Biography
I am an associate solicitor in Irwin Mitchell's Public Law & Human Rights department, based in Leeds, specialising in health and welfare law. I represent individuals or family members in Court of Protection proceedings relating to care, residence, contact and so on. I also advise and assist those who seek help with decisions made by local authorities and clinical commissioning groups in relation to the provision of care. I have extensive experience of bringing judicial reviews on behalf of claimants.
Before this role I was a prison lawyer for 12 years. I also have experience of inquests, particularly those involving deaths in prison.
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
It is a cliché, but I went into a career in the law because I wanted to help people.
Testimonials
"I used Irwin Mitchell Solicitors to challenge a decision made by my Local Authority regarding education provision for my daughter who has been struggling with her mental health and accessing mainstream education.
"I initially had dealings with Katy Cowens who was very thorough and even when I struggled to articulate what I needed, she understood and picked out all the key points to raise and challenge. Communication was always good and prompt. My case was taken over by Angela Jackman, who again was able to interpret everything well, she communicated with me both on the phone and via email, she chased the LA solicitors when there were delays in responding, and provided regular updates to me.
"My support from Irwin Mitchell has secured a successful outcome for myself and my daughter and I now feel more hopeful that she will finish her secondary school career next year with the hope of achieving some qualifications with the right support. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Irwin Mitchell especially for parents who maybe challenging education provision for their SEN child." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Professional and excellent service for my client. Really helpful and advice was always greatly appreciated." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Within my role as independent advocate I occasionally request legal representation on behalf of my clients. I have had the pleasure of liaising with Katy Cowans and her colleagues at Irwin Mitchell on several cases. Katy is extremely supportive and professional and very knowledgeable. I would not hesitate to contact them in the future." - 5* Trustpilot review
“I was supported by Katy and her team on my case. I was functioning as advocate/Litigation Friend for a gentleman seeking a 21A Challenge. The case had some complexities and I kept Katy updated so that she was able to review and respond appropriately which was always done.” - 5* Trustpilot review
"Katy helped guide me through my first 21a Challenge as a Litigation Friend for a DoLS. This was also taking place during pandemic restrictions. Katy and her team were happy to make amendments or act on request made by me as Litigation Friend."- 5* Trustpilot review
"Excellent service. Efficient, prompt and timely service. Very supportive of client. Understanding and supportive to Litigation Friend. Felt listened to and my views and the views of my client taken on board and used appropriately." - 5* Trustpilot review
"I found the help I received very useful as my query related to a complex case in deciding whether my client was objecting to their placement. It was looked at with an expert eye" - 5* Trustpilot review by Angie Cooper
"Very good service. Supported me on the first challenge to court of protection and was a great help with wealth of knowledge and advice to make process as supportive for the partner we were supporting. Would highly recommend." - Trustpilot review
"I was extremely satisfied with the service I received from Kay Cowans. This was my first section 21a challenge and found Katy displayed, knowledge and professionalism throughout. She kept me updated on actions and legal steps to be taken and found her friendly and approachable. Following this experience, I will not hesitate to work with Irwin Mitchell again and have already recommended them to others." - 5* Trustpilot review
