Natalie O’Connell

Natalie joined 18 St John Street as a full tenant in September 2024, having successfully completed her pupillage under the supervision of Jonathan Jackson in Chambers’ Family team.

During her pupillage, Natalie observed and assisted with a range of public and private law Children Act proceedings involving physical, sexual and emotional abuse, substance misuse, neglect, mental health issues, and non-accidental injuries.

Prior to pupillage Natalie worked as a paralegal at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors where she managed her own caseload and assisted with the preparation of cases in the High Court and Court of Protection. Before that, Natalie undertook a fellowship at the human rights organisation JUSTICE. Her report on the treatment of defendants with mental illness and neurodivergent conditions has been published by the charity.

Natalie has a special interest in assisting vulnerable individuals. She was previously employed as a support worker. At university, she volunteered with the Dementia Law Clinic, advising clients on their rights under mental capacity and community care legislation. She has also previously volunteered with Manchester Free Legal Help, providing support to individuals involved in family and civil litigation. Natalie has a client focused approach and prides herself on her ability to quickly build rapport with her clients.

Outside of law, Natalie enjoys running, hiking and Yin Yoga. She loves to travel and went backpacking across South America and Southeast Asia immediately before pupillage.