The Legal 500 > United Kingdom - The Bar > London Bar > Licensing

A go-to set for complex or precedent-setting licensing cases, Cornerstone Barristers' team of clerks is also highlighted for being ‘one of the best’ for client service. The set handles cases nationally from those involving the taxi trade, alcohol and gambling to music and other entertainment venues or festivals. ‘Arguably the country’s leading licensing silk’, Philip Kolvin QC's cases include success on behalf of Uber London Ltd in its well-publicised licensing appeal. James Findlay QC and Ranjit Bhose QC each have wide-ranging experience of licensing issues in the private hire/ taxi services and night club sectors. Asitha Ranatunga acted for The London Borough of Haringey in defending its decision to refuse a new premises licence for an adult gaming centre, while the 'persuasive' and 'engaging' Josef Cannon frequently deals with cases involving a serious criminal element.

Francis Taylor Building attracts many of the most complex or high-profile licensing cases. Gerald Gouriet QC acted for the London Taxi Drivers’ Association in one of the cases involving Uber, while David Matthias QC acts for local authorities and trade and residents’ associations on major licensing matters. Of particular note was his involvement for Westminster City Council in a case that went to the Supreme Court regarding an EU Directive which precluded licensing authorities from including costs of enforcement in licence fees. He is also called upon to advise licensing authorities on the formulation of statutory licensing policies. Jeremy Phillips QC acts for well-known UK and overseas clients on areas such as taxi/private hire, and gambling/casino  matters. Gary Grant, James Rankin and Leo Charalambides are the highly experienced junior members of chambers.

‘A great set for licensing’, Three Raymond Buildings is also noted for a ‘best-in-class’ team of clerks. Referred to as 'licensing gold' Stephen Walsh QC has an established reputation for handling the gamut of licensing cases, most recently representing clients such as Annabel's Private Members Club and the operator of the Boomtown Festival. Michael Bromley-Martin QC handles cases involving all facets of entertainment including music festivals, gambling and lotteries. ‘Superb problem solver’ Matthew Butt QC also has broad expertise; he acted for Secret Cinema in respect of a premises licence. Sarah Le Fevre is in high demand for her ‘unparalleled practical knowledge of the licensing regimes’ – she is acting for Wagamama in its first application nationally for a ‘dark kitchen’ premises licence. Saba Naqshbandi is also highly valued for her ‘clear, authoritative opinions in respect of complex cases’.