About Erin
I am keen to ensure that all children have access to education suitable for them to thrive and enjoy their school career. I am passionate about ensuring that parents are empowered to seek support and challenge decisions when needed.
Erin joined Russell-Cooke in 2023. She advises on a wide range of educational issues and specialises in special educational needs, including assisting clients to apply for Education Health and Care (“EHC”) needs assessments and EHC plans.
Erin also advises on school related issues such as discrimination, admissions and exclusions. She has brought judicial review challenges on behalf of clients and advises on public law issues generally. Erin advises on mediation in relation to special educational needs tribunals and when litigation is needed.
Erin also continues to advise schools and colleges on matters arising within her area of expertise to ensure that they are applying their policies, legislation and DfE guidance appropriately.
Erin is an outstanding lawyer. She is technically strong but also responsive, diligent and assimilates complex facts and dynamics quickly.
Education
- Studied law at the University of Reading
- Completed LPC at the University of Law in London
Erin Smart is a first-rate lawyer - pragmatic, knowledgeable, efficient, and responsive. Her approach is focused and results-driven, and strategically seeks to manage a matter for the right outcome.
Publications
- Challenging School Exclusions, https://files.justice.org.uk
- SEN Update, the Local Government Lawyer, 25/01/2019
- How to appeal for a school place, as primary school offer day arrives, the Evening Standard, 17/0420/23
- Mother who wants to permanently home-educate her children is suing her “bullying” council over claims it is trying to force them to go to school, the Mail Online, 16/02/2021
I have recently worked with Erin Smart and am struck by her efficiency, knowledge and clear communication.
Awards and accreditations
Erin's highlights
06.02.2026
EHCPs: school or local authority responsibility?
06.01.2026
Phase transfer appeals: priority listings, tribunal timetables and what the February deadlines mean for families
12.12.2025
Government launches national conversation on SEND