Special Educational Needs (SEN) can bring a number of challenges to those living with them. We understand how stressful it can be for individuals with SEN, or individuals caring for those with SEN, to begin legal proceedings in connection to their needs. So, our SEN barristers are here to lighten the load when it comes to SEN law.

Understanding SEN law is vital to ensure that individuals with special education needs, especially children and young people, are properly protected.

St Pauls Chambers has significant expertise in all types of proceedings relating to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, including special education law. There is significant crossover in this area with Court of Protection cases, with which St Pauls Chambers also have considerable experience.

SEN Law

According to SEN law, all publicly funded pre-schools, nurseries, state schools and local authorities must work to help assess children with special educational needs.

We represent local authorities and parents in SEN law cases brought under the Equality Act 2010 and Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan appeals brought pursuant to section 51 of the Children and Families Act 2014, such as:

• Appeals against the contents of Sections B, F and I of an EHC Plan (the description of a child’s needs, provision to meet the needs and the school named in the Plan).
• Appeals against a refusal to issue an EHC Plan.
• Appeals against a decision to cease a Plan.
• Disability discrimination cases.

We routinely act in cases affecting young people who are making the transition from Children’s Services to Adult Services. We also have particular expertise in post-19 cases involving assessments under the Care Act 2014 and associated Court of Protection proceedings.

SEN Barristers

Hannah Lynch is a sought-after junior SEN barrister in this area, representing local authorities and parents across the country in appeals before the First-Tier Tribunal (SEND), the Upper Tribunal and the Court of Protection.