Amara is a Legal Director specialising in public law, local government, education and children’s law.
She advises local authorities, schools, charities and other public bodies on a broad range of complex matters, including special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), Equality Act, safeguarding, social care, governance, complaints and Ombudsman investigations, and judicial review.
Recognised for her expertise in SEND and safeguarding, Amara has extensive experience advising on cases affecting children and young people. She works closely with clients to navigate complex legal and regulatory frameworks, providing practical and strategic advice that supports effective decision-making and service delivery.
Amara has represented clients in a variety of tribunals and courts and regularly advises on high-profile and sensitive matters involving legal, operational and reputational risk. Her practice frequently involves working at the intersection of education, social care and public law.
Clients value Amara’s clear, pragmatic approach and her ability to deliver solutions-focused advice in challenging and fast-moving circumstances. She is committed to helping public bodies and education providers achieve positive outcomes while maintaining compliance with their statutory duties and obligations.
Recent work highlights
Successfully Defending a SEND Judicial Review Challenge for a Council
Amara advised a Council in responding to a threatened judicial review concerning alleged failures to deliver Education, Health and Care Plan provision, provide suitable alternative education and comply with EHCP review duties. Following a detailed response and round table discussions, the claim was withdrawn without proceedings being issued, enabling the Council to avoid costly litigation and continue supporting the child through agreed interventions.
Supporting an Independent School on Complex Equality and Safeguarding Obligations
Amara advised an independent school on a complex Equality Act and safeguarding matter concerning a pupil with significant allergies attending an overseas residential trip. She helped the school assess reasonable adjustments, risk management measures and parental expectations, balancing equality duties with health and safety considerations. Her advice enabled the school to reach a legally robust and proportionate decision while supporting the pupil’s participation.
Defending a Judicial Review Challenge Relating to Disabled Facilities Grant Duties
Amara advised a District Council following a pre-action protocol letter alleging breaches of statutory duties relating to a Disabled Facilities Grant application and delays in the provision of disability adaptations. Following a detailed review of the legal and factual position, she prepared a robust response demonstrating that no valid grant application had been made. The claimant subsequently withdrew the proposed judicial review.
Experience & education
2025 Legal Director, Birketts
2020 – 2025 Senior Associate, Doyle Clayton LLP
2014 – 2020 Head of Community Care and Education Law, GT Stewart Solicitors and Advocates
2010 – 2014 Joint Head of Public Services Law, Fisher Meredith
2011 – 2012 Deputy Head of Public Services Law, Ridley and Hall Solicitors
2005 – 2011 Trainee Solicitor and Solicitor at Ridley and Hall Solicitors
Amara has been a consummate professional. Her knowledge and experience in the education sector has proved invaluable for my particular case.
Chambers [UK 2026]
