Kathy Walker

Solicitor - Director

SRA ID: 297302

I am a Director at Duncan Lewis, I have over two decades of dedicated legal practice and I am a passionate advocate for the rights and well-being of children. My commitment to safeguarding the rights of minors and my extensive experience in this field have shaped me into the formidable advocate that I am today. I am a seasoned child protection lawyer who has been on The Law Society Children’s Panel since 2010, which affirms me as a specialist in my field. This accreditation is hard to obtain and maintain and requires extensive experience and knowledge of this complex area of law. I firmly believe that every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment where their rights are upheld and their best interests are paramount. My approach is rooted in empathy, dedication and a tireless commitment to ensuring that the legal system serves the needs of our youngest and most vulnerable citizens. I represent CAFCASS (who are Guardians appointed by the court to be the voice of the child), however when the child is competent I represent the child directly – this is when experience is key. Children can have a variety of issues and it’s key that they have a solicitor who can listen, understand them and give them assurance that their own voice is heard. I often arrange to take the child to meet the Judge because it’s important that the court knows what the child has to say in person and often it is arranged so that they attend hearings too. Children I find are more receptive when they know they are being heard and it’s important to never raise their hopes but being honest with them and explaining all the possible scenarios helps them to process and understand what is happening to them and why. Using simple language and being available for them whenever they want to talk is also key in this role – they need to earn my trust because often I may be the only adult who will be acting on their instruction.