Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
Generic

David Medd

Saltburn,North Yokrshire

Summary

I have a strong background in advocacy and decision-making, underpinned by over a decade of experience in family, civil, and criminal law. I am a Qualified Legal Representative (QLR), trained to cross-examine vulnerable witnesses, and regularly instructed in complex and sensitive cases. In addition to my legal practice, I sit as a lay member on school admission and exclusion appeals for Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, contributing to fair and balanced panel decisions on matters affecting children and families.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work history

Director & Barrister

Cygnet Law
Teesside, North Yorkshire
06.2019 - Current

In my current role, I represent local authorities, parents, and children in complex and sensitive family law proceedings. My work regularly involves:

  • Allegations of inflicted injuries, including complex cases involving multiple fractures.
  • Cases involving child death and suspected poisoning.
  • Matters requiring expert evidence on genetic conditions.
  • Serious sexual abuse cases, including allegations of rape.
  • Cases involving serious domestic violence, encompassing both physical and emotional abuse.

I work closely with vulnerable adults and children and have completed specialist Vulnerable Witness Training, ensuring I approach all cases with appropriate sensitivity and awareness. I am experienced in managing complex medical evidence, conducting detailed cross-examinations, and handling highly sensitive material with care. My practice is grounded in thorough preparation, clear advocacy, and a commitment to fair, child-focused outcomes.

In my role as Director, I also assist in managing a busy law firm employing approximately 85 staff. I am involved in all areas of the business, including strategic planning, operational decision-making, staff oversight, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and professional obligations. This role complements my practice as a barrister and provides me with a strong understanding of leadership, governance, and the broader demands of running a legal practice.

Barrister

Cygnet Law
Teesside, North Yorkshire
02.2015 - 06.2019

Barrister

Fountain Chambers
Middlesbrough & Newcastle
09.2011 - 02.2015

I maintained a busy mixed practice across crime, civil, and family law, appearing regularly in courts at all levels. This breadth of experience enables me to approach cases with a well-rounded legal perspective, strong courtroom advocacy, and a practical understanding of cross-disciplinary issues.

Education

Diploma - Coronial Law

University of Bolton
Manchester
04.2025 -

Bar Vocational Course - Legal

Northumbria University
Newcastle upon Tyne
09.2009 - 05.2010

Graduate Diploma in Law - Legal

Nottingham Law School
Nottingham
09.2008 - 05.2009

Bachelor of Arts - Business

Teesside University
Middlesbrough
09.2003 - 05.2006

A-Levels -

Prior Pursglove College
Guisborough
09.2001 - 05.2003

GCSEs -

Huntcliff Comprehensive School
Saltburn
09.1996 - 05.2001

Skills

  • Legal and Analytical Expertise
    Experienced in interpreting complex legal and medical information, assessing evidence, and forming clear, well-reasoned conclusions
  • Communication and Sensitivity
    Able to communicate effectively and empathetically with a wide range of individuals, including those in highly distressing or sensitive situations
  • Independence and Impartiality
    Confident in making fair, balanced decisions independently, with integrity and authority in challenging and high-pressure circumstances
  • Organisational and Case Management Skills
    Skilled in managing a busy caseload, coordinating with multiple professionals, and ensuring timely, efficient case progression

Accomplishments

  • Inner Temple Award for Outstanding Student – 2010
  • Plowden Chambers Prize – Awarded for the highest advocacy score in the year group
  • Pro Bono Recognition List of England and Wales – 2024 & 2025

References

Vicki McGee
Director, Cygnet Law
Portland House, West Dyke Road
Redcar, TS10 1DH

Collette Price
Head of Chambers, Fountain Chambers
Cleveland Business Centre
1 Watson Street, Middlesbrough
TS1 2RQ

Timeline

Diploma - Coronial Law

University of Bolton
04.2025 -

Director & Barrister

Cygnet Law
06.2019 - Current

Barrister

Cygnet Law
02.2015 - 06.2019

Barrister

Fountain Chambers
09.2011 - 02.2015

Bar Vocational Course - Legal

Northumbria University
09.2009 - 05.2010

Graduate Diploma in Law - Legal

Nottingham Law School
09.2008 - 05.2009

Bachelor of Arts - Business

Teesside University
09.2003 - 05.2006

A-Levels -

Prior Pursglove College
09.2001 - 05.2003

GCSEs -

Huntcliff Comprehensive School
09.1996 - 05.2001
David Medd