Bruce is an experienced Family Lawyer. Since joining Chambers in 2009 Bruce has developed a wide-ranging practice representing all parties in the Family Courts throughout Sussex, Kent, Surrey and London.
Prior to his call to the Bar as a Barrister in 2009 he qualified as a Solicitor in 2002. As a Solicitor Bruce specialised in a wide range of family law issues which included both public and private law cases. He then practiced for 6 years as a Child Protection Lawyer and Advocate Solicitor for a Local Authority on the South Coast, specialising in both public law children act matters and Adult Mental Health cases.
Bruce is very experienced in representing clients with significant difficulties including those with trauma, mental ill-health and addiction. He’s recognised for his calm and compassionate approach to cases and strives to ensure the Court process is as stress free as possible for all his clients whilst also providing realistic, pragmatic and solution focussed advice.
Bruce is very happy to accept instructions from members of the public direct through the Public Access Scheme.
Bruce also regularly offers training for professionals in respect of Children Act matters.
Children (Public Law)In public law proceedings Bruce regularly represents all parties including local authorities, parents, grandparents and Children’s Guardians. He has experience of complex proceedings including fact finding hearings concerning non-accidental injuries, allegations of sexual abuse and in cases requiring the determination of habitual residence and jurisdiction, including transfer pursuant to Article 15 Brussels II Revised. Bruce also has a particular interest and has developed a specialism in Secure Accommodation Proceedings.
Selected Cases
- Edwards v Boparan (2012).
- Bland & Rathbones Bakeries Ltd v Morris & Ministry of Defence [2006] EWCA Civ 56.
In private law proceedings Bruce regularly represents parents and Guardians in applications for Child Arrangements Orders which often involve a high degree of hostility and which requires particular sensitivity. His cases include those with an aspect of family relocation including outside of the jurisdiction of England and Wales.
Bruce also represents all parties in respect of Injunction applications under The Family Law Act 1996 and Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
Bruce has experience in Education Law.
Bruce accepts work from lay clients via Direct Access. You can view his profile on Barrister For Me here.
Brighton University awards the 2014 Crown Office Row Family Law prize - Aug 2014
