Sophie is always thoroughly prepared. She has an eye for detail and robustly represents clients in court. Her advice is always clear and concise.”

The Legal 500 2025, Children and domestic abuse

Sophie regularly acts on behalf of Local Authorities, parents, extended family members, intervenors and children (through their Children’s Guardian or separately represented). Sophie is familiar with representing vulnerable clients (including those with learning disabilities, mental health conditions or other difficulties and disabilities). Sophie has particular experience of cases concerning abusive behaviour (including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological and financial abuse and coercive control) non-accidental injury, FII, drug and alcohol abuse and chronic neglect.

Sophie has experience representing parties throughout care proceedings and beyond in applications for discharge of care orders, revocation of placement orders, leave to oppose adoption orders and adoption orders.

Sophie is also regularly instructed in Deprivation of Liberty cases in the High Court.

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Sophie is always thoroughly prepared. She has an eye for detail and robustly represents clients in court. Her advice is always clear and concise.”

The Legal 500 2025, Children and domestic abuse

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  • Qualifications & awards:

    • University of Law BPTC – Very Competent
    • University of Sussex LLB (Hons)
    • “Highly Commended” prize – Bar Council’s Law Reform Essay Competition (2017)
    • Joseph Jackson Scholarship (Major Award) – The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple (2014)
    • Blackstone Entrance Exhibition – The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple (2014)
    • Scholarship – University of Law (2014)
    • Winner – The Crown Prosecution Service Mooting Competition (2013)
    • Sophie has completed the FLBA Vulnerable Witness Advocacy Training

  • Professional memberships:

    • Family Law Bar Association (FLBA)
    • Resolution
    • Western Circuit

  • Sophie Smith-Holland 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.