Russell Cooke Kingston Upon Thames

About James

James specialises exclusively in the law as it concerns children and he is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for children, young people and their families whatever their backgrounds and circumstances may be. 

He doesn't miss a thing, he organises cases to get good results and he gives clear, balanced advice.
Chambers UK (2024)

Experience

  • Arranging for children when parents separate (who children live with and how they spend time with separated parents and other family members) and all other issues there may be between parents including when allegations are made by one parent against the other and applications to move overseas or within the UK with children

  • Public law care proceedings brought by social services in which he represents both parents and children and is committed to securing the best outcomes possible for clients who are often vulnerable

  • Applications to adopt children and issues that can follow adoption

  • Grandparents and extended family members caring for children including the financial and other support that may be available to them

  • Applications for emergency orders to protect adults and children from abuse

  • Social services investigations when there are concerns about children’s welfare

  • Disputes between foster carers and fostering agencies and helping parents secure the right placements and support for children in care

James is a very good solicitor who is forensic, thorough and hard-working.
Chambers UK (2023)

Memberships

  • Member of Resolution and Resolution accredited specialist in private law children and adoption
  • Member of Law Society Children's Panel since 2013
  • Member of the Association of Lawyers for Children
  • Deputy District Judge on the South-Eastern Circuit
James has a sharp intellect, coupled with a rational and reasonable approach.
Client

Awards and accreditations

James's highlights

News

23.11.2022

Russell-Cooke senior associate James Sandiford appointed Deputy District Judge

James Sandiford, Senior associate in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
James Sandiford
1 min Read
News

15.09.2022

Law and policy are falling behind evolution of families - The Times

Sarah Richardson, Partner in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team. James Sandiford, Senior associate in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
Multiple Authors
1 min Read
Sarah Richardson, James Sandiford
News

27.05.2022

An overhaul of the care system is on the cards

James Sandiford, Senior associate in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
James Sandiford
2 min Read
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