Fergal Allen

Fergal is a capable lawyer and talented advocate with a busy practice that is focused exclusively upon proceedings relating to children.

He primarily accepts instructions in long running and complex final and fact finding hearings. He has experience acting in the High Court and Court of Appeal. The complexity of the work he does is evidenced by the fact he is frequently led by silks and has occasionally appeared against them, acting alone.

Recent instructions consist of complex matters concerning allegations of inflicted or non accidental injury, factitious illness and sexual abuse. Fergal is experienced in reviewing and challenging evidence from experts across a range of disciplines.

Fergal is adept at representing all parties to proceedings. He has excellent communication skills and has a calm and reassuring manner. His client care inspires confidence.

Local authorities value Fergal’s careful preparation, drafting skills and clear advice.

Fergal is particularly sought after for the representation of vulnerable lay parties who require the assistance of advocates and intermediaries. He is known for his clear communication style and patient manner, which is popular with clients.

Fergal is regularly trusted to represent Children’s Guardians, usually where there is some complexity or the issues are contentious. He prides himself on dealing with such matters robustly, remaining focused at all times upon achieving the best outcome for the children.

Practical training and legal seminars are delivered for solicitors and professionals on request.

Fergal is the senior family team representative on Chambers’ Management Committee and a recent pupil supervisor.

The following are some examples of cases in which Fergal has recently been instructed:

Re T-Manchester

10 day fact finding hearing before Hayden J, led by Timothy Bowe KC.

Junior counsel for intervenor in proceedings concerning infant presenting with skull fractures and subdural bleeding.

Re F-Liverpool

32 day composite final hearing, led by Timothy Bowe KC.

Junior counsel for mother with learning disability in complex care and placement proceedings.

Re S-Chester

15 day composite final hearing

Counsel for father with learning disability in multi issue care and placement proceedings concerning inflicted injuries to newborn baby.

 Re L-Chester

8 day composite final hearing , led by Liz Isaacs KC.

Junior counsel for the local authority in care and placement proceedings involving multiple inflicted injuries to twin siblings.

Re G-Liverpool

5 day finding of fact hearing

Counsel for the father in care proceedings. Successfully resisted finding of sexually motivated grooming of 10 year old daughter.