2 Hare Court > London, England > Set Profile

Chambers of Jonathan Laidlaw KC
2 Hare Court
TEMPLE
LONDON
EC4Y 7BH
England

London Bar > Crime Tier 1

2 Hare Court, widely regarded as ‘one of the leading chambers in criminal law‘, continues to host a multitude of practitioners with considerable expertise and expertise. Oliver Glasgow KC prosecuted Jordan McSweeney, who was sentenced in December 2022 to life imprisonment with a minimum of 38 years for the brutal sexual assault and murder of Zara Aleena. In R v PD, Fiona Robertson successfully appealed, on behalf of the Attorney General, a sentence of three years imprisonment for sexual assault, assault by penetration and common assault - she submitted that full regard had not been paid in the first instance to the psychological harm inflicted upon the victim as well as that the judge had displayed outdated views on a husband’s entitlement to sex within a marriage and had thereby erred in mitigating the offence for this reason, and the sentence was upgraded to nine years. Acting as a sole junior, Julia Faure Walker prosecuted an individual, who was nineteen at the time, who was convicted of posting ISIS propaganda on Instagram. David Whittaker KC is representing a man bringing a private prosecution against his own son, who he alleges blackmailed him for £500,000.

Leading Silks

Sallie Bennett-Jenkins KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Sallie is a fantastic advocate who goes head-to-head with judges when necessary. Her approach is very personal but no-nonsense at the same time.’
Ranked: Tier 1
Oliver Glasgow KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Oli is a superb forensic advocate. His work ethic is incredible and his enthusiasm is infectious. His case analysis and written work is of the highest standard and he is also incredibly down to earth.'
Ranked: Tier 1
Brendan Kelly KC –2 Hare Court ‘He is a natural advocate and one of the best KCs at the criminal Bar. Juries love his natural, eloquent and persuasive manner and clients love his avuncular, tactful and caring approach in conference. He explains complicated technical issues to lay clients and juries as if they are simple and straightforward, a rare and valuable skill at the criminal Bar.’ 
Ranked: Tier 1
Ranked: Tier 2
Ranked: Tier 2
David Whittaker KC – 2 Hare Court ‘David is a superlative silk. He is highly intelligent and both his written work and his advocacy are unbelievably good. He effortlessly comprehends complex cases and he is creative and tactful when defending.'
Ranked: Tier 3
Jonathan Laidlaw KC – 2 Hare Court ‘He has an immense ability to retain both specific facts as well as the bigger picture of cases. He is brilliant with clients, especially when a difficult message has to be conveyed. He is also flexible and does not get offended when challenged or asked to back up his view.' 
Ranked: Tier 4
Ranked: Tier 4
Brian O’Neill KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Brian has a commanding presence and owns the courtroom: when he speaks, people listen.’
Ranked: Tier 4
Zubair Ahmad KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Zubair has fantastic client care skills, is empathetic and really puts his clients at ease. He has a real attention to detail, is extremely focused and has a very calming disposition. His written work is also exceptional.'
Ranked: Tier 4
Ranked: Tier 4

2022 Silks

Gudrun Young KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Gudrun gives her all, is extremely hard working, a superb advocate and exceptionally bright. She is a top class silk and never fails to impress.'

Leading Juniors

Julia Faure Walker – 2 Hare Court ‘Julia is an absolutely meticulous and thorough barrister who is particularly strong at considering a case from every angle and spotting the hidden pitfalls. She is an extremely fair prosecutor who will take every point that can properly be taken. She works with unfailing courtesy and grace and is an undoubted star of the future.' 
Ranked: Tier 1
Merry van Woodenberg – 2 Hare Court ‘Merry is incredibly hard working. Her analysis is always extremely meticulous and she always has a real sense of how cases will play out which makes her advice on evidence of even more assistance. She is awfully persuasive when on her feet which supplements her outstanding written work. She will rise to the top of the criminal Bar.’
Ranked: Tier 3
Madeleine Wolfe  –2 Hare Court ‘Madeleine is wonderful. She is an incredibly intelligent, charming and persuasive advocate. Without any doubt, Madeleine is a first class barrister and is a silk in waiting.' 
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3
Harry Bentley – 2 Hare Court ‘Harry is an extremely committed and exceptionally hard working counsel. He is an effective advocate, great in front of a jury, and a great cross-examiner. He is always quick at picking up the facts and getting straight to the heart of matters.' 
Ranked: Tier 3
Sarah Przybylska – 2 Hare Court 'Sarah is calm and measured in her approach. She is always meticulously prepared. She is a very talented lawyer, and is able to make difficult arguments seem straightforward. She is good at handling nervous and vulnerable witnesses, and putting them at ease.' 
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3
Will Martin – 2 Hare Court ‘Will has a remarkable analytical mind and as an advocate he is confident, charming & persuasive. He is a stellar practitioner.’ 
Ranked: Tier 3
Peter Lownds – 2 Hare Court ‘Peter is a very skilled and measured advocate in particular when dealing with vulnerable clients or witnesses. He is incredibly thorough in his preparatory and written work and is first choice counsel for serious and complex matters.' 
Ranked: Tier 4
Daniel Chadwick – 2 Hare Court ‘Daniel is a fantastic barrister. His skill both in and out of court is almost unmatched. His attention to detail is precise, he is quick and thorough and clients and juries alike both love him. He is persuasive, meticulous and is regularly instructed on paper heavy, complex cases.'
Ranked: Tier 4

Testimonials

‘Chloe Skingsley is a top rate clerk. She is trustworthy and efficient. Her knowledge of the market is exceptional.’

‘Jack Shah has in-depth knowledge of his barristers. He targets their strengths when making suggestions to solicitors. It is easy to trust his recommendations at 2 Hare Court because their barristers are in a league of their own.’

‘The clerks are a pleasure to deal with. Julian, Jack and Chloe are particularly good.’

‘An outstanding set of chambers with a sophisticated and commercially-minded clerking team. One of only a very small number of chambers where one knows clients will get the best possible representation regardless of which barrister is dealing with the case.’

‘No question that they are one of the best sets around. Quality all over. Their counsel are always in demand.’

‘2 Hare Court is one of the leading chambers in criminal law, with barristers who are well prepared and highly professional in their advice, advocacy and dealings with clients.’

‘2 Hare Court is one of a small cohort of elite chambers; with advocates working on some of the most high-profile, serious and complex cases.’

Work highlights

London Bar > Fraud: crime Tier 1

2 Hare Court is a ‘leading set for white-collar work’ offering ‘the cream of the crop of criminal barristers’. Jonathan Laidlaw KC is ‘simply one of the greatest advocates around’ who is regularly instructed by high-profile clients. Brendan Kelly KC remains involved in the SFO’s investigation into London Capital and Finance, which is alleged to have been a Ponzi scheme, while David Whittaker KC has recently acted alone for a consultant surgeon accused of billing insurance companies for more complex procedures than the ones he actually undertook. Private prosecutions are a key area of expertise for the set's members.

Rising stars

Grace Forbes – 2 Hare Court ‘Grace is the most talented and committed young junior around. She is unquestionably a rising star. She has acute tactical judgement and an intensive, forensic focus. Grace’s total mastery of voluminous and complex papers is amazing.’
Ranked: Tier 1

Leading Silks

David Whittaker KC – 2 Hare Court ‘David is a superb jury advocate who is highly respected by his opponents. He is charming and persuasive in court and has a caring and compassionate manner with clients.' 
Ranked: Tier 1
Jonathan Laidlaw KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Jonny is a go-to KC and the fact he is not only brilliant but easy to work with makes him excellent for a range of clients. He is simply one of the greatest advocates around. There is a reason he is consistently involved in the biggest cases.' 
Ranked: Tier 1
Brian O’Neill KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Brian is a true heavyweight. He is a clear, strategic thinker, which is essential in large-scale fraud cases, as well as a robust and persuasive advocate.' 
Ranked: Tier 2
Leon Kazakos KC –2 Hare Court ‘Leon is the advocate's advocate. He is compelling, lucid and erudite. Not a word is wasted in his written submissions or skeleton arguments and no bad point is ever taken.'
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3
Brendan Kelly KC  - 2 Hare Court  'Brendan is a charming, urbane and likeable advocate. He is able to combine efficacy with a degree of harmony in a way many others cannot. Judges and juries like him as a result and opponents are respectful and amenable to his charms.'
Ranked: Tier 4
Andrew Radcliffe KC – 2 Hare Court 'Andrew's attention to detail is particularly important in fraud cases, where he thoroughly masters all the evidence, cross-referencing vast quantities of material. He is a strong advocate, who commands attention and remains calm and assured in his tone to the jury.' 
Ranked: Tier 4
Ranked: Tier 4

Leading Juniors

Vivienne Tanchel – 2 Hare Court ‘Viv is brilliant with her lay clients; she is very down to earth, warm, re-assuring and she breaks down complicated legal issues in a clear and digestible manner. She presents legal arguments attractively and forcefully and is very adept at case strategy and finding ways round legal issues.' 
Ranked: Tier 2
Angus Bunyan – 2 Hare Court ‘Angus is an articulate and brilliant advocate who is as happy in the weeds of the facts as he is in making legal argument.’
Ranked: Tier 3
Daniel Chadwick – 2 Hare Court ‘Daniel is the complete package. He is charming with juries, very user-friendly and has a total command of every detail of a case. In particular, Daniel is able to articulate complex topics to juries in a simple yet highly engaging manner.’ 
Ranked: Tier 4
Lewis MacDonald – 2 Hare Court ‘Lewis is excellent at considering the details of a voluminous case and being able to spot a complex legal argument which many others may not have seen. His preparation and understanding of a case is outstanding and he is a very intellectual barrister. This is coupled with good court presence and ability to communicate well with lay clients.' 
Ranked: Tier 4

Testimonials

‘Julian Campbell is one of the best senior clerks around – he really takes the time to get to know you and how you operate and who your clients are and is great at matching barristers to the work.’

‘Jack Shah is a standout clerk who is always willing to assist.’

‘Chloe Skingsley is a top rate clerk. She is trustworthy and efficient and her knowledge of the market is exceptional.’

‘The set as a whole is fantastic to work with. The clerks make life every easy, and are on top of everything. Julian Campbell and Chloe Skingsley are brilliant.’

‘2 Hare Court is an excellent set with a range of eminent silks as well as brilliant junior barristers. This chambers is often a first port of call for solicitors who have white collar or private general crime cases.’

‘2 Hare Court is a superb set that leads in private criminal cases and white collar work.’

Work highlights

London Bar > Professional disciplinary and regulatory law Tier 1

Regarded as 'a great set of chambers, with experienced barristers in regulatory and professional disciplinary law', 2 Hare Court has an excellent reputation for its expertise in representing white-collar professionals in a range of matters. Christopher Coltart KC is a key name for professional disciplinary cases involving accountants. In a recent highlight, Marios Lambis KC appeared before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) regarding an abuse of process argument made in respect of multiple misconduct allegations brought against a consultant psychiatrist. The argument was successful on the grounds that the GMC's investigation into the issues and background of the case had been flawed, and as such the psychiatrist could not receive a fair hearing. Andrew Colman is sought after for his solid track record in acting for the General Pharmaceutical Council and General Optical Council, and Sarah Przybylska 'skilfully deals with the most difficult and challenging cases with ease; her technical knowledge and advocacy skills are impressive'.

Leading Silks

Christopher Coltart KC –2 Hare Court ‘A silk with great tactical acumen.'
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3

2022 Silks

Marios Lambis KC –2 Hare Court 'Marios is incredibly talented, and his style of advocacy is beautiful to observe. He secures phenomenal results in very complex cases.'

Leading Juniors

Andrew Colman – 2 Hare Court ‘Andrew's ability to assimilate a vast quantity of information and present it in an easily comprehensible form is incredible. He knows his cases inside out.'
Ranked: Tier 1
Stephen Brassington –2 Hare Court ‘Stephen's advocacy is a pleasure to watch. He reads the room and his audience perfectly, and has everyone on tenterhooks as he delivers eloquent submissions and incisive cross-examinations.'
Ranked: Tier 1
Christopher Geering –2 Hare Court ‘Christopher is brilliant. He is fastidious in his preparation, he puts clients at ease, and is impressive on his feet.'
Ranked: Tier 2
Vivienne Tanchel –2 Hare Court ‘Vivienne has a great intellect, and is a robust and strategic counsel. She is also incredibly hardworking and very responsive. She has a real talent for delivering difficult messages to clients whilst providing them with a clear pathway for the next steps.‘
Ranked: Tier 2
Christopher Gillespie – 2 Hare Court ‘A first-rate advocate, who is diligent and thorough in his preparation.'
Ranked: Tier 2
Sarah Przybylska –2 Hare Court 'Sarah is an excellent operator. Her technical knowledge and advocacy skills are impressive.'
Ranked: Tier 2
Tom Day –2 Hare Court ‘Tom is fabulous. Throughout the lifespan of a case he provides an incredible level of service, and he gains the respect of panels with his thoughtful and persuasive advocacy.‘
Ranked: Tier 2
Scott Ivill –2 Hare Court ‘A passionate barrister with excellent oratory skills. He looks into the fine details of the case and puts them forward in strong arguments.‘
Ranked: Tier 2
Ben Rich –2 Hare Court ‘An incredible advocate. He is practical and persuasive, and his cross-examination skills are fantastic.'
Ranked: Tier 3
Laura Stephenson –2 Hare Court ‘Laura is a formidable, articulate and compelling advocate. She has an exceptional ability to capture the details of a complex case on a first reading of the papers.’
Ranked: Tier 3
Michael Rawlinson – 2 Hare Court ‘Michael is an excellent cross-examiner, and he is able to build good rapport with difficult clients.’
Ranked: Tier 3
Peter Lownds – 2 Hare Court ‘A junior who goes above and beyond. Clients love him.'
Ranked: Tier 4
Ranked: Tier 4

Testimonials

‘Louis Lockwood is always very responsive and deals with any issues very promptly.‘

‘The quality of service provided by 2 Hare Court is superb.‘

‘A preferred set for professional discipline.‘

‘The clerks are very helpful and responsive.‘

‘A very good professional disciplinary team, with strength in depth.‘

‘Experts in the field of regulatory matters and professional discipline.‘

‘Always have good counsel available and they are all engaging and responsive.‘

London Bar > Business and regulatory crime (including global investigations) Tier 2

2 Hare Court acts for both businesses and individuals on all kinds of criminal and regulatory issues, such as criminal cartel offences, fraud, financial crime, sanctions, confiscations, asset seizures, private prosecutions and internal investigations. Regarding the latter, Jonathan Laidlaw KC acted for the Bank of England in an investigation into a former Barclays CEO Jes Staley’s alleged misrepresentation of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, the now-deceased financier, convicted sex offender and associate of Prince Andrew. Corruption specialist Jonathan Kinnear KC successfully acted for the SFO in its case against Glencore, which ultimately pleaded guilty to paying millions in bribes to gain preferential access to oil in Africa and was subsequently subject to fines and confiscations amounting to £281m. In R v Coleman & Fisher, the first contentious prosecution of its kind for market manipulation offences under FSMA 2000, Merry van Woodenberg successfully acted as junior prosecution counsel for the Financial Conduct Authority, resulting in the former CFO of a listed company being found to have made misleading statements to auditors and the market.

Leading Silks

Ranked: Tier 1
Ranked: Tier 1
Ranked: Tier 2
Jonathan Laidlaw KC –2 Hare Court ‘Gets straight to the heart of the issue with a minimum of fuss. A super advocate.’
Ranked: Tier 2
Ranked: Tier 3

Leading Juniors

Ranked: Tier 1
Ranked: Tier 3
Angus Bunyan  – 2 Hare Court  'He is a thorough and careful barrister who knows his law, and has great tactical and strategic skill. I would recommend him to anyone who asked me about him.'
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3

Work highlights

London Bar > Health and safety Tier 3

2 Hare Court continues to advise and defend a broad range of corporate clients, as well as individual directors, on proceedings by regulators and enforcement bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive. Alexandra Tampakopoulos is instructed by Seaway Heavy Lifting Ltd in relation to a prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive arising from an incident which injured seven employees installing an offshore wind turbine in the North Sea. James Buchanan is defending two paramedics who are charged with gross negligence manslaughter after a series of incidents that culminated in a vulnerable member of the public’s death.

Leading Silks

Jonathan Laidlaw KC –2 Hare Court ‘Jonathan is a master of advocacy. He is a force to be reckoned with and leads the way in this field.’
Ranked: Tier 1
David Whittaker KC – 2 Hare Court 'He is a very efficient and persuasive advocate with an impressive jury rapport. A fair and balanced approach to cases, identifying well what points to press and which to leave.'
Ranked: Tier 2

Leading Juniors

Craig Ferguson –2 Hare Court ‘Well-known and respected in health and safety cases and inquests.’
Ranked: Tier 3
James Buchanan –2 Hare Court 'James is an all-rounder - he is an impressive advocate, personable with clients and excellent at assessing the most appropriate strategy depending on the individual case circumstances.'
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 4

Testimonials

‘The clerking service is excellent – they provide prompt responses in requests and regularly help with sorting listings. Julian Campbell is particularly impressive.’

‘Clerks are always very helpful.’

‘Easy to work with and responsive clerks.’

‘Good clerking.’

‘2 Hare Court are highly regarded within the regulatory arena and provide an impressive offering of counsel’

‘2 Hare Court have an industry-leading reputation for health and safety work. Jim Buchanan and Craig Ferguson are very well respected. Their annual health and safety seminar highlights the technical expertise of the Chambers.’

‘2 Hare Court provide an impressive offering.’

‘Availability is good and the 2HC Regulatory Seminar is always worth attending.’

Work highlights

London Bar > Inquests and inquiries Tier 3

Alongside 2 Hare Court‘s extensive work across criminal and health and safety work, the set also has experience in complex and highly significant inquests and inquiries. Jonathan Laidlaw KC represented Harley Facades in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Alexandra Tampakopoulos specialises in cases concerning state institutions - she represented Oxford Health Foundation NHS trust in an inquest into the death of a mother and daughter who jumped in front of the train; the trust assessed the mother's mental health seven weeks before the incident and deemed her not to need further support. On the junior side, Nikita McNeill  is representing the Welsh government in the COVID-19 Inquiry. Paul Renteurs appears in inquests concerning deaths in custody and care homes.

Rising stars

Hannah Thomas – 2 Hare Court ‘Hannah is commercially astute and extremely hardworking. Her advice and work is always concise and to the point.'
Ranked: Tier 1

Leading Silks

Kate Blackwell KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Kate is a serene silk with an incisive approach to cases, and she deals with the evidence in a measured and appropriate way.'
Ranked: Tier 2
Jonathan Laidlaw KC – 2 Hare Court ‘Jonathan is simply the best. He puts clients at ease in difficult circumstances, has a clear approach and articulates positions concisely. He is absolutely the one you want on your side!‘
Ranked: Tier 2

Leading Juniors

Nikita McNeill – 2 Hare Court ‘Nikita has a formidable intellect. She demonstrates a forensic command of the issues and has a real gift for making the most complex points accessible.'
Ranked: Tier 2
Alexandra Tampakopoulos – 2 Hare Court 'She is exceptionally thorough and astute in her assessment of cases.'
Ranked: Tier 2
Ranked: Tier 3
Ranked: Tier 4
Ranked: Tier 5
Ranked: Tier 5
Paul Renteurs – 2 Hare Court ‘Paul is confident, efficient, erudite and extremely personable. He is great with clients and has an excellent eye for detail.'
Ranked: Tier 5

Testimonials

‘Louis Lockwood is one of the most efficient clerks I have ever come across. He is attentive, responsive and an asset to 2 Hare Court.’

‘Chloe Skingsley is a top rate clerk. She is trustworthy and efficient. Her knowledge of the market is exceptional.’ 

‘They really are a stand out chambers and are a go-to set for inquest work.’

‘Hannah Thomas is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in inquests which is often rare for someone of her call. Her manner with clients is exceptional.’

‘The clerks are excellent and always helpful and a joy to work with. There are a number of Barristers at these chambers that I use for inquests  and all, without exception, are excellent.’

 

 

London Bar > Consumer

Leading Juniors

Richard Heller – 2 Hare Court ‘He is an expert in consumer law and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the relevant regulations. He has a brilliant mind and gets to the heart of a matter instantly. Clients adore him.'
Ranked: Tier 1

London Bar > Police law (claimant)

Leading Juniors

Iain Daniels   – 2 Hare Court ‘Iain is sympathetic to clients and assertive in the court room. His attention to detail is second-to-none. He is an amazing advocate.’
Ranked: Tier 2

London Bar > Police law (forces and constables)

Leading Juniors

Ranked: Tier 3

London Bar > Sport

Leading Juniors

Will Martin – 2 Hare Court ‘One of the best juniors in sports regulatory disputes out there.’
Ranked: Tier 4

Described by The Legal 500 2024 as “one of the leading chambers in criminal law, with barristers who are well prepared and highly professional in their advice, advocacy and dealings with clients” and “2 Hare Court is one of a small cohort of elite chambers; with advocates working on some of the most high-profile, serious and complex cases”. “An outstanding set of chambers with a sophisticated and commercially-minded clerking team. One of only a very small number of chambers where one knows clients will get the best possible representation regardless of which barrister is dealing with the case” andleading set for white-collar work” offering “the cream of the crop of criminal barristers”. “A great set of chambers, with experienced barristers in regulatory and professional disciplinary law” and “No question that they are one of the best sets around. Quality all over. Their counsel are always in demand”.

The set: Chambers comprises 73 tenants including 23 King’s Counsel and 12 members who sit as recorders. Many former members of chambers have become High Court and District Judges. Chambers provides counsel of first choice to leading defence firms as well as principal prosecuting authorities in London, nationwide and abroad. It has a proven track record of delivering the highest standards of service to clients, together with excellence in advocacy and trial management in cases of the utmost gravity and complexity.

2 Hare Court has been recognised consistently as one of the UK’s leading chambers specialising in crime, business crime, private prosecution, financial services, tax, professional discipline, health & safety, regulatory law, inquests and inquiries, sports law and other related fields. Our members and set alike have been shortlisted for numerous awards in both the Legal 500 and Chambers UK and are previous winners of Chambers UK Crime Set of the Year. 

The set’s barristers provide early and strategic analysis and advice, as well as advocacy of the highest quality where cases cannot be resolved at an early stage and need to progress to trial. Other quotes in Chambers UK 2023 Guide say “The set is loaded with exceptional silks and senior juniors at the top of their game and diligent juniors with qualities above their call.” and “they have a formidable array of talent”.  Other sources say “Counsel at 2 Hare Court are incredible at digesting complex matters“.

“Julian Campbell is one of the best senior clerks around – he really takes the time to get to know you and how you operate and who your clients are and is great at matching barristers to the work” and “the clerking service is excellent – they provide prompt responses in requests and regularly help with sorting listings”. Director of Clerking Julian Campbell “is particularly impressive.” and leads the clerking team supported by Jack Shah, the Senior Practice Clerk “a standout clerk who is always willing to assist” and “Jack Shah has in-depth knowledge of his barristers. He targets their strengths when making suggestions to solicitors. It is easy to trust his recommendations at 2 Hare Court because their barristers are in a league of their own”. Other quotes for the clerking team include: “Louis Lockwood is always very responsive and deals with any issues very promptlyand “Louis Lockwood is one of the most efficient clerks I have ever come across. He is attentive, responsive and an asset to 2 Hare Court”. “Chloe Tennent is a top rate clerk. She is trustworthy and efficient. Her knowledge of the market is exceptional”.

More information on its barristers and work can be found at www.2harecourt.com.

Types of work undertaken
Crime: the strength and depth of experience among 2 Hare Court’s specialist advocates sees them advising, defending and prosecuting in all forms of criminal work, particularly in serious and complex cases of terrorism (including special advocate work), murder, honour killings, international drug and human trafficking, serious organised crime and sexual offences (especially historic). Recent cases include: National action terrorism matters, the murder of PC Andrew Harper, Dr Agnes Taylor torture case (wife of former leader of Liberia Charles Taylor), Charles Riddington Double K Gym murder, Alex King hoax Novichok poisoning in Salisbury (whilst on the run for a large scale drugs supply case), career conman Mark Acklom, prosecuting tube bomb plotter Damon Smith, murdered French nanny Sophie Lionnet, Finsbury Park attacker Darren Osbourne, the Rolf Harris appeal, prosecuting Britain’s ‘worst ever paedophile’ Richard Huckle, Grindr serial killer Stephen Port, Honey Rose (the first optometrist to be convicted of gross negligence manslaughter), Brooks (phone hacking), Lee Rigby Murder and Operation Yew Tree.

Business crime and financial services: members of chambers are routinely instructed in the largest and most complex financial crime cases. Its experience includes all forms of fraud, MTIC/VAT tribunal hearings, market abuse (insider dealing, LIBOR and manipulation of other benchmark rates), asset recovery/forfeiture and restraint/confiscation proceedings. Recent cases include: ICO v Cambridge Analytica, Operation Amazon, the SFO’s investigation into Rolls Royce,  FOREX, ‘Blue Index’, BA price fixing case, Operation Tabernula,  the HBOS corruption trial, Turks and Caicos corruption cases, SFO v Tchenguiz, lnnospec, and MP/Lords’ expenses.

Private prosecution: 2 Hare Court is a pioneering set in the area of private prosecution and their private prosecution team have considerable experience of advising and representing clients on both sides of private prosecutions. Numerous members are senior former and current prosecutors, including those who have acted as First Senior, Senior and Junior Treasury Counsel. Recent cases: Swiss oil company Allseas Group  (largest privately prosecuted fraud to have ever been brought), R v K (private prosecution brought following long running civil fraud proceedings, R v G, H & A (defence of a privately prosecuted fraud).

Professional discipline: members have extensive expertise in this field, appearing, in particular, before all healthcare regulators, primarily defending members of all the major MDOs as well as other professionals. The set also appears in proceedings involving the police, accountants and actuaries, tax advisers, solicitors, sports professionals, telecommunications and others.

Regulatory crime: Members of 2 Hare Court advise and represent corporate and individual clients facing proceedings brought by regulators including the Health & Safety Executive, Environment Agency, Trading Standards and local authorities. The team advises at every stage of an investigation pre-charge on issues such as the approach to take in interview, evidence gathering and legal privilege. Recent cases: Grenfell, Chevron, Topcon, Monovan, Hillsborough, Essar Oil, Princes Sporting Club, Lion Steel, Cavendish Masonry and Hugo Boss.

Inquests: 2 Hare Court has a team of specialists with extensive experience of advocacy. Members of the Inquest & Public Inquiry team have acted in the most complex and high profile cases of recent times, including; the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, the In Amenas hostage crisis, the London 7/7 bombings, the Bloody Sunday Inquiry, the London Bridge and Westminster terrorist attacks, acting for the family of Lance Corporal Craig Roberts one of three soldiers who died of heat illness on an SAS selection test in the Brecon Beacons and representing the family of Alexander Perepilichny, who died in unexplained circumstances. Public inquiries have included the Grenfell fire, Manchester arena bombing, inquiry into the death of Alexander Litvinenko, the former Russian FSB agent allegedly poisoned by Polonium 210 in London, as well as various members instructed on the long running Hillsborough inquest.

Tax: With a long established background in tax litigation, the team at 2 Hare Court have established a formidable reputation in cases involving disputes in direct and indirect tax appeals. The disputes span the full spectrum of tax litigation before the First-tier Tribunal (Tax Chamber), Upper Tribunal (Tax and Chancery Chamber) and Court of Appeal, where members are instructed both by Taxpayers and by the Commissioners for HM Revenue and Customs.

Sports law: Members of 2 Hare Court are instructed in cases involving gambling regulation, corruption, inquests and public inquiries, anti-doping, licensing, On-field and off-field violence, disorder by athletes. Members of the sports team regularly appear before the Football Association, the British Horse Racing Authority, International Association of Athletics Federations, National Anti-Doping Panel, to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Recent cases:  FA v Tony Henry, BHA v Jim & Suzie Best, BHA v Jim Best, FA v Joey Barton, IAAF v Valentin Balakhnichev & Ors and Hillsborough.

Department Name Email Telephone
Director of Clerking Julian Campbell
Members of Chambers LAIDLAW KC, Jonathan (1982)
Members of Chambers HESLOP KC, Martin (1972)
Members of Chambers WRIGHT KC, Peter (1981)
Members of Chambers RADCLIFFE KC, Andrew (1975)
Members of Chambers PICKUP KC, James (1976)
Members of Chambers POWNALL KC, Orlando (1975)
Members of Chambers HICKS KC, Martin (1977)
Members of Chambers BENNETT-JENKINS KC, Sallie (1984)
Members of Chambers KELLY KC, Brendan (1988)
Members of Chambers REES KC, Jonathan (1987)
Members of Chambers O'NEILL KC, Brian (1987)
Members of Chambers BLACKWELL KC, Kate (1992)
Members of Chambers KINNEAR KC, Jonathan (1994)
Members of Chambers HAYTON KC, Michael (1993)
Members of Chambers COLTART KC, Christopher (1998)
Members of Chambers GLASGOW KC, Oliver (1995)
Members of Chambers WHITTAKER KC, David (1986)
Members of Chambers AHMAD KC, Zubair (1995)
Members of Chambers GRAFFIUS KC, Mark (1990)
Members of Chambers KAZAKOS KC, Leon (1999)
Members of Chambers LAMBIS KC, Marios (1989)
Members of Chambers YOUNG KC, Gudrun (2001)
Members of Chambers AKUDOLU KC, Nneka (2002
Members of Chambers COLMAN, Andrew (1980)
Members of Chambers BELGER, Tyrone (1984)
Members of Chambers GILLESPIE, Christopher (1991)
Members of Chambers GRAY KC (Scotland), Peter (1992)
Members of Chambers FERGUSON, Craig (1992)
Members of Chambers DANIELS, Iain (1992)
Members of Chambers BUCHANAN, James (1993)
Members of Chambers FOULKES, Christopher (1994)
Members of Chambers BRASSINGTON, Stephen (1994)
Members of Chambers IRWIN, Gavin (1996)
Members of Chambers IVILL, Scott (1997)
Members of Chambers WOLFE, Madeleine (1998)
Members of Chambers HELLER, Richard (1998)
Members of Chambers LOWNDS, Peter (1998)
Members of Chambers HAWKINS, Quinn (1999)
Members of Chambers BUNYAN, Angus (1999)
Members of Chambers RINDER, Robert (2001)
Members of Chambers RAWLINSON, Michael (2002)
Members of Chambers HUMMERSTONE, Rebekah (2002)
Members of Chambers FAURE WALKER, Julia (2004)
Members of Chambers TANCHEL, Vivienne (2005)
Members of Chambers PRZYBYLSKA, Sarah (2006)
Members of Chambers CHADWICK, Daniel (2006)
Members of Chambers DUMMETT, Emily (2006)
Members of Chambers BENTLEY, Harry (2007)
Members of Chambers TAMPAKOPOULOS, Alexandra (2007)
Members of Chambers ROBERTSON, Fiona (2008)
Members of Chambers GRAHAM, Amina (2008)
Members of Chambers DAY, Tom (2008)
Members of Chambers GEERING, Christopher (2009)
Members of Chambers RICH, Ben (2010)
Members of Chambers MARTIN, Will (2010)
Members of Chambers MCNEILL, Nikita (2010)
Members of Chambers STEPHENSON, Laura (2012)
Members of Chambers ERKAN-BAX, Rebecca (2012)
Members of Chambers van WOODENBERG, Merry (2012)
Members of Chambers DOWER, Sophia (2013)
Members of Chambers RENTEURS, Paul (2013)
Members of Chambers DACRE, Robert (2013)
Members of Chambers MACDONALD, Lewis (2014)
Members of Chambers FORBES, Grace (2015)
Members of Chambers THOMAS, Hannah (2016)
Members of Chambers GOMERSALL, Neelam (2017)
Members of Chambers MILLS, Max (2018)
Members of Chambers TRAYNOR, Redmond (2019)
Members of Chambers GILLILAND, Jack (2019)
Members of Chambers PICKERING, Ralph (2021)
Members of Chambers FOX, Eleanor (2021)
Members of Chambers MULLIN, Daniel (2021)
Members of Chambers RIPPER, Ella (2021)
Photo Name Position Profile
Zubair Ahmad photo Zubair Ahmad Zubair Ahmad KC is widely recognised as a leading silk in serious…
Nneka Akudolu photo Nneka Akudolu Appointed King’s Counsel in 2022, Nneka is a highly respected jury advocate…
Tyrone Belger photo Tyrone Belger Tyrone Belger is a specialist crime and fraud practitioner, with a well-known…
Sallie Bennett-Jenkins photo Sallie Bennett-Jenkins ‘A first class act’; Sallie Bennett-Jenkins KC has throughout her career established…
Harry Bentley photo Harry Bentley Harry’s areas of practice are Regulatory law, Professional Discipline and Crime. His…
Kate Blackwell photo Kate Blackwell Kate is one of the UK’s leading silks specialising in criminal law…
Stephen Brassington photo Stephen Brassington Stephen Brassington is rightly regarded as one of the leading practitioners in…
James Buchanan photo James Buchanan James Buchanan is recognised as a leading criminal and inquest practitioner, specialising…
Angus Bunyan photo Angus Bunyan Angus Bunyan is an established leading junior whose practice is focused on…
Daniel Chadwick photo Daniel Chadwick Daniel Chadwick is a specialist criminal defence barrister with a practice exclusively…
Andrew Colman photo Andrew Colman Andrew Colman is a leading junior of great intellect and experience, held…
Christopher Coltart photo Christopher Coltart Christopher’s background was originally in commercial property litigation. During that time, he…
Iain Daniels photo Iain Daniels Iain is a senior junior practicing in health and safety matters, including…
Tom Day photo Tom Day Tom is recognised as a leading junior who specialises in regulatory crime…
Sophia Dower photo Sophia Dower Sophia enjoys a diverse practice that encompasses many areas of 2 Hare…
Emily Dummett photo Emily Dummett Emily has significant experience and expertise in providing advice and advocacy in…
Rebecca Erkan-Bax photo Rebecca Erkan-Bax Rebecca has a successful and substantial criminal practice. She is a formidable…
Julia Faure Walker photo Julia Faure Walker Julia is ranked by Chambers UK and The Legal 500 as a…
Craig Ferguson photo Craig Ferguson Craig Ferguson is a specialist regulatory law practitioner whose practice focuses on…
Grace Forbes photo Grace Forbes Grace Forbes specialises in criminal law, inquests, inquires and professional discipline. She…
Christopher Foulkes photo Christopher Foulkes Christopher Foulkes specialises in business crime and related areas. He advises and…
Eleanor Fox photo Eleanor Fox Eleanor Fox accepted tenancy in March 2023, following the successful completion of…
Christopher Geering photo Christopher Geering Christopher is a highly respected junior with experience dealing with a wide…
Christopher Gillespie photo Christopher Gillespie After twenty years of experience defending and prosecuting serious crime, Chris now…
Jack Gilliland photo Jack Gilliland Jack Gilliland specialises in criminal law, professional discipline, and inquests. He regularly…
Oliver Glasgow photo Oliver Glasgow Oliver Glasgow KC was appointed Senior Treasury Counsel in 2015, King’s Counsel…
Oliver Glasgow photo Oliver Glasgow Oliver Glasgow KC was appointed Senior Treasury Counsel in 2015, King’s Counsel…
Neelam Gomersall photo Neelam Gomersall Neelam’s practice focuses on criminal defence, inquests and professional discipline. She has…
Mark Graffius photo Mark Graffius Mark Graffius KC is a ‘an outstanding advocate’ in the fields of…
Amina Graham photo Amina Graham Amina is a sought-after practitioner with extensive experience providing legal advice and…
Peter Gray photo Peter Gray Peter Gray KC (2002 Scotland) is a leading practitioner in regulatory crime…
Quinn Hawkins photo Quinn Hawkins Quinn Hawkins is a leading criminal junior who specialises in substantial cases…
Michael Hayton photo Michael Hayton Michael Hayton KC’s practice in silk is primarily defending clients as part…
Richard Heller photo Richard Heller Richard is a specialist practitioner with substantial experience across the full range…
Martin Heslop photo Martin Heslop Martin is widely recognised as one of the Leading Silks at the…
Martin Hicks photo Martin Hicks Martin Hicks KC is consistently recommended by the leading industry directories as…
Rebekah Hummerstone photo Rebekah Hummerstone Rebekah Hummerstone is instructed as a leading or sole junior to prosecute…
Gavin Irwin photo Gavin Irwin Gavin specialises in advising and representing businesses and professionals with a particular…
Scott Ivill photo Scott Ivill Mr Ivill has vast experience of defending in the gravest of cases.…
Leon Kazakos photo Leon Kazakos Leon is instructed by individuals and companies in the fields of business…
Brendan Kelly photo Brendan Kelly Brendan Kelly KC is described by the leading industry directory as having…
Jonathan Kinnear photo Jonathan Kinnear Jonathan Kinnear KC specialises in matters of real financial complexity, representing individuals…
Jonathan Laidlaw photo Jonathan Laidlaw Jonathan Laidlaw KC’s practice is predominantly in business and financial crime and…
Marios Lambis photo Marios Lambis Originally from a criminal practice, which encompassed major frauds and terrorist cases,…
Peter Lownds photo Peter Lownds Peter Lownds has a high-profile and wide-ranging leading junior criminal defence practice…
Lewis MacDonald photo Lewis MacDonald Lewis practices in serious crime and business crime, asset forfeiture, tax, professional…
Will Martin photo Will Martin Will Martin is a highly regarded junior, ranked in the Legal 500…
Nikita McNeill photo Nikita McNeill Nikita has a strong record of high-profile inquests and public inquiries. She…
Max Mills photo Max Mills Max Mills represents individuals, companies and government departments in a multi-disciplinary practice…
Daniel Mullin photo Daniel Mullin Daniel undertakes work in criminal, regulatory, and civil law. He regularly represents…
Brian O'Neill photo Brian O'Neill Now in his fourteenth year in Silk, Brian provides advice and advocacy…
Ralph Pickering photo Ralph Pickering Ralph Pickering specialises in criminal law and professional discipline. He regularly represents…
James Pickup photo James Pickup James Pickup KC has long been established as a specialist in commercial…
Orlando Pownall photo Orlando Pownall Orlando is ‘regarded by his peers as being one of the best…
Sarah Przybylska photo Sarah Przybylska Sarah Przybylska’s work encompasses advice and advocacy across professional discipline, fraud, crime,…
Andrew Radcliffe photo Andrew Radcliffe Andrew Radcliffe KC is predominantly a white collar crime fraud specialist, who…
Michael Rawlinson photo Michael Rawlinson From a background defending and prosecuting serious crime, Michael has developed a…
Jonathan Rees photo Jonathan Rees At the end of July 2020, Jonny was appointed as Director of…
Paul Renteurs photo Paul Renteurs Paul Renteurs joined chambers in 2014. Whilst specialising in criminal defence and…
Ben Rich photo Ben Rich Ben has a substantial practice appearing before Panels of a variety of…
Robert Rinder MBE photo Robert Rinder MBE Robert Rinder’s practice focuses primarily on international fraud, money laundering, and other…
Ella Ripper photo Ella Ripper Ella’s practice focuses on criminal defence and professional discipline. Her current general…
Fiona Robertson photo Fiona Robertson Fiona Robertson is a highly sought after junior with a diverse criminal…
Laura Stephenson photo Laura Stephenson Laura has a busy and diverse practice, specialising in crime, professional discipline,…
Alexandra Tampakopoulos photo Alexandra Tampakopoulos Alexandra is a leading criminal regulatory and inquest & public inquiry barrister.…
Vivienne Tanchel photo Vivienne Tanchel Vivienne is ranked in band 1 by Chambers and Partners for Financial…
Hannah Thomas photo Hannah Thomas Since joining Chambers in March 2019 Hannah has established a busy practice…
Redmond Traynor photo Redmond Traynor Redmond joined 2 Hare Court in 2019.  He regularly represents defendants in…
David Whittaker photo David Whittaker David Whittaker KC has considerable experience in most forms of serious crime.…
Madeleine Wolfe photo Madeleine Wolfe Madeleine Wolfe is a specialist in defending and prosecuting complex and highly…
Peter Wright photo Peter Wright Peter Wright KC is cited by Chambers UK, the Legal 500 and…
Gudrun Young photo Gudrun Young Gudrun Young KC is a highly specialised criminal advocate. She has extensive…
Merry van Woodenberg photo Merry van Woodenberg Merry specialises in serious and complex crime, and regulation. She has particular…
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