Matthew Montanaro

I am a Partner in the specialist Child Law team, having joined Brethertons in 2013. I spend most of my time representing the interests of children in cases where social services have become involved. I have experience in dealing with cases involving complex medical issues, issues surrounding paternity, assessments of children’s capacity and technical points of law.

I have practised Child Law for over 10 years and am an accredited member of the Law Society’s Children Panel and Higher Rights of Audience Panel, which is only awarded to lawyers who are experts in Child Law and have represented their customers at a high level Court. Early in my professional career, I was awarded the Hershman Outstanding Newcomer in Child Law award; a national award from the Association of Lawyers for Children.

I offer practical advice to resolve what are often complex and sensitive problems. The Court will always place the child first and my approach is focussed fully upon this, finding solutions that will work and trying to diffuse conflict. I have represented parents and children in the lower and higher courts including the Court of Appeal.

I am an enthusiastic Arsenal fan and can often be seen at the Emirates stadium or at football grounds around the country following the team. In quieter times I enjoy a good book or a film.

Experience and Accreditations

Notable cases I have been involved in:

1. Y and Z (Children), Re [2013] EWHC 953 (Fam)
2. Coventry City Council v A [2014] EWHC 2033 (Fam) (04 April 2014)
3. M (A Child: Long-Term Foster Care) [2014] EWCA Civ 1406
4. AB (A Child : deprivation of liberty), Re [2015] EWHC 3125
5. D (A Child), Re (Rev 1) [2017] EWHC 3075 (Fam) (29 November 2017)
6. H (A Minor) v Northamptonshire County Council & Anor [2017] EWHC 282 (Fam) (17 February 2017)

• Qualified as a Solicitor in 2006
• Studied Law at City University in London, graduating with LLB Hons.
• Completed the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law (now University of Law)
• Accredited with Higher Rights of Audience in both the Civil and Criminal Courts
• An accredited member of the Law Society’s children panel for both children and adults