Olivia’s knowledge of the law is top class and her ability to deal with clients in a caring and empathetic way whilst still putting a case forward effectively is very impressive.”

The Legal 500 2024, Family: Children and Domestic Violence

Olivia acts on behalf of parents and children (separately or by their Guardians) in private law cases, particularly those involving complex child arrangements disputes. She appears in cases where there are serious safeguarding concerns necessitating fact-finding hearings.

She also acts in proceedings under the Family Law Act 1996, including applications for occupation orders and non-molestation orders.

Olivia’s areas of expertise include cases involving allegations of sexual abuse perpetrated against both children and adults, non-accidental injury and domestic abuse; implacable hostility to contact and parental alienation; risk of abduction; relocation cases; and enforcement of private law orders.

Direct access

Olivia accepts instructions directly from members of the public, where appropriate. Recent cases in which she has acted on a direct access basis include:

  • Representation of a mother alleged to be implacably hostile to contact in an intractable dispute.
  • Representation of a father in private law proceedings involving allegations that he physically assaulted the child necessitating a fact-finding hearing.
  • Representation of a father in a dispute over child maintenance payments.

Directory Quotes

Olivia is very approachable and always able to give detailed, balanced and clear legal advice. A tenacious and skilled advocate, who is able to expertly and effectively cross- examine both professional and lay witnesses.”

The Legal 500 2023, CHILD LAW (PUBLIC AND PRIVATE)

Olivia is incredibly user friendly. For clients, she is calm and reassuring, and helps the clients to feel comfortable with the direction their case is taking.”

Legal 500 2022, Child Law (Public & Private)

Attention to detail. Clear analytical skills. Strong advocacy skills.”

LEGAL 500 2021, FAMILY AND CHILDREN LAW

  • Qualifications & awards:

    • Bar Vocational Course (2008: Centre for Professional Legal Studies, Cardiff)
    • LLB Law (2004 – 2007: Cardiff University)
    • Queen Mother Scholar (Middle Temple: 2008)

  • Professional memberships:

    • Family Law Bar Association
    • Middle Temple
    • Wales and Chester Circuit
    • Western Circuit

  • Olivia Pike is regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and holds a current practising certificate. If you are not satisfied with the service provided, please read here.