Anita Hennessey

Why choose me

When your family dispute reaches court, you need an advocate who understands not only the law, but also the detail of your case, your objectives and what is at stake for you and your family.

I am a Partner and family law solicitor advocate with Higher Rights of Audience, specialising in court representation in financial remedy and private law children proceedings. I obtained my Higher Rights qualification in 2018 and have extensive experience representing clients personally at hearings throughout the family court.

I represent clients at every stage of financial remedy proceedings, from the first hearing through to final hearing, as well as applications concerning enforcement, variation and other issues arising from financial orders. My advocacy experience includes complex financial cases involving significant assets, pensions and other financial interests.

One of the key benefits I offer is continuity. Rather than handing advocacy over to separate counsel for individual hearings, I can advise on case strategy, prepare the evidence and conduct the advocacy myself where appropriate. This means I know the detail of your case and your objectives from the outset, and I can take that knowledge directly into the courtroom.

I also have a substantial practice in private law children proceedings, regularly representing parents in contested applications concerning child arrangements and related issues. I have been closely involved in the development and implementation of the Pathfinder pilot in Herefordshire and Worcestershire as a member of the local court implementation group. In addition, I have represented clients at decision hearings in courts already operating the Pathfinder model, now known as the Child Focused Court.

My experience in private law children matters extends nationally. I regularly appear against counsel of all levels of seniority and am experienced in handling complex and highly contested hearings. At the same time, I recognise that clients need clear, practical advice about what is likely to happen in court and what options are available to them.

Alongside my own practice, I play an active role in developing advocacy within HCR Law. I mentor junior lawyers across our offices in all aspects of advocacy, supporting the next generation of family lawyers in preparation, case strategy, oral submissions, examination of witnesses and effective representation before the court.

I also have particular experience advising police officers and their families. As a recommended family lawyer for members of West Mercia Police Federation, I regularly advise officers on relationship breakdown and financial matters. These cases often involve complex police pension issues, requiring specialist knowledge of both pension provision and the financial remedy process. Where court proceedings are necessary, I also represent clients personally in court.