Lucy O’Brien

Lucy O’Brien is a Legal Director specialising in public and administrative law, with 17 years’ experience advising public bodies, charities, schools, universities, campaign groups, and individuals.

She leads on education law, advising a wide range of clients, including universities, schools, colleges, local authorities, charities, health boards, campaign groups and individuals. Her experience spans all aspects of education advice including admissions, exclusions, appeals, student/pupil discipline and procedures, Special Educational Needs (SEN)/Additional Learning Needs (ALN) including tribunal appeals, parental complaints, safeguarding, human rights and discrimination, managing absence, governance and compliance, regulatory issues, data protection and privacy issues, dispute resolution, and advice on school reorganisations, mergers and closures.

Her strategic litigation experience includes judicial review challenges to the interpretation and application of Welsh devolved legislation, and challenges involving education, equality, health and social care. Lucy has a great track record of working with campaigners challenging closures, cuts and reorganisations to public services.

Lucy has acted in major inquests and public inquiries, including the UK Infected Blood and COVID-19 Inquiries. She advises and handles sensitive, high-stakes matters with clarity and care.

Lucy has been recognised in the 2025 edition of the Legal 500 UK Solicitors Guide and is ranked in the Chambers and Partners 2025 Guide.