Overview
Laura joined St Mary’s Chambers in 2004 and quickly developed a busy practice specialising in Private Law Children and Domestic Abuse and Injunctions cases.
Laura left St Mary’s in 2009 when she was appointed Senior Lecturer on the Bar Professional Training Course at Nottingham Law School and returned to Chambers in September 2025, resuming her practice in Family Law.
Laura accepts instructions in both Private Law Children and Domestic Abuse and Injunction matters.
Laura places great importance on ensuring that her clients feel listened to, understood and, above all, well represented. She takes the time to understand not only the legal issues in a case but also the individual circumstances, concerns and objectives of each client. She believes that clients should feel confident that their case has been thoroughly prepared, that their interests are being properly advanced and that their voice is being heard. She aims to combine strong and effective advocacy with calm, approachable and supportive client care.
Practice Areas
Laura undertakes a broad range of Private Law Children work, including cases involving Rule 16.4 Guardians, coercive and controlling behaviour, financial, physical domestic abuse and allegations of alienating behaviour.
Laura adopts a thorough and considered approach to each case, with particular emphasis on understanding her client’s circumstances and ensuring that their concerns and objectives are properly identified and represented. She places considerable importance on preparation, attention to detail and providing clear, realistic advice, enabling clients to approach proceedings with a clear understanding of their position and the issues before the Court.
Laura is committed to ensuring that her clients receive effective representation throughout the proceedings and that their case is presented clearly and robustly, both in and out of the courtroom.
Laura accepts instructions in cases involving domestic abuse and applications for protective injunctions, including Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders.
She understands the particular sensitivity and urgency that can arise in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse. Laura takes a careful and considered approach, ensuring that the circumstances and concerns of each client are fully understood and properly represented. She provides clear and practical advice and places particular emphasis on thorough preparation, effective advocacy and ensuring that clients understand the legal protection and remedies available to them.
Testimonials
"Laura was, without a doubt, the best barrister I have ever had the pleasure of being represented by. She was incredibly thorough, compassionate and understanding throughout my case. She took the time to listen to me, never rushed me and always made me feel heard and supported.
I never felt pressured or judged, and her approach made what was an incredibly difficult and stressful time much easier to manage. Laura’s preparation and attention to detail gave me confidence that my case was being handled with the care and professionalism it deserved.
I felt that she represented my position exceptionally well and made sure my concerns were properly understood. Her communication, client care and genuine compassion stood out to me, and I always felt that she had my best interests at heart.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Laura to anyone looking for a barrister. She is an outstanding advocate, and I am so grateful for the support and representation she gave me." (Client)
“I have instructed Laura on a number of complicated matters and I am always extremely impressed with her handling of cases. Laura demonstrates a thorough understanding of the issues involved and adopts a well-considered, strategic approach throughout. Her preparation is excellent, ensuring that all relevant matters are addressed comprehensively and effectively. She knows the case thoroughly.
Laura is approachable, responds quickly to emails and goes the extra mile. Communication is always clear and prompt. She sensitively gives realistic advice to clients and puts clients at ease during what is a very stressful time for them.
Laura presents cases effectively with confidence and conviction. After the hearing, I received a helpful and detailed note of her attendance at the hearing.
Laura is committed to securing the best outcome for the client. I would have no hesitation in recommending Laura and look forward to working with her again in the future.” (Solicitor)
"I have instructed Laura Clarke on several occasions in relation to both injunction and private law children matters. I have found Laura to have an excellent ability to grasp the issues and complexities of a case quickly. Laura provides clear, practical and well considered advice and guidance. Her preparation is meticulous and her attention to detail is evident throughout.
Laura’s attendance notes are particularly helpful - they are detailed, clear and provide a concise record of the outcome, advice given and any action required from her instructing solicitor. Laura combines an excellent level of legal knowledge and advocacy with excellent client care. She has represented my clients effectively and with great care, focusing on achieving the best possible outcome.
Laura is a barrister I have complete confidence in, and I know that when I instruct her, my clients are in very capable hands." (Solicitor)
"I instructed Laura Clarke on an urgent basis and was extremely impressed by the speed, professionalism, and commitment with which she took on the matter at very short notice.
Despite the urgency, Laura took the time to fully understand the case, provided clear and practical legal advice, and was exceptionally thorough in their preparation.
Communication was great, and I felt confident that the matter was in capable hands. I would have no hesitation in recommending Laura to fellow solicitors." (Solicitor)