Anthony Kirk KC
Call 1981 | Silk 2001
Associate Member
Chambers and Partners 2019
Anthony’s practice encompasses the full range of cases involving children and young people, whether representing local authorities, parents or the children concerned. He has frequently represented adults with physical, learning and more serious disabilities in both higher courts, as well as on appeal. Recent cases undertaken have involved serious allegations of substantial, prolonged neglect and physical abuse.
Anthony has also appeared in the Supreme Court in matters involving international child abduction. He has been acclaimed, nationally, as a skilled mediator.
Anthony undertook mediation training with the FMA in 1998. Since that time, he has conducted well over 1,000 referrals in private law children matters and continues do so. Many have come from Magic Circle firms both in London and in the provinces. Other referrals have come from fellow members of the family Bar, the higher courts and by repute. On occasion, and with the consent of the parties and the court, he has prepared ‘wishes and feelings’ reports.
Sessions can be arranged at short notice and need not be in London. Anthony is a member of both ‘Resolution’ and the Bar Council DRS/ADR Committees.
Reputation & Awards
One of the go-to people for difficult, intractable and challenging cases. He’s got a real skill at helping the clients move towards something that is acceptable. He’s often sent cases that everyone else hasn’t been able to do.”
CHAMBERS & PARTNERS 2018
‘A very experienced silk.’ – Legal 500, 2021
‘ A very experienced silk. ’ – Legal 500, 2020
‘An impeccable professional with absolute dedication to the case, a forensic level of attention to the papers, and an excellent rapport with lay clients.‘ Chambers & Partners 2019
‘Highly experienced in complex care cases.’ The Legal 500 2018
He deals with cases in ‘an elegant and sympathetic manner’ and is considered to be ‘honest and straightforward.’
As one interviewee remarked: ‘He really cares and works hard to find a solution in a constructive way.’ Chambers & Partners 2017
‘He’s amazing. He’s so eloquent. He doesn’t even have to look at his notes. I could sit and listen to him all day when he’s on his feet.’ Chambers & Partners 2016
Numerous similar compliments from solicitors and lay clients have been received over many years.
Awards and Scholarships
- Shortlisted DRS Practitioner in the 2015 and 2016 Family Law Awards.
- Since becoming a KC Anthony has featured as a Leading Practitioner in his specialist area of practice by Jordan Family Law together with the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners directories.
- Macaskie Scholar of Gray’s Inn – awarded for the highest marks in the Bar Final exams.
- Lord Justice Holker Scholar of Gray’s Inn.
Education
- Ipswich School and King Edward VII School, Lytham.
- Kings College, London. LLB (Hons), AKC.
Professional Memberships
- Member of the SE Circuit.
- Member of the Bar Council ADR Group to 2025.
- Fellow of the IAFL to 2025.
- Fellow of the RSM.
- Chairman of the FLBA – 2006 and 2007.
- Hon. Life Vice–President of the FLBA.
- Bencher of Gray’s Inn and Master of Elections 2019-2023.
- Member of ‘Resolution’ DRS Committee to 2024.