Details

Charlotte Bignell has established a busy practice encompassing family law, Court of Protection and civil litigation. She is a thoughtful and confident advocate, known for her thorough preparation, sound judgement and ability to put clients at ease.

Combining a reassuring manner with effective advocacy, Charlotte understands the challenges faced by those navigating legal proceedings, particularly where children, family relationships or vulnerable individuals are involved. She provides clear guidance, taking time to understand each client's circumstances and ensure their interests are effectively represented.

Private Children Law

Charlotte undertakes a broad range of private children matters, including disputes concerning child arrangements, parental responsibility, specific issue orders and prohibited steps orders.

Her experience includes cases involving allegations of domestic abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour, substance misuse, mental health difficulties and parental alienation.

Mindful of the emotional and practical complexities of disputes involving children, Charlotte adopts a measured and constructive approach, balancing robust representation with a focus on achieving workable outcomes for families.

She is experienced in working with vulnerable parties and witnesses, particularly where safeguarding concerns or allegations of abuse require careful handling.

Public Children Law

Charlotte represents parties in care and supervision proceedings brought by local authorities, including matters involving complex safeguarding issues, parental capacity and disputes concerning children's long-term welfare.

She has dealt with cases in which domestic abuse, addiction, psychological difficulties and concerns about parenting feature prominently.

Charlotte appreciates the significance of decisions made in public law proceedings and the lasting impact they can have on families. She provides considered advice throughout the process, helping clients understand the issues before the court and the potential implications of each stage.

Financial Remedies

Charlotte accepts instructions in matrimonial finance proceedings, including applications for financial relief following divorce.

She takes a pragmatic approach to financial disputes, seeking fair and proportionate resolutions while remaining mindful of the costs and wider implications of litigation.

Domestic Abuse 

Charlotte advises and represents clients seeking or responding to applications for non-molestation and occupation orders, including urgent proceedings requiring immediate judicial intervention.

She understands the need to act promptly and decisively in these matters, while providing appropriate support and guidance during what can be an exceptionally difficult time.

Court of Protection 

Charlotte undertakes Court of Protection work with a particular emphasis on health and welfare proceedings.

Her practice includes matters concerning mental capacity, residence, care arrangements and decisions affecting an individual's wellbeing.

Drawing on her background in family law and safeguarding, Charlotte brings a considered perspective to cases involving complex personal circumstances, competing interests and difficult decisions about care and support.

Central to her approach is respect for the wishes, feelings and autonomy of the person concerned, alongside careful consideration of the relevant legal principles and best interests.

Charlotte works constructively with instructing solicitors and other professionals, maintaining a clear focus on the rights and welfare of those at the centre of proceedings.

Housing and Property

Charlotte acts for both landlords and tenants in a variety of housing disputes, including possession proceedings, disrepair claims and associated applications.

Her experience as a County Court advocate provides a strong foundation for this area of her practice, giving her a practical understanding of civil procedure and the challenges that can arise in property-related litigation.

Aware of the financial and personal consequences of housing disputes, she aims to identify realistic solutions and offer straightforward advice tailored to the circumstances of each case.

Approach to Practice

Charlotte is known for her friendly, down-to-earth manner and her ability to establish positive working relationships with clients and solicitors alike.

She is particularly attentive to the needs of those who may find the court process daunting, taking time to explain complex issues in an accessible way and helping them feel informed and supported.

Reliable, well-prepared and committed to delivering a high standard of service, Charlotte combines a collaborative approach with persuasive advocacy, always keeping her clients' objectives at the forefront of her work.