Our work covers all areas of family law, with particular expertise in the following areas:
Call: 1995
"He has a strong strategic mind and is insightful as to the dynamics at play in cases."
The Legal 500 UK Bar 2022
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 strong believer of the merits of negotiation in even the most entrenched cases but is always ready to roll up his sleeves when necessary.
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.
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 Allen stands out for his tenacious advocacy." "He brings real clarity to the case." "He is very measured and approachable. He has the judge’s ear."
Chambers UK Bar 2021
‘He is very grounded, pragmatic and down to earth enabling clients to relax and feel comfortable assured they are in a safe pair of hands whether that be in respect of children or financial cases.’
Legal 500 UK Bar 2021
"Particularly recommended for settlement negotiations."
The Legal 500 UK Bar
"A very personable barrister."
The Legal 500 UK Bar 2018
The judgment gives defining guidance on how to manage the interface between care proceedings and human rights claims, the application of the legal aid charge, and when and how to…