Expertise
Paulena has been a specialist Child Care solicitor for over 20 years. She joined Hanne & Co as a consultant in 2010.
Paulena is experienced at representing children, parents and family members in what are difficult and sensitive proceedings. She often advises in complex cases including those involving suspected non-accidental injury and placement of children abroad. She frequently represents older children directly in care proceedings and Deprivation of Liberty applications.
Paulena is a highly experienced advocate and undertakes most of her own advocacy and undertakes advocacy for other fee earners in the department. As a solicitor advocate she provides clients with consistency and the assurance that clients are represented to the highest standard from beginning to end.
She is a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel where she is a qualified Children’s Representative.
Recent / Notable experience
Representing a mother in prison who was due to be released and deported to Slovakia. The child was in foster care following the father’s arrest on charges of Human Trafficking. The mother was successful in having the child placed with her in Slovakia.
Representing the children where one child had suffered an injury, suspected to be non accidental. Taking the lead in instructing the experts. The judge found the injury to be accidental and the children returned home.
Representing a 16 year old child in an application for Deprivation of Liberty. Arranging for the child to attend court and ensuring she felt involved in the decisions being made about her.
