Helen Little

Call: 1999

Helen brings a wealth of experience and an approachable style to her practice as a children’s law specialist. With a calm and persuasive manner both in and out of court, Helen presents every case with clarity and attention to detail.

Perceptive to their needs, Helen quickly establishes a good rapport with professional and lay clients, instilling confidence from the outset and putting anxious clients at ease. Advice is robust where it needs to be, or sensitive as the case requires. Helen is equally skilled in tailoring advocacy to the needs of the case, particularly where there are parties with cognitive or communication difficulties.

In public law Helen appears in complex cases involving non-accidental injuries, FII, neglect or other forms of abuse at all tiers of tribunal. She is also experienced in representing local authorities or supporting their staff in other proceedings such as inquests. In addition to public and private law, Helen also contributes to lectures and advocacy training.

Helen joined Harcourt Chambers as a pupil in 2000, after a scholarship year working at the European Commission and the ECJ.

Helen lives in Buckinghamshire and chairs the Milton Keynes and Buckinghamshire Local Family Justice Board.

To instruct Helen or for more information…

Call: 020 7353 6961
Email: clerks@harcourtchambers.co.uk

Practice Areas

From drafting threshold documents through to advising on appeals, Helen blends analytical skill with a practical approach to the issues in disputeat all levels. Helen has particular expertise in assisting local authorities in preparing and presenting complex cases in a focussed and proportionate way. A detailed understanding of working methods and structures of local authorities also enables Helen to be a highly effective advocate for children, parents or other family members when there is conflict.

With significant experience in cases where there are suspected fractures, FII, shaking injuries or other serious allegations, Helen brings a calm and authoritative air to the courtroom. Helen also contributes to Harcourt Chamber’s programmes of lectures and advocacy training.

Notable Public Law Children cases


OCC v D, E and F (supervision order after non-accidental injuries) [2020] EWFC B64 (09 November 2020)

Helen understands how the emotions involved can impact on making living or schooling arrangements for children after separation and is skilled in assisting clients to focus on the relevant welfare principles. This approach both enhances the prospects of success and aids a clients’ understanding of the outcome.

Regularly representing children’s guardians in complex and often entrenched disputes, including cases where there are serious allegations, Helen ensures the voice of the child remains central to the proceedings.

With a wide range of experience across the spectrum of private law applications, Helen advises at all levels and has an interest in cases where neurodevelopmental disorders may be a feature in either children or adults.

Helen accepts direct access cases.

Helen is qualified to accept instructions directly from members of the public under the Direct Access Scheme in appropriate circumstances.

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