Vikki Horspool

Vikki is a Solicitor and Partner in the Child Care team.

After completing her Law Degree and Legal Practice Course at Northumbria University she completed her training contract at a firm in Essex and then worked for the same firm for a number of years before moving to Leeds for family reasons. She has since gone on to complete a Masters Degree in Child Law.

Vikki is best known for her work in Children law litigation. She is recognised for her ability to assist in complicated public law Children Act cases, acting effectively and sensitively for Respondent parents, extended family members and Guardians.

In private law children work, Vikki provides a highly professional level of support at all levels of court hearings for parents and partners.

Vikki can always be relied upon to give firm and fair advice even in the most difficult of circumstances. She has concern and understanding for her client which enables them to have confidence that she will do all she can to progress the matter without giving unrealistic expectations. Vikki is noted for her approachable style and ability to put anxious clients at ease. Her confidence and familiarity with court practice provides assistance and support to professional and lay client alike. In negotiations, she adopts a practical approach and is ready to assist clients to achieve the best possible outcome.

Vikki specialises in all areas of Children Act work but in particular in Public Law proceedings. She is a member of the Children Panel and was one of the youngest solicitors in the country to be appointed. Vikki also deals with both Residence and Contact issues and Domestic Violence work as highlighted by her specialist Resolution Accreditation in Domestic Violence and Private Law Children matter. Vikki also has her Higher Rights accreditation confirming her experience and skill in advocacy.

She was appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in March 2019.

Vikki most recently has been involved in the female genital mutilation (FGM) test case in the Family Court (details and full judgment and guidance here).

Vikki was a finalist in the national Family Law Awards 2015, Family Law Associate Solicitor of the Year and is recommended in The Legal 500.