Fisher Jones Greenwood LLP (FJG), a prominent law firm in the eastern region, have announced that Rachel Earnshaw, a partner in its family law team, has achieved Children’s Panel re-accreditation for the 16th consecutive time.
The firm says that this milestone achievement ‘not only signifies Rachel’s high level of expertise in children’s law but also reflects her ongoing commitment to children’s advocacy’, enabling her to continue to represent them in complex and sensitive legal cases involving their welfare.
To achieve re-accreditation by the Law Society, every three years Ms Earnshaw has undergone an application process, involving assessments, case studies, references and ongoing professional development.
Ms Earnshaw has specialised in children’s law since she qualified at FJG in 2002. Based in Essex, she now manages the family law team at the firm’s Clacton office and is the only Children’s Panel accredited member in the Tendring District.
Commenting on what influences her to pursue re-accreditation, Ms Earnshaw said: “It enables me to represent children in cases where they are the central concern.
“It is vital that their voices are heard and that they are the focus when decisions are being made. This is especially important in cases involving disputes about where children will live, the amount of time they will spend with their parents following a separation or divorce, and in cases involving social care where children are potentially going to be removed from their families.
“Without accreditation, I couldn’t achieve the best outcomes for children, and that’s what motivates me.
“It is incredibly rewarding to see a child returned to a home where the parents have demonstrated the desire and ability to meet their child’s needs.”
Ms Earnshaw is currently training in Special Educational Needs, as she has identified that children with SEN are under-represented and in need of specialist legal support.
Charlotte Knappett, head of family law at FJG, said: “I have worked alongside Rachel in the family team for almost 20 years, and in that time, she has established a great reputation for ensuring that children’s best interests are highlighted in court proceedings.
“Her expertise in children’s law is exceptional and is openly acknowledged by other solicitors and experts in our field of work. To maintain Children’s Panel accreditation for such a long period is testament to that.”
