Kirsten Japp

Kirsten is regularly instructed in complex private law matters including in long-running cases involving parental alienation, implacable hostility and where there are allegations of coercive and controlling behaviour. Kirsten is often instructed to represent clients at difficult and lengthy fact-finding hearings where there are serious allegations and at hearings involving intractable contact disputes where pragmatic and robust approach is required. Kirsten also represents r16.4 Guardians.

Kirsten appears in the High Court in child abduction matters and represents parents in applications for leave to remove (domestic and international). Kirsten has experience in dealing with applications under the Inherent Jurisdiction and her most recent High Court experience involved an application for summary return under the IJ.

Acting for parents, Guardians and Local Authorities, Kirsten is often instructed to represent clients at urgent hearings including contested EPOs and ICOs, through to final hearings. She has a particular focus on parent and Guardian work and often represents parents with complex needs including clients with substance misuse issues, learning difficulties and poor mental health.

Kirsten has acted in cases involving the Official Solicitor, cases with an international element and cases where Secure Accommodation Orders have been made. She is developing a strong practice in care proceedings and has represented clients in both the County Court and the High Court as well as in more complicated cases involving applications under the inherent jurisdiction. Kirsten accepts instructions in cases which are allocated to the Family Drug and Alcohol Court.

Kirsten appears at both without notice and on notice hearings for both non-molestation and occupation orders. She has acted successfully for both Applicants and Respondents through to the final hearing including in cases where Family Law Act and Children Act matters overlap.

Kirsten accepts work from lay clients via Direct Access. You can view her profile here.