AREAS OF PRACTICE

Family

Criminal

Regulatory

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

Called to the Bar 2019

LLM - Northumbria University 2019

BPTC - Northumbria University - 2019

GDL - Northumbria University - 2017

Linguistics MA Hons - Newcastle University - 2016

English Language and Literature - Northumbria University - 2015

AWARDS

Dean’s Award (Northumbria University)

Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship (Northumbria University

MEMBERSHIPS & APPOINTMENTS

The Honorary Society of the Inner Temple

FLBA

CBA

CPS Grade 2 Prosecutor

ABOUT ANNABELLE

Annabelle joined Crown Chambers in October 2023, following completion of pupillage supervised by Gaynor Hall.

Prior to the commencement of pupillage, Annabelle worked as a Legal Assistant within the Children’s Legal Team at Middlesbrough Council where she worked on a range of public law and court of protection matters. These included cases involving non-accidental injury, historical sexual abuse, and cases with international elements. Annabelle also worked closely with external agencies, including the Crown Prosecution Service in matters which involved related ongoing criminal proceedings.

Annabelle also worked as a Legal Assistant at a Magic Circle firm where she worked alongside global team on a range of commercial and financial regulatory matters, and as a County Court Advocate where she undertook a range of civil work which included small claims trial and infant approval hearings.

Annabelle has extensive experience of working with children and vulnerable individuals, including those who are assisted by an intermediary or the Official Solicitor, and individuals who are neurodiverse.

Family Law:

Annabelle rapidly developed a broad practice across all areas of family law, including public, private, and financial matters. Annabelle has built upon her previous experience and regularly represents parties in matters involving neglect, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and non-accidental injury.

Criminal Law:

Annabelle is a Grade 2 prosecutor and frequently appears in both the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts. She has had particular success in prosecuting trials involving domestic abuse and racial harassment matters where she has been described as a “calming influence” within the court room. Annabelle is also experienced in dealing with youth matters.

Regulatory Law:

Annabelle represents parties in licencing and firearms appeals. Annabelle represented Trading Standards, securing a conviction involving the distribution of illegal slimming pills, and convictions for the distribution and sale of illegal cigarettes. Annabelle has also successfully represented Police Forces in applications involving tobacco licensing, including vapes, and firearms matters.

Notable cases:

G v D [2024] – Annabelle successfully represented the Appellant Mother in an appeal following a final hearing. The Appeal Court listed the matter for a full re-hearing.

O v S [2024] – Annabelle represented the Respondent Mother in a 3-day finding of fact where findings were made against the Applicant Father which included intentional strangulation and assault, resulting in Cafcass not making recommendations for direct contact with the children.

LA v C [2023] – Annabelle represented the Respondent Father at a multi-day final hearing where the Local Authority sought for the children to be placed into Foster Care under Care Orders. Annabelle successfully opposed the Local Authority’s plan, leading to the Local Authority amending their care plan and the children remaining at home under a Supervision Order.

Testimonials:

“Annabelle’s representation, advice, and attention to detail are always appreciated and I hope to instruct her again soon.”

"Thank you very much Annabelle for standing her ground on this case and getting a G plea, and for resisting attempts by defence to introduce irrelevant mitigation, and challenging defence attempts to raise issues on day of trial. I am very grateful for this robust approach. Annabelle's attitude shows that standing up firmly against this can have real benefits, not just for CPS but more importantly for a vulnerable complainant."