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Andrew Copeland
Andrew Copeland
Andrew is a highly respected leading Junior who has dealt with allegations of serious, organised and high profile crime. He prosecutes and defends in equal measure and his success has been built on an ability to marshal complex cases quickly whilst distilling and presenting the issues in an incisive manner; he is a forceful and persuasive jury advocate. Andrew has extensive experience in homicide offences as a led Junior and drug, serious violence and fraud offences as a leading Junior. He has gained a sound understanding of scientific evidence namely, DNA, computers and mobile telephone analysis coupled with a wealth of experience in the forensic presentation of the same. He is recognised as a specialist in rape and difficult sexual offences. More recently Andrew’s practice has centred on financial crime and he specialises in Money Service Business fraud, VAT fraud, insurance fraud, advance fee fraud, mortgage fraud, high value benefit fraud and money laundering together with the associated confiscation procedures. He has a particular interest in criminal aspects of intellectual property law namely, trademarks, copyright and all areas of trading standards. Although based in London, Andrew is always pleased to receive instructions to appear in major court centres throughout the Country. Andrew is a Grade 4 Crown Prosecution Service panel advocate and is a member of the Proceeds of Crime Lawyers Association. Work undertaken: Serious and complex crime (including homicide and drugs) Business crime and fraud Rape and serious sexual offences Trading Standards
Ishfaq Ahmed
Ishfaq Ahmed
Ishfaq Ahmed has been practising at the Commercial and Admiralty Bar since October 2000 representing and advising in a wide range of commercial and shipping litigation and arbitration. He specialises in all aspects of commercial and shipping law, including: domestic and international carriage of goods; international trade; shipping (wet and dry); marine and other insurance disputes; P&I Club issues; collision, salvage and towage disputes; fatal and non-fatal maritime accidents; fraud claims; maritime limitation of liability; conflict of laws and jurisdictional disputes; commodities; ship sale and purchase; shipbuilding and various aspects of international law (including treaties). He has particular experience of international arbitration (including LMAA and DIAC) and has appeared before the Dubai World Tribunal.  He also has significant experience in interim applications including anti-suit and freezing injunctions. He is also experienced in all aspects of employment law and related disputes, including: contracts of employment (terms, restrictive covenants, interpretation and breach); dismissal (unfair and wrongful dismissal); discrimination; equal pay; redundancy; transfer of undertakings; health and safety; collective labour law and statutory interventions into the employment field.
Marisa Allman
Marisa Allman
Marisa specialises in complex private law children and financial remedies cases, particularly international cases and those involving multiple businesses, family trusts, and third-party interests, including Schedule 1 and applications. Marisa is a qualified arbitrator (finance) and also offers her services as a neutral evaluator at Private FDRs. Her international expertise extends to issues of cross border personal status – marriage, divorce, gender, parenthood or parental responsibility and international adoption. She also represents parties in child abduction cases. She has particular experience in jurisdictional disputes, and regularly advises where there are competing jurisdictions. Marisa has provided expert evidence as to English family law to overseas courts in a number of cases. She is a fellow of the IAFL. She has additionally developed a niche practice in fertility law, donor conceived children, and surrogacy and is co-author of “Children and Same Sex Families: A Legal Handbook” aimed at family lawyers, professionals and people in same sex relationships (published by Jordan Publishing in March 2012). She regularly acts in High Court matters concerning recognition of parental status. A tenacious advocate when she needs to be, Marisa is known for her clear advice, attention to details and creative, pro-active approach to negotiating settlement. Clients particularly welcome her calm and collected approach.
Simon Ash KC
Simon Ash KC
Simon Ash KC prosecutes cases of gravity and complexity involving serious organised crime, homicide, fraud, and the most serious sexual offences. He is recognised for his good judgment, meticulous preparation, and effective advocacy. He is experienced in dealing with sensitive intelligence issues, complicated expert evidence, and vulnerable witnesses. He is regularly instructed by the Complex Casework Unit and is also instructed by the International Justice and Organised Crime Division and by the CPS London Homicide Unit. He is currently involved in several cases arising from Operation Venetic (the international police operation in relation to the EncroChat encrypted phone communication system). Work undertaken: Serious Organised Crime Homicide Fraud Serious Sexual Offences Cybercrime
Ravi Aswani
Ravi Aswani
Ravi Aswani is a commercial dispute resolution barrister. He has a broad practice which covers a range of areas including in particular shipping and international trade, banking and finance, commodities, construction, energy, insurance and re-insurance, and various international consortia and joint venture agreements. As well as litigation in the English courts (primarily the Commercial Court), Ravi has an extensive international arbitration practice. He has been instructed in arbitrations seated in several jurisdictions, both ad hoc arbitrations (in particular under LMAA rules and UNCITRAL rules) as well as institutional arbitrations (in particular ICC, LCIA and SIAC). Recent arbitrations he has been instructed on have been seated in Kosovo, Mauritius, New York, Qatar and Singapore, as well as in England. Increasingly, Ravi is instructed in arbitrations arising out of contracts governed by a law other than English law. Recent arbitrations he has been instructed on have involved consideration of Ghanaian law, Malaysian law and Singaporean law, as well as English law. Ravi has extensive experience of hybrid and remote hearings across a range of platforms, including across multiple time zones and asynchronous hearings. A considerable proportion of Ravi’s work involves him being instructed without a leader against KCs, SCs and SAs in various jurisdictions. He has significant experience of acting without a leader against senior silks, as well as of acting as co-counsel with foreign lawyers from both civil law and common law jurisdictions. Recent representative arbitrations include: related GAFTA arbitrations (English law, English seat), and related Commercial Court proceedings, arising out of a prohibition on export imposed by the Government of India to preserve domestic food security, an SIAC arbitration (Singapore seat, Singapore law) relating to the purchase of a large quantity of iron ore, an LMAA arbitration arising out of a long term high value freight forwarding contract (English seat, English law); an LCIA arbitration arising out of the resignation of the former CEO of a multinational business; an UNCITRAL arbitration arising out of a mining joint venture (Kosovo seat, English law); an LMAA arbitration (English seat, English law) raising questions of illegality under a foreign law; an ICC arbitration (English seat, Ghanaian law) arising out of contracts for the construction of hospitals; an SIAC arbitration (Singapore seat, Malaysian law) arising out of the moving to a new position of a large jack up oil rig; an LCIA arbitration (English seat, English law) arising out of alleged breach of loan facility agreement and ancillary guarantee; and two substantial and very high profile LOF arbitrations arising out fires on very large container ships. Recent representative litigation includes multi-million dollar litigation in the Commercial Court on behalf of charterers in claims for alleged long-term failures to service charterparty obligations. Ravi has a broad domestic and international client base and has developed particular links across the Middle East and Asia Pacific, as well as throughout the UK and Europe. Ravi is regularly instructed to provide expert evidence on English law for use in foreign courts and arbitral tribunals. He frequently speaks at conferences on subjects arising out of his practice areas, both in the UK and abroad. Ravi additionally has a growing arbitrator and mediator practice. In recent years he has received several arbitrator nominations / appointments in both institutional arbitrations (LCIA and ICC) as well as ad hoc arbitrations (primarily LMAA). He is a CEDR accredited mediator, a freeman of the Worshipful Company of Arbitrators, and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. He is a member of the ICC Global Commission on Arbitration and ADR, representing the UK. Ravi has sat as a deputy district judge in the County Court since 2013 in general civil matters, and in 2020 received an authorisation to hear specialist chancery / bankruptcy and insolvency matters. An early adopter of social media for business purposes, Ravi has a large following within the dispute resolution community (and beyond) on LinkedIn. Ravi has a longstanding interest in matters of equality, diversity (especially intersectional), inclusion and belonging, and has over the years attended numerous cross-sector and cross-discipline advanced training events and seminars on these topics, observing considerable changes in thinking and practice over that time. Ravi also has a keen interest in mentoring and assisting the next generation of practitioners. He has participated in mentoring programmes run by Young ICCA (2018-2022), UCL (2019-2024) and others, sat in many moots, and is a Chambers' pupil supervisor. He is also often sought out informally for mentorship and career guidance by aspiring / junior practitioners.  He has sat on the E&D Committee in Chambers for over 20 years.
Jane Bacon
Jane specialises in all cases relating to children in both public law and private law. Her practice focus is in complex care, adoption and private law proceedings, commonly where there is alleged non accidental injury (subdural haemorrhage, fractures, burns, factitious disorder) or sexual abuse. Jane is able to use her skill and knowledge as a former nurse and midwife to very good effect in taking clients and witnesses through these difficult cases. She represents local authorities, children, parents and other family members. Jane is experienced in international relocation cases and the jurisdictional issues that arise. Jane has over 10 years of experience in medical regulation sitting as a Chairwoman at the General Medical Council in cases against doctors of alleged professional misconduct.
Adiba Bassam
Adiba Bassam
Adiba is a family barrister accepting instructions in private and public children law and international family law. Adiba has a multicultural background having been educated in Finland, as a result of which she speaks six languages (English, Finnish, Bengali, Swedish, Hindi and Turkish) and is able to cater to a wide range of clients and cultures. Adiba has a deeper understanding of especially the South-Asian culture and the impact of the same on cases and has delivered seminars on the topic. Adiba is frequently instructed in such cases achieving excellent results for clients. Adiba has represented clients successfully in multi-day final hearings and fact-finding hearings in both public and private children law. Adiba has represented many client’s in fact-finding hearings where they have been accused of tens of allegations, and managed to ensure not a single finding was made and in turn achieved findings against the other party of parental alienation. Adiba contributes to the Family Law Journal and other legal journals/texts regularly and is always available to present seminars on topical issues.
James Bide-Thomas
James Bide-Thomas
James was called to the bar in 2005, having been educated at Charterhouse, the University of Leicester, City University and the Inns’ of Court School of Law. He undertook a general common law pupillage. He has a predominantly criminal practice, but also maintains expertise in licensing law and inquests. James is a grade 3 CPS RASSO prosecutor and, until its abolition, was a member of the Attorney General’s Panel of prosecuting advocates. As well as extensive experience prosecuting and defending serious cases investigated by the police, he continues to act on behalf of other government departments, including HM Revenue and Customs, the Department for Work and Pensions, the UK Border Agency and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. James is regarded as an excellent jury advocate and is known for his clarity of thought, patience and willingness to spend as much time as is necessary to ensure that clients understand proceedings and the decisions that they need to make. He understands that appearing in court is often one of the most traumatic experiences a non-lawyer can go through. Where possible, he likes to meet his clients before the day of any court hearing so that decisions can be made in as unhurried an environment as possible. General Crime James prosecutes and defends serious and substantial offences in the Crown Court, including attempted murder, arson, grievous bodily harm with intent, armed robbery, unlawful sexual activity with children, making indecent images, rape, firearms offences, drug supply and importation, kidnap, blackmail, money laundering, conspiracy to defraud, and death by dangerous driving. His practice is approximately half prosecution and half defence. Prosecution James has particular knowledge and experience in prosecuting serious and evidence heavy drug conspiracies, both alone and as junior for the Crown. He is familiar with cases based predominantly upon cell-site, call data records and ANPR and has a strong understanding of the technology behind all three. He is confident in questioning expert witnesses on all three topics. International law James is on the List of Assistants to Counsel for the International Criminal Court in the Hague and is a member of the ICC Bar Association. Business Law James prosecutes on behalf of the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. These cases involve the various Companies Acts, the Insolvency Acts and a good knowledge of forensic accountancy. Often, the desired outcome is a disqualification for the directors of the companies involved. James also defends in such cases. Cybercrime James has extensive knowledge of computing and networking technology, having worked as a Unix systems administrator prior to his career at the Bar. He has significant experience of instructing expert witnesses in cases involving extensive technical evidence and issues. He has prosecuted and defended cases under the Computer Misuse Act. Smoke-Free Premises James has expertise in smoke free premises legislation and has defended a number of businesses across the Midlands. He has been instructed by businesses in London and across the UK for advice on how to ensure that their premises comply with the legislation. He is happy to conduct site visits and to advise businesses or local authorities on the correct application of the law. Licensing Law James has appeared for both local authorities and appellants in appeals against licensing authorities’ decisions to refuse to grant premises licences for alcohol or hot food. He has advised on appeals to the High Court by way of judicial review and case stated. He has appeared for both sides in taxi-licensing appeals in the Crown Court. He has prosecuted and defended cases where licence holders have sold alcohol to minors, counterfeit products and avoided import duties. Trading Standards James has both prosecuted on behalf of trading Standards in the Crown Court and acted for claimant local authorities in the County Court using the Enterprise Act 2002 to help local authorities deal with rogue traders where there is not a realistic prospect of conviction. He is experienced in advising trading standards of the best legal solution, whether by way of prosecution or civil action. Housing Law James prosecutes and defends in cases involving Housing Act licences, including houses in multiple occupation, fire safety regulations and fly-tipping. He also has experience of housing and anti-social behaviour injunctions in the County Court. Inquests James has appeared at inquests involving deaths as a result of a failure to install appropriate fire-safety equipment and road traffic collisions. James is the supervising barrister for the University of Leicester miscarriages of justice unit, which campaigns tirelessly to free those wrongly convicted. He appears regularly in the Court of Appeal and has successfully judicially reviewed Crown Court decisions. James undertakes disclosure and assesses PII of social services files for Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council.
Elizabeth Blackburn KC
Elizabeth Blackburn KC
Elizabeth Blackburn QC has been in practice at the Admiralty/Commercial Bar since 1980 and took silk in 1998. She is recommended as a top-tier leading shipping silk in all the main directories.  She is also a registered practitioner in the ADGM Court of Abu Dhabi and in the DIFC Court in Dubai. In addition to her commercial work, she is one of the most experienced KCs at the Bar in the field of large-scale casualty work and regularly advises on and acts in high profile maritime cases. Most recently she has been heavily involved as Leading Counsel in the major EVER GIVEN incident in the Suez Canal. After the successful outcome of an important preliminary issue in the Admiralty Court in March 2023, the case is now due for hearing in the Court of Appeal in February 2024. Her professional standing as an experienced commercial arbitrator has been recognised globally with membership of all the main commercial panels worldwide including the HKIAC, AIAC, SIAC, SHIAC, BVI IAC, LCIA Europe and the SCMA.  She is also a Member of the Baltic Exchange and a supporting member of the LMAA. She has acted as Chairman and sole Arbitrator in ICC commercial arbitrations, including not only international trade disputes and shipbuilding contracts, but also supply contractual disputes in the energy sector. She has been a LOF Salvage Arbitrator since 2009.
Georgina Blower
Georgina Blower
Georgina specialises in criminal justice and public inquiries and routinely advises on sensitive, high-profile cases. She is a diligent and effective advocate who combines sound judgement with meticulous preparation. Georgina is an accredited advocacy trainer for Lincoln’s Inn. She has been elected twice by members of Lincoln’s Inn to the Bar Representation Committee between 2017-2022. She currently sits on the editorial and policy board for the monthly journal of the Bar, Counsel Magazine. Georgina has been commissioned by the Bar Standards Board to write and mark examination questions for the Bar Professional Training Course. She has previously acted as an examination marker for King’s College London. Georgina graduated from the University of Keele with a first class law degree and continued this success on the LL.M. at the University of Cambridge, where she was assistant editor of the Cambridge Student Law Review. Georgina has received awards for academic and legal excellence, including the Professor Michael Akehurst Award, granted to one academically outstanding student a year. She was awarded the Sir Thomas More Bursary and Sir Walter Wigglesworth Scholarship by Lincoln’s Inn. While at Cambridge University, Georgina was a researcher for the Cambridge Pro Bono Project, assisting UN Special Rapporteur, Professor Heyns, on his first thematic report for the UN Human Rights Council concerning the right to life in the context of policing assemblies. Georgina was a member of the Texas Defender Service panel at Cambridge University and conducted constitutional law research for several death row appeals, including in the US Supreme Court. During the summer of 2011, she undertook an internship with the Texas Defender Service in Austin, Texas, assisting attorneys defending capital cases. Prior to commencing pupillage, Georgina worked as a research assistant in the criminal law team at the Law Commission of England and Wales, assisting on reform to the law on insanity and automatism and contempt of court. She also gained in-house commercial experience whilst working as a legal assistant for Porsche Cars Great Britain Limited. Georgina has volunteered for Big Voice London, Liberty, Free Representation Unit and Toynbee Hall. Before coming to the Bar, Georgina participated extensively in mooting competitions nationally and internationally, culminating in her winning the Inter-Inn Mooting Competition 2009 (for Lincoln’s Inn) and coaching the Lincoln’s Inn team to the World Championships of the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition 2010 in Washington DC, USA. She has been invited to judge the UK national rounds of the Jessup Competition on many occasions. Work undertaken: General Crime: Georgina prosecutes and defends in serious criminal cases, ranging from white collar crime to violent and sexual offences. She is a Grade 3 CPS prosecutor. Georgina has particular experience dealing with vulnerable defendants and witnesses and those with mental health issues, including with the assistance of an intermediary, and has undertaken specialist vulnerable witness training. Financial Crime: She has been instructed in a number of Serious Fraud Office investigations, including as disclosure counsel in a multi-handed multimillion-pound conspiracy to defraud investigation and as legal professional privilege counsel, jointly selected and instructed by Rolls-Royce, in an international bribery investigation. Public Inquiries: Georgina has significant experience acting in sensitive and complex public inquiries, where there is a great deal of public scrutiny, having been instructed as junior junior in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, as junior counsel for a key core participant in the Undercover Policing Inquiry and as senior junior counsel to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. She is experienced in advising on high-profile and voluminous disclosure and redaction exercises, including concerning sensitive and secret documents. Georgina is fully trained in the disclosure software Relativity and Autonomy. Other Work: Georgina is instructed in parole board and adjudication hearings. She has assisted on various advisory projects internationally, including advising on a multimillion-pound breach of contract case in Gibraltar; advising the Gibraltarian government on the investigation of child abuse allegations and providing guidance for use in the training of police officers, social workers and lawyers; and advising on plea, evidence and sentence for a high-profile false accounting case in Gibraltar. Georgina accepts instructions on behalf of the government, public bodies and individuals.
Andrzej Bojarski KC
Andrzej Bojarski KC
Barrister specialising in family work, head of family finance law at 36 Family. Also a prominent arbitrator, neutral evaluator and mediator. Practice specialised in financial relief, including financial aspects of relationship breakdown outside marriage, such as trusts of land claims, and also general property law and inheritance disputes. Many substantial asset ancillary relief cases undertaken, including businesses, trusts and farming cases. Also instructed in proceedings involving intervening parties in relation to companies, trusts and complex property arrangements, including cryptocurrencies. Frequently instructed by solicitors where the case has some unusual or complex features requiring thorough scrutiny and legal argument. Author of a well-regarded textbook on ancillary relief practice, and regularly lectures on the topic in England and outside the jurisdiction. Andrzej is also the consul ting editor to Halsbury’s Laws of England 6th edition (Matrimonial and Civil Partnership volumes).
Caroline Bray
Caroline Bray
Caroline Bray works in the Midlands and exclusively in the Crime Team. Her practice focuses mainly on serious sexual offences and serious violent offences but her versatility and willingness to adapt means Caroline is often called upon for work in all areas of criminal law. Caroline is a Grade 3 prosecutor and is on the Rape Panel. Caroline has a particular skill in dealing with vulnerable witnesses and defendants and is well liked for her easy approach and demeanour. Work undertaken: All crime including appeals Serious sexual offences Serious violent offences Homicide and related offences Domestic violence Modern Slavery
James Bruce
James Bruce
James joined 36 Crime after 10 years in the West Midlands, having built strong foundations in criminal and regulatory law. In the last few years he has accepted instructions in more serious cases involving violence and dishonesty. He has a way of speaking to witnesses and clients that dispels myths and fears about the Crown Court. This enables them to concentrate on giving their best evidence, increasing the chances of success in the case as a whole. James has particular experience in local authority and trading standards prosecutions, where he lends his expertise to instructing solicitors at the earliest stages of case preparation. He enjoys seeing cases all the way through, providing continuity and strategy from beginning to end. A qualified advocate appointed to “List C” for government agency work, James prosecutes and defends in cases involving the Environment Agency, HSE etc. He has trained inspectors and experts at the HSE. His grasp of this area assists in other cases, particularly in Coronial Law where he has represented local authorities, the NHS and families of the deceased at Inquests. His regulatory practice extends to licensing work too. James takes cases before local licensing committees and on appeal in the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts. James has experience defending cases in the Courts Martial, from desertion to ill-treating subordinates. He has appeared in Bulford, Colchester and Portsmouth Military Court Centres, as well as the Court of Appeal. James is able to represent clients nationwide and overseas. Most notably, he defended a marine who was involved in supervising a high-profile “joining run”. New joiners at 45 Commando were put through an initiation ceremony which included being forced to eat dog food. The case was reported in the national press at the time. Work undertaken: Direct access advisory, drafting and advocacy Pre-charge advisory Advisory, drafting and advocacy post-charge Trial advocacy Appellate drafting and advocacy Regulatory - licensing committee applications and appeals Regulatory - inquest advisory and advocacy Courts Martial
Rebecca Butler
Rebecca Butler
Rebecca has a focused private family practice and receives instructions to attend hearings, write opinions and undertake drafting in financial remedies, private children, Family Law Act and Trust of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act cases. Prior to joining 36 Bedford Row, Rebecca gained broad experience as a legal assistant in commercial litigation with Quinn Emanuel and later as a paralegal in private criminal prosecution. Rebecca is proactive in undertaking pro-bono legal work and has done so at Toynbee Hall, Legal Aid Practitioners Group, and AMICUS. She is a member of the Bar Pro Bono Unit.
Miriam Carrion Benitez
Preferred counsel for the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Miriam’s practice combines all aspects of immigration, nationality and asylum law with an ongoing commitment to Human Rights and publicly funded work. She has developed a particular skill in presenting complex cases of law and fact both at tribunal level and in the High Court. Under the Direct Access scheme, Miriam regularly advises clients in the UK and overseas on all aspects of business immigration. In addition to her practice at the Bar, she has worked with both governmental and non–governmental organisations. She continues to work for the European Human Rights Advocacy Project assisting Russian lawyers with the drafting and presentation of cases of gross human rights violations before the European Court of Human Rights. She has trained judges, lawyers and members of NGOs in subjects such as international human rights law, trafficking of women, the Geneva Convention relating to the status of Refugees 1951 and the unlawful deprivation of liberty of those in care. Miriam’s notable cases include: EO (Ghana) v Secretary of State for the Home Department [2015] EWCA Civ 40; MS (Coptic Christians; Egypt) Country Guidance [2013] UKUT611; Bah (EO (Turkey) – Liability to deport) [2012] UKUT 009196 (IAC); MB (Inability to provide protection–JAM) Trinidad & Tobago, Country Guidance [2010] UKUT (IAC); Musayev & Ors v Russia ECtHR, Applications Nos 57941/00, 60403/00 & 5869900, 31/01/08; Makhauri v Russia ECtHR, Application No 58701/00, 31/03/08; SS (Adan–sexual violence–UNHCR Letter) Burundi v SSHD (2004) UKIAT 00290, Country Guidance.
Sabuhi Chaudhry
Sabuhi specialises in both financial remedy and private law children work. For Financial remedy, Sabuhi undertakes a broad spectrum of work dealing with finances on marital breakdown including issues concerning employed, self-employed and family businesses; cases involving a foreign element; debt; pre and post marital accruals and separation agreements; children with special needs and/or adults with medical needs and the impact of the same on finances. Sabuhi also deal with contested divorce or Nullity cases For Private Law Children cases, Sabuhi’s  practice includes  issues concerning serious domestic violence and complex fact finding cases; mental health; child special needs; cases concerning religious or cultural element; applications for internal and external relocation.
Amy Childs
Amy is a public law practitioner specialising in immigration law. She has a wide ranging practice acting in judicialreview challenges and appeals including at Court of Appeal level. Amy has particular expertise in working with vulnerable clients such as those with disabilities, minors, victims oftorture, victims of trafficking and claimants with no capacity. She is known for her ability to put her clients at easeand for her thorough and prompt advice, including at early stages of litigation. Amy has a specialist interest and experience in cases which have a cross-over with family law including adoption.Amy recently appeared for the Appellant in Uddin v SSHD [2020] EWCA Civ 338 (led by Gordon Lee) where theCourt of Appeal ruled that cases involving foster families do not attract a special rule for the purposes of Article8(1) assessment and clarified the correct approach to assessment of family life for young people who had turned18. This was a successful appeal against determination of the Upper Tribunal which found the foster relationshipto be a “commercial arrangement” and therefore grounds for discounting emotional attachments. Amy is regularly instructed in complex deportation and international protection claims, including acting forminors. She has an expertise in international protection claims involving cessation and revocation of status. Amy regularly advises and acts in judicial reviews in a variety of claims, including those raising issues ofremedies and has a particular interest in cases raising procedural unfairness. Prior to coming to the bar, Amy worked for the British Red Cross as a coordinator and on tracing refugee families. She also worked for Sutovic and Hartigan solicitors assisting with immigration and human rights cases includingat the Supreme Court level. Amy is committed to supporting legal charities and volunteers offering legal advice at UK Lesbian and GayImmigration Group and Migrants Organise.
Wayne Cleaver
Wayne Cleaver
Wayne is an accomplished and committed advocate with over 30 years experience in the criminal courts, both prosecuting and defending in serious cases across the spectrum of offences. His principal emphasis is upon Serious Sexual Offences, Fraud, and Organised Crime. He regularly undertakes cases of the utmost seriousness and complexity, often involving vulnerable or young witnesses, challenging and demanding clients, or multiple defendants. He is experienced at assimilated vast quantities of evidence, reducing it to the core issues, and presenting the material to a jury in the most easily digestible form. Often instructed as a Leading Junior he has a well-deserved reputation for meticulous preparation, an attention to detail, and a complete mastery of his brief. He provides clear, concise and robust advice to both lay and professional clients on intricate issues of law and fact. He has an engaging court style, is an attractive and natural jury advocate, who combines a delicacy of touch with fearless tenacity in fighting his corner. He always seeks to advance his clients’ cause to best advantage and leads ‘from the front’. An advocate of great integrity he maintains the highest professional standards thereby earning the respect of the judiciary, his colleagues, and clients alike. Wayne has embraced the challenges of the modern legal profession by fully adapting to digital working and “Better Case Management’ thus ensuring that he remains much in demand as a trial advocate.
James Collins
James Collins
James Collins specialises in all the practice areas of chambers, in particular public and administrative law and immigration and human rights law. He is regularly instructed in many of the cutting edge challenges in this area and has been involved in a series of seminal cases in the High Court, Court of Appeal, House of Lords and more recently the Supreme Court. A full list of representative lead cases published in the Law Reports is available but recent lead cases include: Secretary of State for the Home Department v Baiai at al [2008] 3 WLR 549 (House of Lords); Ahmed Mahad & Others v Entry Clearance Officer [2010] 1 WLR 48 (Supreme Court); HH & Others v Secretary of State for the Home Department [2010] Imm AR 563 (Court of Appeal) James Collins is preferred counsel for the Equality and Human Rights Commission. More recently James successfully represented the Claimant in Mehmet Ebcin v SSHD [2011] Imm AR 552 the first case to come before the High Court on the issue as to whether an application to revoke an automatic Deportation Order made in accordance with the UK Borders Act 2007 generates a right of appeal under section 82(2)(k) of the Nationality and Immigration Act 2002; James also appeared in AAO v Entry Clearance Officer [2011] EWCA Civ 840 a case before the Court of Appeal where there was no previous authority, either in Strasbourg or the United Kingdom, in which a dependent parent argued she had a right pursuant to Article 8 ECHR to join an adult daughter in the United Kingdom; James also successfully represented the Claimant in Ali Polat v SSHD [2011] EWHC 3445 Admin the first case where the High Court considered how the exclusion clauses of the 1951 Refugee Convention applied to an applicant to a discretionary policy of the Secretary of State In 2012 James was instructed on a pro bono basis by Liberty to represent a Palestinian family and in three different ‘Country Guidance’ cases in the Upper Tribunal in relation to Albania, Azerbaijan and Ethiopia. Decisions in two of those have now been handed down [2012] UKUT 00348 (IAC) EH (Blood Feuds) Albania and [2013] UKUT 00046 (IAC) SL (Unmarried mother with mixed race child) Azerbaijan. James is presently instructed in a series of Court of Appeal matters including a challenge to the current interpretation of the Court of Appeal decision in Kugathas v SSHD [2003] EWCA Civ 31 and a challenge as to whether the Upper Tribunal can depart from extant country guidance in respect of Somalia.
Jonathan Cox
Jonathan Cox
Jonathan is a Grade 4 prosecutor. He is almost exclusively instructed by the Crown as leading counsel, or junior alone, in cases involving very serious organised criminality. He has particular experience and expertise in the prosecution of large scale, multi-defendant cases. He regularly appears in cases as leading counsel or junior counsel alone whilst prosecuting cases in which defendants are represented by Queen’s Counsel. Jonathan is meticulous in his preparation and highly regarded for the command that he demonstrates over every aspect of his cases. He is regularly instructed at the very early stages of investigations (frequently pre-charge) and prosecutions to provide guidance to both the Police and Crown Prosecution Service. He works extremely well as part of the prosecution team in each of his cases. He has a keen tactical approach to his work, regularly devising strategies to optimise his cases and ensure that they proceed as efficiently and effectively as possible. It is a combination that allows Jonathan to deploy the prosecution case in a potent and compelling manner. Jonathan has a particular interest in cases involving the organised supply of controlled drugs, firearms and examination of significant quantities of mobile telephone evidence. He has established a strong reputation for his ability to deal with cases based primarily on circumstantial evidence. However, Jonathan is also often briefed in cases involving homicide, serious non-lethal violence, serious driving offences involving fatalities and high value/complex dishonesty offences. Jonathan is also frequently instructed in substantial POCA proceedings. His commitment to and ability within those matters is demonstrated by his regularly securing hidden assets orders against defendants. Such is the ​standard of Jonathan's work and dedication that he demonstrates to each of his cases. He has received formal commendations from various Police Forces, throughout the United Kingdom, recognising his efforts on a number of prosecutions. Jonathan’s skill and ability to present his cases has been further recognised by his being asked to provide professional training on the giving of Evidence and Court Presentation to Regional Policing Teams and to give a lectures and presentations on behalf of Chorus analytical software.
Rachel Coyle
Rachel Coyle
Rachel Coyle is a specialist property barrister that also works in commercial dispute resolution and private client. She acts in all types of commercial and property disputes, whether arising from contract, breach of duty, or otherwise. Rachel’s practice also encompasses contentious trusts, wills, and probate (including TOLATA and Inheritance Act claims) and insolvency. Rachel’s expertise in property and commercial law is founded on time spent working in hedging product mis-selling, volunteering in the procurement and commercial team at Stockport Homes, paralegal work at law firms such as DWF LLP and on secondments at Hyde Housing and OneSource. In the USA, she acted pro bono in property and planning matters in the State of Virginia whilst studying for her LLM in American Legal Studies. Clients that Rachel has worked with include global banks, U.K. solicitors’ firms with domestic and/or international clients, a Cypriot law firm, start-ups, private equity sponsors, local government departments and councils, large landowners and property management companies, charities, high net worth individuals and more vulnerable members of society. As part of her private client practice, she assists and represents trustees, beneficiaries and estates with inheritance and administration-related matters Rachel can assist with advice, negotiation, mediation and litigation to the Court of Appeal level. Rachel has appeared in the High Court in the Business and Property Courts, Companies Court, Queens Bench Division, Chancery Division and Administrative Division. She has built a strong experience in the County Court to multi track level. She also has experience in the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and First-tier Tribunal (Land Registration) cases including service charges, enfranchisement, boundary disputes, easements, breaches of covenant, adverse possession and the Housing Act 2004. She also accepts instructions in a developing area of interest, Equine Law. Rachel delivers and assists with training at Inner Temple and with webinar and seminar providers across the country. She is a pro bono volunteer at Queen Mary, University of London Legal Advice Centre and trains students there. She has also taught Brazilian Lawyers on the Legal System of England and Wales.  
Philippa Daniels
Philippa Daniels
Barrister at 36 Bedford Row practising across the full range of chancery and chancery commercial litigation, drafting and advisory work. Her practice includes real property litigation (easements, co-ownership, restrictive covenants, land registration, adverse possession, boundary disputes, conveyancing, mortgages) as well as landlord and tenant (residential and commercial). She also has experience acting and advising in company and partnership disputes and personal and corporate insolvency including directors disqualification proceedings as well as trusts and estates together with associated professional negligence. Notable cases include: Edginton v Sekhon [2012] EWCA Civ 1812 (costs of a discontinued counterclaim); Quaintance v Tandan ChD Unreported, 24 July 2012 (change of common intention in jointly owned property); Ibuna v Arroyo [2012] EWHC 428 (Ch); [2012] WTLR 827 (Grant of letters of administration to the partner and daughter of a deceased Filipino politician); RMS Properties v Singh [2012] EWCA Civ 533 (Adverse possession – judge made errors in analysis of the evidence); Bowling & Co v Edehomo [2011] EWHC 393 (Ch); [2011] 1 WLR. 2217; [2011] PNLR 18; [2011] 2 EGLR 45; [2011] 21 EG 96; [2011] 10 EG 106 (CS); [2011] NPC 27 (Accrual of limitation period runs from date of exchange of contracts rather than completion).
Jamie De Burgos
Jamie De Burgos
Jamie is a barrister dealing with cases involving medical, including psychiatric, and scientific evidence of special interest, and where there may be sensitive issues. Criminal law, especially sex/child abuse cases, fraud and general crime, eg R v CAZ (1990) (child evidence). Family law both children (public and private law) and financial aspects and international child law eg Belton v Belton (1987). Court of Protection work including right to life and care issues and mental health and adult care law including judicial review. Notable recent cases include: Re JT, Thurrock Borough Council v T High Court (Family Division) 7 February 2011; HH Judge Cahill QC sitting as a High Court Judge. Public law (care proceedings) in which a highly disturbed child was out of control of her adoptive parents. Unusual background; international features are an adoption of a Brazilian child in Brazil by German parents, who were resident in England at the relevant time for proceedings. The court was faced with expert paediatric evidence that the child was several years older than originally believed from the evidence of the birth certificate. (2) Re M, St A’s Hospital v M and others. Court of Protection, Mostyn J 28 September 2010. Appeared for local authority who provided social work mental health care to a patient who was mentally ill. The patient was refusing a diagnostic biopsy or further treatment for suspected myeloid leukaemia and was likely to die within weeks without treatment. He was adjudged incapable within the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Official solicitor intervened on behalf of patient. Hospital where patient currently held under Mental Health Acts sought a declaration that it was lawful not to treat him. High Court judge (sitting in Court of Protection) heard evidence and legal argument, and granted declaration sought. TG and AH v North Somerset Council QBD (Admin Court) Laws LJ, July 1, 2011. Appeared for local authority which successfully resisted a judicial review of the quantum of payments and method of delivery of payments and services to severely disabled and mentally incapable young adults.
Doran Doeh
Doran Doeh
Qualified in England as both a barrister and a solicitor, Doran has over 40 years of legal experience in London and Moscow, including complex cross-border transactions as well as disputes. In April 2019, he returned to London to practice as an arbitrator at 36 Stone.   He has worked extensively in the energy sector and in M&A, banking and finance, commodities and shipping. His diversity of background enables him to accept a wide range of arbitral appointments.  For example, he has recently held one in a dispute between oil traders concerning two transactions between them and another in a dispute between a lender and a customer over enforcement of a loan in default.
Jane Elliott-Kelly
Jane is a specialist immigration practitioner whose broad practice encompasses asylum, deportation, EU law,human rights, trafficking and business immigration. She has a wide range of experience in this field, representingclients at all stages of the immigration and asylum process. Jane regularly appears in the Asylum and Immigration Chamber of both the First and Upper-tier Tribunal, and isalso instructed in a wide range of judicial review challenges in both the Administrative Court and Upper Tribunal.She has particular experience in challenges under the Dublin system, and in unlawful detention claims and otherimmigration-related challenges such as age assessments. A significant proportion of Jane's clients are vulnerable (including victims of trafficking, unaccompanied minors,and clients with mental health problems) and she is committed to representing vulnerable individuals within theimmigration system. Jane provides training to solicitors and other practitioners on developments in immigration and asylum law.
Beheshteh Engineer
Beheshteh Engineer
Beheshteh joined both the 36 Crime and 36 Extradition teams as of March 2021, having completed a six-month secondment at the CPS Extradition Unit and prior to that, having practised in crime at the Independent Bar. Beheshteh is continuing to develop her criminal practice, prosecuting and defending in a range of criminal matters before the magistrates’ court, youth court and Crown Court. A recent prosecution included an adult charged with public order offences where the case had a long procedural history; the defend ant was ultimately convicted after trial. Beheshteh has successfully defended youth clients for an array of offences, including joint enterprise robberies. Beheshteh also undertakes appeals to the Crown Court and recently obtained a 10-month reduction in sentence for a youth client. Beheshteh has frequently dealt with cases with a modern slavery element. Beheshteh continues to build upon the experience she gained while on secondment at the CPS Extradition Unit. Whilst at the Unit, Beheshteh litigated Part 1 cases at first instance and in the High Court (judgments pending). She has experience conducting both preliminary and full extradition hearings. She is alive to the key challenges to extradition including the complexities which have arisen in the aftermath of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union. Prior to coming to the Bar, Beheshteh volunteered with justice charities including the Communities Empowerment Network (CEN) and the Howard League for Penal Reform. Beheshteh was also a Director of Vocalise and taught prisoners at HMP Wormwood Scrubs and HMP Holloway. Beheshteh maintains a twitter account dedicated to legal news and is committed to increasing opportunity and diversity at the Bar. She co-edits www.pupillageandhowtogetit.com. Areas of experience: Extradition Serious & Complex Crime Financial Crime
Jessica Franses
Jessica Franses
Jessica Franses is a commercial lawyer who spends most of her art law practice advising and assisting on high value sales transactions, involving Fine Art, Contemporary Art and Classic or Historic cars. Jessica in particular, deals with private collections in the UK and internationally. Jessica advises and assists art galleries, dealers, agents, collectors, art buyers, art sellers, international lawyers, professional advisers, museums, artists, photographers, designers and filmmakers. Her work involves: Contract drafting (from sales contracts, agent agreements, artist–agent agreements to exhibition loan agreements); Advising and negotiating transactions; Advice on provenance, good title and due diligence; and Litigation advice. As a sector based lawyer Jessica has had wide exposure and experience with the main issues that arise in art sales involving Fine Art: from problems with provenance and due diligence, problems at auction, title issues, cultural heritage issues, restitution issues, national treasure laws, export and import licence issues, negligence, misrepresentation or negligent misstatement by experts, dealers and auctioneers, fraud and fakes, wills, trusts and tax issues. On the Contemporary Art side, she reviews and drafts artist–agent agreements, artist commission agreements, exhibition loan agreements, assists artists and galleries with IP & copyright issues, Artist Resale Rights, publishing and licensing agreements for artwork prints, reproductions and showcasing art on websites. She also advises on issues concerning the specifications of the artworks, such as longevity and durability of the art and also issues concerning insurance claims for loaned or transported artworks that may be lost or damaged in transit, storage or through display in inappropriate climatic conditions. She works with a small Specialist Art Law Team and also brings in other relevant experts or professional advisers, such as tax law specialists, accountants, valuers, appraisers, art dealers, art historians, forensic scientists and shippers to ensure her clients receive specialist advice. Jessica writes her own art law blog – www.jessicafranses.com.
Claire Fraser
Claire Fraser
Claire is an experienced, robust and determined advocate practicing exclusively in criminal law. Her practice covers all aspects of criminal offences including murder, fraud, serious sexual offences, drugs and serious violent offences. Claire has extensive expertise in the areas of serious violence, sexual offences and in complex and sensitive cases. Claire is known for being approachable with excellent client care and for her scrupulous case preparation. Claire has appeared on behalf of the defence as junior counsel alone in cases of attempted murder. Claire is often instructed in cases involving expert witnesses and young and/or vulnerable witnesses/defendants and has substantial experience of cases involving intermediaries.
Philip Hackett KC
Philip Hackett KC
Philip Hackett Q.C. specialises in financial regulation, civil and criminal fraud, international corruption and sanctions, health and safety, environment and consumer law. Over the past 25 years he has been instructed in many of the leading financial regulation cases including the most serious matters investigated by the FCA and SFO and other regulatory bodies. This practice has given him considerable experience in banking, accountancy, taxation and market compliance matters. His clients are typically multinational corporations, CEOs, finance directors and other senior officers. He advises on compliance obligations and practice, and at all stages in of investigations into potential breaches. The leading cases he has appeared in include three BCCI trials, Arrows, Maxwell, Gooda Walker, Wickes, Merrion Re Insurance, AIT, TransTec, ‘City Slickers’, Kent Pharmaceuticals, Bae Systems, Parliamentary expenses, V Mobile, Vantis, Torex, Asil Nadir, Oil for Food, Innospec, Celtic Mining,  LIBOR and FOREX. The international aspects of his practice have resulted in experience of offshore matters in connection with BVI, the Channel Islands, Bermuda and Isle of Man and many European jurisdictions as well as US, Caribbean and Africa. Many of his cases involve multi-jurisdictional investigations. He is the author of the Chapter on the UK Bribery Act in Sweet and Maxwell’s recently published book ‘International Corruption’.
Michael Haggar
Michael Haggar
Michael primarily practises in criminal law and extradition. Michael appears most frequently in the Crown Court, where he both defends and prosecutes. He has been instructed in several cases involving allegations of serious crime, including murder, s. 18 GBH with intent, and conspiracy to supply large quantities of Class A drugs. Michael regularly appears in the High Court, on judicial review cases and extradition appeals. He has appeared in the Court of Appeal, where he successfully overturned a conviction on the grounds that the trial judge’s conduct deprived the defendant of a fair trial (R v Myers [2018] EWCA Crim 2191). That was a case where the judge, during the defendant’s trial, threatened to send the defendant’s fourteen-year-old daughter - who was not accused of any crime – down to the cells. Michael has been instructed in several cases raising human rights issues. He appeared successfully in a High Court terrorism-related case (Re M, 2019). The Court was asked to determine whether the Article 6 ECHR right not to self-incriminate should bar disclosure of confidential material from family law proceedings to the police. Michael aims to promote the legal norms that underpin sustainable development. He acts as a consultant for Protimos, an NGO that works to build the rule of law across Africa. Protimos conducts litigation on behalf of indigenous communities displaced from their land or deprived of their rights under domestic and international law. It also works proactively with private industry and investors. As part of his work at Protimos, Michael has made written and oral representations to the World Bank on behalf of communities in Lesotho comprising over 10,000 people (the World Bank is a major funder of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project).
Grace Hale
A Grade 4 Prosecutor, Grace is one of the most sought after juniors in the East Midlands for cases involving rape and serious sexual offences. She has a reputation for tenacious advocacy and thorough and meticulous preparation well suited to complex cases, particularly those involving multiple victims. As well as enjoying a particularly high success rate she is also commended for her approachability and empathy with young and vulnerable victims and witnesses. Although Grace’s work is predominantly for the Prosecution she also defends and is frequently able to draw on her experience to identify the weaknesses in the Prosecution case.
John Hallissey
John Hallissey
John is a criminal law specialist whose practice is focussed upon serious and organised crime. He is a grade 4 prosecutor, a grade 4 member of the Serious Crime Group Panel and a member of the CPS Rape and Child Sexual Abuse list. John’s ability to make large volumes of material readily intelligible to a jury means that his practice primarily involves complex and paper-heavy prosecutions. John’s cases typically involve a significant amount of telephone and surveillance evidence or significant amounts of financial documentation. In recent years John’s practice has seen a bias toward large-scale drug operations, firearms offending, people trafficking/modern slavery and homicide John prosecutes for local and regional Trading Standards Services, typically being engaged at an early, often pre-charge, stage of the proceedings to advise on the best strategy from the outset. A natural advocate, John is forceful and persuasive in front of a jury and has an ability to cut straight to the point of a case.
William Harbage KC
William Harbage KC
William Harbage KC is a highly regarded advocate specialising in criminal and regulatory law. He is known for his thorough and conscientious approach. In crime, he undertakes both prosecution and defence work in roughly equal measure. William’s practice is mainly in cases of homicide; he has built up a particular expertise in cases with a medical or nursing element. His practice extends to all heavyweight and white collar crime including terrorism, cybercrime, fraud, money–laundering, confiscation, misconduct in public office, kidnapping and armed robbery. In regulatory law, his cases have involved Trading Standards, professional and sports disciplinary hearings, and the marketing of prescription medicines. He sits as an Appeal Panel Chairman for the Rugby Football Union. Work undertaken: Serious & Organised Crime (including Homicide & drugs) Cybercrime Fraud & Business Crime Disciplinary & Regulatory offences Serious sexual offences Consumer Law & Trading Standards
Simon Harding
Simon Harding
Simon believes in giving clear, no nonsense strategic legal advice to companies and individuals alike through solicitors to directly. Simon practices in 3 main areas. He represents businesses, particularly start ups and small business (but also large organisations and local authorities such as Asda and London local authorities) in 4 key areas: Cash flow (helping companies put systems in place to collect their debts, as well as assisting with their contracts to ensure they match their actual workflow; he also has experience in litigating and mediating construction cases;) Employment and related systems (in particular advising and managing disciplinaries and sickness absences, both internally and at the employment tribunal and setting up systems to recruit and manage fairly) Company asset protection (in particular issues of database theft, intellectual property protection, social media and related issues, creating consumer law complaint website policies, group moves and breaches of restrictive covenants). Commercial immigration issues, including Tier 1 entrepreneur and investor visa cases. He has extensive experience in representing for both employers and employees in the Employment Tribunal and above. He has undertaken extensive work in cases both for and against solicitors and firms of solicitors in both county court and employment trials. Equally, he has represented doctors and teachers before the employment tribunal and before their regulators. Simon has also extensive experience in all issues of immigration and asylum law, with a particular focus on Article 8 family cases, deportation appeals, administrative review cases, judicial review and commercial immigration.
David Herbert KC
David Herbert QC is a specialist in criminal law. He is a formidable jury advocate, tactically astute and known for the pursuit of the fine detail of his cases. David’s work currently involves cases of murder and organised crime, particularly gang related shootings. He appears in the most serious cases of this type on the Midlands Circuit and is noted for his ability to handle the most sensitive and challenging cases, often those with formidable quantities of telephone evidence. He is regularly instructed by the East Midlands Complex Casework Unit to prosecute their most serious and complicated cases. David is considered an expert in cases involving covert law enforcement and is adept at dealing with the sensitive issues that arise in such matters. He has significant experience in cases involving drug importation/supply, money laundering and unlawful immigration on an international scale. Some of his cases have been amongst the largest investigations of their type and involved linked investigations abroad in places such as India, South Africa, the Unites States of America and Holland. He has recently concluded the prosecution of a case involving 27 defendants charged with conspiring to supply drugs around the United Kingdom on a massive scale. David is also a member of the British Association of Sports Law and appears in cases involving all aspects of sports discipline and regulation. He acts as a legal advisor to the Leicestershire RFU Constituent Body on disciplinary matters. David sits as a Recorder in the Crown Court. Recent cases: R v Furniss and others (Nottingham Crown Court) [2014] Murder – the prosecution of a contract killing case arising from a dispute between rival drug dealers in Nottinghamshire. The case involved over 25,000 pages of evidence including extensive telephone and cell site evidence. The complex detail of the case was described by the trial judge (Haddon-Cave J) as a paradigm for telephone/cell site evidence. R v Leon Angel Robinson and others (parts I & II – Nottingham Crown Court) [2014] Conspiracy to supply class A drugs – the prosecution of a case involving the organised supply of massive quantities of cocaine across the Midlands by an organised crime group of a serious calibre. Approximately 20,000 pages of evidence including extensive telephone and cell site evidence. The number of defendants involved meant that the case had to be split into two trials.
Sally Hobson
Sally Hobson
Sally is a senior criminal practitioner with a practice consisting predominantly of complex criminal matters. She is sought-after due to her substantial experience of difficult and serious sexual offence cases involving both contemporary and historic allegations and is excellent in dealing with defendants and witnesses with mental health issues and other vulnerabilities. Although sensitive to the needs of the vulnerable, she has been described as ‘highly skilled’ in her cross-examination of witnesses. Due to the serious nature of Sally’s practice she is instructed to appear at Court Centres throughout the country and has extensive experience of homicide, rape and serious sexual allegations, fraud and money laundering, and large scale drug conspiracies. Sally is frequently instructed in difficult cases due to her consultative approach and knowledge of expert witnesses. She is able to advise at an early stage of the proceedings as to the suitability of a particular expert. In addition to her criminal practice, Sally appears at adjudications and parole hearings within the prison system. She is also able to advise at an early stage as to judicial review of a refusal to grant parole.
Kathryn Hovington
Kathryn Hovington
Kathryn’s practice encompasses criminal law, extradition and international criminal law. She has appeared in the Court of Appeal, the Queen’s Bench Division of the High Court, and the Crown Court (including against King’s Counsel). Criminal Law Kathryn prosecutes and defends in serious and complex cases in the Crown Court. She is experienced in prosecuting multiple defendants; defendants in person; dealing with vulnerable witnesses and complainants; and presenting and challenging expert evidence. Her recent prosecution caseload has included prosecuting (as a led junior) a people trafficking case, instructed by the CPS Complex Case Unit. Kathryn has been instructed alone to defend in cases of attempted murder, rape, and other serious cases involving drugs, violence and sexual offences. Extradition Kathryn has substantial experience in both prosecuting and defending in extradition. She represents clients at interlocutory and substantive extradition hearings at Westminster Magistrates’ Court and in the High Court. International Criminal Law Kathryn has extensive experience of international criminal law. She worked in The Hague for a number of years on cases involving war crimes and crimes against humanity. She was part of the team that successfully defended President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya, the first incumbent Head of State to be tried by the International Criminal Court, led by Steven Kay KC. At the Special Court for Sierra Leone, she was part of the team who defended Charles Taylor, the former President of Liberia. The team was led by Courtney Griffiths KC.
Andrew Howarth
Prior to being called to the Bar Andrew worked in international banking in the city. A member of the Criminal Bar Association and both the Midland and South Eastern Circuits and practising widely on both circuits. A practice divided equally between prosecution and defence work, including prosecuting and defending in serious sexual offences, child abuse, murder and serious offences of violence. Recent experience also includes confiscation and offences arising from company insolvency.
Kathryn Howarth
Kathryn Howarth
Kathryn Howarth practices in domestic and international crime, extradition, public law and public international law. Kathryn has particular expertise in relation to international criminal law. She worked for the Office of the Prosecutor at the Special Court for Sierra Leone in The Hague in the case of Prosecutor v. Charles Taylor. She was Trial Counsel / Legal Officer (2008 – 2011) and Appeals Counsel (2012). She is currently junior counsel for the prosecution in the case of R. v. Kumar Lama (the prosecution of a Nepalese Colonel charged with torture). Over the last decade she has worked at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (defending), the State Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina (prosecuting), and the Special Court for Sierra Leone in Freetown (prosecuting). Between April 2013 – April 2014, Kathryn undertook a 12 month secondment with the Extradition Unit at the Crown Prosecution Service. During the secondment Kathryn gained significant experience in conducting proceedings under the Extradition Act, building upon her prior experience defending in extradition proceedings. In terms of her domestic criminal practice, Kathryn has prosecuted and defended in the Crown Court on numerous occasions and has successfully represented Appellants in the Court of Appeal, Criminal Division. Kathryn was appointed to the Serious Fraud Office’s C-Panel of counsel in 2013. Kathryn has a thorough grounding in public law, in particular in the context of immigration and asylum proceedings. She has represented Appellants in the Immigration & Asylum Tribunal on numerous occasions, as well as in the Administrative Court. She can advise on actions for judicial review in the context of criminal and quasi-criminal proceedings, extradition proceedings and immigration and asylum proceedings, including where issues of public international law and European Union law arise.
Cecilia Hulse
Cecilia Hulse
Cecilia practises in Public Law, Asylum and Immigration Law and Employment Law. She regularly advises and represents clients in Asylum and Immigration Law at all levels including the High Courtand the Court of Appeal as well as Tier 1 and the Upper Chamber of the Asylum and immigration Tribunal. She has particular interest in removal and deportation cases affecting children and in EEA Law regarding refusalsof residence and expulsions of EEA nationals. She has dealt with a number of immigration related domesticviolence cases and Article 8 cases involving the settlement of children. Additionally her work has included AnkaraAgreement applications, Judicial Review, emergency injunctions and applications to the European Court ofHuman Rights.
Roxanne Iqbal-Clare
Roxanne Iqbal-Clare
Roxanne Iqbal-Clare (formerly Roxanne Aisthorpe) accepts instructions for both the defence and the Crown across a full range of criminal matters. Roxanne has a particular interest in serious organised crime and financial crime. To this end, she has amassed valuable experience in large white collar investigations as well as developing a burgeoning practice in advising corporate clients in criminal and pseudo–criminal proceedings. After finishing the Bar Vocational Course, Roxanne worked in Japan and spent a period of time working for an international law firm, Kojima Law, in Tokyo. Prior to coming to the Bar, Roxanne worked for the Home Office dealing with asylum applications and cases of human trafficking, this included interviewing applicants, making decisions and advocacy at the Immigration Tribunal. This grounding in immigration law is invaluable when dealing with criminal cases with an immigration dimension or clients who have immigration issues. Work undertaken: General crime Corporate/White Collar Crime Forfeiture & confiscation Regulatory Prison Adjudication and Parole Reviews Private Prosecution Judicial Review Immigration (including business/corporate)
Lara Izzard-Hobbs
Lara Izzard-Hobbs
Lara is a children law specialist. Many of her cases involve significant disputed allegations of psychological, physical and sexual harm. From early in her practice Lara has dealt with complex issues such as capacity, contested expert evidence and concurrent criminal proceedings. Lara has appeared unled in the High Court as well as being led in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. She acted as junior counsel for the successful appellants in each of Re H-W (children) (No 2) [2022] UKSC 17 and IG (Child Abduction Habitual Residence Article 13b) [2021] EWCA Civ 1123. Lara has particular knowledge of law and procedure in respect of vulnerable parties and witnesses, and is sought out for seminars on the topic. She is noted by solicitors for her thorough preparation and client care.
Henry James
Henry James
Henry James has a busy practice. In recent years his caseload has included murders, arsons, large scale drugs conspiracies, frauds, conspiracy to commit bankruptcy offences, serious assaults. In 2004 he was instructed in the landmark historic sexual assault case of R v Smolinski. Since then he has maintained a successful record both as a prosecutor and defence advocate in allegations of contemporary and historic abuse. Outside of court he has advised extensively on Sexual Offender Prevention Orders (now Sex Harm Prevention Orders). He has also been instructed to provide pre-charge advices in a large number of complex sexual cases. He is a level 3 rape accredited prosecutor. Never content simply to accept the decision of first instance, Henry has a long and successful record of challenging sentences and convictions in the Court of Appeal. As well as dealing with his own cases, he has also been instructed to advise on a significant number of cold cases - successfully pursuing numerous out of time appeals against both determinate and indeterminate sentences.
Raphael Jesurum
Raphael Jesurum
Raphael practises in asylum, immigration and nationality law. He appears regularly in the Upper Tribunal, the Administrative Court and the Court of Appeal. Raphael accepts instructions from law firms and members of the public ("direct access"). He has been praised by instructing solicitors as dedicated and willing to go the extra mile for clients. His advocacy has been described as "exemplary". Raphael's main interest is strategic litigation: working in partnership with solicitors to identify new legal points, training caseworkers to spot them, and advising early in order to test the issues on appeal. The aim is to build cases with overwhelmingly strong evidence, and develop arguments to test and change the law. An example is the successful campaign to secure settlement rights for the children of Gurkha veterans: working closely with Howe & Co. Solicitors, Raphael developed a case preparation template based on causation and historic injustice, and developed the arguments (adopted by the other parties) which were accepted by the Court of Appeal in R (Gurung) v SSHD [2013] 1 WLR 2546. The Upper Tribunal then developed the case law further, recognising that historic injustice will "normally require" a decision in an appellant's favour (Ghising and others (Ghurkhas/ BOCs- historic wrong- weight) [2013] UKUT 567 (IAC)). As a result, the Home Office modified its policy. Before coming to the bar, Raphael was a successful broadcaster and foreign correspondent, working for the BBC and other international news outlets. He reported on the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, the Albanian uprising in 1997 and separatist violence in Macedonia.
Derek Johashen
Derek Johashen
An experienced and senior criminal defence advocate who has been involved in many of the most serious of cases involving murder, manslaughter, gang-related crime, large drugs conspiracies, rape and serious sexual offences. Derek has successfully taken cases to the Court of Appeal: recently where he has argued fresh evidence is such that original conviction should be re-opened and the appellant was acquitted, and others where very long sentences have been reduced significantly. Derek is a cross qualified solicitor and barrister. He was a solicitor from the late 1980s. From 2005 to 2015 he was the senior partner of one of the largest criminal defence practices in the country. He has been appearing in all courts including Magistrates’ Courts, County Courts, ever since 1990 and appeared full time in the Crown Court since 2007 as a Solicitor Advocate. In 2017 he transferred to the independent bar.
Ami Jones
Ami Jones
Ami conducts all aspects of Crown Court work and accepts instructions for both the defence and the Crown across a full range of criminal matters. Ami has appeared as a led junior for both the Crown and the defence in multi-defendant trials and is frequently instructed as a disclosure junior and has a burgeoning practice in this area. Ami is regularly instructed on behalf of the London Fire Brigade to prosecute offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Act 2005. Although not forming the bulk of her work, Ami can be, and is, instructed to cover C2 disclosure applications on behalf of the police, extradition hearings, domestic violence protection hearings and consumer law cases. Ami is developing her Crown Court practice, both defending and prosecuting.
Katherine Kelleher
Katherine Kelleher
Kate’s practice comprises, criminal defence work and some environmental crime. She also appears as an advocate in regulatory hearings before the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Kate has appeared in the Criminal Courts up to and including the Court of Appeal. As a duty-advocate she has represented suspects under arrest at various police stations and for most offences including murder, kidnap and rape. Her work as Counsel, and her scientific background, have given her expertise in forensic pathology as well as medical jurisprudence. She is adept at understanding complex and key issues of law and can quickly attach the critical areas of relevant law immediately to the case. She is known for being tenacious and hard working, with a good sense of humour. She displays patience with the lay client, taking time to ensure they are confident with the defence and sympathetic to the difficulties associated with the proceedings. She defends robustly and prosecutes fairly and is generous with her time in favour of her clients.
Arthur Kendrick
Arthur Kendrick
Arthur accepts instructions both prosecuting and defending. He has experience beyond his call of serious and complex crime, having been instructed as junior alone in cases involving multi-million pound banking fraud, human trafficking and serious violence. He has also been instructed as a led junior in cases of conspiracy to supply large quantities of class A drugs, conspiracy to launder in excess of £100m, VAT fraud and firearms. Arthur has completed secondments at the Financial Conduct Authority and Serious Fraud Office. Arthur does not exclusively practise in crime. He defends applications for committal in contempt proceedings at the County Court, has experience advising on actions against the police and has conducted cases involving consumer and regulatory offences. Before joining the Bar, Arthur worked as a criminal defence paralegal and police station representative for Lloyds PR and ITN Solicitors. As a paralegal, Arthur worked on a range of criminal matters and gained particular experience of the youth court, financial crime (including large scale MTIC frauds), confiscation and public order. He has experience assisting clients with charges arising from demonstrations, including the Million Mask March. At the police station, Arthur dealt with serious and complex cases, including terrorism offences investigated by S015 and the SECTU. Arthur accepts instructions under the Public Access Scheme. Areas of experience: Consumer Regulatory Serious & Complex Crime Cybercrime Financial Crime
David Lee
David Lee
Prosecution of serious sexual offences has become principal proportion of work undertaken in recent years on both Midland and South-Eastern Circuits. Also prosecutes cases of serious violence (including football related group violence), drugs and causing death by dangerous driving. Greatly experienced in dealing with children and sensitive complainants, whether prosecuting or defending. Well versed in dealing with "difficult" lay clients when defending. Work undertaken: Serious Crime (including drugs) Serious Sexual Offences (including "historic" sexual offences, child complainants and images) Fraud
Theo Lester
Theo Lester
Immigration, international protection, and public law Theo has represented immigration and asylum clients in both the First-Tier and Upper Tribunals. Prior to coming to the Bar Theo had already gained extensive experience in the immigration and asylum fields,having worked at the leading specialist firm Luqmani Thompson & Partners as a Law Society-accredited SeniorCaseworker. In that role he had personal conduct of numerous asylum claims, specialising in particular in UASC(unaccompanied asylum seeking child) cases. This included working with victims of trafficking and victims oftorture, in tandem with organisations such as Freedom from Torture. During his time at Luqmani Thompson, Theo also assisted the senior partners on a wide range of immigration andpublic law matters including at the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court level (e.g. WA (Pakistan) v SSHD [2019]EWCA Civ 302), conducting legal and country research as well as other casework tasks, and working on complexcriminal deport matters as well as on public law actions such as injunctive relief applications (stays on removal). Additionally as part of his own caseload Theo advised and represented private clients making human rights basedapplications, and had conduct of Tribunal appeals. Theo's first practical contact with the area of immigration law was during his legal studies, when as a volunteer forHaringey Migrant Support Centre he assisted (in a non-advisory capacity) clients of the Centre on a wide range ofimmigration and related matters, and worked on the preparation of cases including pro bono appeals. Through hispro bono immigration work he also had contact with many prominent NGOs in the immigration sector such asMigrants Organise and Coram Childrens Centre. He continues to pursue his passion for pro bono work as a barrister, representing immigration clients at bailhearings with Bail for Immigration Detainees and taking on cases through Advocate.   Pro bono background Theo is a passionate pro bono advocate. Beyond his immigration experience and current pro bono activities (seeabove), prior to commencing independent practice he gained pro bono experience in a wide variety of areas,including representing numerous clients as a Free Representation Unit volunteer in employment and socialsecurity matters, drafting case documents, helping negotiate settlements (including, in one case, to a value of£30,000), and representing clients in the Employment and Social Security Tribunals from 2015 to 2019.Additionally from 2015-16 he assisted the National Centre for Domestic Violence on numerous County Courtinjunction matters.
Khadija Leuenberger
Khadija Leuenberger
Khadija specialises in commercial litigation and international arbitration across areas including banking and finance, sanctions, international trade, commodities, energy, oil and gas. Recent experience includes working on complex derivatives trading and margin call disputes and a multi-million-dollar dispute relating to swap transactions affected by Russian sanctions. Khadija is also experienced in handling regulatory and financial services work, investigations, corporate governance and ESG compliance matters. Khadija is familiar with all major international arbitration rules including the LCIA, ICC, UNCITRAL, DIAC, SIAC, HKIAC and the Swiss Arbitration Rules. She is a registered practitioner with the DIFC Courts in Dubai. Prior to joining 36 Stone Khadija was Senior Legal Counsel at Credit Suisse in Zurich specialising in cross-border legal and regulatory matters, with a particular focus on the UK and Middle Eastern markets. She also worked on high-profile cross-border FCA and HMRC investigations for the bank. In a previous role, Khadija was Counsel at a major law firm in Dubai where her practice focused on commercial litigation, international arbitration and all dispute-related work before the DIFC Courts. Khadija has extensive international experience working with foreign lawyers, in-house counsel, experts and professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds, in all aspects of dispute resolution and in an advisory capacity. Khadija also has a background in international human rights law and is able to advise on all aspects of business and human rights. She is involved in a number of initiatives seeking to advance equality, diversity and inclusion at the Bar.
Jonathan Lux
After an extremely successful career culminating as a senior partner at one of the City’s leading law firms (Ince & Co) Jonathan made a decision to specialise independently in Mediation, was subsequently called to the Bar and joined Chambers in 2013. Jonathan is well placed to take on mediation and arbitration cases that require a highly skilled and personal approach. Jonathan has the ability to grasp the key issues of a case quickly. His vast experience and the range of mediation and arbitration cases that he has been involved with, have given him the tact and robustness that leads to a satisfactory conclusion, enabling all parties to cost-effectively put the case behind them and get on with their business. Jonathan is one of the founder members of CEDR, and is well known for the use of the ADR (alternate dispute resolution) principle in resolving cases. His wise guidance, flexible approach and excellent communications skills as a team player make him the right choice for contentious or straightforward mediation cases. He has lectured widely and written numerous articles on the subject of mediation, and is co-author of ADR and commercial disputes. Jonathan was awarded Global Shipping and Maritime Lawyer of the Year for both 2010 and 2011 by Who’s Who Legal. In December 2011 he featured in Lloyd’s List of Top Ten Legal Personalities and was a finalist for the Lloyd’s List global Shipping and Maritime Lawyer of the Year award 2012. Jonathan is also fully accredited by and a member of the International Mediation Institute (http://imimediation.org/jonathan-lux). Jonathan has received regular appointments as arbitrator and mediator both in relation to maritime disputes and international commercial law disputes more widely. He is a fluent French and German speaker making him much in demand for national and international mediations.
Olivia Magennis
Olivia is a specialist family law barrister, with a particular emphasis on the law as it relates to children. In both private and public law cases Olivia acts for parents, children, extended members of the family and local authorities. She regularly appears in complex cases involving serious injury, with complicated or conflicting medical evidence, whether with or without a leader. Olivia also has a wealth of experience in cases involving serious allegations of sexual and physical abuse, NAHI, factitious illness, insulin poisoning and emotional harm. Olivia has particular experience of and expertise in highly contentious private law cases, and takes a calm, measured approach to all.
Nadia Mansfield
Nadia Mansfield
Nadia is a member of the family team, specialising in public law work. She is also a member of the modern families team. Known for her ‘skilfully presented submissions’ (LJ Sedley LCC v B [2008] EWCA Civ 1216) she regularly represents children, parents and local authorities across the breadth of the family court, with expertise in cases involving allegations of sexual abuse, non-accidental injuries, chronic neglect and forced marriage. Nadia is highly regarded for her calm and pragmatic approach and careful, thorough preparation. These skills make her counsel of choice in complex cases, and she regularly acts in fact finding hearings requiring forensic cross-examination of experts.
Helen Marley
Helen Marley
Helen enjoys a busy criminal practice accepting instructions to both defend and prosecute. She routinely appears in a variety of Court centres undertaking Crown Court, Magistrates Court and Youth Court work. She has experience in criminal cases across the whole spectrum such as; violence, public order, weapons, drugs, fraud, sexual offences and driving matters. She also routinely deals with forfeiture, confiscation and domestic violence prevention. Helen joined the crime team having completed her pupillage at 1 High Pavement where she was able to begin to build up an exciting and expanding Midlands practice, which she hopes to continue to build upon. Prior to commencing pupillage, Helen worked as a County Court Advocate which involved managing her own busy caseload in a variety of civil matters. In addition to courtroom advocacy, she was frequently asked to draft legal documents and negotiate settlements.
Nicholas Marsh
Nicholas Marsh
Nico has a busy practice specialising in matrimonial finance proceedings. His work includes all aspects of financial remedies proceedings as well as claims under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989, TLATA 1996 and FLA 1996. He has successfully represented clients before every level of tribunal up to and including the High Court and at every stage of proceedings from pre-issue advice and round table settlement meetings to final hearings and beyond into enforcement, variation, and appeals, as well as outside the court process in private FDRs and arbitrations Prior to coming to the bar, Nico completed a masters degree in Chinese Law, where he placed first in his cohort and he also received funding from the Fung Scholarship to work at a Chinese university.
Preetika Mathur
Preetika Mathur
Preetika defends and prosecutes in the Crown Court, Youth Court and Magistrates Court. Her practice covers the full spectrum of criminal cases. She is also building a practice in extradition law and crime related public law. Preetika is a confident and versatile trial advocate. Prior to joining the 36 Group, Preetika completed a crime pupillage at 25 Bedford Row and also practised across discrimination law at Doughty Street Chambers. As a result, she is equally comfortable and proficient at trial advocacy (whether a case turning on witness credibility or voluminous documentary evidence), submissions advocacy and legally complex civil pleadings/written advocacy. Preetika has an excellent record in cases with challenging odds and before difficult benches – including succeeding in a case against a Band 1 Silk. She is known for her client care, attention to detail and leaving no stone unturned as a fearless defence advocate. Preetika’s background prior to the bar is in gender justice and human rights activism (domestically and internationally). She was part of the committee that reformed Indian criminal law following the Delhi gang rape in 2012. She subsequently worked with UN Women HQ and the Government of India on implementation of these reforms. Her international law experience includes: - Part of the Karadžić defence team at the ICTY (appeal arguments in relation to failure to reopen defence case to remedy prosecution disclosure violations). - Office of the UN Secretary General at UNHQ (assisted multilateral processes in UN General Assembly and Security Council; speech writing; report writing). - Consultant for UNICEF on rights of children within Myanmar’s criminal justice system. - Advising international NGOs in relation to international human rights mechanisms. Preetika also previously set up a vulnerable witnesses training project for law schools in India along with the Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales. Preetika has a particular interest in cases at the intersection of crime, cyber law, human rights and international law. She has worked on landmark constitutional litigation around the world at this crossover. This includes working with the former Solicitor General of India on a challenge to the world’s most intrusive surveillance and biometric database (Privacy/Aadhar case). Preetika also worked on: - The case which decriminalised same-sex relations in India (Navtej Singh Johar v Union of India). - Intervening in a challenge to the deportation of 40,000 Rohingya Refugees in India (Mohammed Salimullah v Union of India). - A $550 million arbitration arising out of the sale of adulterated medicines in the US (heard in Singapore). - The Vijay Mallya extradition case.
Fergus McCombie
Fergus McCombie
Fergus McCombie has an established practice in employment and discrimination law. However, he also accepts instructions in related areas, including; commercial disputes, public and regulatory law. Recent and ongoing cases include acting for a Premier League football manager in his contractual and unfair dismissal complaint against his former club; for the Easy group of companies defending the dismissal of senior executives; for a claimant in relation to the statutory authorisation regime for glider inspectors. His previous experience includes a post as a judicial assistant to the Court of Appeal Civil Division. Before joining the bar he worked in corporate tax accounting in the City. Solicitors see him as an “excellent technical lawyer” who produces “technically excellent” pleadings and opinions. They value his “commercial and pragmatic” advice. Local authority lawyers comment on his “ability to relate to officers and members whatever their level of seniority”. As an advocate “he quickly gains the respect of employment judges with his confidence, obvious experience and familiarity with the arena, realistic approach, quick identification and focus on the salient points and clarity of presentation”. Lay clients are equally impressed by his “reassuring presence [which] naturally inspires confidence” – “His analysis and retention of the facts meant that his advocacy was right on the money and he could react and respond quite brilliantly to the other lawyer”. Fergus regularly gives lectures to solicitors and other professionals on employment law topics. Fergus is also able to accept instructions via the direct access scheme.
Nicola McIntosh
Nicola McIntosh
Nicola has a strong reputation in all areas of family law. She demonstrates a high level of client care, has excellent attention to detail and is very pragmatic in her approach. Nicola has completed the Vulnerable Witness Training provided by the FLBA. She takes time to build her rapport with lay clients to ensure that they understand the issues, are able to follow the court process effectively and provide best evidence and case to the court. Nicola has effectively cross examined experts. Nicola receives instructions in public and private law complex cases including adoption proceedings. In private law Nicola has vast experience in representing parties which involve emotional, physical abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, parental alienation, drug and alcohol abuse, removal from the jurisdiction and internal relocation in England and Wales. Nicola has acted for 16.4 guardians. Nicola has been led by silks in a wrath of complex cases. Nicola is Direct Access registered.   Notable cases Coventry City Council v Mother (BB) & Ors EWHC 1284 (Fam)(26 May 2023) Acted for Mother through the Official Solicitor. Parents were US citizens. Mother’s capacity fluctuated. Expert evidence from psychiatrists re capacity and expert regarding registration of orders in foreign court. Child returned to US to live with family member. Both parents opposed move. Re A & B (2022) EWFC 44 Acted for paternal aunt on a pro bono basis. Two children, one living with foster carers and one to be approved to care for by the aunt. The aunt had two parenting assessments by different local authorities, one positive and one negative. The foster carers wished to adopt one of the children who had only known that placement and family. Whether adoption was only option, would a special guardianship order suffice, should siblings be placed together and contact should they be placed in separate households. A Local Authority v MM & Ors (2020) EWFC 65 (07 October 2020) Acted for mother in NAI. Long running care proceedings involving Romanian nationals The father applied to transfer the case under article 15 of Council Regulation (EC) No 2201/2003 nineteen months after the care proceedings had commenced. The application was dismissed
Sarah McIntyre
Sarah came to the Bar following 14 years chairing adult Magistrates' Courts in Buckinghamshire and sitting on appeals at Aylesbury Crown Court. She completed her pupillage in-house with Reeds Solicitors in Oxford and Reading. During pupillage Sarah drafted successful grounds of appeal for a case involving funding for terrorism, the judgment for which is now included in Blackstones. Also during pupillage Sarah established that four soldiers had a defence of horseplay which led to their acquittal at trial for GBH. Sarah has been instructed in cases involving the supply of drugs and conspiracy to supply drugs, violent offences, dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving, burglary, fraud and sexual offences including voyeurism, offences against children and stalking. She is trained to understand the needs of young and vulnerable witnesses and is particularly skilled in working with young offenders.
James McLernon
James McLernon
James is an established and highly sought after criminal practitioner. He has built a reputation as skilled advocate who brings to every case rigorous analysis, meticulous preparation and an eye for detail. James is a member of the Crown Prosecution Service ‘Grade 3’ panel and is regularly instructed by regional Complex Case Units to prosecute serious offences including murder, large scale frauds, gang associated firearms offences and people trafficking / modern slavery. His defence practice includes representing clients charged with large scale Class A drugs conspiracies, armed robbery and serious sexual offences. James has been praised for his excellent client care skills, in particular when dealing with clients who are vulnerable due to their age, mental health problems, substance abuse or learning difficulties. James is adept at marshalling large volumes of material spanning communications data, cell site analysis, covert surveillance, ANPR and DNA evidence and distilling it for juries in a succinct and persuasive manner. James was called to the Bar of Northern Ireland in 2015 and joined the PPS Panel of Prosecution Counsel for Magistrates’ Court and County Court Appeal work. He has been instructed to defend both as led junior and junior alone in cases involving serious violence and supply of drugs at Antrim Crown Court. James’ Northern Ireland practice also extends to civil litigation, employments tribunals and Family Court proceedings.
Sarah Miller
Sarah Miller is an unregistered barrister. She is only able to accept instructions on advisory matters. She specialises in commercial and maritime law; admiralty law; electronic commerce. Particular areas of expertise: marine insurance, international sale of goods, carriage of goods by sea, salvage, collisions at sea. arbitration, including sitting as an arbitrator as a member of Lloyd’s Panel of Arbitrator under Lloyd’s Arbitration Scheme Tier 1 and appointments for LMAA arbitrations. A special expertise in the field of electronic commerce, particularly in relation to the carriage of goods by sea. Cases of note: The ‘Choko Star’ [1990] 1 Lloyd’s Rep 516 – salvage – agency of necessity of casualty’s master; The ‘Volvox Hollandia’ [1988] 2 Lloyd’s Rep 361 – jurisdiction – forum non conveniens – claim for damage to pipeline in North Sea by Dutch dredger with English subcontractors; The ‘Span Terza’ [1984] 1 Lloyd’s Rep 119 – ownership of bunkers on time chartered vessel; The ‘Bamburi’ [1982] 1 Lloyd’s Rep 312 – war risks insurance of vessel trapped during Iran/Iraq war; drafting the legal framework for Bolero International (1997-99); drafting the legal framework for E-Title Authority Pte Ltd (2005-07).
Nicola Moore
Nicola Moore
Nicola is a tenacious advocate with a wealth of experience across all levels of civil and criminal courts in the UK and overseas territories. She worked for the Attorney General in Cayman having conduct of the Guns, Gangs and Serious Crime portfolio and went on to be appointed Attorney General of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. She is a senior junior with gravamen and appears in cases unled where her opponent is leading counsel. She is practical and straightforward in her approach and is adept at dealing with unfamiliar areas at short notice. Nicola, whilst a skilled criminal practitioner, also has substantial experience in, and accepts instructions in: Courts-martial/ Boards of inquiry / military advice – she held a commission in the RAF Inquests – she has acted for families of the deceased and other interested parties Public Inquiries – she has experience in public inquiries in three jurisdictions Nicola is a Grade 4 prosecution panel advocate with rape panel membership. She has more than two decades of experience both prosecuting and defending dealing with the most serious and sensitive cases involving sexual offending against children and adults and those who lack capacity. She also has recent experience in county lines and slavery work including those who traffic cross border for prostitution and children trafficked within the UK for sexual exploitation. She is a facilitator for the Bar Council’s training of advocates in vulnerable witness advocacy. Nicola has prosecuted and defended cases of murder unled. She has experience in bribery and corruption matters multi-jurisdictionally. In addition to criminal work Nicola has experience and welcomes instructions in coronial law to appear at inquests where she has acted for the family of the deceased. She has experience in police disciplinary tribunals where officers have been charged with serious misconduct amounting to breaches of international law. She has also been involved in three public inquiries representing core participants and witnesses. Nicola is adept at dealing with any case involving complex computer technical evidence and accepts instructions in cyber-crime. She is instructed by the SFO to deal with LPP matters. She is one of only a handful of dual qualified English Barrister/ Jersey Advocates and as such she may also appear as an advocate in the Royal Court of Jersey. Work undertaken: Homicide and fatal violence Trafficking Gang and firearm offending Serious sexual offending Cyber crime and internet child sexual offences Inquests Courts-martial Civil aspects of sexual crime
Frances Oldham KC
Frances Oldham KC
Frances Oldham QC Chaired the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry (2014-2017) which looked at historic sexual abuse in care and foster homes in Jersey, including the former Children's home at Haut de la Garenne. She is regularly instructed in high profile and complex cases of the most serious and sensitive nature. Her practice encompasses all aspects of both serious and complex crime and child law, involving detailed medical, scientific and mental health issues. Recent significant cases: R v Connors, leading the prosecution team in the first successful prosecution of the new offences of 'Slavery' under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009. R v Rideout, defence of Anglican priest charged with 37 offences of sexual abuse of children in care. High profile cases include R v Karen Matthews, mother charged with kidnap and false imprisonment of her 9 year old daughter. R v Driza, Brazilian cleaner blackmailing two Judges, highly publicised. In Family Division frequently instructed by solicitors where the case has some unusual or complex features requiring thorough scrutiny and presentation. Member of a Foreign and Commonwealth delegation to Palestine to report upon children in military custody. Selected for knowledge and experience of Human Rights law and procedures relating to both criminal law and child welfare.. Publication: Report on Children in Military Custody 2012.
Joanna O’Connell
Joanna O’Connell
Joanna’s practice encompasses all aspects of family law. In cases involving children, she is regularly instructed in the most complex private and public law children proceedings, including cases that involve vulnerable clients and witnesses in complex family cases and those with mental illness and learning disabilities. Joanna is also regularly instructed in cases focusing on the financial aspects of relationship breakdown following marriage or co–habitation. Typical cases Joanna is instructed on involve substantial assets, foreign elements, companies and inheritance issues.
Richard O’Dair
Richard O’Dair
Richard is a barrister specialising in employment law, which takes up 80% of his practice, with a particular emphasis on discrimination law, restrictive covenants and TUPE issues. Richard was counsel for Mrs Dacas in the ground breaking decision of the Court of Appeal in Brook Street UK Ltd v Dacas [2004] IRLR 317 and also appeared in James v Greenwich Council [2008] IRLR 302. He was also counsel on the employment status of agency workers, instructed by the CEHR to act for the appellant in Seldon v CJW [2010] IRLR 865 (CA) and has now been granted leave to appeal to the Supreme Court. Richard appeared for the appellant in the Court of Appeal in the important case of Orr v Milton Keynes DC [2011] IRLR 317. He has broad experience of representation in front of professional regulatory bodies such as the GSCC and the GTC, and has represented several of the employees dismissed in the aftermath of the baby P-affair. Richard was appointed to the Attorney Generals Regional Panel in December 2007. He was appointed to the Commission for Equality and Human Rights specialist panel of approved counsel in January 2011. Richard undertakes employment related personal injury work (such as ‘stress claims’ and ‘Eastwood v Magnox’ claims). Building on his background as a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Law at University College London, Richard uses his extensive knowledge of contractual remedies and the law of restitution to undertake general contract and commercial work. In December 2007, he appeared in the Court of Appeal in the case of Rhind v Giles [2009] Ch 291 which decided that S32 of the Limitation Act can postpone the running of time for claims under S423 of the Insolvency Act 1986. He appears regularly in the civil courts at all levels, the Employment Tribunal and the Employment Appeal Tribunal. He lectures widely on a variety of topics and presented for central law training a much appreciated seminar entitled ‘Getting Results in Difficult Cases’.
Nathan Palmer
Nathan Palmer
Nathan is a criminal law specialist whose practice covers the full range of serious criminal offences. He is a grade 3 prosecutor who has prosecuted and defended as a leading junior. He is regularly instructed in cases of fraud, money laundering, drugs’ offences, homicide and serious sexual offences. He has also prosecuted and defended trading standards cases and has lectured on the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and the company law. Nathan has the ability to manage cases involving large numbers of witnesses, exhibits and unused material. He can present complex issues with clarity and force. He is also vastly experience in advising on difficult cases. Instructing solicitors praise his detailed and practical advice. He is a persuasive, unflappable and effective advocate. Work undertaken: Serious and Complex Crime Consumer Law
Kakoly Pande
Kakoly Pande
Kakoly has built a busy practice in the fields of criminal law, public and administrative law, human rights and regulatory law. With a background in international law and fluency in several languages, Kakoly is regularly instructed to advise and assist government departments in discrete and complex areas of litigation. As C Panel Counsel to the SFO and a Grade 2 Prosecutor, Kakoly is regularly instructed to prosecute and defend in cases ranging across the spectrum from violence, drugs and sexual offences to fraud, asset forfeiture, corruption and bribery. Kakoly has also been instructed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council in respect of fitness to practice cases including health, conduct and competence. Her knowledge of medical sciences makes her adept and quick to grasp material of a scientific nature.
Tom Parker
Tom Parker
Tom defends and prosecutes across the spectrum of criminal law, including drugs, weapons and violence. Tom is also rapidly building his practice in the areas of fraud, cybercrime and proceeds of crime. He is a member of both the financial and cybercrime teams in Chambers, and has undertaken secondments with both the Serious Fraud Office and HMRC. Whilst at HMRC, Tom advised on matters such as money laundering, civil confiscation and covert surveillance. In addition to crime, Tom accepts instructions in extradition, civil actions against the police, and trading standards. Tom regularly advises and trains local authorities on their disclosure policies and strategies. Before coming to the Bar, Tom worked as a consultant for Horizon Institute in Somaliland where he conducted research on reforms to prisons, juvenile justice laws, and criminal procedure. Tom interned at the Trial Chamber for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, and has worked with several NGOs in Kenya: he assisted with a landmark Supreme Court challenge to breaches of electoral law in the 2013 Kenyan election and drafted a report on the African Union’s proposal to set up a regional African criminal court to try international crimes.
Adam Pearson
Adam Pearson
Adam Pearson practises in consumer and criminal law. His practice is increasingly focused on cases involving criminal breaches of consumer protection legislation. He has particular experience and expertise in Trading Standards prosecutions and other regulatory offences and is regularly instructed on behalf of local authorities, companies and private individuals in respect of such matters. Adam is a contributing editor to Consumer and Trading Standards: Law and Practice (4th Ed, Jordans 2015), with responsibility for the law relating to food safety and labelling. His general criminal law practice, covers all aspects of criminal practice for both prosecution and defence. His practice spans the full spectrum of criminal work, including murder, offences of violence up to and including section 18, drugs supply, dishonesty, fraud and proceeds of crime. He is a CPS Grade 3 prosecutor on the Midland and South Eastern Circuits. Direct Public Access qualified. Work undertaken: Consumer and Trading Standards Crime Fraud
Jamsheed Peeroo
Jamsheed Peeroo
Barrister specialising in international arbitration with expertise in conflicts of laws and jurisdictions, commercial law and international trade, “offshore” corporate and trusts disputes, infrastructure, and investment law.   Notable recent cases: Counsel in ongoing LCIA arbitration of a multi-million USD shareholder subscription dispute involving a concession to operate and maintain oil and gas infrastructure in an African port; Counsel in ongoing ICC arbitration in a commercial dispute involving a bank guarantee and the sale and shipment of commodities under CFR terms; President of an ICC Arbitral Tribunal in multi-million dollar London-seated arbitration of a dispute relating to an international licensing contract in the IT and telecommunications sector; Counsel in an ongoing appeal before the Privy Council after having successfully resisted an application to set-aside a MARC international award before the Supreme Court of Mauritius; Counsel successfully representing a leading insurance company and an airport handling provider in an international dispute arising out of services provided in France to a national airline; Counsel successfully obtaining ex parte interim measures in aid of LCIA arbitration Counsel successfully representing an operator in a multi-million euro international arbitration involving the fisheries sector under the LCIA-MIAC Rules; Counsel successfully representing an international investor seeking recovery of investments and assets from a complex corporate and trusts structure related to the “Paradise Papers”; Counsel for a leading international group in the hotel and tourism sector in successful applications for interim measures and for the enforcement of an ICC Award rendered in Paris; Co-counsel in an ongoing MARC arbitration over an international dispute under a consultation contract pertaining to the procurement of services in an African country; Counsel successfully representing a sovereign fund with investments in several African countries on a corporate governance dispute and, separately, on resisting enforcement proceedings of an ICC Arbitral Award made in Paris   Recognition “African Arbitrator of the Year” and “Best Case Counsel Team” shortlists at Africa Arbitration Awards 2020, 8th East African International Arbitration Conference
James Petts
James Petts
James has a mixed private law civil practice, with increasing focus on chancery work, and a particular specialism in civil cases involving fraud and dishonesty of all kinds. Notable recent cases include Khan v. Nationwide Solicitors [2014] E. W. H. C. 841 (Q. B.) (a partnership claim against a firm of solicitors), Maqsood v. Mahmood [2012] E. W. C. A. Civ. 251 (White Book 3.4.4) (a claim arising out of alleged fraud in a business context, where he was instructed for the appeal) and Graham v. Sand Martin Heights Residents’ Company Limited (2011, unreported) Southend County Court (H. J. J. Maloney, QC) (an appeal in which it was held, controversially, that the small claims track rules on costs over-ride contractual provisions as to costs). James has also been instructed recently in very high value credit hire cases involving elements of alleged fraud, contentious probate cases involving alleged forgery, a claim in deceit arising out of an international property investment, applications for freezing injunctions, a partnership case involving alleged exclusion and diversion of profits, various insolvency proceedings, advising on setting aside settlement agreements allegedly procured by fraud, possession claims in the context of probate proceedings, claims arising out of alleged avoidance of care home fees, and an international dispute concerning the administration of a deceased person’s estate in India where jurisdiction was in issue. In his earlier years of practice, James acquired a wealth of experience in criminal law, and still occasionally appears in criminal courts, including recently the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) in an appeal against conviction in a case of fraud. James also has experience of employment and personal injury work. James prides himself on giving robust, practical and intellectually sound advice at all stages of litigation and has a particular interest in litigation strategy.
Paul Prior
Paul Prior
Paul’s practice is predominantly in Crime. He is regularly instructed to appear for the Defence and Prosecution. He is a Grade 4 CPS RASSO (Rape and Serious sexual offences) prosecutor. He specialises in cases with complex legal issues. He regularly defends in cases Homicide, serious sexual offending (including rape and child sexual exploitation), arson (with intent to endanger life), large–scale supply of drugs and fraud. He is regularly instructed in firearms matters, including cases where firearms are used to commit serious crime. He has an excellent knowledge of computers and cell-site technology, leading to his instruction by CPS complex Casework Units in a variety of cases. One example in 2019 was an instruction to prosecute a significant revenge hacking cyber attack by a disgruntled former employee - see https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/local-news/samir-desai-sutton-coldfield-warwickshire-15676312. Paul has a particular interest in Health and Safety law and associated regulatory offences. He has appeared in numerous Local Authority and HSE-prosecuted cases including gross negligence manslaughter. Paul is also consulted by Local Authorities in cases involving unusual or complicated Anti–Social Behaviour Orders. Paul is often instructed in cases that require a robust challenge to Police evidence and / or legal challenges to admissibility of Police evidence. Paul takes a thorough approach to preparation, offers written advice on each set of instructions and is briefed in cases that require careful consideration and analysis of significant tracts of documentary and telephone evidence. In cases involving novel points of law, Paul will undertake the necessary research and draft the appropriate skeleton argument. Paul has dealt with cases in the Court of Appeal as well as Administrative Court matters. Paul defended in the case of R v Singh [2015] 2 Cr. App. R. (S.) 14, where a £1m Confiscation Order was quashed by the Court of Appeal. Paul has experience in a wide variety of County Court matters and is a qualified mediator. He regularly presents lectures on new elements of law and has done so for Leicestershire Law Society, individual Firms and his Chambers. Paul is a facilitator for training other advocates in the questioning of Vulnerable Witnesses. Paul jointly runs the Leicestershire Schools Trials Competition which allows state school children between 13-16 to take part in mock trials at Leicester Crown Court. Paul was awarded Leicestershire Law Society’s Barrister of the Year in 2015. Paul is a member of the Criminal Bar Association.
Mary Prior KC
Mary Prior KC
In the past two years Mary has secured the acquittal of the youngest person in the United Kingdom to be accused of terrorism. She represented the stepmother of Arthur Labinjo Hughes at her trial for murder and cruelty and successfully argued at the Court of Appeal that her sentence was not unduly lenient. She secured the acquittal of the alleged leader of a significant organised crime group who was said to run the sale and supply of drugs and firearms in the Coventry area of the Midlands by violence and threats. She secured the conviction on retrial of Emma Magson and the conviction of John Jefferies who killed two young men in revenge for damaging his car. She is currently instructed to prosecute two horrific murders of 10 month old babies in the Derbyshire area. Mary Prior KC has a reputation for being a powerful, persuasive advocate who commands the respect of the court room and gets results. She has especial expertise with the vulnerable including people on the autistic spectrum, with ADHD, learning difficulties, addictions, sex workers, those in the “looked-after” system. She is regularly instructed to prosecute and defend cases where the key witnesses are vulnerable (children/special needs). Mary takes highly complex factual and legal cases and presents them in a simple manner to ensure everyone understands the issues. She takes great care to ensure that all relevant material is considered and utilised. When prosecuting, she gains the trust of the families of the deceased and works well as part of a team of officers and lawyers. When defending she regularly visits her clients, gains their trust and determines a focussed trial strategy. Mary is fearless when cross-examining those who require a robust approach. She ensures that the best points in a case are not lost by focus on irrelevancies. She prosecutes and defends in equal measure in the best traditions of the independent Bar. She provides early and thorough written advice and strategy as to the best approach. She is often commended by Judges for her handling of cases and of witnesses. She is often instructed in murders of children involving complex medical evidence, homicides by groups of young people, homicides with a history of domestic violence, all homicides, organised crime groups using firearms and violence to distribute drugs on a massive scale. She is instructed in multi-defendant and complainant historic sexual offences which involve the control of people, slavery and sexual exploitation. She was called to the Bar in 1990 and has over 30 years experience as a criminal barrister. TIER ONE LEADING SILK MIDLAND CIRCUIT LEGAL 500 WOMAN OF THE YEAR 2020 WOMEN IN THE LAW UK FINALIST FOR LEADING SILK OF THE YEAR 2019 LEGAL 500 RECORDER IN CRIME RECORDER IN FAMILY Work undertaken: Terrorism Organised crime groups Homicide – death of children Homicide – history of domestic violence Homicide - youths Rape and serious sexual offences and historical sexual offences Large scale child sexual exploitation Institutionalised child sexual abuse Large scale conspiracies to import drugs Work which crosses family and criminal law - arson, child abduction, homicide, cruelty.
Emma Rance
Emma is an experienced criminal practitioner and is regularly instructed to defend in serious and challenging cases across the spectrum of criminal offences. She has extensive experience in defending those accused of rape and sexual offences, including historic allegations and is particularly skilled in the cross-examination of vulnerable witnesses. Emma provides an excellent service to her professional and lay clients. She makes herself available to attend conferences and provide advice at all stages. Commended for her thorough preparation and attention detail, she is a strong jury advocate with a remarkable proven success rate. Emma is known for the full and fearless representation of her clients and her ability to put her clients tease with her personable, reassuring and calm manner. Emma is a Grade 2 CPS prosecutor and has successfully conducted numerous trials in that capacity.
John Reeder KC
John Reeder KC
John Reeder’s practice is split between acting as an arbitrator and mediator and accepting instructions as counsel from overseas lawyers and clients in all types of shipping and commercial disputes. As counsel he established a wide ranging practice covering all aspects of shipping and other commercial fields. In particular, he has been concerned with a large number of shipboard fires, explosions, collisions, total losses, damage claims, ship construction disputes and technical cases involving fire, unseaworthiness, stability, oil shortage, speed claims, rust and cargo fermentation. He has also acted as counsel in major inquiries into shipping casualties – as far away as Papua New Guinea. Much of his technical expertise has been derived from collision and salvage cases but also from public inquiries into shipping casualties from the Penlee Lifeboat Inquiry in 1982, the square rigged sail training barque Marques to the Herald of Free Enterprise in 1987 and the Marchioness in 2001. As a result he is particularly familiar with naval architecture and ship construction. He spent 17 years as Lloyd’s Salvage Arbitrator and now accepts appointments as arbitrator in all types of shipping and commercial matters. He also acts as a mediator in shipping, commercial and other disputes.
Deborah Revill
Deborah's work covers all areas of immigration law. She is particularly interested in paragraph 398(c) of the Immigration Rules ('serious harm' and 'persistent offenders'), the proper interpretation of Appendix FM, and the 'reasonableness' test under s117B(6) of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002. She has considerable experience of asylum appeals by Christian converts (in which she is able to draw on her undergraduate theology studies) and Sri Lankan nationals. Deborah is an accomplished written advocate who is frequently praised by judges for the quality of her skeleton arguments, grounds of appeal, and judicial review grounds. She enjoys identifying and advancing novel points of law and challenging common Home Office practices and assumptions. Before coming to the Bar, Deborah worked for the Immigration Advisory Service (formerly the UK's largest provider of legal advice on immigration and asylum), and was accredited by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner. She then spent a year as the employee of two direct access immigration barristers. She completed pupillage in a predominantly criminal set and, on accepting tenancy there, chose to specialise in immigration law, going on to establish a successful practice in the field almost from scratch. She subsequently expanded and strengthened this practice at Lamb Building before moving to The 36 Group in 2021.
Matthew Rowcliffe
Matthew Rowcliffe
Matthew is an experienced junior who both prosecutes and defends in criminal and regulatory/consumer law cases. In crime, Matthew’s practice covers, particularly, cases involving sexual offences, large-scale drug supply and production, serious violence (including firearms matters) and fraud. Within regulatory and consumer law, Matthew’s practice includes trading standards, licensing and planning law cases. Matthew is known as a persuasive and tenacious barrister whose effective court advocacy is underpinned by meticulous preparation. He is accustomed to dealing with cases involving a substantial volume of evidence, requiring careful management and analysis and is often instructed in matters turning on complex issues of law, fact or both. Matthew also frequently deals with particularly sensitive cases such as matters involving alleged domestic abuse, driving offences where catastrophic injury has resulted, cases involving a mental-health dimension and matters requiring the careful questioning of vulnerable witnesses. Matthew was recently praised by the Court for his approach in prosecuting the difficult case of R v Nay – widely reported in the media (e.g. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-36396341). Matthew is committed to providing excellent client care. He seeks to provide advice, at an early stage, in a clear, straightforward and down-to-earth way. In consumer and regulatory areas; Matthew is known for his practical and commercial approach. Work undertaken: General Crime Fraud Forfeiture & Confiscation
Michael Rudd
Michael Rudd
Michael has a mixed practice encompassing planning, environmental, public and administrative law, as well as matters of civil and commercial law, including employment disputes. He has particular expertise in judicial review challenges. Michael acts for developers, government agencies, local planning authorities, residents’ groups, pressure groups and private individuals. He has considerable experience in planning, enforcement and compulsory purchase appeals for a wide range of developments as well as in local plan inquires. He is frequently instructed in statutory reviews, judicial reviews, injunction applications and criminal prosecutions. He recently successfully represented a local authority in the first case addressing the definition of a ‘hedge’ under the High Hedges legislation (Castelli v London Borough of Merton [2013] EWHC 602 (Admin)). He has also both prosecuted and defended in the Magistrates’ and Crown Court in matters relating to enforcement and stop notices, noise abatement notices, waste management licences, statutory nuisance, trading standards and the control of advertising regulations. Michael has advised on matters relating to the Commons Registration Act and has petitioned the Cross-Rail Parliamentary Select Committee on behalf of a local residents association. He deals with a full range of matters such as domestic development through residential schemes to commercial and industrial projects (retail, office, leisure, hotel and landfill and equestrian centres) and has an established practice representing gypsies, travellers, and travelling show people in both planning and criminal matters. He also has a particular expertise in proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 following on from planning enforcement prosecutions. Michael regular provides pre-application advice and expediency advice on enforcement and statutory nuisance matters. In the field of asylum and immigration law he regularly appears in the First Tier and Upper Tribunal, the Administrative Court and the Court of Appeal. Michael has a particular interest and expertise in cases involving Tamil, Eritrean and Somali asylum claims, Gurkha dependant matters, Article 8 arguments and general entry clearance disputes. In AZ v SSCLG (2012) EWHC [2012] 3660 (Admin) he recently employed his knowledge of Article 8 and the ‘best interests of children’ arguments in the first successful High Court planning law challenge based on rights under the UNCRC and Children Act 2004. Michael practises extensively in employment law, representing both claimants and respondents in many kinds of cases including unfair dismissal, breaches of contract, TUPE, redundancy, pregnancy and sickness related dismissals and all forms of discrimination, with a particular expertise in maternity leave matters. He advises on and drafts contracts, compromise agreements and all types of pleadings. Michael also has a broad civil litigation practice, providing advice and representation at all levels. He has particular expertise in respect of residential and commercial property, boundary disputes, trespass, negligence and nuisance cases. Advice and representation is also available in contractual and personal injury matters.
Jonathon Rushton
Jonathon Rushton
Jonathon Rushton is a specialist Chancery barrister. Called to the Bar in 1997 his practice is firmly within the specialist spheres of property law, commercial and residential landlord and tenant law. Dealing with the contentious and non-contentious matters within these sectors Jonathon has developed a reputation for his no nonsense approach to problem solving whilst keeping a weather eye on litigation. Jonathon lectures and writes on property matters within chambers and externally in partnership with solicitors firms and other professionals. Jonathon is also a CEDR qualified mediator.
Katya Saudek
Katya Saudek
Katya Saudek’s practice encompasses a wide range of both prosecution and defence work. She is regularly instructed to defend serious historic and recent sexual offences. She has considerable experience of cases of serious violence including child cruelty and domestic violence, dishonesty, and drugs offences. She has undertaken large and complex fraud work on behalf of HMRC and the defence. She has experience of being led, both in high-value frauds and manslaughter cases. She regularly appears in the Court of Appeal. Katya prides herself on thorough case-preparation, attention to detail, and excellent client care. She is professional, yet approachable. She is a Grade 3 CPS Advocate on both the Midland and South-Eastern Circuits and has undertaken CPS-accredited training on prosecuting sexual offences.
Vasanti Selvaratnam KC
Vasanti Selvaratnam KC
Vasanti Selvaratnam KC is a senior Silk practising as Counsel and International Arbitrator within 36 Stone and joint head of Chambers of The 36 Group from 2018 to 2023. Her practice embraces all aspects of international commercial litigation and arbitration, including shipping (wet, dry and shipbuilding), commodities, banking and finance, conflict of law and jurisdiction disputes, all forms of interim urgent relief, including freezing orders and anti-suit injunctions, and civil fraud. She is particularly noted for her user friendly hands-on approach to cases and for her ability quickly to get to grips with disputes raising complex factual and technical issues which require a sound grasp of expert evidence and mastery of detail. As Counsel Clients include the major P&I clubs, shipowners, charterers and salvors as well as large commercial organisations involved in commercial court litigation or international commercial arbitration in non-shipping matters. Recent notable cases include; The Alexandra 1 (2021), the leading case in the Supreme Court on the scope of the Crossing Rule in the International Collision Regulations; Rubicon Vantage v KrisEnergy [2019] EWHC 2012 (Comm), the first reported case to consider a hybrid guarantee which is part "on demand" and part "see to it" and the role of the Marubeni principle in relation to construction of the scope of the "on demand" portion of the guarantee; Emirates Trading Agency LLC v PMEPL [2014] 2 Lloyd’s Rep 457, regarding friendly discussions clause a condition precedent to right to commence arbitration; she is appearing in the Supreme Court  in RTI v MUR, an important case on the meaning of reasonable endeavours in a force majeure clause in the context of sanctions against Russia and currency of payment. As Arbitrator: Vasanti Selvaratnam KC has significant experience of dispute resolution in both a judicial and quasi-judicial capacity. She was appointed a Recorder in 1999, is an accredited mediator, and receives regular appointments to act as an arbitrator across a wide range of industry sectors, including but not limited to shipping and international trade disputes. She accepts appointments under all the major industry rules, including LCIA, ICC, LMAA,  LOF, SCMA, SIAC, HKIAC and UNCITRAL  and has particular expertise in cases raising complex technical issues as well as novel or difficult points on assessment of damages. Recent arbitrations include; Chair of an LCIA Panel relation to disputes under contract relating to the sale of crude oil.  Chair of an ICC Panel relating to contractual disputes governed by Iraq law concerning removal of unexploded materials at Basrah port. Sole arbitrator in an UNCITRAL governed dispute relating to disputes under a guarantee (appointed by the LCIA). Co-arbitrator in an ICC India law governed and seated matter in the pharmaceutical sector. Numerous LOF appointments by Lloyds Salvage Arbitration Branch, including an ongoing matter which involves the largest LOF fund since records began. Numerous LMAA party appointments, including by well-known oil and commodity traders. Her expertise was acknowledged again when she was announced as the highest ranked member of the UK Bar to feature in ‘All About Shipping’s Top 100 women in shipping for 2019’; a list of remarkable women who have substantially contributed to the international maritime industry over the years. She has been shortlisted by Legal 500 as Shipping Silk of the Year 2023.
Kishore Sharma
Kishore Sharma
Kish represents clients in international and domestic commercial litigation and arbitration, and advises on transactional business legal issues, of the highest difficulty, complexity and value. His expertise spans carriage by sea and storage of bulk and containerised goods, insurance (marine, non-marine and reinsurance), commodities, international trade, banking (including negotiable instruments and security for lending), commercial fraud, proprietary constructive trust / tracing actions and corporate insolvency. Kish seeks to understand, protect and serve his clients’ interests and needs as practically and cost-effectively as possible. In Court or the arbitration room, he is dedicated to providing the highest standards of advocacy on their behalf. Notable cases Anti-suit / anti-enforcement injunction application under s. 37(1) Senior Courts Act 1981 and for interim order preserving assets under s. 44 Arbitration Act 1996 in a complex multi-partite shipping dispute: E-Star Shipping and Trading Co Ltd v. Delta Corp Shipping Ltd (the “ESHIPS PROGRESS”) [2023] 1 Lloyd’s Rep. 595 Validity and effect of “holding certificate” for an intended CIF sale and purchase of approximately US$ 43 million worth of copper electrodes Application of “necessary or proper party” gateway for service out of the jurisdiction to claims on cheques for US$ 7 million given by Singaporean drawer as security for the price of bulk cargoes of steam coal due under CFR / CIF contracts: HC Trading Malta Ltd v KI (International) Ltd and ors. [2022] EWHC 1387 (Comm) Whether judgment in default of acknowledgment of service available in an in personam collision claim, where the Clamant had not filed a collision statement of case: Tecoil Shipping Ltd v Neptune EHF and others (the “POSEIDON”) (No. 2) [2021] 2 Lloyd’s Rep. 429 Claims under marine open covers in respect of quantities of stored metals, arising out of the “lock down” by Chinese authorities at Qingdao and Penglai ports (approximately US$ 405 million)
John Simmons
John Simmons
John has been practising serious crime for over 20 years. Both as an independent member of the Bar and as the manager of an in-house Crown Court team he has an approachable but persuasive style. He spent many years in the airline industry before choosing to read law and coming to the Bar. He has a no nonsense approach coupled with an easy style particularly liked by juries. When defending his successful acquittals in even the most serious cases have given rise to a respected reputation amongst professional and lay clients. His sensitive handling of cases involving children, the vulnerable and persons with mental health difficulties has garnered repeated praise from Judges. Work undertaken: Homicide and crimes of violence Drugs trafficking including “County Lines” Serious sexual offences Fraud and financial crime Firearms offences Courts Martial
Samuel Skinner
Samuel Skinner
Samuel was educated at Oxford University and began work as a barrister in 2007. He prosecutes and defends in the most serious and complex criminal cases. Samuel’s recent caseload involves murder, terrorism and high-value, international fraud. Samuel has expertise prosecuting and defending in corruption cases, and cybercrime. He also spent much of 2018-2019 involved in trials alleging conspiracies to supply industrial quantities of class A drugs; and conspiracies to commit serious violence by criminal gangs involved in the ‘county lines’ drug supply trade. Samuel also has substantial experience in judicial review cases and case stated appeals in criminal and regulatory matters. He was previously appointed as civil Treasury Counsel concentrating almost exclusively on judicial review cases. He frequently provides second opinion advice on appeal after conviction. Samuel has appeared in leading cases in both criminal and civil law, which are cited in the practitioner textbooks. Samuel advises on complex and unusual areas of criminal and regulatory law. He also provides training in these areas. He has advised the Revenue and the police on matters relating to independent counsel, disclosure and search warrants. Samuel acts for Trading Standards departments and advised Birmingham City Council on its powers under the criminal law to prevent the spread of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis. He has also advised national government about criminal infringements of medicines law. Work undertaken: Consumer Cybercrime Economic Crime & Regulation Financial Crime & Fraud Health & Safety Homicide Licensing Judicial Review Modern Slavery Professional Misconduct & Disciplinary Regulatory Serious Sexual Offences
John Small
John Small
John is an employment law specialist and regularly appears in the Employment Tribunal, the EAT and all other courts. The vast majority of his practice is claimant work. Details of past cases are: Bellway Homes Ltd – UKEAT/0309/09/CEA and Miller v Bellway Homes Ltd – UKEAT/0436/09/CEA – successfully acted for the claimant in her indirect sex discrimination claim in both the Employment Tribunal and the EAT; Roberts v History & Heraldy (Sheffield ET) – acted for the claimant in her unlawful pregnancy discrimination claim; Smith v ECHG (Leicester ET) – acted for the claimant in unlawful pregnancy discrimination claim; Stanford v Centrica (Leicester ET) – acted for the claimant in his disability discrimination claim; Kozan v Somerfields Ltd (Leicester ET) – acted for the respondent in disability and racial discrimination claim.
Rhys Taylor
Rhys Taylor
Rhys Taylor specialises in money and property disputes following family relationship breakdown. In the field of financial remedies, he has a noted and sought after specialism dealing with pensions on divorce. He is very well versed with cohabitant disputes or disputes involving third party rights in financial remedy cases. Rhys also has extensive experience dealing with complex assets, businesses and trust structures. Rhys is both an IFLA appointed arbitrator and mediator. He also offers Early Neutral Evaluation (private FDRs) for both financial remedy disputes and TOLATA disputes. Rhys sits as a Recorder in the Family Court. Rhys is a member of the Family Procedure Rule Committee. He is a contributing editor to the Family Court Practice (Red Book).  He is also the editor of the Financial Remedies Journal (Class). He is a co-author of the third edition of “Pensions on Divorce: A Practitioner’s Handbook” and a member of the Pension Advisory Group. Rhys lectures regularly on his areas of interest, including at the Judicial College on the subject of pensions on divorce.
Gillian Temple-Bone
Gillian Temple-Bone
Barrister specialising in the law concerning children – public law representing Local Authorities, parents and children. Her particular expertise and interest is in cases that involve numbers of medical experts in complex non-accidental injury and death. Considerable experience of sexual abuse, and of representing those with personality disorders or mental illness, or accused of fabricating illness. Having spent many years also practising in criminal law, her knowledge of the interplay between the two disciplines is an additional asset. Since 1998 has trained social workers in human rights law, court skills and questioning the professionals. Reported cases include: G v N County Council [2009] 1 FLR 774; Re : M [1998] 2 FLR 371; Re: W and X [2004] 1 FLR 415.
Rachel Toney
Rachel Toney
36 Stone Special Advocate Rachel’s commercial practice includes all aspects of international trade, shipping and maritime work (including a wide variety of bills of lading/charterparty disputes, indemnity claims, Agency Agreement disputes, contamination and cargo claims; Admiralty claims, primarily collisions/allisions including jurisdictional and procedural issues, contracts for the sale and carriage of goods together with insurance and re-insurance) with a particular emphasis on shipbuilding and superyachts, having been instructed in many of the high value new-build disputes involving the world’s largest superyachts. Rachel was instructed in the recent high-profile “test” case of Hamida Begum v Maran (UK) Limited in which a spotlight was shone on the disreputable practice of dismantling large ships on the beaches of economically developing nations. The Court of Appeal ruled that a shipping company in London selling a vessel to South Asia could owe a duty of care to shipbreaking workers in Bangladesh. Experienced in mediation as well as arbitration. Rachel’s commercial practice includes conflict of laws/jurisdictional issues, international and domestic disputes, international trade, construction disputes, agency disputes, contracts for the sale and carriage of goods, insurance and re-insurance. Uniquely qualified market leader in the field of employment and personal injury related shipping matters. As Special Advocate, Rachel is regularly instructed in nationally and internationally high profile, sensitive, national security cases including cases involving the FCDO, the NCA, the Home Office and the Security Services. Cases include consideration of all aspects of HMG’s implementation of counter-terrorism measures, multi-party private law claims and Judicial Reviews in the Appellate Courts and deprivation/deportation/exclusion appeals before the Special Immigration Appeals Tribunal. Since developing this specialist area of her practice, Rachel has appeared in many of the leading cases in this field. She is also instructed in cases before SVAP (Security Vetting Appeals Panel). Shortlisted for Legal 500 UK Bar Shipping Junior of the Year 2022.
Robert Underwood
Robert Underwood
Robert Underwood has developed an extensive, increasingly focused criminal practice. He is particularly adept in the prosecution and defence of serious sexual offences, homicides and cases of causing death by dangerous driving. His expertise and analysis of the issues is widely recognised and he has a “winning way” as a Jury advocate. The same can be said of his ability to communicate with people from whatever background and his commitment to victim and client welfare is second to none. Work undertaken: Homicide and related grave offences Serious and organised crime (including terrorism) Serious sexual offences
Sebastian Walker
Sebastian Walker
Sebastian prosecutes and defends in the Crown Court, Youth Court and Magistrates’ Court. His practice includes work in crime, trading standards, prison law and actions against the police. Sebastian is the author of a number of practitioner texts, including the co-author of the sentencing chapter in Archbold, and his academic work has previously been cited and endorsed by the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) (see, for example, R. v Channer [2021] EWCA Crim 696). He has particular experience advising on complex questions of law, and human rights issues. He has acted and advised in relation to a large number of protest prosecutions and has experience with cases concerning modern slavery and terrorism. He has experience appearing in confiscation proceedings and is happy to take instructions in relation to asset forfeiture and related proceedings. Prior to coming to the bar he worked for four years at the Law Commission and the Attorney General's Office. At the Law Commission, Sebastian was the lead lawyer on what is now the Sentencing Act 2020, instructing Parliamentary Counsel on the drafting of the Bill and giving evidence to the Joint Committee during the Act's passage through Parliament. At the Attorney General's Office he worked on a range of topics including unduly lenient sentences, contempt of court, applications for consent to prosecute (including consents for explosive substances, year and a day prosecutions, international conspiracies and Armed Forces Act offences) and applications for second inquests. Notably he lead on an application to amend the Thompson and Venables injunction and worked closely with the Civil Procedure Rules Committee on the redrafting of Part 81 of the Civil Procedure Rules. During this time Sebastian also taught criminal law at the London School of Economics. He continues to teach law at the University of Cambridge.
Julie Warburton
Julie is an experienced criminal practitioner whose tenacity as an advocate has gained her a reputation as a formidable opponent and a persuasive jury advocate. She has an extensive criminal practice, regularly appearing in cases of the most serious nature including murder, attempted murder, people trafficking and modern slavery offences, GBH, rape and historic child abuse spanning several generations and involving multiple victims, drug trafficking, money laundering, blackmail, kidnapping, false imprisonment, child cruelty and large scale public violence, and has been instructed in such cases both as junior and lead counsel. She has a particular skill in dealing with sensitive cases including serious violent and sexual offences towards adults and children, trafficking and slavery of vulnerable adults and children, having extensive experience of cases involving young and vulnerable witnesses and defendants, and those with disabilities, special needs and mental health issues. She is highly regarded for her ability to communicate with both witnesses and clients and for her meticulous approach to every case. She quickly gains the trust and confidence of both lay and professional clients by her exensive knowledge and detailed preparation, combined with a down to earth approach. She is reguarly instructed to deal with high profile, complex and serious cases, including cases which have attracted national and international press coverage.
Rachel Watkins
Rachel Watkins
Rachel Watkins is a family law specialist with extensive experience in complex public and private law proceeding with expertise spanning a wide range of child related matters including those involving: Non accidental injury Sexual abuse / incest Cultural conflict Mental health Vulnerable parties Deprivation of liberty Modern day slavery Chronic neglect Child arrangement orders Changing of a child’s name or school Removal from the jurisdiction Domestic abuse Concurrent criminal proceedings Rachel is regularly instructed by local authorities and on behalf of parents, children, protected parties, interveners and children requiring separate representation. Rachel also accepts instructions on a Public Access basis.
Ellis Wilford
Ellis practices in asylum & immigration and has appeared in the Upper Tribunal, the Administrative Court and theCourt of Appeal. He has been praised by instructing solicitors as "a very skilled and knowledgeable Barrister". Ellis regularly advises and appears in: Judicial review (eg fresh claims, certification, procedural fairness claims, ETS etc) Business Migration (Tier 1 entrepreneur, Tier 2) Family reunion (Article 8, Appendix FM) Asylum Deportation (including "Nexus" appeals) Unlawful detention and false imprisonment European Union law (Residence Cards, sham marriage allegations, Ankara applications) Nationality law (British citizenship: registration, naturalisation and revocation)
Diana Wilson
Diana Wilson
Diana primarily practices in the areas of serious, and organised crime and cases involving complex or novel legal issues. She is particularly noted for her attention to detail when preparing large multi-handed cases and for her calm and focused approach under pressure. She is often instructed in cases involving complex or novel human rights arguments. Her years working internationally have given her an exceptional ability to handle voluminous and complex cases and advise at an early stage in relation to lengthy investigations. When defending she is particularly noted for her forensic pursuit of relevant disclosure.  She also has a particular interest in cases involving complex technical and/or telephone evidence. Diana is an experienced advocate who varies her style as the case requires; from being described by one of her opponents as having a calm, measured and fair approach when prosecuting, to being described by one of her instructing solicitors when defending as ‘a bulldog’, to being sensitive and nuanced when advising the most vulnerable of clients or examining young witnesses.
Richard Wilson
Joint Head of Chambers Richard Wilson QC, LL.D is a Commercial, Public and Administrative law and Employment specialist. He is also often instructed in cases that require interpretation of written instruments (contracts, statutes, European Union directives etc.). He has been involved in some landmark decisions in the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom and the Court of Appeal on a range of matters, including: the interpretation of the European Union Reception Directive, the misuse of confidential information and account of profits as a remedy, and the principles governing the entitlement to costs in judicial review cases (see ‘Notable Cases’ section below). Richard’s principal area of practice as a barrister and mediator are commercial disputes. He has experience of domestic and international disputes (e.g. distributorship agreements, sale of goods and services, agency agreements, employment issues, property and inheritance, personal injury, regulatory disputes etc). The Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) "have led the field of conflict management and resolution for 25 years". During his CEDR mediation accreditation process, Richard was graded "outstanding" in a number of categories. Richard’s notable cases over the years include appearances in the UK Supreme Court, the House of Lords, the Court of Appeal (Civil Division) and the High Court (Chancery Division, Queen’s Bench Division, Administrative Court / Divisional Court).
Colin Wright
Colin Wright
Colin Wright is a highly experienced barrister with a practice which embraces all areas of international commercial litigation and arbitration, including shipping, commodities, insurance, international trade, carriage of goods, sale of goods, insolvency, commercial fraud and trade secrets.  He is particularly well known for shipping litigation (both wet and dry) and has extensive experience in collisions, charterparties and marine insurance.  His clients include insurers, financial institutions and P&I clubs. In addition to his practice as an advocate, he also sits as an arbitrator. He has an international practice and regularly undertakes work in Hong Kong and the Far East in addition to England & Wales. He is noted for his user-friendly and commercial approach.
Stuart Yeung
Stuart Yeung
Stuart acts on behalf of local authorities, parents, children and intervenors on the Midlands Circuit. Acting on behalf of local authorities usually involves numerous parties and complex issues arising out of serious non-accidental injury and/or death and complex medical issues. Stuart employs a proactive, careful and sensitive approach to his preparation, has good case management skills and the ability to identify key issues and communicate effectively with professional and lay clients alike. Stuart also acts for parents and children in private law proceedings. Stuart’s experience and current practice includes cases involving: Serious non-accidental injury Fabricated and/or induced illness, including hospital intervenors Female Genital Mutilation Sexual abuse Concurrent criminal proceedings Human Rights Act claims arising from public law proceedings Chronic neglect Drug and alcohol abuse (including FDAC proceedings) Adoption Special Guardianship Domestic Violence Alienating behaviours