Heather Wheelhouse is a Partner in the Family Law department at Howard & Co Solicitors LLP and the firm’s longest-serving member. She joined the firm in November 1996 as a newly qualified solicitor and has since played a central role in the development and strength of the Family Law team.
Heather is a highly experienced solicitor with almost 30 years’ qualification, specialising exclusively in children law. She is an accredited member of the Law Society Children Panel, reflecting her long-standing expertise in representing children in public law proceedings and her commitment to the highest professional standards in this sensitive area of work.
Based predominantly at the Regent Street office in Barnsley, Heather works across all three of the firm’s offices, supporting clients throughout South and West Yorkshire.
Her practice focuses on children-related matters, with particular expertise in care proceedings. Heather regularly represents:
Heather is known for her calm, compassionate and straightforward approach. She understands how distressing and overwhelming care proceedings can be and is committed to guiding clients through the process with clarity, honesty and practical advice. Clients value her clear communication and her ability to explain complex legal issues in a way that is easy to understand, without false reassurance or unrealistic expectations.
Throughout her career, Heather has dealt with a wide range of cases involving neglect, abuse and family breakdown. She works closely with guardians, parents, children, extended family members and the court, always keeping the welfare of the child at the heart of every case.
In addition to her client work, Heather is a supervisor within the Family Law department, supporting and mentoring colleagues and helping to maintain consistently high standards of client care across the team. Earlier in her career, she practised across all areas of family law, giving her a broad and well-rounded foundation before focusing solely on children law.
Outside of work, Heather enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is a keen dog-walker and enjoys cycling through the local countryside.
Heather has always been very honest yet very sympathetic and easy to talk to. No false promises, just 100% honesty and genuine support.
Very thorough and keeps you informed at every stage. The client’s wellbeing is considered at all times.
Your professionalism, clear communication, and dedication made a real difference. I am very grateful for your guidance and expertise.
Civil & Contractual Disputes – breach of contract, consumer rights, debt recovery.
Accident & Personal Injury Claims – road traffic accidents, workplace injuries, slips and trips.
Employment Disputes & Claims – unfair dismissal, redundancy, workplace discrimination, settlement agreements.
Residential Conveyancing (Buying & Selling Property) – Moving home, re-mortgaging, equity transfers.
Commercial Property Transactions – Handling the process of buying, selling, or leasing business premises.
Landlord & Tenant Matters – Tenancy agreements, disputes, lease renewals.
Divorce & Separation – Divorce proceedings, financial settlements, mediation.
Prenuptial & Cohabitation Agreements – Protecting assets before or during a relationship.
Child Arrangements & Custody – Residence, contact, parental responsibility.
Financial Provision & Maintenance – Child maintenance, spousal support, division of assets.
Local Authority Involvement & Social Care Cases – Advice if social services are involved with your family.
Care Proceedings & Court Hearings – Representing parents, guardians, and children.
Advice for Relatives & Interested Parties – Grandparents, extended family, and carers seeking rights or involvement.
Emergency Protection & Interim Orders – Urgent legal support when children are at immediate risk.
Making a Will – ensuring your wishes are carried out and assets protected.
Probate & Estate Administration – dealing with a loved one’s estate, from paperwork to distribution.
Lasting Powers of Attorney – appointing someone to make decisions on your behalf.
Trusts & Asset Protection – setting up trusts to manage inheritance, protect property, or plan for future care.
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