Jane Wilson

I am a Director and Child Care Solicitor at Duncan Lewis Solicitors, based in the Newcastle office. I specialise in a broad variety of children, family and domestic abuse matters, frequently representing parents whose children are subject to proceedings or the pre-proceedings process involving the local authority. I am passionate about protecting the rights of autistic children and parents within the family justice system, alongside those with other neurodivergent conditions and hidden disabilities and am a member of the specialist Autism and ADHD team within our Child Care department. I am a member of the Law Society Children Panel, illustrating my expertise in this field and I have a wealth of experience representing children, through their Cafcass Guardians in both public and private law proceedings. I specialise in all types of cases relating to children, particularly in public law (care) cases involving social services, deprivation of liberty and secure accommodation. My expertise and experience led to me being shortlisted for Young Family Solicitor of the Year at the Family Law Awards in 2019. Having trained as a barrister, I am a capable and experienced advocate and regularly represent my clients in court. I am adept at cross-examination of both professional and lay witnesses and regularly appear in complex, contested final hearings and fact finding hearings. My caseload is varied and covers a wide range of family and child care matters, this includes care proceedings, placement orders, matters that involve adoption or fostering and child protection matters. I assist both children and their families, often in matters where complex elements such as abuse, trafficking or mental health issues are present. My practice also extends to international and emergency cases, including urgent wardship applications and child abduction matters. I am able to work effectively in high-pressure situations, ensuring that clients receive the best possible outcomes even in emergencies. I have a particular interest and expertise in cases involving neurodivergent children and/or parents and am committed to ensuring that an individual’s specific needs are considered and met within proceedings. I am studying for Level 2 Qualification in Understanding Autism. I am committed to assisting the most vulnerable in society, particularly those with learning difficulties and those who are victims of abuse. My empathetic approach ensures that I work closely with clients to fully understand their needs and represent their interests effectively. Additionally, my background as a trained community mediator enhances my ability to facilitate resolutions in complex and contentious matters.