-Harrison - instructed by Local Authority in care proceedings to determine whether father deliberately or recklessly caused child's fatal injuries. Expert ophthalmology evidence given re: sever trauma to eyes.

R - v- Driza - Defence of Brazilian cleaner charged with blackmail of two judges at the Old Bailey

D.P.P - v - Collins - Instructed by Respondent to appear in the House of Lords re: Whether in deciding if a message is grossly offensive the intention of the sender and the reaction of the recipient is relevant.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Resides: Leicestershire

Married, two children, three stepchildren

Interests include sailing, theatre and medieval history

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS / APPOINTMENTS

Family Law Bar Association
Criminal Bar Association
Deputy High Court Judge (Family Division) Queen's Counsel 1994
Assistant Recorder 1991