Gabi Chester
Overview
Gabi is a Director of Staffordshire Family Law and an experienced Child Care Solicitor. Gabi joined Staffordshire Family Law in June 2014 after previously working for 12 years at a leading Firm in Shropshire. Having gained admission to the Law Society Children’s Panel in 2011 and maintaining this to date means Gabi is accredited and recognised as a specialist in her field and is therefore able to represent the interests of the child(ren) in Public law proceedings and Private children matters.
Since qualification in 2007 Gabi has worked with the most vulnerable of clients. Prior to specialising solely in family law, Gabi worked in Mental Health Law and represented those detained under the Mental Health Act. Since 2009 Gabi has specialised solely in Children Law matters.
Gabi has always been proud of her choice of areas of law and believes passionately in representing the interests of the vulnerable. Gabi’s background in practice assists her with an understanding of the issues some parents and carers face when the Courts are being asked to look at a family situation and she brings her sensitivity of approach to these issues.
Gabi ensures that where possible, she personally represents her clients and believes that clients need a continuity of support, advice and representation a Court. Gabi will always ensure that the client’s voice is heard in the Court arena and will not shy away from the more contentious arguments. Gabi has a reputation as a robust yet sensitive advocate.
Areas of expertise
Public Law Care Proceedings
Gabi represents the child(ren) directly or via their children’s Guardian having built a solid reputation with local Guardians. Gabi has been engaged in many complex cases of Non Accidental injury, sexual abuse and neglect. Gabi does not shy away from the sensitive areas of children law cases. Gabi has been instructed in both the County Court and High Court. Gabi has taken instruction from the Official Solicitor for clients lacking capacity.
Private Law Children
Gabi represents parents in private law disputes involving parental disputes, parental alienation and relocation disputes including international disputes. This can include issues of with whom the chid(ren) lives, contact with the separated parent, specific issue applications and prohibited steps Orders also issues of Parental Responsibility.
Appointment within 16.4 cases
The Court will appoint a solicitor for the chid in cases of private law dispute where the voice of the child is at risk of being overlooked or lost in adult disputes. Gabi will take instruction from the child’s guardian in such cases.
Representation of extended family members
Gabi can also assist extended family members such as grandparents who sadly also are impacted in matters involving children disputes.
Recognition
Gabi gained her LLB Hons Degree at Keele University. Gabi then completed her LPC at Chester College of Law.
Gabi was admitted to the role of solicitors in 2007.
Gabi experience was recognised being admitted to the Law Society Children Panel in 2011 and having gained re-accreditation since that time.
