Kerry is an expert in public and private children law matters and is head of the family team at our Wallsend Office.
Specialises in:
Experience
- Kerry has been on the Law Society Children panel since 2013 and is regularly instructed to act for children and the Children’s Guardian appointed by Cafcass
- Kerry also acts for parents and other family members when social services have intervened alleging there are safeguarding concerns
- Kerry represents parents and other family members in private disputes regarding children.
- Kerry has been involved in cases involving an international element, risk of forced marriage, risk of Female Genital Mutilation, allegations of sexual abuse, non-accidental injury, chronic neglect and domestic violence
- Kerry also deals with Non-molestation and occupation Order applications
- Some of Kerry’s clients have severe mental health issues and substance misuse issues to contend with
- Kerry and her team work very closely with many charities and will refer clients to a variety of different organisations in the hope clients are able to improve their lives and improve their family situation
Outside of the office
Kerry has three children and enjoys travelling and spending time with her family and friends. Kerry regular attends music festivals and concerts. She has a dog called Biffy and her favourite musical is Miss Saigon.
Client
Client
Client
Client
Client
Client
“Thank you Kerry first and foremost for being an incredibly noble human being and also impeccably professional. As I have repeatedly noted before, you have been, and remain, the bright sun that lights up my life and that of my entire family every time I see you. A huge thank you from the bottom of my heart, where you'll remain forever as the person who has helped me most in my life's journey.
“Can I just repeat my most sincere thanks for all your help throughout this whole episode. It felt like our world was crashing in around us and whatever I threw at it, I wasn’t getting anywhere-but you managed to steer things into the direction we needed and thankfully, we got to the truth quickly. Although I hope we don’t have the need to work together in the future, you would be my first phone call if it was ever required, and I would more than happily recommend you to friends and family
“Top solicitor. Never put a foot wrong did everything she could to help, always quick to pass me new information and kept me in the loop throughout. Simply an amazing person who cares about what she does and gets the job done.
“I can't begin to thank you enough for everything you have done for me and my child. I will be forever grateful for having you by my side every step of the way. Thank you for being so kind, patient and for just being you!
“Thanks for all your help Kerry. I am not an easy person to work with. You have been so supportive and went above and beyond for me my child, I will be forever grateful for all your help and support you have giving us both to help keep my child and myself safe. For the first time as a parent I can look to a brighter and happier future.
“I just want to thank you so much for everything you have done for me and my family. Not only are you a brilliant solicitor, but as a human being you were one of the nicest people I have ever met. You did not know, but sometimes even just small things you said in support mattered so much to me. You would tell me about your own family and daughter and made everything so warm and friendly and I could relate to you. I don't know any other solicitor who would reply to my emails on weekends and nights straight away ! You gave me so much confidence to be brave and fight for my children. Thank you Kerry. I can never thank you enough. From the bottom of my heart.
Regular insights, news & events
Our regular children and family insights, news, updates and events keep you up to date with all the latest legal developments you need to know about.
Mediation: A calm, supported path to resolving family matters
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains how mediation offers a calm, supported way to resolve family disputes and avoid court with practical legal guidance.”
Why divorce enquiries rise in January and Hay & Kilner's amicable options for couples
Why do divorce enquiries rise in January? Fiona Ryans, from Hay & Kilner's Divorce & Family Team, explains the trend and how an amicable One Solicitor Solution can support couples.
Divorce made simple
Kate Garrett, from Hay & Kilner’s Divorce & Family Team, explains how to navigate the divorce process simply and sensitively, with practical legal guidance for amicable separation.
Do I need my ex-partners permission to take my kids on holiday?
Do you need your ex-partner’s permission to take your children abroad? Kayleigh Bell, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains child travel consent rules.
Cohabitation Agreements: Understanding your rights and responsibilities
Louisa Bestford, from our Divorce & Family Team, explains Cohabitation Agreements, helping couples understand their legal rights and responsibilities under UK law.
Duo of promotions at Hay & Kilner
We are delighted to announce the promotion of Kayleigh Bell and Sophie Fletcher to Associate, demonstrating our commitment to supporting future talent.
Family at the heart of growing Hay & Kilner team
Operating from offices in Newcastle and Wallsend, Hay & Kilner’s Family Law Team offers comprehensive legal support across all aspects of family law, ensuring tailored support for every client.
You may also need advice on
For the latest insights, updates and events join our mailing list