Together making a positive difference

Directors

Imtiaz Choudry

Managing Director

​Qualifications:
BSc Information Management, Information Technology 1997
PRINCE 2

​Experience:
Senior management
Project management
Vendor relationships
Marketing
Business owner entrepreneur
Founder Mums Can Do
People Management

Interests:
Budding football Mum
Networking
Fundraising for the local women’s refuge centre and the Children of the World campaign, including opening schools, hospitals and water wells.

Naomi Abraham-Bello

Director & Principal Solicitor

​Qualifications:
LLB (hons) Law. LPC (Distinction)

​Experience:
Over 17 years’ experience in Family Law including complex children proceedings, care proceedings and financial proceedings.

Interests:
Loves theme parks, travelling, reading and spending time with her family.

Menaz Choudry

Director & Head of Domestic Abuse Department

  • LLB(HONS)
  • LPC
  • PGCE(PCET)
  • Accredited Member of the Advanced Family Panel

  • ​Experience:
    Menaz is a Director and Solicitor. She returned to legal practise, specialising in Family Law in 2019 having previously taught and been head of A-Level Law for 12 years.

    Interests:
    Enjoys hiking and when she has time running 5km or 1/2 marathon for Cancer Research, a charity close to her heart.

    Stephanie Oxley

    Director & Co-Head of Court of Protection & Mental Health

    Qualifications:
    Stephanie completed her Legal Practice Course and Masters of Science (MSc) in Business and Law Management at the University of Law in Guildford with a Distinction grade. Prior to this Stephanie graduated from university having completed the Single Honors LLB Law Degree and having achieved a Distinction in the Masters of Law LLM, specialising in Human Rights Law.
    Stephanie is a Law Society Accredited Mental Health Panel Member and has attained Higher Rights of Audience (Civil).

    Experience:
    Stephanie is a solicitor specialising in Court of Protection (Health & Welfare) and Mental Health matters, having practiced in this area of law for the past 6 years. Stephanie has experience in representing vulnerable individuals in both the Court of Protection and the Mental Health Review Tribunal. Stephanie also has vast experience in working with the Official Solicitor.

    Interests: Stephanie is extremely passionate about Human Rights and helping her clients to achieve the best possible outcome in their matters. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys playing chess and loves spending time with her pets.

    Farzana Ahmad

    Director & Head of Children Department

    Farzana completed her Law degree at the University of Westminster and the Legal Practice Course at College of law. She qualified as a solicitor in 2016 after completing her training contract at a niche law firm.

    Experience:
    Farzana is an accredited member of the Advanced Family Law Panel. She has a wealth of experience in all areas of family law including public and private law proceedings, child abduction, divorce and financial proceedings and ex-parte applications for children and domestic violence and protection from forced marriage and protection from harassment. Farzana also has experience in Immigration law.

    Farzana thrives on client care and adopts a sympathetic and supportive approach to clients to ensure that she fully understands their needs and objectives in order to achieve the best possible outcome for them.

    Farzana has a flair for advocacy and conducts the majority of her own having received extensive training from counsel's at various renowned chambers. She believes in consistency for her clients and continuity of service.

    Farzana has actively participated in pro-bono work at various advice centres and women centres.

    Reported cases:
    T -v- G [2024] EWHC 246 (Fam)
    Re-hearing of an application by father for a summary return of child to USA – the mother’s Article 13(b) defence made out and the application was dismissed.

    Re T (Abduction: Protective Measures: Agreement to Return) [2023] EWCA Civ 1415
    This is an appeal by the mother against two related orders, one of which was expressed to be ‘By Consent’, under the 1980 Hague Convention for a return of child to USA. Appeal was allowed on the basis that there was no agreement regarding protective measures.

    Domestic Abuse

    Ayse Faik

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Ayse graduated with a First Class Law Degree before completing her Legal Practice Course. She has experience in Family Law including domestic abuse injunctions and private law children proceedings.

    Interests:
    Ayse enjoys travelling, going to the gym, and spending time with her family.

    Gemal Naboev

    Solicitor

    Gemal graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from City, University London in 2019 and has successfully completed his Masters in Law (LLM) with Legal Practice at BPP University in 2022. During his time at university, Gemal had developed a strong passion for Family Law.

    Gemal currently holds extensive experience within Family Law. He currently deals with matters relating to Divorce and Separation, Private Children Matters and Domestic Abuse. Gemal has also conducted substantial amounts of advocacy within various family courts nationally in the role of a Paralegal.

    In his spare time, Gemal enjoys going to the gym and educating himself with past historical events alongside world current affairs.

    Dominique Backhouse

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Dominique graduated with a First Class Law Degree from Royal Holloway University of London in 2019. She successfully completed her Legal Practice Course with Masters in Professional Legal Practice in 2020. During her time at university, Dominique developed a keen interest in family law.

    Experience:
    Dominique developed a strong interest in domestic violence and children matters during her time as a supervisor with the National Centre for Domestic Violence in which she worked on Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders and Prohibited Steps Orders.

    Interests:
    Dominique enjoys travelling and visiting places of historical significance. In her spare time she also enjoys going to the gym and spending time with friends and family

    Emily Hines

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Emily graduated with a Law Degree from the University of Essex in 2019. Emily completed the Legal Practice Course with Masters at the University of Law in 2020. During her studies, Emily developed a particular interest in Family Law.

    Experience:
    Emily completed her 2 year training contract and qualified as a solicitor in March 2024. During her training, Emily worked on various family matters including domestic abuse and private children cases. Since qualifying, Emily now specialises in applications for Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders.

    Interests:
    Emily enjoys spending time with her family and going for brunch with friends. To unwind, Emily enjoys yoga and watching reality TV.

    Shanushiya Rathakrishna

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Shanushiya gained her Law LLB degree from the University of Hertfordshire before completing the Legal Practice Course at the University of Law.

    Experience:
    Shanushiya has gained experience in immigration and family law since 2017, with a particular focus on family law matters including domestic abuse, divorce, child arrangements, and financial issues. She qualified as a solicitor, specialising in family law in November 2024.

    Interests:
    Outside of her legal career, she has a passion for travelling, exploring different cultures and cuisines, and discovering new perspectives through history and literature. She also has a love for theatre.

    Giti Hashemi

    Trainee Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Giti graduated with a First Class Law degree from the University of Hertfordshire in 2018. She completed her Legal Practice Course at the same university achieving a distinction. During her time at university, Giti developed a keen interest in family law.

    Experience:
    Giti has experience in domestic abuse cases, including applications for non-molestation and occupation orders.

    Interests:
    Giti enjoys travelling, going to the gym, and spending time with her family and friends.

    Rafail Amyrotos

    Trainee Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Rafail graduated with a Law degree from Leeds Beckett University in 2020. He intends to begin the Legal Practice Course soon and qualify as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    Rafail is a passionate and dedicated legal professional with extensive experience in Family Law. Over the course of his career, he has developed a deep understanding of various legal processes, focusing on supporting individuals in vulnerable situations. Rafail is particularly skilled in obtaining emergency injunctions and securing orders under the Children Act. Rafail advocates for clients and appears in Family Courts. Rafail focuses on helping individuals who have suffered from domestic abuse, recognising the profound impact that legal support can have on their lives. He is driven by the belief that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to have their voice heard and their rights protected. Rafail’s approach to legal practice is rooted in compassion and empathy. He prioritises putting his clients at ease, understanding that navigating the legal system can be a daunting experience. By building trusting relationships and offering support, Rafail ensures that his clients feel confident and supported throughout the entire legal process. His goal is always to secure the best possible outcome for the people he represents, making a meaningful difference in their lives.

    Interests:
    Rafail is bilingual, fluent in Greek and English. In his free time, Rafail enjoys travelling, spending time with his loved ones and going to the gym.

    Kate Hurley

    Paralegal

    Experience:
    Kate started her law journey in 2020 after a ten-year career in theatre and dance, which led to fantastic opportunities performing around the world. Kate’s avid interest in law began at an early age, following her family’s footsteps in the legal profession and judgeship for Family and Criminal Law. Kate has experience in managing public and private family law matters, including care proceedings, private child arrangements, Prohibited Steps and Specific Issue Orders. Kate has further experience in managing Non-Molestation and Occupation Order matters. Kate is passionate about delivering excellent client service, providing assurance to clients, guiding clients through the court process and achieving favourable outcomes for clients.

    Interests:
    In her spare time, Kate enjoys running, the outdoors, theatre and travel.

    Androniki Odysseos

    Paralegal

    I graduated with a Law degree from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2017 and have been working in the field of Family Law since 2019. Throughout my career, I have handled numerous cases involving domestic violence, advocating for vulnerable individuals, and ensuring their voices are heard. My passion for Family Law stems from my commitment to helping those whose rights have been breached and guiding them through complex legal processes with care and determination.

    In addition to my experience in Family Law, I have also gained knowledge and expertise in other areas of law, including contract law. I am currently working towards my SQEs to qualify as a Solicitor and continue developing my legal skills. I am fluent in both English and Greek and I enjoy connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.

    In my free time, I love cooking for my loved ones, staying active through exercise, and traveling abroad to visit family and friends.

    Keara Makenji

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Keara graduated from the University of Leicester and completed a Master’s at King’s College London. She is currently undertaking the Solicitors Qualifying Exam with a view to qualifying as a Solicitor via this route.

    Experience:
    Keara has experience in a wide range of family matters including Domestic Abuse matters, Children Act proceedings and childcare proceedings. Furthermore, Keara often conducts her own advocacy.

    Interests:
    In her spare time, Keara enjoys readings, music and travelling

    Tilly-Mae Oliver

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Tilly has gained experience as a paralegal in group litigation, as well as criminal law. She has regularly supported the team during hearings and at crown court trials.

    Experience:
    Graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2022 with an LLB in Law and Criminal Justice, she is an aspiring solicitor advocate.

    Interests:
    Travelling, football, playing music, looking after my little sausage dog.

    Farris Hussain

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    I completed my law degree in 2022 and I’m currently undertaking my LLM in Legal Practice. I intend on taking the SQE route in January 2025 to qualify as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    I have 1 experience in a law field environment. This was as a voluntary admin in a Solicitors. I have knowledge of family and immigration law.

    Interests:
    I enjoy collecting exclusive trainers, anything to do with cars and going on holiday to different destinations.

    Toma Montvilaite

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Toma graduated with an LLB Law (Hons) degree from the University of Nottingham in 2023. She completed further studies at two international summer schools, including law modules at Fudan University, China in 2021 and language modules at Yonsei University, South Korea in 2022.

    Experience:
    Toma has over a years’ experience of working closely with victims of domestic abuse at an organisation which assisted victims in obtaining non-molestation orders and occupations. This strengthened her interest to pursue a career in Family Law and expertise in her current role. She is passionate about helping others and delivering a sympathetic service to our clients. She intends to begin the LLM SQE 1&2 course soon to qualify as a solicitor.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Toma enjoys painting and visiting art exhibitions, travelling, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

    Children

    Ashleigh McCotter

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Ashleigh graduated from Kent University before completing her Legal Practice Course with BPP. Ashleigh qualified as a Solicitor in 2017 and has over 10 years’ experience in Family Law, specialising in Private Children and Domestic Abuse matters. She prides herself on providing a holistic service to clients and having a personable approach.

    Interests:
    Ashleigh loves to travel and enjoys going for long walks with her Labradoodle in her spare time. She also enjoys cooking, reading and live music.

    Denise Ismail

    Solicitor

    ​Qualifications:
    Denise graduated from Southbank University before completing her Legal Practice Course at the College of Law. She has over 10 years experience in Family Law including divorce, domestic abuse injunctions and children proceedings. Denise is an accredited member of the Advanced Family Law Panel.

    Interests:
    Denise loves the outdoors and enjoys going for long walks and bike rides in her spare time. She also enjoys baking and spending time with family.

    Alasdair Murray

    Solicitor

    Qualification
    Alasdair qualified as a solicitor in 2016, after completing the Graduate Diploma in Law (conversion course) and Legal Practice Course. He has over ten years of experience primarily in Family Law, and seven years as a qualified solicitor, first at a high street firm where he completed his training contract, and then at a national firm specialising in Family work.

    Experience
    Alasdair has extensive experience of Family Law cases involving domestic abuse and private children disputes, particularly publicly funded work, and has also worked in other areas including care proceedings and divorce. He is familiar at working with vulnerable clients and resolving complex family disputes. He generally performs his own advocacy and has travelled to courts across London and the South East. He also has some experience in other legal areas such as immigration.

    Interests
    Outside of work, Alasdair has used his legal skills to help the community by volunteering in a law centre. His non-legal interests include art, history and theatre.

    Kamran Bari

    Solicitor

    Kamran graduated from the University of Leicester in 2018 achieving First Class Honours in LLB Law and thereafter completed his Legal Practice Course with Masters in the University of Hertfordshire with a Distinction.

    Kamran has been working in Family Law since 2019 and is particularly experienced in areas involving domestic abuse. This includes representing clients for non-molestation orders, occupation orders, and forced marriage protections orders. Furthermore, he has experience in matters relating to children under the Children Act 1989. Prior to working in Family Law, Kamran previously worked in Immigration Law where he gained experience in completed various visa applications.

    In his spare time, he enjoys reading, drawing and painting, and going to parks

    Shems Majid

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Shems assists in the children proceedings department. She will often be the main point of contact for clients and will deal with their matter in a swift but effective matter. Shems’ friendly persona allows clients to feel at ease and she will using her interpersonal skills to fulfil her role. Prior to working at HAB Law she worked within the Immigration, Family and Litigation department working with high-net-worth clients. Shems has worked on high complex cases assisting solicitors and barristers and has been able to achieve successful outcomes for clients.

    Experience:
    Shems read law at the University of Hertfordshire and completed her Legal Practice Course and master’s in business law and management at the University of Law. During her post graduate degree, she developed an interest in Family Law.

    Interests:
    Shems enjoys learning languages and is fluent in Arabic, French and proficient in Korean. Shems writes legal articles about current contemporary legal issues on her personal blog and enjoys travelling in her spare time.

    Adriana Silva Santos

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Adriana completed her LLB studies at the University of Southampton in 2019 and completed her Legal Practice Course with a Masters at De Montfort University in 2020, achieving a distinction. During her time at university, Adriana developed a keen interest in family law.

    Experience:
    Adriana has extensive experience in domestic abuse cases, including applications for non-molestation and occupation orders, private children matters including child arrangements order, specific issues and prohibited steps orders and divorce proceedings. She is passionate about delivering a sympathetic service and achieving favourable outcomes for her clients. Adriana is also adept in advocacy and has represented her clients at court nationally. Client care is at the heart of what she does and supporting her clients through difficult times is paramount.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Adriana enjoys going to the gym, travelling, and spending time with her family. 

    Monica Mira

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Monica's legal background includes assisting with Immigration matters and handling various aspects of Family law such as Domestic Abuse, Private Law Children, Public Law Children, Divorce, and Financial matters. She is experienced in managing both legal aid and private cases, serving as the main point of contact for clients.
    Monica's empathetic nature and strong interpersonal skills create a comfortable environment for clients, enabling her to establish positive relationships with clients and colleagues.
    Monica is an ambitious and highly motivated person who thoroughly enjoys challenging tasks, showcasing her eagerness to expand her knowledge and skills.

    Experience:
    Monica's academic journey in law began in Portugal, where she obtained her undergraduate degree in the civil law system. In 2019, she made the transition to the UK and successfully earned a Master's degree in international business law. Building on her educational achievements, Monica decided to further her legal expertise by enrolling at BPP to pursue a postgraduate degree.
    Monica is currently in the process of completing the LPC and hopes to complete her training contract at HAB Law.

    Interests:
    Monica is bilingual, fluent in Portuguese and English, with a good command of Spanish, and she aspires to learn Mandarin. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, and attending football matches.

    Çağla Bağ (pronounced Charla Bar)

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Çağla ompleted her LLB studies at SOAS University of London and her Legal Practice Course with a Masters at the University of Law.

    Experience:
    Çağla has extensive expertise in family law, handling a diverse range of cases from domestic abuse matters, including non-molestation and occupation orders, to private children proceedings, divorce, and financial settlements. She has also supported clients in care proceedings. Having personally represented clients in over 200 hearings, Çağla is a confident advocate. Çağla has further built strong relationships with barristers and courts over the years. Her experience spans both public and private law, and she is deeply committed to providing compassionate and dedicated service to her clients.

    Outside of work, Çağla enjoys going to art galleries, seeing friends, traveling, and helping out in the local community.

    Sharina Salam

    Solicitor

    Sharina is a qualified solicitor with over 20 years of Housing Law experience running homelessness, allocation, disrepair and other tenancy issues cases.
    She also did some immigration work.

    She has worked both in a Law Centre and in the private sector mainly doing legal aid work.

    Sharina was able to advise on welfare benefit issues when dealing with housing cases since there was an overlap of welfare benefit issues with the housing cases.

    Sharina also does family law. At HAB she deals with family law issues including financial matters such as applications for transfer of tenancies.

    Sharina works part time at HAB law.

    Zara Briffa

    Chartered Family Lawyer (FCILEX)

    Zara Briffa qualified through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) and is a Chartered Family Lawyer. She specialises in domestic abuse cases and private children proceedings, with a keen interest in international relocation matters. As an experienced advocate, Zara regularly represents clients in court and is recognised for her compassionate, clear, and strategic approach in guiding families through difficult times.

    Outside of work, Zara is passionate about travel and adventure. She enjoys skiing, scuba diving, and exploring new places, as well as experimenting with new foods and experiences.

    Simran Shah

    Trainee Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Simran graduated with an LLB Law with Politics from the University of Sussex in 2021. She successfully completed the Legal Practice Course with a Masters in Science at the University of Law in 2023. She aims to qualify as a Solicitor.

    Experience:
    Simran is experienced in providing assistance in a range of family matters including domestic abuse and children act applications. She ensures that she listens to clients’ concerns and works with them to come to a suitable resolution. Simran provides a thoughtful and empathetic approach to all her clients.

    Interests:
    Simran is a keen traveller and thoroughly enjoys cooking up new recipes to share with family and friends.

    Leyla Atmali

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Leyla completed her Law degree at the University of Sussex in 2021 and the LPC with a masters in Legal Practice at the University of Law in 2023.

    Leyla developed a keen interest in Family law after studying Family Law as modules during her Law degree and the LPC. She also worked in a school during her studies to support autistic children, which strengthened her passion for Children Matters.

    Interests:
    Leyla enjoys travelling, reading, going to the gym and both playing and watching football.

    Thievya Yogarajah

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Thievya completed her LLB (Hons) Law degree at Bournemouth University and went on to complete her LPC and LLM at the University of Law, specialising in Family Law. She has developed a strong interest in all areas of family law, including private and public children proceedings, domestic abuse injunctions, financial disputes, and international child abduction.

    Experience:
    Thievya is known for her calm and empathetic approach, ensuring clients feel supported and well-informed throughout emotionally challenging proceedings. Having worked on both Legal Aid and private client cases, she brings a balanced and practical perspective to her work, with a commitment to achieving fair and lasting outcomes for families.

    In addition to her family law experience, Thievya has volunteered at legal surgeries providing advice to survivors of domestic abuse and has contributed to human rights projects in South Africa.

    Interests:
    Outside of her professional life, she enjoys travelling, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and has a background in performing arts, which has strengthened her confidence, communication, and attention to detail in her legal practice.

    Benedict Sangola

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Benedict graduated with an LLB in Law from the University of Surrey. She is currently studying for an LLM in Law at the University of Law, where she has developed a keen interest in family law.

    Experience:
    Benedict has gained extensive experience in family law, assisting clients in both private and public law children proceedings, as well as domestic abuse matters. She has also advocated for clients in various courts. She has previous experience in prison law, which has strengthened her ability to support and advise clients across complex legal issues.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Benedict enjoys practicing judo, cycling, travelling, and reading novels.

    Aarzoo Tejani

    Paralegal

    Experience:
    Aarzoo holds an LLB degree from Mumbai, India, and an LLM from Brunel University London. With over a year of experience in family law, specializing in domestic abuse and private children matters, she has demonstrated strong advocacy skills across various courts. She is an ambitious paralegal who aspires to become a promising solicitor soon.

    Outside of work, Aarzoo enjoys painting, cycling, and taking walks.

    Janine Williams

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Janine her law Degree at Birkbeck, University of London, and will embark on the SQE course in 2024 to qualify as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    Janine has several years of experience in Family law, which includes Divorce, Financial matters, and Child Arrangement applications. She is also currently dealing with domestic abuse cases, including applications for non-molestation and occupation orders, specific issues, and prohibited steps orders.

    Interests:
    Janine enjoys spending time at the gym, enjoys historical novels and music.

    Zainab Hassan

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Zainab completed her LLB studies at City University in 2020 and her Legal Practice Course with a Master's at BPP University in 2022. During her time at university, Zainab developed a keen interest in family law and completed her master's dissertation in the niche area of surrogacy.

    Experience:
    Zainab has extensive experience in managing day-to-day case progressions and handling correspondence across a wide range of publicly funded and private client matters. She has worked on cases involving domestic abuse, including applications for non-molestation and occupation orders, as well as private children matters and public law care proceedings. Zainab is also skilled in advocacy and has represented clients in county courts. She is dedicated to providing compassionate service and achieving positive outcomes for her clients, believing that a sympathetic understanding of a client’s needs is essential in sensitive family and children cases. Zainab is eager to continue immersing herself in the family law sector.

    Interests:
    Zainab enjoys traveling, exploring diverse cuisines and cultures, reading novels, and spending time with family and friends.

    Care

    Boyd Carter

    Head of Care Department

    Qualification:
    Boyd completed his law degree, LLB (Hons), in Nottingham, then attended The College of Law in Bloomsbury for the Solicitors Final Examination and completed 2 years’ training before qualifying as a solicitor in 1994.

    Boyd is a Solicitor-Advocate (Higher Courts Civil), an accredited Civil and Commercial Mediator and a qualified children arbitrator. Boyd is a member of: the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (MCIArb); the Law Society’s Children Law Accreditation Panel (since 1998 as a children’s representative); the Association of Lawyers for Children; the Solicitors Association of Higher Court Advocates and Resolution (formerly the Solicitors Family Law Association). Boyd used to be a member of the Law Society’s Personal Injury Panel.

    Experience
    Boyd has over 30 years’ legal experience and during that time has practiced in criminal law, family law and civil and commercial dispute resolution.

    Boyd specialises in complex cases involving children including care proceedings dealing with the most serious of allegations including death, severe injuries and sexual abuse. Boyd regularly appears as an advocate in the Family Courts in London, the South East and East Anglia and in the High Court (Family Division), representing children, parents and other family members.

    Boyd also advises and represents parents in disputes about their children and, in suitable cases under the IFLA scheme, can be instructed as an arbitrator in these private law children cases, to adjudicate on disputes between parents as a quicker and more discreet alternative to involving the courts.

    Boyd’s interests and hobbies include cars, food, films, theatre, music, travel and family.

    Vikram Kumar

    Senior Solicitor

    ​Qualifications:
    Vikram studied law in Southampton before completing his Legal Practice Course at the University of Westminster and qualifying as a Solicitor in 2006

    Experience:
    Vikram has 16 years’ experience in Family Law including complex children proceedings, care proceedings, domestic abuse injunctions, divorce and financial proceedings. Since 2013, Vikram is also an accredited member of the Law Society Children Law Accreditation Scheme enabling him to represent children in care proceedings

    Interests:
    Vikram likes to travel and experience new cultures and spend time with friends and family

    Zafir Dewshi

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    LPC Legal Practice Course, University of Law
    LLB (hons) Law, University of Westminster
    LLM Master of Laws, QMUL

    Experience:
    Zafir has gained extensive experience in a broad spectrum of matters though working in the field of family law since 2018.
    Currently part of the Care Department, Zafir has assisted clients in complex public children matters where there has been local authority involvement at the pre-proceedings stage and during proceedings where there have been applications for care and supervision orders, emergency protection orders and special guardianship orders.
    Zafir also has significant experience in private children matters which includes assisting clients with child arrangement orders, specific issue orders and prohibited steps orders. He has also dealt with domestic abuse injunctions, occupation orders, divorce, transfer of tenancy and forced marriage protection orders.
    Zafir takes pride in client care and maintains a pragmatic but compassionate approach when assisting and advising clients who are often vulnerable due to being victims of abuse and suffering from mental health or cognitive issues. He is committed to justice and fairness and is always striving to assist clients in achieving the best possible resolution and outcome.

    Interests:
    Zafir enjoys travelling and learning about new places, their histories and cultures, music, good coffee, watching Spurs, community volunteering and spending time with family and friends.

    Donna Harrison

    Legal Secretary

    Qualifications:
    Donna has worked in a legal capacity since 1980 and have trained in various departments including personal injury, Road Traffic Accidents and medical negligence.

    Over the past 30 years her particular experience has been family law, especially childcare matters and domestic abuse. Donna believes her experience has taught her to be a patient and compassionate person and her nature is to assist anyone to the best of her ability.

    Interests:
    Donna’s interests outside of the office are her family including her pet dog, reading and travel.

    Court of Protection

    Yee Fon Mac

    Co-head of Court of Protection & Mental Health

    Qualifications
    Yee Fon completed her law degree in 1992 achieving an LLB (Hons). She then successfully passed the Law Society Final Examinations on her first attempt in 1993. Yee Fon is accredited on the Law Society’s First Tier (Mental Health) Panel. In 2018, she qualified onto the Law Society’s Mental Capacity (Welfare) Accreditation Panel in the first ever cohort.

    Experience
    Yee Fon has over 12 years’ experience in representing clients, or their relatives in Court of Protection (welfare) matters. She is regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor or advocates and has substantial expertise in this area of law. Yee Fon represented the Official Solicitor in A Local Authority v H (No 2) [2019] EW COP51. In Re H (An adult termination) [2023] EW COP 183, Yee Fon acted as an agent for the Official Solicitor.

    Interests
    In her spare time, Yee Fon likes to travel and she enjoys her exercise classes at her local gym.

    Katherine Dalton

    Deputy Head of Court of Protection

    “Katherine joined Fish & Co’s [HAB Law] Court of Protection Practice in early 2023 having spent the last three and half years working in-house as a Solicitor at Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole Council. Katherine has experience in acting on a variety of Court of Protection applications. Katherine was awarded a Commendation from the University of Westminster following her completion of her Legal Practice Course in 2014 . Katherine also has a LLB (Hons) Degree as well as being awarded Very Competent in the Bar Vocational Course from Northumbria University.  Prior to practising as a Solicitor, Katherine worked in commercial Corporate Finance and Management Consultancy in London.

    Outside of work, Katherine enjoys travel, running and being a Mum to her young son. Katherine is also a Trustee of Helping Hands PTA which raises money for a local school in Dorset.”

    Tyra Kessna-Irish

    Supervising Solicitor

    Qualification
    Tyra completed her LLB studies at the University of Kent in 2019 and completed her Legal Practice Course with a Masters at BPP University in 2020.

    Experience
    Tyra has extensive Court of Protection experience to include Health and Welfare and Property and Financial Affairs matters. Tyra also has experience with managing the property and finances of incapacitated Clients.

    Tyra specialises in Applications which are made to the Court of Protection and Office of the Public Guardian to include:

    • Deputyship Applications
    • Lasting Powers of Attorney
    • Trust Applications
    • Applications to the Court of Protection to challenge or defend deputyship appointments
    She is passionate about delivering a competent and sympathetic service to vulnerable Clients and their families.

    Interests
    Tyra enjoys reading and creative writing. She also enjoys running and going to the theatre.

    Jemma Cable

    Solicitor

    Practice Areas:
    Court of Protection (Health and Welfare)
    Mental Health Law and Tribunal Representation

    Profile:
    Jemma is a Solicitor in HAB Law’s Court of Protection and Mental Health team. She represents and advises individuals in complex health and welfare proceedings, including cases involving capacity, care, and treatment decisions. She also provides advocacy for clients detained under the Mental Health Act, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.

    Jemma’s career has been defined by a commitment to protecting vulnerable people. Before qualifying as a solicitor, she worked directly with refugees who were survivors of human trafficking, modern slavery, and gender-based violence. Her role involved providing practical support, advocacy, and safeguarding through outreach work.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Jemma can usually be found attempting to master hot yoga, hunting down the best matcha latte in town, or being bossed around by her cats, Spud and Widget (who live up to the quirky names she gave them!).

    Madina Hadji

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Madina completed her LLB Law degree at the Kingston University and the Legal Practice Course with Masters in Family Law at the University of Law in London in 2020.

    Experience:
    Madina qualified in 2023 and joined HAB Law as a Solicitor as part of our Court of Protection team. Since 2018 Madina has gained experience in Family Law (matters relating to Divorce and Separation, Childcare proceedings) Immigration Law, Commercial Law, Civil & Criminal Litigation and Mental Health Law, Court of Protection (Health and Welfare).

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Madina enjoys travelling, learning new languages, has a passion for interior designing & event decoration and loves spending time with family.

    Karyn Shaw

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Karyn completed her LLB Law degree at the University of Reading and the Legal Practice Course with Masters at the University of Law.”

    Experience:
    Karyn has extensive experience working in the legal aid sector; advising clients on matters relating to Mental Health Law and the Court of Protection (Health & Welfare).

    Karyn’s experience with mental health law and mental capacity law means she is able to provide her clients with a well-rounded representation

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Karyn loves all things musicals, nature and hikes.

    Jonathan Lane

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Jonathan graduated from Newcastle University with a history degree and then completed his Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course at Northumbria University. He has over 10 years of experience in Mental Health Law, having Mental Health Panel Accreditation to represent clients at Mental Health Tribunals.

    Interests:
    Jonathan has a passion for representing and assisting vulnerable clients and represents clients in both Mental Health Tribunal and Court of Protection matters.

    Mahshad Lashari

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Mahshad holds an LLB degree, a Master’s degree in law, and has completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC) at BPP University.

    Experience:
    With seven years of experience in the mental health field and some experience in private client work, Mahshad is now bringing her skillset to assist with matters in Court of Protection Department and to represent vulnerable individuals.

    Interests:
    In her personal life, Mahshad enjoys traveling and spending time with her dog and family.

    Sarah Malasi

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Sarah qualified as a solicitor in 2014. She has studied the LLB (Bachelor of Law) undergraduate degree in law at the University of Wolverhampton, the LLM (Master of Law) in intellectual property at the University of Manchester and the LPC (Legal Practice Course) postgraduate qualification at Inns of Court School of Law. Sarah has previously been accredited as a Mental Health Panel Member and has also been a member of the Mental Health Lawyers’ Association.

    Experience:
    Experience Sarah has experience working in the following areas of law: Mental Health, Court of Protection and Child Law. Sarah is passionate about working with vulnerable clients and ensuring that their human rights are upheld.

    Interests:
    Sarah enjoys going to the gym, art and spending time with family.

    Thomas Casling

    Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Thomas graduated from Bangor University with a BA Hons degree in History and decided to pursue a career in law. This saw him going on to complete a Masters in Qualifying Law and undertake his LPC at Liverpool John Moors University.

    Experience:
    Prior to working for Hab Law, Thomas worked at a law firm in North Wales where he completed his 2-year training contract and qualified as a solicitor in February 2025. Whilst there he developed a keen interest in Court of Protection work. Specifically focused on Health and welfare applications under Section 21A and Section 16 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Thomas enjoys attending football matches, and spending time with his family.

    Aleesha Khan

    Trainee Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Aleesha graduated with a Law Degree from Sheffield Hallam University in 2022. She intends to begin the Legal Practice Course in 2023.

    Experience:
    Aleesha has a variety of professional experiences. She developed a keen interest in Court of Protection and has experience with Deputyships, Power of Attorneys and managing her own caseload.

    Interests:
    Aleesha enjoys travelling and learning about new cultures and languages. She also practices martial arts in her free time.

    Muhammad Hussain

    Trainee Solicitor

    Experience:
    As a Court of Protection Paralegal, Muhammad assists our Solicitors in representing clients in cases surrounding deprivation of liberty and best interest decisions for people lacking mental capacity. Muhammad will always act for individuals in a way that ensures they’re provided with the best outcome. Since completing the Legal Practice Course in 2019, Muhammad has gone to gain a wide range of experience in several areas of law including Immigration, disrepair law and Court of Protection. Muhammad had over two years’ experience of representing social housing tenants in tenancy disagreements, tenancy deposit claims and in cases where landlords were refusing to carry out repairs.

    Muhammad also has strong knowledge of Asylum and Human Rights Law and the process of applying for Leave to Remain immigration status, having over three years’ experience in this area of law.

    Muhammad joined HAB Law in January 2024 and is extremely passionate about helping vulnerable individuals in our community. He has obtained valuable knowledge in this area of law and hopes to continue giving a voice to those who are need of it most.

    Aamenah Shaikh

    Trainee Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    Aamenah, is a paralegal specialising in Court of Protection matters. Her interest in legal justice began during A-level Law and continued at De Montfort University, where she completed her undergraduate Law degree and continued to follow this up with the Legal Practice Course.

    Experience:
    Aamenah has earlier experience on working on Court of Protection matters. Her work in Court of Protection demonstrates her passion for assisting vulnerable individuals and legal matters that have a profound impact on peoples lives. Aamenah has a particular passion in representing those who are deprived of their liberty in a care home setting.

    Interests:
    Besides her legal career, Aamenah takes pleasure in reading a good book with a hot beverage.

    Ramsha Javed

    Trainee Solicitor

    Qualifications:
    An ambitious and dedicated paralegal with a strong foundation in both education and practical experience. Ramsha graduated from Bournemouth University in 2022, earning a First-Class Honours degree in Law. Currently, Ramsha is in the final stages of completing the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and is working diligently towards qualifying as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    With a passion for justice and human rights, Ramsha has gained valuable experience working in Public Law & Human Rights, as well as Family Law. Her expertise in these areas reflects her dedication to supporting vulnerable individuals and ensuring their legal rights are upheld. As she progresses in her career, Ramsha remains focused on building a successful future as a solicitor, continuing her work in areas that align with her values.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Ramsha enjoys reading, writing, and gaming. She also has a love for travelling and learning about new cultures.

    Adonis Danfa

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Adónis completed his LLB studies at the Lusophone University of Porto in 2012, followed by an LLM in European Law at Minho University in 2015. He subsequently completed his Graduate Diploma in Law in 2020 and the Legal Practice Course with a Master’s degree at Westminster University in 2021.

    Experience:
    Adónis has substantial experience across various legal sectors, including the Court of Protection, commercial property, and international capital markets. He has acted as a Paralegal in both UK and international law firms, with key responsibilities ranging from preparing complex transaction documents and managing due diligence projects to handling conveyancing tasks and drafting litigation pleadings.

    He has assisted with applications before the Court of Protection and is well-versed in supporting both Health and Welfare and Property and Financial Affairs matters. His multilingual background and cross-jurisdictional training also allow him to work comfortably on matters involving international elements.

    Areas of Practice
    Adónis has experience assisting in: • Deputyship Applications • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Capacity and Welfare disputes • Drafting and reviewing complex commercial and financial documentation • Conveyancing and Land Registry processes He is committed to delivering thorough, responsive, and compassionate legal support to vulnerable individuals and their families.

    Interests:
    Adónis enjoys reading criminal and conspiracy literature, writing creatively, and attending the theatre. He also has a passion for languages and international affairs.

    Uroosa Patel

    Paralegal

    Qualifications
    Uroosa graduated with a Law degree from De Montfort University and is pursing the CILEx Fast Track Diploma on her journey to qualify as a Chartered Legal Executive. With a legal career progressing since 2017, Uroosa has had the opportunity to gain valuable experience over the years. Her experience extends to representing Respondents in Employment Tribunals as well as managing a variety of Civil Litigation claims. Furthermore, Uroosa has also had the opportunity to work on case before the Court of Protection.

    Uroosa takes pride in using her legal expertise to assist those in needs ensuring that vulnerable individuals are protected. Uroosa’s gentle approach to work allows her to make a positive impact to her client’s.

    Interests
    Outside of her legal profession, Uroosa has a love for travelling and experiencing different cultures. She is also a massive foodie and likes to experiment with different recipes. In her spare time, she likes to spend time her family and friends. ‘’

    Brixhilda Lleshi

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Brixhilda completed her LLB Law degree at the University of Manchester and is awaiting completion of her BTC with Professional Legal Studies with anticipated graduation in September 2025. With a strong academic foundation and a clear commitment to access to justice, Brixhilda has developed a particular interest in Court of Protection matters.

    Experience:
    Brixhilda is a dedicated Court of Protection Paralegal with extensive experience supporting vulnerable individuals and their families through complex legal processes.

    Working closely with solicitors, appointed deputies, and medical professionals, Brixhilda ensures that each matter is managed efficiently and in the best interests of the client, in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Known for her empathetic approach and meticulous attention to detail, Brixhilda is committed to protecting the rights and dignity of those who lack capacity.

    Brixhilda is actively pursuing continued professional development, with a particular interest in mental capacity law and safeguarding.

    Interests:
    In her spare time, Brixhilda enjoys reading and quality time with her family.

    Ansar Ali

    Paralegal

    Experience:
    Ansar completed a Graduate Diploma in Law at De Montfort University in 2021 and completed his Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice in 2023 at Birmingham City University.

    Prior to working at HAB Law, Ansar worked for the NHS as a Mental Health Act Administrator and gained a deep understanding of the Mental Health Act 1983.

    He has a keen interest in Court of Protection work and can assist with Health and welfare applications under Section 21A and Section 16 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Ansar is passionate about ensuring those who are vulnerable receive the care and support they are entitled to and their wishes and feelings are heard.

    Interests:
    In his spare time, Ansar enjoys spending time with the family and discovering travelling.

    Dafina Shatrolli

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Dafina has recently graduated with a Law and Criminology Degree from Nottingham Trent University. During her time at University, she developed a keen interest in Family law. Dafina is highly ambitious and passionate about ensuring clients receive the best client care when working with us. She is an aspiring Solicitor.

    Experience:
    Dafina has been progressively building her experience in the family law department. She successfully deals with the initial stages of Non-Molestation Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders and Occupation Orders. She is a great first point of contact for new clients, assisting them with their queries.

    Interests:
    In her spare time, Dafina enjoys going to the gym, meeting new people, and travelling.

    Maya Potiwal

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    I Graduated from the University of Warwick in 2022, in Law and Sociology (BA). During my time at university, I developed a keen interest in Human Rights Law and Family law.

    Experience:
    I have a wide breadth of experience in fields such as project management, compliance, and the legal field. Through these experiences I was able to develop skills such as legal research, communication, and client relationship management skills.

    Interests:
    I enjoy problem -solving, networking, and reading.

    Mohinee Hussain

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Mohinee graduated with a Law degree from Sheffield Hallam in 2022. She intends to begin the Legal Practice Course soon and qualify as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    Through a variety of work experiences, Mohinee has gained an insight in different legal processes of a case and has grown a passion for creating access to justice and supporting individuals in vulnerable positions.

    Interests:
    Outside of work Mohinee enjoys getting involved in charity work, baking and spending time with family.

    Kashmeera Nadkarni

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    Kashmeera completed their LLB at University of Reading and has done a LLM with LPC at the University of Law.

    Experience:
    Kashmeera completed their LLB at University of Reading and has done a LLM with LPC at the University of Law.

    Interests:
    In their spare time, Kashmeera enjoys swimming, reading, walking and being with animals.

    Ali Husain

    Paralegal

    Qualifications:
    LLB Law with Criminology (Swansea University, 2021) LPC MSc in Law, Business and Management (University of Law Moorgate, 2023)

    Experience:
    I have worked in Property Law, assisting in both residential and commercial matters. Additionally, I have gained experience assisting with Notary Public services, including the preparation and certification of documents for use abroad. As a member of the Legal Cheek organisation, I benefit from attending in-person and online workshops to stay up to date with developments in the legal field. I am passionate about the use of artificial intelligence in Law and creating efficient solutions to make legal processes as seamless as possible for clients.

    Interests:
    I enjoy beachside settings with family and friends, occasional film work and true story documentaries. I like observational comedy and sports like padel, motorbiking and adrenaline activities. I appreciate the Urdu culture, its language, and rich history. I also value exploring ideas, trying new things, and good food.

    Legal Caseworkers

    Emma Prior

    Legal Caseworker

    Experience:
    Emma is an excellent first point of contact for our clients, she has great client care skills and a strong ‘can do’ attitude.

    Interests:
    Emma is a busy mum of 3 and is also looking to progress her skills in Legal administration, she loves football with her sons and enjoying time with family.

    Sylwia Perera

    Legal Caseworker

    Experience:
    Sylwia has spent 12 years working in the mental health sector alongside and supporting people with a range of specialist care requirements, from vulnerable children, adults with special needs across the mental health spectrum, to end of life planning and care.

    Interests:
    Sylwia enjoys participation and supporting of charity campaign events, has an interest in clinical psychology and loves spending time either out on the open road cycling, or at home creative baking and spending time with her son and daughter.

    Maysoun El-Jabo

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    I hold an LLB in Law from City University of London, graduating in 2023. I am currently pursuing the LLM (SQE 1&2) to qualify as a solicitor. My academic background has provided me with a strong foundation In legal principles and practices, which I am eager to apply in my future career.

    Experience:
    I have worked as a legal speaking coach, where I connected with top-tier lawyers to deliver private speaking sessions. Additionally, I have experience as a law tutor, providing individualised support to students as they navigated complex legal concepts. My desire to support the next generation of law students to build confidence in the subject and succeed has been rewarding.

    Interests:
    Outside of my professional pursuits, I practise boxing and yoga. Meditation is an important part of my routine, helping me maintain mental clarity and mindfulness.

    Charisse Green

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    I graduated from the University of Law in 2023 obtaining a 2:1. Recently, I completed my LPC LLM in Law at the University of Law and joined HAB Law as a Legal caseworker soon after. I studied Family Law as an elective for both my undergraduate and postgraduate degree allowing me to gain knowledge concerning domestic abuse, legal aid eligibility and different orders that can be made regarding children and divorce. I am dedicated to helping those that are in unfortunate situations and passionate about always trying my best to obtain the best outcome for them.

    Interests:
    I enjoy reading and writing short novels in my spare time. I also like to walk or cycle around and explore different places. I love baking brownies and am skilled in baton twirling.

    Vincent Boelema

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Vincent graduated from Nottingham Trent University in 2022 with a degree in History and Politics. He is currently studying a Law Conversion Master’s degree with the University of Law and aspires to qualify as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    Prior to joining HAB Law as a legal caseworker, Vincent worked as a Police officer in Watford. During that time, he dealt with multiple high risk domestic abuse cases while working as an investigator at Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Domestic Abuse Safeguarding and Investigation Unit.

    Vincent decided that he could be more effective in safeguarding vulnerable people by pursuing a career in law and sees his role as a legal caseworker as the first step putting that vision into action.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Vincent spends his time looking after his dog Maggie, playing the latest video games, and going into London to visit friends.

    Sadea Abdulrahman

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    LLB Law – City, University of London (2024)

    Experience:
    Sadea has gained experience in non-molestation orders, child arrangements, and Court of Protection matters at HAB Law. Her role has allowed her to develop a strong understanding of Family Law and the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals. With a solid foundation in both private and public sector legal work, she is passionate about helping vulnerable individuals navigate complex legal issues. She plans to qualify as a solicitor via the SQE route and is committed to guiding clients through the legal process with clarity and support.

    Outside of law, Sadea enjoys painting, reading, and spending quality time with family and friends. She also values creativity, personal growth, and exploring new experiences. Fluent in Arabic, she appreciates engaging with different cultures and perspectives.

    Mudasir Naseri

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Mudasir graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Brunel University London in 2021.
    He successfully completed his Legal Practice Course at City University London in 2022.
    Mudasir’s keen interest in Family Law led him to select it as optional modules in both his undergraduate and postgraduate studies, strengthening his understanding of the emergency court injunctions available to survivors of domestic abuse.

    Interests:
    Beyond his professional commitments, Mudasir enjoys travelling, swimming, and maintaining his fitness at the gym.

    Sana Shah

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Sana has a First Class Honours in Education and Distinction in her SEND and Inclusion Masters.

    Experience:
    Before joining HAB, Sana worked for a FTSE 100 hospitality business, delivering large-scale talent initiatives like degree-level apprenticeships and internships, specialising in early careers, succession planning, and strategic talent insights. Sana worked toward influencing business-wide decision making with my key focus and ambition being to support, develop, and nurture the talent in her workforce. Sana champions equality, diversity, and inclusion in all that she does.

    Sana is passionate about fostering inclusive environments, building relationships and supporting individuals to achieve their full potential. She values making a difference where she can, guiding and lending a helping hand in both her work and personal life.

    Interests:
    Sana enjoys exercising, reading, charity work, watching Friends and spending time with my family and friends.

    Aliza Husain

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Law LLB (University of Warwick, 2.1)

    Experience:
    Aliza has developed practical legal skills through experience as a legal assistant at SH Notaries and H&S Notary Practice, where she gained hands-on expertise in legal research, drafting documents, client communication and notarial processes. Aliza studied Family Law as part of her undergraduate degree which motivated her to be an advocate for the most vulnerable members of society. Looking ahead, she plans to undertake the SQE and qualify as a solicitor in the next coming years, where she can continue to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

    Interests:
    Outside of her legal career, Aliza enjoys reading, painting and the occasional game of tennis.

    Husniye Uzkar

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Husniye is a Law LLB graduate from the University of Westminster, with a strong academic foundation and a growing interest in family law and client-focused legal services. Her background in customer service and management roles has equipped her with the interpersonal skills and professionalism necessary to thrive in a legal environment

    Isobel Hoy

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Isobel graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Law from the University of Manchester in 2024. During her studies, she focused on the areas of Law that support vulnerable individuals, which led to a strong interest in Family Law. Her next goal is to undertake the SQE1 and SQE2, as she works toward qualifying as a solicitor.

    Experience:
    Isobel has gained valuable experience through her work with pro bono services dedicated to addressing miscarriages of justice. During this time, she led an award-winning student team that was recognised for its contributions to criminal law cases. These experiences have deepened her passion for legal advocacy and reinforced her commitment to standing up for vulnerable clients.

    Interests:
    Outside of her professional development, Isobel enjoys playing hockey, running, and reading. She finds these activities help her maintain balance and focus in both her personal and professional life.

    Reby Daniel

    Legal Caseworker

    Before joining HAB Law, Reby specialised in Intellectual Property Law. During her undergraduate degree at Oxford Brookes and her LLM at the University of Law, Reb studied family law extensively, and her dissertation explored human trafficking with focus on the rise of female traffickers. Reby is working towards qualifying as a solicitor with the goal of specialising in family law.

    Reby was recently runner-up in the Vardags Family Law Essay Competition, where her essay highlighted the need for reform in trial proceedings involving victims of domestic abuse. Outside of work, Reby volunteers with an animal conservation organisation, where she has supported legal research contributing to government reforms on fox hunting. She also volunteers at church, caring for children with special educational needs.

    Reby is passionate about helping individuals in a professional, compassionate, and empathetic way, particularly those navigating vulnerable situations.

    Pranesh Ghale

    Paralegal – Domestic Abuse

    Qualifications:
    Pranesh graduated with an LLB in Law from City, St George’s, University of London in 2021. He went on to complete the Legal Practice Course in 2023 and is now working towards qualification as a Solicitor.

    Experience:
    Pranesh has experience assisting clients across a wide range of family law matters, including cases involving domestic abuse (injunctions) and private children applications. He has also represented clients at without notice Non-Molestation Order hearings. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, Pranesh ensures that clients feel heard and supported, working diligently to help them achieve suitable resolutions to their concerns.

    Interests:
    Outside of his legal work, Pranesh enjoys travelling and exploring different cultures, attending theatres and spending quality time with family and friends.

    Zahra Sultan

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Zahra holds an LLB Bachelor of Laws with a 2:1 and completed the Legal Practice Course with Distinction. She also holds an LLM in International Business Law from King’s College London, completed in 2019. In addition, she is a certified Transformational Life Coach accredited by the International Coaching Federation.

    Experience:
    Zahra has diverse legal and professional experience, most recently working as a paralegal at a multi-award-winning law firm that specialises exclusively in family law and criminal cases, where she supported solicitors on a wide range of matters including legal aid assessments, client care, and case preparation. She has also completed internships in the UAE and Abu Dhabi, where she contributed to high-value arbitration and contract review in both public and private sector matters.

    Following this, she held a strategic role working with international US private healthcare hospitals, collaborating closely with legal and compliance teams on international healthcare projects. She is fluent in English and Arabic and brings a culturally sensitive and empathetic approach to her legal work.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Zahra is committed to mental health and community wellbeing. She is often approached to provide ad hoc coaching focused on parenting and relationships and supports charity initiatives for vulnerable victims of domestic violence. A former Scout Leader, she enjoys trekking, camping, adrenaline activities, and exploring new places and cuisines. Zahra also values coziness and cherishes time with her family, close friends, and her two cats.

    Ayesha Javed

    Legal Caseworker

    Qualifications:
    Ayesha has obtained a 2.1 undergraduate law degree and recently completed the Legal Practice Course with a distinction.

    Experience:
    Ayesha is a highly motivated and empathetic individual who seeks to use the knowledge she has gained to help those who need support the most.

    Her desire to help others is reflected within her experiences. Ayesha’s legal placement in family law, pro-bono domestic abuse clinic work, and being a volunteer for Refuge and providing support to victims of domestic abuse has cemented her decision to qualify as a family law solicitor in the future and continue to help the most vulnerable. Besides from legal experience, Ayesha also worked as a youth session worker for young refugees which was an invaluable experience.

    Interests:
    Volunteering is also very close to her heart. Through her experiences of volunteering at a legal charity organisation for 2 years, she has learnt valuable skills whilst helping the most vulnerable within her community.

    Management & Support

    Mark Baker

    Chief Financial Officer

    ​Qualifications:
    Mark has an engineering degree from Queen Mary University of London, a Doctorate in Business Administration from Cranfield University and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. Mark was awarded the Cranfield School of Management prize for best doctoral thesis for his study on improving practical governance to improve performance. Mark is a Visiting Fellow at Cranfield and his research, teaching and publications are in the fields of governance and risk leadership, performance measurement and investment appraisal.

    ​Experience:
    For a large part of his career Mark held international leadership roles in branded multinational businesses, at Unilever and Pentland Brands, in manufacturing, supply chain and finance roles. Mark has also run his own management consultancy business for the past 8 years.

    Interests:
    Mark enjoys a variety of sports. He has run a few marathons and lots of half-marathons, enjoys swimming to keep fit and still has lots of fun skiing with his two boys. Mark has also been a committee member of Watford Water Polo Club for 12 years, and for the past 5 years as Treasurer. During this period the club has become one of the largest in the UK. Mark is currently leading an academic research programme on domestic abuse.

    Fahd Kashmiri

    Head of Strategic Partnerships

    ​Qualifications:
    B.A Hons Business and Marketing

    Experience:
    Fahd graduated from Birmingham City University before gaining over 15 years of experience in several sectors including Sports Management, Manufacturing, and Social Care.

    Interests:
    Fahd has a keen interest in a number of sports ranging from football and tennis to boxing. Fahd loves to travel to new places, meeting new people, and is a massive food lover.

    Yuval Halfon

    Head of Business Processes

    Qualifications:
    BA (Anthropology), LLB (hons),. LPC

    Experience:
    Over 10 years’ experience assisting clients with Legal Aid eligibility issues, and law firms with costs recoveries

    Interests:
    Food, people, numbers, random facts, and electoral reform

    Shafana Muraj

    Head of Accounts

    Qualified in Business, Admin and Accounting with over 20 years of experience in working in various roles related to Accounts and more recently into Billing.

    Shafana loves playing badminton, socialising, organising events, fundraising and watching movies.

    Sangita Palan

    Head of People

    Qualifications:
    BA HONS – Business Studies & MSc Human Resource

    Experience:
    Sangita is a highly accomplished Strategic Talent Acquisition and HR professional with over 20 years of experience across the full HR lifecycle. With a strong background as an HR generalist, she has led end-to-end recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and organisational development initiatives in diverse sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and delivering cost-effective hiring strategies, leveraging direct sourcing techniques, and building inclusive recruitment frameworks that attract, retain, and develop top talent. A trusted partner to senior leadership teams, Sangita has successfully aligned HR strategies with business goals, implemented policies that enhance workplace culture, and championed employee engagement programmes. She has a proven track record of supporting organisational change, and ensuring compliance with employment law and best practice standards.

    Interests:
    Sangita is passionate about mentoring young adults and helping them navigate their early careers with confidence. She values quality time with family and friends and enjoys bringing people together for meaningful collaborations. An enthusiastic cook, she loves experimenting in the kitchen, creating new recipes, and sharing them with others.

    Kara Cowie

    Head of Costs

    Experience:
    Kara has over ten years’ experience working in the legal sector having started as an apprentice in Scotland and later moving down to England, where she progressed as a Legal Assistant in Public Family Law. Having gained a deeper understanding of the processes required to run legal matters efficiently, whilst prioritising client care, Kara joined HAB as part of the Legal Aid costs team, ensuring the firm is applying best practices across the different departments.

    Interests:
    Kara enjoys listening to music, walking with her dog, cooking and reading.

    Emma Ellis

    Head of Marketing

    Qasim Shabir

    Business Operations

    Qasim is the firms first Law Apprentice, he is gaining hands on experience in the busy and thriving Family department. Qasim enjoys the morally rewarding aspect of family law and this pushes him to work harder for his clients.

    Interests Qasim enjoys charity fund raisers and has taken part in 4 half marathons as well as cycling from London to Brighton.

    Tara Moore

    Partnerships Manager

    Tara has over 24 years’ experience in the Criminal Justice and Not-for-Profit sectors.
    She is specialised in creating and managing housing, training, employment, and resettlement programmes across London and the South East. Tara has a passion for supporting vulnerable people, including those with lived experience, to access safe accommodation, rebuild their lives, and achieve lasting independence.
    Tara brings organisations and communities together to drive positive change. Outside of work, She enjoys playing Netball, Watching Football, talk sport, Entertainment Podcast and connecting people for shared causes, supporting change.

    Amara-Safiya Shabir

    Partnerships Coordinator

    Qualifications:
    Amara-Safiya graduated from the University of Warwick with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology. During her studies, she developed a strong foundation in human behaviour, cognitive processes, and data-driven analysis. Her academic background provides her with valuable insight into decision-making, interpersonal relationships, and organisational behaviour, which she applies in her role to build and nurture effective partnerships.

    Interests:
    Outside of work, Amara-Safiya enjoys traveling, going to the gym, and exploring her creativity.
    Whether discovering new destinations, maintaining an active lifestyle, or engaging in artistic pursuits, she values experiences that inspire growth and self-expression.

    Masuma Ladak

    Referrals Team Manager

    Masuma joined HAB law in November 2021 as a legal administrator and this is her first experience of working in a law firm. Previously, she has worked as an accounts assistant, sales support and as a payroll officer.

    Masuma is ambitious, driven and committed towards ensuring positive outcomes and is willing to 'over and beyond' help. In her current role, she works actively with fee earners to support them by completing the initial checks and gathering means evidence in order to progress matters. She also keeps referral agencies updated on the progress of matters. She has enjoyed this new challenge thus far.

    Masuma hopes to complete ACLS (Association of Certified Legal Secretaries) in the future to gain a deeper understanding and increase her experience in such roles.

    Masuma enjoys playing badminton and organising events in her spare time in addition to leisure travel.

    Josiah James

    Operations Assistant

    Experience:
    Josiah has a keen desire to support those in need, which stems from his experience working and supporting children with special needs and volunteering for the British Heart Foundation. Prior to this he gained experience by enrolling in National Service.

    Interests:
    Josiah enjoys regularly participating in charitable organisations and events, including skydive from 10,000 feat. He is a talented musician and enjoys all adventurous activities such as abseiling, rock climbing and snowboarding. 

    Carlene Reid

    Costs Supervisor

    ​Experience:
    Over 20 years experience of admin support in the Law sector.

    Interests:
    Traveling the world, cooking, and baking.
    I have a large family so spending time with them is important.
    I am a big football fan, and enjoy watching the games and playing myself occasionally.
    I am also a fan of Formula One racing.

    Zena Abdallah

    Administration Support

    Experience:
    Zena has years of experience in sales and customer care in a number of sectors, and is currently pursuing a business management degree.

    Interests:
    In her spare time Zena loves spending time with her children, going for adventures and listening to all types of music.

    Warda Usman

    Costs Supervisor

    Qualifications
    Law Honours Degree (LLB) and Legal Practice Course (LPC)

    Experience
    Warda gained hands on experience within various legal roles whilst studying for her Law degree and LPC. She thoroughly enjoyed costing legal aid files for Family Law and Civil matters. She has now returned to billing Legal Aid matters after a 6 year career break and is driven to take on board any challenges and responsibilities to further enhance her knowledge and experience.

    Interests
    Warda enjoys spending time with family, gardening, working out and taking part in charity events.

    Nasima Begum

    Cost Assistant

    Qualifications:
    Law Honours Degree (LLB)

    Experience:
    Nasima graduated from the University of Manchester and gained several years’ experience as a fee earner. After deciding on a career break, spent time managing a foodbank supporting vulnerable members of our society, organising community events and holding advice consultations for further support. This inspired me to come back into law and join the HAB Law team to be a part of making a positive change on others’ lives.

    Experience:
    Nasima enjoys baking, cooking, spending time with family and supporting charitable causes.

    Julia Honeywill

    Costs Assistant

    Qualifications:
    Julia completed her LLB law degree and her Legal Practice Course at Exeter University. Julia qualified as a Private Client Solicitor initially, which then developed into a particular focus on Care of Elderly and the Vulnerable. Julia worked as a Solicitor in this industry for several years.

    Experience:
    Julia is passionate about supporting people with mental health difficulties. This led to Julia taking her career in a different direction, and she has spent the last 9 years working for the NHS within the mental health sector. Julia has now returned to the legal sector to work as a Court of Protection Costs Assistant for HAB Law, and she is excited to work for a firm with a genuine desire to make a positive difference and to give back to the Community.

    Interests:
    When not working Julia enjoys spending time with family and friends, and being outdoors in nature whether that be walking, photography or gardening

    Jenna Hall

    Costs Assistant

    Experience:
    Jenna has over 20 years experience in the legal sector starting out as a Legal Secretary. She has 11 years experience as a Costs Draftsman where she dealt with defence cases in Occupational Disease, Personal Injury and Housing Disrepair. She is excited to join the Legal Aid Costs Team to help be a part of making a positive difference to others’ lives.

    Interests:
    Jenna enjoys spending time with her children, family and friends, going on long walks and adventures with her dog, reading and eating out.

    Emma Ferguson-Law

    Costs Assistant

    Qualifications:
    Solicitor with 6 years’ Post Qualification Experience; LLB Law with European Legal Studies (University of London, King’s College); Legal Practice Course (University of Law, Distinction)

    Experience:
    Emma trained and qualified as a Personal Injury solicitor before specialising as an Abuse solicitor, bringing compensations claim on behalf of people who have been sexually abused. She is passionate about access to justice and the prevention of violence against women and girls. After taking a career break for extended parental leave, she is excited to contribute to the important work HAB Law does to protect and aid survivors of abuse.

    Interests:
    Emma enjoys reading, long lunches and walks in the countryside with her family.

    Tasneem Patel

    Costs Assistant

    Qualifications:
    Law Honours Degree (LLB)

    Experience:
    Tasneem has over 12 years of experience as a fee earner in the personal injury sector, with a particular focus on occupational disease claims. Currently, as a Costs Assistant at HAB Law, she is eager to broaden her knowledge in Family Law and contribute positively to the lives of clients.

    Tasneem enjoys spending time with her family and going for walks. She also loves to bake and runs a small baking business from home.

    Aiman Dar

    Costs Assistant

    Qualifications:
    I am a Part Qualified Accountant (ACCA) and a Graduate with over 15 years of experience in Accounting and Finance.

    Interests:
    I love exploring new places and fun activities with family and friends. I enjoy Photography and Videography as my hobby.

    Majella O’Neill

    Professional Standards

    Experience:
    Majella qualified as a Solicitor over 30 years ago. Admitted as a Solicitor in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, Majella has worked exclusively in Family Law throughout her long career, primarily based in Birmingham. Majella opened her own practice in 2005 and retired in October 2022. She has encountered all aspects of Family Law and the changes in legislation ranging from the introduction of the 1989 Children Act to the 2020 Divorce, Dissolution & Separation Act.
    Since 2005 Majella ran a private practice dealing with Divorce, Financial settlements of high net to medium net worth clients, Cohabitees, private children’s cases and domestic abuse.
    Her return to work at HAB Law is a non-practising role. As a Professional Standards Consultant, she will support the existing teams and help where and when required. Interests:
    Majella enjoys Genealogy and Family History Research, delving deep into the family life and social backgrounds of her own ancestors and that of anyone who asks her to help discover theirs! Majella has been a radio presenter, has been a committee member of a successful Social Development Trust, the Chair of a Bagpipe Band charity, an archive researcher, and a keen motorcyclist. Following retirement, she was involved with her local newspaper interviewing local people and writing features.
    For a number of years, she has been writing fiction focussing on 18th and 19th century prominent women.

    Claire Davies

    Accounts Team

    Experience:
    Claire has worked in Law for 20 years, started out as a Receptionist, then a Legal Secretary and for the last 7 years working in the Accounts Department.

    Interests:
    Claire enjoys spending time with her family, cross-stitching, 80’s movies and Doctor Who.

    IMPROVING FAMILY LIVES & BRINGING PEACE OF MIND

    TOP