Our work covers all areas of family law, with particular expertise in the following areas:
Call: 2004
‘Alison is a very exceptional family law barrister; she is reliable in any children matter not only for her legal knowledge, but she also has an excellent manner with the clients, the court and her opponents. She takes a no-nonsense approach but equally is an efficient negotiator.’
The Legal 500 UK Bar 2026
Alison is a children law specialist. She takes an empathetic and pragmatic approach, focusing on the individual needs of her clients. She is a skilled negotiator and demonstrates a firm but sensitive style of advocacy.
Alison’s practice involves extensive experience in representing parents, local authorities, intervenors, prospective adopters and children’s guardians in a variety of family proceedings across different levels of court. On many occasions she has acted for children directly where her approachable manner has led to repeat instructions.
Each case brings its own inherent complexities and difficulties, which Alison recognises. She is always well-prepared and aims to deploy her skills to each client’s case in a bespoke way whether the case requires forensic cross-examination of an expert witness or giving sensible advice.
Alison has delivered talks and training in a variety of settings and is particularly interested in promoting the development of professional skills.
To instruct Alison or for more information…
Call: 020 7353 6961
Email: clerks@harcourtchambers.co.uk
Alison provides effective and skilled representation in all types of public law children proceedings. Her practice has encompassed cases involving non-accidental injury (including fractures and shaken baby cases), sexual abuse, interference with medical equipment, fabricated and induced illness, domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health difficulties, neglect and parental alienation. She is often instructed to represent clients with learning difficulties, teenage parents and clients who otherwise are vulnerable or difficult to advise.
Care proceedings relating to 7 children, issued following concerns including criminal activity, drug use, and domestic abuse.
Care proceedings in relation to four children, issued following concerns regarding parental drug use, neglect, parental mental health and domestic abuse.
Care proceedings, issued following concerns about mother’s parenting. Ordered that child live with father, and for father to be permitted to relocate her to his home country.
Alison provides highly proficient representation in all applications pursuant to section 8 of the Children Act 1989, special guardianship cases, private adoptions, internal relocation and cases requiring injunctions. She acts for all parties involved in such proceedings including children through their rule 16.4 guardians. Her cases cover the spectrum of children issues that arise in relationship breakdowns. She has particular experience in cases where the dispute has become intractable and in cases where children’s services have become involved. Her practice also includes cases involving allegations of domestic violence, parental alienation and the issues arising from substance abuse and mental ill-health.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Alison is a qualified arbitrator for children matters under the IFLA Children’s Scheme and is committed to furthering all forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution.
'Alison is approachable and knowledgeable. She prepares well, has a detailed grasp of the papers and provides helpful advice. She is an excellent advocate - setting out the case clearly and effectively and remaining focused throughout.'
The Legal 500 UK Bar 2024
James Dove acted for the Local Authority and Alison Williams acted for the Guardian, instructed by Oxford Law Group Ltd, in Oxfordshire County Council v M & Ors [2025] EWFC 256 (B).…
Sara Granshaw appeared on behalf of the applicant Local Authority and Alison Williams was instructed by Dawson Cornwell for the second respondent Father in Oxfordshire County Council v M & Ors [2025]…
Harcourt Chambers is excited to announce that we will be attending the Bar Council’s Pupillage Fair on Saturday, 19th October 2024. The event takes place at Convene, 133 Houndsditch, London,…