Ruth Kirby KC practices primarily in children and Court of Protection work. She has particular experience in representing high profile families and individuals and of representing very religiously-observant families and families embroiled in political and cross-jurisdictional issues, sometimes with their own Governments. She deals with all aspects of private and public family law – both domestic and international. Ruth is dual qualified in the Irish Republic and has rights of audience before the Irish courts. She also is instructed as an expert witness in Irish and European family law cases.
Beth Morton
David McCormick of Exchange Chambers is regularly instructed in private law matters involving residence, contact, specific issue orders and prohibited steps orders. He also acts in matters concerning non-molestation orders and occupation orders. David has a particular interest in cases involving relocation and international relocation. David has a growing practice in financial remedy proceedings. He has recent experience of high value and complex cases.
District Judge Philip O’Neill was called to the Bar in 1983. He practiced at 7 Harrington St Chambers where he dealt with Public and Private Children work as well as Financial Remedy work. He was appointed a Full Time District Judge in 2005, sitting at Birkenhead and Liverpool. Since November 2017 Judge O’Neill has sat exclusively at the Family Court in Liverpool where he deals exclusively with Public and Private Children work.
Gemma Thomas of 7 Harrington Street Chambers, is a dedicated and experienced barrister with a specialist practice in family law, focusing on financial remedy applications and private law proceedings involving children and domestic abuse. Known for her sensitive yet robust approach, Gemma, represents clients in complex private law disputes involving allegations of parental alienation, coercive control, emotional harm, and financial, physical and sexual abuse. With a deep understanding of the dynamics of abuse and trauma, Gemma advocates tirelessly for the safety and best interests of children and vulnerable individuals. Ranked as ‘Leading Junior’ by Legal 500 in 2025 Gemma is praised for clear, strategic advice and a calm, compassionate courtroom manner.
Sasha Watkinson
