Arlene Small
Membership Status: Barrister - Full Member
General Information
Arlene became a barrister in 1997, and soon after developed a keen interest in family law. She has now become a dedicated advocate in this field and has a wealth of experience in all aspects of both family finance and children matters.
With a wide-ranging and thriving practice, Arlene has extensive experience in providing advice and representation in family law cases. This enables her to adopt a multi-faceted approach when assisting clients who have more than one element to their case. Arlene has a particular interest and experience in validity of marriage cases where there is an international element.
Incredibly passionate about helping her clients find the best possible solutions to their family-related problems, Arlene will often ‘go the extra mile’ to achieve this. She has a robust approach to advocacy where the situation demands it but is also able to balance that with sensitivity to the particular challenges that clients experience when going through court proceedings, as she is aware that, for many, it can be a very stressful and difficult time.
Arlene works in London and the South East but is willing to travel. She accepts legally aided, direct access and privately funded work, and is happy to undertake all levels of casework including initial applications, conferences and the preparation of written advice.
Areas of law
- Child Arrangements Orders
- Adoption
- Schedule 1 of the Children Act
- Care Proceedings
- Non-molestation and Occupation Orders
- Divorce including validity of marriage cases
- Financial Remedies Applications
- Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996
Personal Interests
Arlene is married to Andrew, a professional musician, and they have one daughter.
Feedback
“Dear Arlene,
May I please take this opportunity first to thank you for getting this case back on track as you so brilliantly did yesterday. The client asked me to specifically thank you again for the expert way in which you handled the case yesterday.
This case has been through different counsel, and no one has been able to grasp it and see through the smoke (and frankly cut through the nonsense) like you did yesterday; and as good as it was for the client it was quite a treat and learning experience to watch you for me too.
The order is perfect.
Will, I shall let you know as soon as we get the next hearing date as Client insists on having Arlene represent him in this case in the future for all hearings.”
Burhan Malik
Shah Law Chambers
“I was impressed with Arlene's flexibility and coming to see me in Southampton. Her professionalism and kindness were much appreciated.”
Chad Tew
Public Access Client
“I write this letter with sincere gratitude and thanks for the services of Arlene Small. Arlene represented me in my divorce proceedings. In this short time of representation, Arlene provided clarity and the utmost professionalism. I have seldom seen such a committed and dedicated person to a task. Arlene’s eye for detail and determination to succeed in my case was truly remarkable. Prior to seeking Arlene’s help and advice my case had elongated over a period of 2 years, to which no solution had been found by my Solicitor. Within two meetings Arlene had a better grasp on my case and set down clear and distinct guidelines that could not be misinterpreted. Arlene represented me in Court to which again her professionalism was on full display. It was so refreshing to see how Arlene calmly took control of previously convoluted information from the proceedings and placed it into a clear and legible language for all parties to understand. My experiences with Clerksroom prior to this were limited. I can only thank you for your services and a debt of gratitude for the guidance and determined focus of Arlene Small.
I shall be recommending Clerksroom at every opportunity in the future. Yours gratefully Neil J Guerin
”
Neil J Guerin
Direct Access Client
“Thank you (Arlene Small) for your attendance on this case and for providing such a thorough attendance note. This is an excellent result and I am very grateful, as is [client], for your assistance with this matter.
”
John Hirst
Laker Legal
“I was most impressed how conscientiously you (Arlene Small) pursued my wishes to benefit the children during the trial in front of the judge, how you managed my expectations but all the while trying to find a solution for me.
”
R.S.
Public Access Client - October 2013
“I frequently instruct Arlene [Small] on a range of family matters.
Arlene clearly has a passion for all areas of family law.
Arlene is approachable and is always extremely helpful and thorough in her work.
Arlene builds good relationships with the clients and is always willing to go the extra mile for them.
Clients will often request that Arlene continues to deal with their matter as they have been impressed by the support she provides as well as her extensive knowledge of the law.
I would not hesitate to instruct Arlene in the future and would definitely recommend Arlene to anyone looking for a family law barrister.
”
Miss Arani
Director of Arani Solicitors, November 2013
Publications
Re C (A Child) [2009] EWCA Civ 72 Arlene represented the paternal grandmother at all substantive hearings in the lower courts including the final hearing, and as a Respondent in the leave application in the Court of Appeal.
"Could Practical Measures Reduce Adoption Delays"? - interview with Arlene which was originally published on the Current Awareness service on LexisLibrary on 13/10/11
Read Arlene's Courting Disastus blog
