Jessica Standley is a Senior Associate Solicitor in the Abuse team at Bolt Burdon Kemp. Since joining the firm in 2019, she has become a trusted advocate for survivors of abuse, bringing over a decade of specialist experience to her role.
Jessica qualified in 2012 and has since dedicated her career to representing both adults and children who have experienced abuse. She has successfully brought civil claims against a wide range of institutions, including:
- Schools and local authorities
- The Scout Association
- Hospitals and religious organisations
- High-profile individuals, including involvement in the Jimmy Savile litigation
She is particularly experienced in group litigation, having represented over 35 survivors in claims against the Sea Cadets for abuse by Peter Sherwin. Jessica also led the campaign to have Sherwin’s MBE removed posthumously, resulting in a formal statement in 2024 confirming that forfeiture proceedings would have been initiated had he been convicted during his lifetime.
Client-Focused Representation
Jessica is known for her empathetic and client-centred approach. She supports survivors through every stage of the legal process, striving to make it as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Her dedication to client care has earned her recognition in the Legal 500 (2022), which noted:
“Jessica Standley has excellent people skills – nothing was ever too much trouble and she made me feel at ease throughout the whole process of my claim.”
Media & Advocacy
Jessica is a respected voice in the field of child abuse law. She regularly appears in the media to comment on legal developments and advocate for survivors’ rights. She is also a member of the Victims Reference Group, formed by the London Victims’ Commissioner, helping to ensure that survivors voices are heard in shaping policy and reform.
Beyond the Law
Outside of her legal work, Jessica is a passionate runner. She has completed multiple marathons and ultra-marathons, including a personal challenge to run 10 marathons in 10 countries to raise funds for:
- Wheel Power
- National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
