Karen was employed as the Head of the Family Department in May 2022. Having completed a European Law and Languages Degree she then sat the Bar vocational Course and undertook work as a paralegal before qualifying as a solicitor in 2004.
Karen speaks French having undertaken this as part of her university studies and as a result of working for the United Nations War Crimes Tribunal for Rwanda as a translator in the Prosecutor’s department and later as assistant to the Chief of the Detention Centre.
Since qualifying as a Solicitor Karen has practiced exclusively as a Matrimonial solicitor for over 18 years (22 if you count her years as a paralegal).
‘Family Law is an emotional area and one which requires me to be not only a legal advisor but at times a confidante and counselor. In a difficult and emotionally charged area of law there is a real sense of satisfaction in being able to support a vulnerable victim of domestic abuse to take back control and secure the protective orders they need; or to help a parent obtain an order to spend time with their children. Even in the areas of financial settlement and divorce, there is huge satisfaction in being able to be part of negotiations or proceedings which lead to an Order providing financial support for our clients. I hope that I offer compassion and understanding to all clients at what is an extremely difficult time in their lives. I am lucky to be supported by compassionate colleagues as well as a Trainee Solicitor who is looking to go on and make his own difference in people’s lives.’
Out of the office, I can be found belting out a tune on karaoke with my husband and friends (who I met whilst singing in Rock Choir). I am also an avid fan of Formula 1 and had the chance to get behind the scenes in the Paddock at the 2018 Belgian Grand Prix where I met the drivers, had a tour of the Red Bull Garage and walked the pit lane. Anyone who has SKY sports likely saw me many times on their TV screen. I also love taking holidays to foreign locations as often as I can.