Kate Hammond

Managing Partner

Kate is a recognised specialist in child care law, and she represents clients in court without the need for a barrister. The majority of her work is in advising people involved in local authority care proceedings. This includes parents, children, guardians and anyone else who needs to become involved to defend themselves (known as intervenors). In addition, she has a wealth of experience in representing children where there is disagreement between parents over decisions following a divorce or separation. The types of cases that Kate has been involved in include: representing and advocating for children in interim or long-term care proceedings initiated by the local authority; representing children where there is an intractable dispute about child arrangement orders regarding where children will live or whether they are allowed to see a parent; advising and representing children when their views differ to that of their parents or guardians, including making assessments of competence and understanding; situations involving children who struggle to open up to others, building up trust and communication to ensure that their voice is heard in court; non-accidental injury cases and cases of alleged sexual abuse; and applications or orders for the deprivation of liberty for a child. In her role as managing partner of Miles & Partners Solicitors, Kate works with the executive team to deliver the goals of the firm. She also oversees the professional development of all members of staff, in particular the trainee solicitors. Kate is recognised as a ‘recommended lawyer’ in the 2025 Legal 500 for her work in care proceedings alongside private law children work. Her experience in children matters involving local authorities is also mentioned. She won the 2020 Family Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Award, praised as ‘a brilliant role model who is inspiring the next generation of legal aid lawyers to continue this incredibly important work’ by Juliet Harvey, Resolution national chair.