Richard Posner
Direct Access Family Barrister
Clear, practical legal expertise.
Through the Direct Access Scheme, you can instruct me directly for fast, cost-effective representation, advice and support across a range family law matters.
Who am I?
I am a barrister specialising in family law.
I am a member of and former joint head of the Civil and Family team at KCH Garden Square Chambers, the largest barristers set in the East Midlands.
I am recognised as a “leading junior” in the Legal 500 for 2026.
What work do I specialise in?
I practise family law relating to child arrangements and care proceedings. I also act for applicants and respondents in matters such as occupation and non-molestation orders, prohibited steps orders, special guardianship orders, forced marriage protection orders, FGM prevention and issues relating to deprivation of liberty.
(Please note that I do not deal with issues of family finances)
What experience do I have?
I was called to the bar in 1984 and have specialised solely in family law since 2018 having previously been a criminal advocate (primarily whilst a partner in a large local solicitors firm).
In private law proceedings I have represented applicants and respondents in cases involving allegations of alienating behaviours, serious domestic violence and sexual violence.
I take a robust approach to advocacy, but also recognise that in some cases a more collaborative approach will achieve a better result for my client. For example, I recently negotiated the conclusion of a case which had been running for more than two years, by agreement between the parties.
In public law (care) proceedings I have experience of representing all parties, including intervening grandparents and other relatives.
Is direct access right for me?
Direct access is not suitable for all cases or all clients. Before accepting instructions, I will wish to be sure that instructing me is appropriate to your case. Please read the Bar Council’s Guidance.
Where do I work?
As I am based centrally, in the East Midlands, it is easy for me to travel to most parts of the country.
I am particularly happy to accept work in London and the South East, as well as locally.
What will it cost?
Please follow this link for guidance as to costs:
These fees may be subject to negotiation depending upon the size and complexity of your case.
I prefer to agree fixed fees for hearings.
Timescales
I will advise you on an individual case basis as to likely timescales. Applications, such as Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders, may in some circumstances be heard on an urgent basis. Care proceedings are expected to end within six months but frequently take longer. Applications for child-arrangement orders may also take many months to conclude if agreement cannot be reached before a final hearing.
How do I instruct you?
I am a member of KCH Garden Square Chambers, which is the largest barristers set in the East Midlands.
Please telephone the clerks on 0115 9418851, use the contact form below or email family@kchgardensquare.co.uk
Complaints procedure
I strive to maintain the highest level of service. I am regulated by the Bar Standards Board whose complaints policy is available here.
KCH Garden Square Chambers provide a complaints procedure, which is outlined here.
Regulation
I am regulated by the Bar Standards Board. My registration can be found here: https://www.barstandardsboard.org.uk/for-the-public/search-a-barristers-record/the-barristers-register.html
Testimonials
"I just want to say thank you again for your support so far — your guidance has been incredibly valuable, and I honestly wish I had come to you much sooner. It's made a real difference in helping me navigate such a difficult and emotionally complex situation."
— Client July 2025
"Richard was excellent and has got his head round not only the complexity of the 2 cases but also the historical court decisions and rationale for these, which is so helpful when the Judge does not know the history"
— Senior Childcare Solicitor 2023
"I instructed Richard as a maternal aunt seeking contact with my niece, in a private family law case. Richard was excellent, he was able to get up to speed quickly with the case, understand what I was hoping to achieve and provide practical advice and guidance. He has a down-to-earth approach and a wealth of experience that he was able to draw on to provide constructive challenge, ensuring I was able to make informed decisions on my position and approach and advocating for my desired outcomes. He was able to effectively negotiate a contact order by consent, reducing the final hearing from two days to one. I’d happily have him represent me again."
— Direct Access Client 2025
How I Can Help
I offer direct support with:
- Representation at court
- Assistance with drafting applications and documents
- Written opinions
- Ongoing strategic advice throughout your case.
Richard Posner
Contact Richard Posner
©2026. Richard Posner. All Rights Reserved.
1, Oxford Street,
Nottingham,
NG1 5BH.