Russell Cooke Kingston Upon Thames

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 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.
The Legal 500 (2026)

Education

  • Studied law at the University of Reading
  • Completed LPC at the University of Law in London
She really fights for clients and is able to relate to clients in such a brilliant way.
Chambers UK (2025)
Erin Smart is incredibly personable and approachable.
Chambers UK (2025)

Awards and accreditations

Erin's highlights

News

04.11.2025

SEND reform on hold: what the delay means for families and schools

In a new briefing, Erin Smart explores the Department for Education’s decision to postpone publication of its White Paper on special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) reform until 2026...
Erin Smart, Associate in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
Erin Smart
3 min Read
News

22.10.2025

SEND reforms in England including EHCPs: what parents need to know

The government and the Children’s Commissioner for England appear to be pushing forward with changes to the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) system...
Erin Smart, Associate in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
Erin Smart
5 min Read
News

08.09.2025

Practice Direction No.1 (2025): guidance for experts in the First-Tier tribunal

On 30 April 2025 the President of the First-tier Tribunal (Health, Education and Social Care Chamber) issued Practice Guidance No.1 of 2025...
Erin Smart, Associate in the Russell-Cooke Solicitors, family and children team.
Erin Smart
4 min Read
View all News & Insights