Crime (general and fraud)

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

Matthew Bagnall
2

Matthew Bagnall

187 Fleet Street Chambers
His strengths are the meticulous preparation that goes into each case. He is incredibly approachable and able to relate to all types of defendants. Considering most defendants are at their lowest and most vulnerable when they need a barrister, Matthew Bagnall is patient and firm but able to relate to defendants, show empathy, gain their trust, and discuss their case with them so that they understand without feeling patronized. He also commands respect in court from judges, his peers, and the jury. He is an outstanding advocate and litigator.
Gavin Holme
2

Gavin Holme

4 King's Bench Walk
Suzanne Fewins
3

Suzanne Fewins

Six Pump Court
Donal Lawler
3

Donal Lawler

187 Fleet Street Chambers
Donal is unflappable and calm under pressure. His cross-examination is quietly lethal: measured, patient, and precisely calibrated to the witness, be that a seasoned officer, an expert witness, or a complainant who must be challenged with real care. His preparation is meticulous; he knows the unused as well as the served evidence and is invariably several steps ahead of the prosecution. A tireless worker, Donal is entirely without ego and possesses a rare gift for handling the most difficult lay clients and persuading them to accept robust, realistic advice. His closing speeches are always beautifully structured, persuasive, and pitched perfectly. He really is an exceptional barrister who cuts through the chaff very early on, identifying the key points on which the case will actually turn. He truly is a delight to work with and gets results.
Rowan Jenkins
3

Rowan Jenkins

Colleton Chambers
Rachel Beckett
4

Rachel Beckett

Lamb Building (Brighton)
Clare Evans
4

Clare Evans

4 King's Bench Walk
Sophie Evans
4

Sophie Evans

Mountford Chambers
A truly exceptional barrister who stands out not only for their legal acumen but for the rare and invaluable ability to connect with lay clients on a human level. In a profession that can often feel intimidating and impenetrable to those unfamiliar with the courts, Sophie has a remarkable gift for putting clients at ease, explaining complex legal matters with clarity and patience, and making people feel genuinely heard and supported throughout what is often one of the most stressful experiences of their lives. Lay clients consistently speak highly of her. It reflects not just warmth and approachability, but also a deep commitment to client care, excellent communication skills, and the kind of trustworthiness that inspires real confidence.
Hannah Hurley
4

Hannah Hurley

Lamb Building (Brighton)
Katherine Kelleher
4

Katherine Kelleher

15NBS
Greg Wedge
4

Greg Wedge

187 Chambers
Greg Wedge has a tactical approach to cases that is second to none. He oozes strategy, and his legal knowledge is extremely impressive, particularly considering his year of call. He deals with cases of a very complex nature and is not afraid to punch above his weight. Clients warm up to Greg very quickly, and I have been regularly amazed by his ability to connect with clients from a wide range of backgrounds. His legal argument and advocacy are exceptional. Greg is able to advance legal arguments in an eloquent, balanced, and assertive manner. This truly sets him apart from other counsel.
Tom Worden
4

Tom Worden

Six Pump Court

Rising stars

Rising stars at the Bar are defined as barristers between four and eight years’ call who are seen as up-and-coming members of the Bar in their respective practice areas by clients and peers alike. They will already be instructed in high-profile, complex, and high-value contentious and non-contentious matters, working with and opposite more experienced leading counsel.