Stephen Lue is a specialist family law barrister. His practice covers a wide range of applications including public and private children law, ancillary relief and domestic violence. He also acts in Court of Protection cases.
- FAMILY LAW: CHILDREN'S LAW
Stephen's experience in private law children work covers contact and residence applications including contested final hearings where there are serious allegations of sexual abuse and violence. His strength is always keeping the focus on the welfare of the child regardless of the issues that adults in the case seek to litigate. In relation to his public law children practice, Stephen has experience representing parents, Guardians, local authorities, grandparents and parties making special guardianship applications, and is regularly instructed in cases which involve issues of neglect, drug misuse, mental health, domestic violence, physical and emotional abuse.
- FAMILY LAW: FINANCIAL DISPUTES AND SOLUTIONS
In ancillary relief Stephen represents wives, husbands and civil partners in financial remedy applications; dealing with parties who have modest assets as well as those who hold more complex assets in multiple jurisdictions. Stephen also handles financial applications for children under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989. He regularly advises and represents clients with claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act.
- CROSS-BORDER FAMILY CASES
In his international family law practice, Stephen also deals with child abduction cases involving the removal of children to and from the jurisdiction to both Hague Convention and non Hague Convention countries.
My work
- Re B (Children)(Remote Hearing: Interim Care Order) [2020] EWCA Civ 584
- Re V, X, Y and Z [2014] EWFC B103
- Re L (Placement with mother or father) [2019] EWFC B49
- Egeneonu v Egeneonu & Anor [2018] EWHC 1392 (Fam)
- Kent County Council v A, B, C and D (Children : Weight to be attached to evidence of child after flawed ABE interviews) [2017] EWFC B7
- Re D (Children) [2014] EWCA Civ 1126
About me
Stephen is a mentor with the Duke of Edinburgh Awards' LGBTQ Youth Programme. This involves attending sessions that are geared towards helping young people improve or learn a new skill, offering practical assistance with the programme and also introducing them to a diverse group of LGBTQ role models. Stephen is a Volunteer for Diversity Role models, which is a charity focused on celebrating the stories of LGBTQ+ professionals in schools.
Stephen was awarded the Harmsworth Scholarship by Middle Temple (2005).
Before coming to the Bar, Stephen worked as a compliance officer at Goldman Sachs and Merrill Lynch International.
His work with Lylian Baylis Technology School saw him awarded the London South Bank mentoring award by Sir Trevor McDonald.
Prior to pupillage Stephen's interest in domestic violence issues led him to act as a volunteer McKenzie friend for the National Centre of Domestic Violence in order to help obtain ex-parte occupation orders and nonmolestation orders for victims.
He also spent two years volunteering for Food Chain, a charity focusing on providing nutritional specific meals to those living with HIV.
In addition to this he volunteered for the United Kingdom Lesbian and Gay Immigration Group as a case researcher.
Stephen is a trustee for the LGBT + Aquatics charity called Out To Swim.
He is also a trustee of the Burma Skincare Initiative.
In his spare time he enjoys swim coaching, performing arts and photography.
What my clients say
"A conscientious, calm and focused advocate who is a sensible, reassuring presence in court." - Chambers & Partners, 2021 (Family: Children)
"Has a calm, yet authoritative manner which means that he is able to remain professional even in the face of difficult or aggressive clients. He is a knowledgeable and confident advocate." - Legal 500, 2021 (Children Law)
"Stephen's kindness, sensitivity, compassion and understanding enabled me to feel safe and supported. He ensured he covered everything that was necessary. His strength, clarity, knowledge and personable manner have been unwavering and his ongoing support has been an invaluable source of strength. I would unequivocally recommend Stephen." - Anonymous Client
"I really want to thank Mr Stephen Lue. I cannot give this charming young man enough credit. He never gave up. He fought my case with utmost professionalism." - Anonymous Client
"He was very aware of how I was feeling, showed empathy and understanding during both my visits to court. He was determined to make sure I received the best possible settlement and what he achieved was far beyond my expectations." - Anonymous Client
"Never lose this barrister, hang on to him, you all make a great team." - Anonymous Client
"Thank you Stephen for all of the work you have just completed on my case. It was my first experience working through the public access scheme and you were helpful and sensitive in the navigation of the difference in approach." - Anonymous Client
"This talented and remarkable man was a pleasure to work with. Stephen is highly skilled and sensitive, but tenacious. I was confident my children and I were in safe hands. Once you have worked with Stephen you will want no one else." - Anonymous Client
"Hi Stephen
Just wanted to drop a line and say thank you very much for this morning, it was really really helpful – and client was really impressed and happy with your advice – and thought your client care manner was superb! So thank you very much! I’ll be in touch as soon as we’ve issued!
Was great working with you again!
Best wishes
Claire Tennant | Family Solicitor"
Professional & academic
- LLB Hons (Kings College London)
- BVC (Inns of Court School of Law)
- Family Law Bar Association (FLBA)
- Bar Lesbian and Gay Group (BLAGG) (Secretary)