23ES

James Bloomer KC, prior to his 2025 appointment, was, for a decade or more, an experienced leader, with a heavyweight and complex practice. Whilst the majority of his work has, for some years, been in Hampshire and Surrey, he continues to practice over a much wider geographical area.

He has had, for many years, a particular specialism in defending those with complex mental health problems and/or learning difficulties charged with serious offences; an area calling for a particular blend of approachable, patient, careful client-facing skills, plus the robust forensic skills and diligence solicitors have come to know him for.

Current instructions include multi-handed conspiracy to murder (defendant with complex mental health issues), manslaughter of a child some 45 years ago, with a previous inquest finding of accidental death and massive issues of missing disclosure, a tragic one punch manslaughter, and an allegation of gross negligence manslaughter by a care home worker in circumstances where systemic failures and attempts to conceal those by the care home concerned are very much a live issue. Even prior to appointment, James had defended as Leading Counsel in an allegation of murder by deliberate running down at the Central Criminal Court.

Although the overwhelming majority of his practice has long been in defence work, James has also prosecuted for various different agencies over a period of years.

James has been ranked by Legal 500 for more than a decade.

Called 2000.

KC Appointment: 2025

Criminal Bar Association, South Eastern Circuit.