Deirdre Smythe 

Membership Status: Barrister - Full Member

General Information

A dual-qualified barrister at the English and Irish Bar, Dee Smythe has extensive experience in family and criminal law, as well as other aspects of civil law.

With an empathetic approach, Dee speaks on behalf of those who may not be able to articulate themselves, including those with a disability and mental health issues. She fights on her client's behalf to get the best possible case outcome.

Dee’s legal career began as a Child Protection Officer and a Children’s Rights Advocate. She visited a number of Disabled Children’s Homes to ensure their environment was safe and that proper education was provided. Dee has a background in social work, the Probation Service and the Ministry of Justice, whilst completing her law degree and post qualifications for the bar. She also has experience as a County Court Advocate.

As a result, Dee has a unique understanding of the social care system, legal system and prison service and adopts a holistic approach to helping her clients resolve their cases. Dee says, “As a Barrister, I listen to what my clients have to say. I act as I would want to be represented, with respect, warmth and sincerity.”

Dee accepts instructions from both solicitors and members of the public. She adopts a balanced approach, representing both claimants and respondents, victims and defendants. She regularly appears in the County Courts, Family Courts and Magistrates' Courts, as well as attending the High Court, Crown Court and Court of Appeal. Dee was part of the legal team at the first-ever televised hearing at the Supreme Court in Ireland in which they won their historic case by a majority ruling.

Passionate about access to justice, Dee completes pro bono work for Justice for Women. She also works pro bono for Bail for Immigration Detainees, representing individuals who are in detention centres.

Areas of law

Family & Child Law

Criminal Law

Education

Memberships

Personal Interests

Beyond her interest in the law, Dee enjoys martial arts and once represented Northern Ireland at the European Championships in Judo. She is a Director of a not-for-profit Community Housing Company. Dee also works with serious risk offenders in hostels, working with them on their sentence plans and helping to rehabilitate them back into the community.

Feedback

Dee has simply been an amazing, honest, trustworthy, reliable and super intelligent Barrister and Advocate for us. Her knowledge and expertise in the family, probation and prison law space has been absolutely invaluable. Her professionalism, patience and due diligence has been second to none and I have no doubt we would not have been able to get the result we did without her. I would highly and strongly recommend her to represent you or any of your loved ones. In addition to all of the above, she is actually excellent value for money and very reasonably priced. I have never come across a fixed fee paid legal representative who gives the amount of time and focus on your case, that she does. Choose Dee, you 100% won’t regret it

Adam Direct Access Client

Dee Smythe went above and beyond to represent me in court, often working out of hours to complete the work, she was considerate and very understanding, her wealth of knowledge was invaluable towards my case. I would recommend Dee to anyone who needs representation to work with compassion and dedication up to the final hour. (direct access client)

Anonymous Direct access client

Please accept my utmost gratitude for your dedication and the most amazing way you have handled my case. You are simply the BEST EVER!!!

BB Direct Access Client

I instructed barrister Deirde Smythe (Dee) via Clerksroom Direct for an FHDRA hearing this week and thank goodness I found her when I did as I didn't have anyone to represent me in court. I'd read Dee’s CV/profile online and was so very impressed by her background, experience and expertise that I knew immediately she was the person for the job. At the start of the process Nastassi was always on hand to answer any queries I had. She always responded to emails very promptly and didn't fob me off or cause delay like some firms have done. Nastassi's instructions were simple and easy to follow and she was very supportive throughout. My ex husband was trying to vary the child arrangements order (indirect contact by way if cards) and put in an application for direct contact. There was a history of domestic violence within my marriage and he was very controlling and aggressive. My daughter at age 6 didn't want to see father as he scared her then and now at the age of 14 her fear remains and she still refuses to see him. He was dragging me in and out of court for 5 long years and now again. It's been so exhausting. Dee was absolutely amazing. From the start she was very thorough, going through every little detail in my case. Dee left no stone unturned and even supported me in preparing a bundle for court that I'd never done before myself. Dee's team also supported with this and have been brilliant. Dee was very understanding, kind, supportive and took on my ex husband and even the CAFCASS Officer. She'd practically backed them into a corner to the point where he had no choice but to withdraw his application for contact and couldn't contest anything. The man who used to intimidate me for years was seen scurring with his head down out of the court. I couldn't believe it. Dee is very determined, very driven, she is without a doubt absolutely brilliant at what she does, putting in all her time and effort even out of hours to support me whether that be calls or emails to go over the finer details. The outcomes were all in my favour thanks to Dee and without her advocating on my daughter's behalf and mine, and without her making damn sure my daughter's wishes, feelings and her voice were heard in the court room, we wouldn't have been free from his torture. Dee was so brilliant that she nipped my case in the bud in the first hearing. I was always worried that I'd be in and out of court for months to come, but Dee? WOW!-an absolute miracle worker, a blessing. It all happened quite quickly in courtroom. Dee had him exactly where she wanted him and he was getting agitated. I can't thank both her and her team enough. My daughter and I can now move on without looking over our shoulder. Without Dee's efforts, determination, support and guidance, we would never have achieved the end result I so desperately needed for the sake of my daughter. I would recommend Dee 1000% in any family matter she will always strive to do her best by you, and will go above and beyond the expectations you have at the start of the process. Thankyou so much Dee I will always be grateful to you for everything you have done for me because without you, all would have been impossible. God bless you and thankyou once again.

Celina Direct Access Client

My experience with Clerksroom Direct has been nothing but positive, from fast and efficient responses to my enquiry to the most brilliant barrister by way of Dee Smythe. I was self-representing when the other side managed to get legal aid, I was then at a massive disadvantage with the hearing just around the corner. Dee and I spoke out of hours on several occasions which was incredibly helpful as I have very limited childcare. Dee advised me on areas where I had been poorly advised, and ultimately helped me achieve the right outcome with regard to a contested NMO. She was both grounding and inspirational, professional and determined, most of all a damn good barrister who was an absolute pleasure to work with. Thank you to the team at Clerksroom and thank you Dee.

CH Direct Access Client

I instructed barrister Deirde Smythe (Dee) via Clerksroom Direct for an FHDRA hearing this week and thank goodness I found her when I did as I didn't have anyone to represent me in court. I'd read Dee’s CV/profile online and was so very impressed by her background, experience and expertise that I knew immediately she was the person for the job. At the start of the process Nastassi was always on hand to answer any queries I had. She always responded to emails very promptly and didn't fob me off or cause delay like some firms have done. Nastassi's instructions were simple and easy to follow and she was very supportive throughout. My ex husband was trying to vary the child arrangements order (indirect contact by way if cards) and put in an application for direct contact. There was a history of domestic violence within my marriage and he was very controlling and aggressive. My daughter at age 6 didn't want to see father as he scared her then and now at the age of 14 her fear remains and she still refuses to see him. He was dragging me in and out of court for 5 long years and now again. It's been so exhausting. Dee was absolutely amazing. From the start she was very thorough, going through every little detail in my case. Dee left no stone unturned and even supported me in preparing a bundle for court that I'd never done before myself. Dee's team also supported with this and have been brilliant. Dee was very understanding, kind, supportive and took on my ex husband and even the CAFCASS Officer. She'd practically backed them into a corner to the point where he had no choice but to withdraw his application for contact and couldn't contest anything. The man who used to intimidate me for years was seen scurring with his head down out of the court. I couldn't believe it. Dee is very determined, very driven, she is without a doubt absolutely brilliant at what she does, putting in all her time and effort even out of hours to support me whether that be calls or emails to go over the finer details. The outcomes were all in my favour thanks to Dee and without her advocating on my daughter's behalf and mine, and without her making damn sure my daughter's wishes, feelings and her voice were heard in the court room, we wouldn't have been free from his torture. Dee was so brilliant that she nipped my case in the bud in the first hearing. I was always worried that I'd be in and out of court for months to come, but Dee? WOW!-an absolute miracle worker, a blessing. It all happened quite quickly in courtroom. Dee had him exactly where she wanted him and he was getting agitated. I can't thank both her and her team enough. My daughter and I can now move on without looking over our shoulder. Without Dee's efforts, determination, support and guidance, we would never have achieved the end result I so desperately needed for the sake of my daughter. I would recommend Dee 1000% in any family matter she will always strive to do her best by you, and will go above and beyond the expectations you have at the start of the process. Thankyou so much Dee I will always be grateful to you for everything you have done for me because without you, all would have been impossible. God bless you and thankyou once again

CS Direct Access Client

I would like to say how much we appreciate the time effort expertise and genuine care, Dee Smythe has given to my case. She really has gone over and above in helping me with my custody of my daughter. I would recommend her to anyone in the same situation. I cannot thank and praise her enough

DB Direct Access Client

My experience with Clerksroom Direct has been nothing but positive, from fast and efficient responses to my enquiry to the most brilliant barrister by way of Dee Smythe. I was self-representing when the other side managed to get legal aid, I was then at a massive disadvantage with the hearing just around the corner. Dee and I spoke out of hours on several occasions which was incredibly helpful as I have very limited childcare. Dee advised me on areas where I had been poorly advised, and ultimately helped me achieve the right outcome with regard to a contested NMO. She was both grounding and inspirational, professional and determined, most of all a damn good barrister who was an absolute pleasure to work with. Thank you to the team at Clerksroom and thank you Dee.

GL Direct Access Client

Would just like to say thanks to clerksroom direct for appointing Dee Smyth to act for me on my non mol case that we was contesting in the family court. Dee is a great asset and someone who is very clever and knows her job, although my case didn’t end today but with Dee as my acting barrister I feel I would of had a fighting chance, due to the other party the case could not reach its conclusion, but as a farther behind accused of domestic violence Dee was in the perfect position to tackle my case and we actually was granted more than what I was expecting today. So would highly recommend to any human being out there if you happen to be accused then Dee is the barrister to have on side. Thank you Dee

JC Direct Access Client

I would like to thank Deirdre Smythe for her work at my final hearing for my son. I have had many experiences with solicitors regarding child custody issues and to be honest they have not been great with sole focus on money very little care and even worse communication. Dee is an absolute polar opposite to this and went out off her way to make sure we were prepared for the hearing which I have now full custody off my 12 year old son. Dee came across extremely well both with knowledge and more importantly genuinely cared about our situation and cares for the good in life and welfare off children. I would highly recommend thank you again

LQ Direct Access Client

I have used Dee Smythe for several hearings in the Family courts and have always found her to be extremely knowledgeable and supportive, going above and beyond to ensure that we were both fully prepared. I selected Dee largely as a result of her child protection and probation background and I found her knowledge and child focused approach to be indispensable when navigating such difficult and nuanced proceedings. Having utilised legal professionals in the past, I can confidently say that the support Dee provides in this field is unique in that her honesty, passion and sincerity is unlike any representation I have had previously. Her eloquent and respectful approach in court provided me with confidence that allowed me to strongly advocate for my children and I am very grateful.

LR Direct Access Client

Deirdre Smythe was an excellent counsel. She is brilliant. She spent hours in the phone to understand my case . Although she didn’t had much time but the did her best and I was happy with the outcome. The fee I paid was reasonable and I am very happy . Thank you Sam for introducing me to Dee . I would definitely use Their service again.

LT Direct Access Client

Thanks to the Clerksroom Direct guys and especially Deirdre Smythe. She knows her craft inside and out. Wow she blew my mind away. I was able to achieve what I wanted and with her guidance we achieved it as a team. Thank you once again to Deirdre Smythe. I would choose you all over again. What a time to end this hearing. You are simply the best.

Mr E.A. Direct access client

I used Clerksroom direct and was appointed Deidre Smythe for an unlawful eviction case for my shop. Deidre was very polite, listened carefully to me, reviewed my court papers and she sought the right the legal road to put my case on track. I was beyond happy with Ms. Smythe's services and her charming character and I can't thank her enough for handling a very stressful situation for myself and I am now on the road to get this nightmare put to an end. I found Deidre to be compassionate, caring, experienced, and very empathetic. If you want a good barrister on your side I can't recommend her enough. Thank you so much for your help.

Ms A V Direct access client

Dee Smythe is a fantastic, hard-working and empowering Barrister who deserves all the plaudits she receives. I had never instructed a barrister before but after instructing Dee I wished that I had - she was the first lawyer who ever fully grasped the facts of my family case and how it impacted myself and my child - she just 'got it'. Dee went over and above, making extra calls to ensure our preparation was the best it could be and she was tenacious in the courtroom in trying to get the best outcome possible; added time-pressure did not phase her. The approach Dee took has made me feel empowered to be more assertive myself in regards to this matter going forward and I can't thank her enough for that.

Ms Carter Direct Access Client

I was in a really dark place during my divorce. I couldn't see clearly and wasn't thinking about all the details around the child arrangements. Dee Smythe was recommended to me through my solicitor. Dee quickly changed my mindset and empowered me to consider everything, all the tiny important details around my child which had been overlooked. Once she used her experience and knowledge to extract exactly what I wanted she went in full force and I walked away from all my cases happy. In the end Dee showed me that wellbeing is just as important as winning. When Dee won my cases for me, my overall wellbeing immediately improved and I am in a much happier place. I look forward to all the changes in my future and couldn't thank Dee Smythe enough for her time. Let me add Dee Smythe certainly has a special way of making you know exactly what you want. Thank you Dee, I can't tell you in words how you changed my life

PP client

I had a disputed family hearing approaching, regarding visitation. I have been going through a series of false allegations over the past 5 years and required this final hearing to get visitation issued resolved once and for all. I was advised of Dee’s services by my previous solicitor who was retiring. As soon as Dee was instructed she made immediate contact with me, discussing the points of the case with me in depth, at each stage she was knowledgeable and her depth of knowledge was a huge reassurance leading upto the hearing. On the day of the hearing I got the result I needed thanks in no small part to the Dee, who thanks to her proactivity and thinking outside of the box ensured that the order made was a tight as it needed to be. Subsequently as a family we spent our first Christmas and child’s Birthday together. Already a month after the hearing we are feeling the benefit of regular visitation. I could not recommend Dee enough and would like to thank her again for all her advice and assistance

RH Direct Access Client

Fantastic and Caring Dee has been an amazing counsel. She thinks outside the box and is able to present your case in very eloquent, clear and convincing way to the Judge. Her support throughout the case has been second to none and I am truly grateful for this. Dee has genuine care and will give the time needed to understand your case and concerns in depth and will combine this with her incredible skills in arguing your case and cross-examination to truly give you the best opportunity for the right outcome of your case. Before Dee came on board, I had previous barristers which couldn't grasp the issues to hand and as a result the Judge did not have a clear insight to the children matters. Dee with her social work background is a major asset as she could identify the issues and abuse in a clear and straight-forward manner that the Judge was convinced. From being accused too being an obstructive mother last year by the same Judge, as I wanted to protect my children from an abusive father, the same judge at this final hearing last week has determined that I am not an obstructive mother and I sought to protect my children. In fact the Judge identified the abusive behaviour of the father and in turn the concerns extending to the children. I have Dee to thank for this. I definitely would recommend Dee as your counsel as she passionate , commitment, highly skilled, supportive and understands the importance these court proceedings are for you. She will give her full attention to you and combined with her attributes makes her one of the best barristers to have fighting for you and your children.

Sarah Public Access Client

Thank you so much to Barrister Deirdre Smythe for assisting us in a tricky case with supporting an SGO. You've given us a great head start and we hope to work with you again in the future. Would highly recommend for all family related matters. Very knowledgeable, professional, assertive and friendly. Thanks again.

SB Direct Access Client

I used Clerksroom Directl to instruct a Ms Smyth to represent me during a Final Contested Hearing. Ms Smyth, was efficient, sympathetic to my circumstances and managed to negotiate terms at the "Court Room doors" with the other sides Barrister that preserved the children's time with their father and prevented any future obstruction to access. Ms Smyth showed a complete understanding of the Family Court process and what their expectations were which enabled us to strategise to achieve a child centred outcome. She also understood that she was not representing me, she was representing the children to protect them from any future hostility. I am eternally grateful for Ms Smyth Counsel and support on the day and the days leading up to the Hearing date.

ST Direct Access Client

Deirdre Smythe​, Thank you for representing me in my family court case. Your expertise, vast knowledge and experience have been the key to my victory. Thank you again.

Will. A Direct Access Client

I was introduced to Dee Smythe through my solicitor in relation to a family court hearing, dealing with a breach of the court order. Dee is meticulous and methodical in the way she prepared for the case which enabled Dee to clearly communicate our evidence to the courts. More importantly Dee also recognised that the often tough approach of the law doesn't always work in finding a solution between two parties. Dee was able to liaise with the other party and bring them to an informal mediation which helped resolve a lot of the underlying issues that had existed for almost 6 years. Dee can see outside the box and that is vital when you need someone to handle a sensitive and a complex case. I highly recommend Dee Smythe.

ZA Direct Access Client

Dee truly excelled in dedication, care and involvement. She is an articulate barrister who quickly got to the core of the issues relating to my complex protracted child proceedings. She has genuine care and will take time to listen to your concerns and advise you accordingly. I am truly grateful for all the advice she has given which has been extremely valuable and has helped enormously in achieving the best outcome of this case so far.

Mrs S.K. Direct Access Client

Dee quickly got to grips with my papers, formed an insightful view of the situation and set about putting me at ease. Dee's ability at the hearing was very impressive. She was calm and collected and negotiated really well with the other side. She really cares and really wanted the best for me and my daughter.

Mr M.T. Direct Access Client

The time Dee spent and gave to me was invaluable and of paramount importance to my case. Thank you Dee, you truly are an asset to your work!

Mrs S.F. Direct Access Client

Fantastic service I highly recommend Dee the barrister I had today. We managed to get my access settled out of court and this was because of all of Dee's dedication and hard work.

Adam Direct access client

At short notice barrister Deirdre Smyth was appointed to take out case, the fees were very reasonable and in short time she put a great effort in to prepare our case and we won in court. I would highly recommend her, she is fantastic and thorough.

Direct access client Mrs M.A.

Dee truly excelled in dedication, care and involvement. She is an articulate barrister who quickly got to the core of the issues relating to my complex protracted child proceedings. She has genuine care and will take time to listen to your concerns and advise you accordingly. I am truly grateful for all the advice she has given which has been extremely valuable and has helped enormously in achieving the best outcome of this case so far.

Mrs S.K. Direct access client

Dee quickly got to grips with my papers, formed an insightful view of the situation and set about putting me at ease. Dee's ability at the hearing was very impressive. She was calm and collected and negotiated really well with the other side. She really cares and really wanted the best for me and my daughter.

Mr M.T. Direct access client

The time Dee spent and gave to me was invaluable and of paramount importance to my case. Thank you Dee, you truly are an asset to your work!

Mrs S.F. Direct access client

I would strongly recommend her, she represented our case to the judge very well and professional she stands by her word by representing her client the best she most possible can to her ability. She is very willing to try her best to make you feel as comfortable as you can during the procedure.

Anonymous Public Access

Sam introduced me to Deirdre (Dee) Smyth who has truly excelled in dedication, care and involvement. Dee is an articulate barrister who quickly got to the core of the issues relating to my complex protracted child proceedings and has guided the case with such care ,dedication and professionalism which is continuing to protect my children which I am truly grateful for. She has genuine care and will take time to listen to your concerns and advise you accordingly. I am truly grateful for all the advice she has given which has been extremely valuable and has helped enormously in achieving the best outcome of this case so far. Dee will stand in court and advocate strongly for you and her passion to do so is reflected in the genuine care she has. Her background in social work truly helps in showing the judge the case through the eyes of the children which is the core of any family case. I am grateful to have Dee representing me to the final hearing and will not hesitate in the future to ask for her assistance again. I would highly recommend Dee if you want a counsel who will give you the time needed to achieve the best out of the case, who will advocate strongly in court for you and who truly has genuine care to ensure the children's best interests remain as a priority.

Sarah Public Access

Deirdre Smythe

phone01823 247 247

[email protected]

Qualified in 2017