The Manchester office of national law firm Irwin Mitchell has boosted its education law expertise with the appointment of solicitor James Betts.

Joining from Simpson Millar where he led the firm’s Manchester-based education law team. James specialises in education law and is recognised as a leader in the field by the Legal 500 and Chambers Guide.

James has a particular expertise in the field of special educational needs and is skilled in ensuring children and young people with additional needs receive the support that they are legally entitled to.  He also undertakes work in the sphere of Community Care  representing  vulnerable young people  in need of support from social services such as care leavers  and young people leaving custody.

James’s appointment comes following what has been an exciting and busy time for Irwin Mitchell’s Education Law experts based across the country. The team has worked on a host of high-profile cases recently, including those related to end-of-life care, the campaign for the introduction of a GCSE in British Sign Language and legal action related to cuts to special educational needs services.

Polly Sweeney, a partner in Irwin Mitchell’s public law and human rights team, said: 'As a firm we are committed to recruiting the very best talent who will ensure that our clients get top quality advice and support.

'James has a fantastic track record in very important areas and we are delighted that he is joining Irwin Mitchell at what has been an exciting time for our team. We are sure he will prove to be a fantastic addition and help us take our offering to a new level.'

James added: 'It is really exciting to be joining Irwin Mitchell, with the firm’s recent successes and cases highlighting the hugely important work it undertakes in the field of education law.

'I’m already enjoying getting to know the existing team in Manchester and am looking forward to further developing the education law team in our northern offices, as well as ensuring that our clients can get their voices heard on a host of important matters.'