Our work covers all areas of family law, with particular expertise in the following areas:
Call: 1995
'Douglas is superb. I have no hesitation in handing him the most complex of matters.'
Chambers UK Bar 2025
Doug is an experienced specialist family law barrister practising in relationship breakdown, financial remedy and private law children cases. He is recognised as a Leading Individual by the Legal 500. Doug began his career at the Criminal Bar. He is now well known for his discreet, straight forward and unassuming approach, as well as his ability to establish trust and rapport with his clients. Doug is a formidable advocate in court but also strong believer of the merits of negotiation in even the most entrenched cases.
To instruct Douglas or for more information…
Call: 020 7353 6961
Email: clerks@harcourtchambers.co.uk
Doug’s matrimonial and financial work covers all levels but he is mainly instructed in high value cases involving complex legal or factual issues. He has considerable expertise in cases involving third party interests, particularly family trusts. Doug is known for his thorough and forensic approach to preparation, with an attention to detail. In every case, he is committed to finding constructive and effective solutions for his client.
Application by husband to show cause why the parties should not be held to terms of a separation agreement.
Financial remedies application.
Doug is accomplished at handling complicated disputes over contact, residence and other welfare issues concerning children, including domestic and international relocation. He has extensive experience of cases involving serious allegations of abuse and intractable disputes (including parental alienation), many of which have a fact-finding element. Always quick to get to the heart of a case, Doug is sensitive to the needs and objectives of his client, yet realistic and robust in his approach. He is regularly instructed in cases concerning Schedule 1 applications.
Doug is qualified to accept instructions directly from members of the public under the Direct Access Scheme in appropriate circumstances.
'Douglas is calm under pressure and robust in his advice and remains sensitive to the emotional aspect of litigation.'
Chambers UK Bar 2025
‘Douglas is articulate, sharp, discerning, intellectually at the top of his game but he also has such a good bed-side manner. He puts clients at ease entirely.'
The Legal 500 UK Bar 2025
‘Douglas is a very clear and well-prepared advocate. His presentation style is firm and capable of putting the clients at ease. He gives sensible advice which is well-reasoned.’
The Legal 500 UK Bar 2025
"Douglas Allen is very skilled at financial and private children law cases. He is user-friendly and will get stuck in and he has a really good eye for details and digs into the minutiae of any detail."
Chambers UK Bar 2024
"Douglas is hard-working, dedicated and highly supportive. He has superlative client management skills and keeps his eye on the big picture. He is a calm yet authoritative figure."
Chambers UK Bar 2024
“Not only is he very approachable, his preparation is exemplary and his advocacy calm but forceful. He is an excellent negotiator and clients love him.”
Chambers UK Bar 2023
Ring-Fencing of Post Separation Accrual
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