St John's Chambers > Bristol, England > Set Profile
St John's Chambers Offices
Chambers of Matthew White
St John's Chambers
101 VICTORIA STREET
BRISTOL
BS1 6PU
England
St John's Chambers
101 VICTORIA STREET
BRISTOL
BS1 6PU
England
St John's Chambers > The Legal 500 Rankings
Western Circuit > Agriculture Tier 1
At St John’s Chambers, members have expertise across a wide spectrum of agricultural issues, including sales and purchases of land, inheritance disputes involving farmland estates, and proprietary estoppel cases. At the junior end of chambers, Alex Troup has an excellent track record in acting on inheritance disputes – often involving proprietary estoppel claims – pertaining to estates, and Oliver Wooding regularly advises landowners and farming tenants on a range of rural affairs issues. Christopher Jones‘ recent workload includes farming partnership disputes.Leading Juniors
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers 'Oliver is absolutely solid. He has an excellent knowledge of the practice area, and his reassuring and calming style is a real asset.'
Alex Troup - St John's Chambers ‘A confident advocate and an authoritative speaker in this area. He builds a good relationship with clients and solicitors; charming in conference.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A leading set in the South West for this type of work.’
Clerking
‘The clerks are understanding and responsive, and are always happy to look for a solution to any issue that might arise.’
‘The clerks always provide a very good service with prompt and helpful responses.’
‘Paul Bennett is a star clerk.’
‘Simon Lyons is excellent to deal with and extremely helpful.’
Western Circuit > Chancery, probate, and tax Tier 1
With a reputation as ‘a leading regional heavy-weight‘, St John’s Chambers is ‘very strong in contentious probate‘ and ‘the leading set for trusts and estates work in the South West‘, according to instructing solicitors. Prior to his October 2022 appointment to the Circuit bench, Leslie Blohm KC (as was) acted in Sofer v Swissindependent Trustees, involving a breach of trust claim brought against the trustees following the payment of unsecured loans to the settlor. Alex Troup is ‘excellent on his feet‘ and successfully represented the defendants in a case involved a dispute over a farmer’s will. Joss Knight is well-versed in handling cases involving Inheritance Act claims and disputed wills.Leading Juniors
John Dickinson - St John's Chambers ‘John is very thorough, and can marshal complex facts to provide clear legal advice. He is efficient and good with clients.'
Natasha Dzameh - St John's Chambers 'Natasha digests the tricky elements of a case and plans out a robust, yet practical, strategy for resolving issues. She brings clarity and direction to a matter. Her advice is very astute.'
Alex Troup - St John's Chambers ‘Alex is extremely astute and robust. He commands respect in the courtroom.'
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers ‘An excellent problem solver with a forensic eye for detail. His reassuring and calming style is a real asset.'
Adam Boyle - St John's Chambers ‘Adam is extremely user-friendly; methodical, clever and highly personable. Very responsive.'
Christopher Jones - St John's Chambers 'An excellent trial advocate who is unafraid to fight his corner.'
Joss Knight - St John's Chambers ‘Joss provides a clear strategy in each case. He is confident in court and able to effectively put forward his client's position.'
Michael Clarke - St John's Chambers 'A barrister with a sharp intellect, who is also pragmatic and great with clients.'
Testimonials
Set
‘St John’s Chambers is a very strong and friendly set. It is a go-to in the South West for all Chancery disputes, particularly those involving inheritance and trust disputes.’
‘A thoroughly modern set.’
‘A strong set of barristers with vast expertise in Chancery work, with a good range of experience and seniority.’
‘Excellent service across the board.’
‘Very reliable set.’
Clerking
‘The clerks’ team is really outstanding. They go out of their way to make it easy. Always contactable and understand the pressures for solicitors.’
Western Circuit > Clinical negligence Tier 1
St John’s Chambers is noted by clients as being a ‘go-to set in the South West for clinical negligence‘. Justin Valentine is ‘very thorough‘, and predominantly acts for claimants in birth and neonatal injury claims, delayed cancer diagnoses and negligent nursing care cases. The ‘razor-sharp, focussed, thorough and clear‘ Robert Mills has an excellent reputation for handling dental negligence cases. Rachel Segal is regularly instructed in cases involving claims of negligent cosmetic procedures, obstetric care and delayed diagnoses.Leading Juniors
Justin Valentine - St John's Chambers 'He has a no-nonsense and forensic approach, is good in managing client expectations and possesses fantastic attention to detail. Excellent in dealing with medical experts.'
Robert Mills - St John's Chambers 'Robert is an outstanding barrister; he combines forensic analysis with pragmatic problem solving. He guides experts and clients in a methodical yet relaxed manner which allows him to challenge expert views if necessary, without ruffling feathers.'
James Marwick - St John's Chambers 'A junior who prepares meticulously and will fight a case for you.'
Rachel Segal - St John's Chambers 'An approachable barrister who provides reasoned and concise advice.'
Testimonials
Set
‘St John’s Chambers is an excellent set.’
‘A good regional set with a solid reputation.’
‘A very slick outfit.’
Clerking
‘The clerks are fantastic. Derek Jenkins will go out of his way to assist instructing solicitors.’
‘The clerks are always very on the ball and have always been very helpful, approachable and friendly.’
‘Adam Marston and Hugh Maguire are great. Always available and flexible, and very personable as well.’
Western Circuit > Commercial litigation Tier 1
Led by James Pearce-Smith, the ‘very experienced‘ team at St John’s Chambers is regularly instructed by individuals and large companies in a wide range of contentious work. Contractual disputes are a core area of expertise for Leslie Blohm KC. Charlie Newington-Bridges is ‘very user-friendly and able to engage very positively with judges in court, helping to turn round difficult cases‘. Natasha Dzameh has ‘excellent understanding of the issues and laws‘, and has a solid track record in representing financial institutions and international companies in cases involving alleged breaches of contract and restraint of trade. Nicholas Pointon is now a senior lecturer at the University of Exeter, and Leslie Blohm KC, as was, was appointed a Senior Circuit Judge in October 2022.Leading Juniors
Charlie Newington-Bridges - St John's Chambers 'Charlie is commercially minded and extremely able. He is good at quickly getting to grips with the crux of a complicated factual matrix. He offers commercial solutions to intractable problems.'
James Pearce-Smith - St John's Chambers 'James is a very effective advocate. He has a thorough grasp of details and presents the issues in a comprehensive but extremely clear order.'
Christopher Jones - St John's Chambers 'A junior who is very good on his feet in court, and has an excellent manner with clients.'
John Dickinson - St John's Chambers 'He gets to the heart of the matter swiftly, and his analysis is crystal-clear. He also has a firm and reassuring manner with clients.'
Natasha Dzameh - St John's Chambers 'Natasha has forensic attention to detail and is very analytical. She provides clear-headed, focussed advice which is understandable to clients. A very efficient barrister.'
Matthew O'Regan - St John's Chambers 'Matthew has a strong understanding of competition law. He communicates very clearly and easily for commercial clients in such a way that they quickly understand the complex issues at hand.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A good set with great depth.’
‘User-friendly barristers.’
‘The barristers have all been of top quality.’
Clerking
‘Simon Lyons is very friendly and will always try to fit in any piece of work I send across. He responds promptly.’
‘Paul Bennett and Simon Lyons always respond quickly and are clear on fee estimates.’
‘Simon Lyons and Elizabeth Champion are helpful and responsive.’
Western Circuit > Court of Protection and community care Tier 1
St John’s Chambers is ‘a very strong and friendly set‘, and is home to a Court of Protection group well known for its strength in handling property and affairs disputes. The team represents a range of parties in matters, including the Official Solicitor, local authorities and family members. Alex Troup and Oliver Wooding continue to advise on cases involving contested deputyship and lasting power of attorney applications, as well as issues of health and welfare and mental capacity.Leading Juniors
Alex Troup - St John's Chambers ‘Alex is the whole package. He is as excellent on his feet as he is on the papers. He has in-depth knowledge and commands respect in the courtroom.'
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers 'Oliver is excellent with clients. He is able to strike a good balance between being authoritative and empathetic in what are often very sensitive matters. His advice is thorough and reliable.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A set upon which you can rely.’
Clerking
‘The clerks are knowledgeable and friendly. They will always provide assistance and guidance where required.’
‘Rob Bocock is a star clerk.’
Western Circuit > Family and children law Tier 1
St John’s Chambers is a ‘very strong family set‘, housing a team which ‘covers all aspects of family law‘. Christopher Sharp KC ‘is always first-rate‘, with an established track record in acting for guardians, local authorities and parents in serious cases of alleged child abuse, and complex financial remedy claims involving foreign pensions and assets. Judi Evans is ‘determined and unflappable‘, and is sought after for her expertise in cases involving child abduction and international relocation of children. The ‘tenacious‘ Lucy Reed recently represented a journalist before the Court of Appeal in a case concerning the publication of a fact-finding judgment and subsequent identification of the parents. Zoe Saunders heads up the family finance group, and is regularly instructed in cases involving cohabitation disputes.Leading Silks: Child Law (Public and Private)
Christopher Sharp KC - St John's Chambers 'A formidable cross-examiner with a ferocious intellect.'
Leading Silks: Divorce and Financial Remedy
Christopher Sharp KC - St John's Chambers 'Thorough, tenacious, precise, and measured.'
Leading Juniors: Child Law (Public and Private)
Abigail Bond - St John's Chambers 'She is always well-prepared and always calm. She is at her best when cross-examining vulnerable lay parties.'
Judi Evans - St John's Chambers 'She is a champion of child law.'
Susan Hunter - St John's Chambers 'A formidable advocate who provides clear and consistent advice.'
Lucy Reed - St John's Chambers 'Lucy is completely unflappable. She always has a realistic, measured and well thought out approach. Organised and conscientious. Comfortably holds her own against silks. An outstanding advocate.'
Caroline Elford - St John's Chambers 'She is exceptionally well-prepared and puts forward her clients' cases robustly.'
Ryan Morgan - St John's Chambers 'A natural advocate with a very good work ethic. Ryan gives clients sound and clear advice, and manages their expectations well.'
Olivia Pike - St John's Chambers 'She is very approachable and always able to give detailed, balanced and clear legal advice. A tenacious and skilled advocate, who is able to expertly and effectively cross- examine both professional and lay witnesses.'
Leading Juniors: Divorce and Financial Remedy
Andrew Commins –St John’s Chambers 'An impressive advocate who has the ear of the court and provides sound advice.'
Jody Atkinson - St John's Chambers 'A hugely intelligent junior whose advocacy is compelling.'
Richard Norman - St John's Chambers 'A very approachable and user-friendly barrister. He gives pragmatic and sensible advice, yet will always fight the client's corner. He takes a very considered approach but can push hard when needed. A junior who punches well above his weight.'
Zoë Saunders - St John's Chambers 'A very dedicated barrister who is always keen for a challenge.'
Bethany Scarsbrook - St John's Chambers 'Bethany is fiercely intelligent, forthright and dynamic. She is, forensically, extremely astute and provides sensible, client-focused advice.'
Jack Harris –St John’s Chambers 'An eloquent advocate who exudes warmth and charm.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A first-class set.’
‘There is an excellent range of expertise across the set in relation to family work.’
‘A very strong family team.’
‘St John’s Chambers is very efficient and counsel are exceptional.’
‘An excellent chambers with strength-in-depth.’
Clerking
‘Elaine Jewell-Moore goes over and above to help find available counsel and is a pleasure to deal with.’
Western Circuit > Personal injury Tier 1
The team at St John’s Chambers is praised by clients for its ‘deep breadth of knowledge on all aspects of personal injury‘. ‘Superb advocate‘ Christopher Sharp KC has an excellent track record in representing claimants and defendants in high-value catastrophic spinal and brain injury cases. Senior junior Andrew McLaughlin is particularly strong as a trial lawyer in this field. In recent work, Matthew White and James Marwick appeared in Brown v South West Lakes Trust and others, a Court of Appeal case arising from a fatal car accident in 2017; issues in the case included the extent of the duty of care owed to unintentional trespassers by occupiers of land adjoining the highway.Leading Silks
Christopher Sharp KC - St John's Chambers 'A leading silk in this area. He is fastidious with a fine forensic mind.'
Leading Juniors
Andrew McLaughlin – St John’s Chambers ‘His forensic exploration of the material is his great strength. With Andrew you know he will leave no stone unturned. Clients love him. He is down to earth and personable so that lay and professional clients both equally enjoy working with him. His breadth of experience is a great asset. He is as good dealing with fundamental dishonesty cases as a catastrophic injury case. A superb senior junior.’
Richard Stead - St John's Chambers 'A very good trial advocate with courtroom gravitas.'
Matthew White - St John's Chambers 'Matthew is very astute, and very good on technical detail concerning expert evidence.'
Ben Handy - St John's Chambers 'Ben is very astute and gets to the heart of the issue straight away. He is a details man, yet he communicates in a very clear and concise manner, which enables all concerned to focus on the core issues. He is a very personable barrister.'
James Marwick - St John's Chambers 'James does not back away from a difficult or challenging case. He is robust yet able to change his style in cross examination, depending on the individual in front of him, and his advocacy is second to none. He has an excellent way with clients to make them feel at ease.'
Darren Lewis - St John's Chambers 'Darren is a tenacious advocate who presents his clients' cases with true passion. He is a formidable presence in court; he consistently demonstrates tenacity and rigour and is fearless in cross-examination.'
Rachel Segal - St John's Chambers 'She has impeccable attention to detail, and is able to give quick and firm advice on difficult questions.'
James Hughes - St John's Chambers 'A tenacious advocate, who is very approachable and appreciated by clients and witnesses alike for his easy-going manner and interpersonal skills.'
Testimonials
Set
‘St John’s Chambers has a wide breadth of expertise and experience.’
‘Always able to offer available counsel at the right level on any case.’
‘Strength-in-depth.’
‘A highly efficient set.’
Clerking
‘The clerks of St John’s are outstanding and deserve a special mention. Adam Marston combines a wicked sense of humour with good knowledge of the strengths of the barristers within his care and is always able to make helpful recommendations. Hugh Maguire is also extremely helpful and always willing to go the extra mile.’
‘Hugh Maguire is a first-rate clerk. Easy to work with, a good problem-solver and quick with communications.’
Western Circuit > Professional negligence Tier 1
Bristol’s St John’s Chambers houses a team which is regularly instructed in cases involving claims against surveyors and solicitors, and is especially strong in handling work brought against architects. John Dickinson acts for banks and insurer clients in a range of professional negligence disputes, and Joss Knight has solid expertise in advising on claims brought against valuers, contract administrators and builders. James Pearce-Smith is sought after for his expertise in assisting claimants, with a core focus on acting for lender clients in cases relating to the banking sector. James Marwick is also a key name to note.Western Circuit > Property and construction Tier 1
‘High-quality set‘ St John’s Chambers houses a team with established strength in handling contentious property matters and construction issues. Christopher Jones heads up the property team, and has been kept busy advising on cases involving disputed ownership of land. In 2021 Brittany Pearce joined from Guildhall Chambers. Leslie Blohm KC, as was, has been appointed a Senior Circuit Judge.Rising stars
Brittany Pearce - St John's Chambers 'Brittany is pragmatic and solution-focused. She provides excellent, incisive advice, and is extremely effective with clients and in court.'
Leading Juniors
Charles Auld - St John's Chambers 'Charles has superb in-depth knowledge of even the most esoteric points of property law. Coupled with a commercially sensible and robust approach to problem solving, and a winning manner with clients, this makes him a first choice for property disputes.'
Christopher Jones - St John's Chambers 'Christopher has great technical knowledge and an excellent grasp of the law. He is very personable and builds very good client rapport.'
John Sharples - St John's Chambers 'John has a superb ability to identify and crystallise the issues and apply the law to them. He is thorough and decisive in his work and utterly reliable in this field.'
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers 'Oliver is very knowledgeable and experienced. He is able to quickly get to grips with complex information, clients feel understood when represented by him, and he works well under pressure.'
Adam Boyle - St John's Chambers 'Adam is incredibly knowledgeable in his field, with a wealth of expertise. He is an excellent and very persuasive advocate.'
Natasha Dzameh - St John's Chambers 'Natasha is very analytical. She goes the extra mile. Her advice and drafting are detailed and she is always keen for a challenge. Natasha is able to build a good rapport with clients with her grounded approach and ability to explain complex legal principles.'
Testimonials
Set
‘Top quality counsel with in-depth subject knowledge.’
‘The barristers are approachable, talented and provide a first class service.’
‘Good reputable set in the South West.’
‘Great strength in depth.’
Clerking
‘Simon Lyons is an excellent clerk – responsive and friendly.’
‘Simon Lyons is excellent to deal with and extremely helpful.’
Western Circuit > Company and insolvency
Leading Juniors
Charlie Newington-Bridges - St John's Chambers 'He is commercially minded and extremely able, and has a solution-focussed depth to his advice.'
James Pearce-Smith - St John's Chambers 'James always considers the wider commercial implications of an action for the client. His advice is always balanced and measured, and he has a keen eye for detail.'
Western Circuit > Costs
Leading Juniors
Darren Lewis – St John’s Chambers ‘Darren is a trusted name in costs matters on the Western circuit. Solicitors have the same confidence in entrusting him with work as one would a barrister from a specialist London set. His knowledge is current and broad, his advocacy is sharp and effective, and his advice is to the point.’
Western Circuit > Licensing
Leading Juniors
Roy Light - St John's Chambers ‘Roy is extremely familiar with licensing law and its application. He is practical, sensible, easy to contact, and his advice is authoritative and commercial. He has a great rapport with clients.'
Western Circuit > Planning and environment
Leading Juniors
Harry Spurr – St John’s Chambers ‘Harry is forensic in his approach to analysing the strengths of a case. He has a commercial outlook and is acutely aware of client objectives. He is personable and a pleasure to work with, yet is capable of taking a tough stand when required.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Agriculture Tier 1
At St John’s Chambers, members have expertise across a wide spectrum of agricultural issues, including sales and purchases of land, inheritance disputes involving farmland estates, and proprietary estoppel cases. At the junior end of chambers, Alex Troup has an excellent track record in acting on inheritance disputes – often involving proprietary estoppel claims – pertaining to estates, and Oliver Wooding regularly advises landowners and farming tenants on a range of rural affairs issues. Christopher Jones‘ recent workload includes farming partnership disputes.Leading Juniors
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers 'Oliver is absolutely solid. He has an excellent knowledge of the practice area, and his reassuring and calming style is a real asset.'
Alex Troup - St John's Chambers ‘A confident advocate and an authoritative speaker in this area. He builds a good relationship with clients and solicitors; charming in conference.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A leading set in the South West for this type of work.’
Clerking
‘The clerks are understanding and responsive, and are always happy to look for a solution to any issue that might arise.’
‘The clerks always provide a very good service with prompt and helpful responses.’
‘Paul Bennett is a star clerk.’
‘Simon Lyons is excellent to deal with and extremely helpful.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Chancery, probate, and tax Tier 1
With a reputation as ‘a leading regional heavy-weight‘, St John’s Chambers is ‘very strong in contentious probate‘ and ‘the leading set for trusts and estates work in the South West‘, according to instructing solicitors. Prior to his October 2022 appointment to the Circuit bench, Leslie Blohm KC (as was) acted in Sofer v Swissindependent Trustees, involving a breach of trust claim brought against the trustees following the payment of unsecured loans to the settlor. Alex Troup is ‘excellent on his feet‘ and successfully represented the defendants in a case involved a dispute over a farmer’s will. Joss Knight is well-versed in handling cases involving Inheritance Act claims and disputed wills.Leading Juniors
John Dickinson - St John's Chambers ‘John is very thorough, and can marshal complex facts to provide clear legal advice. He is efficient and good with clients.'
Natasha Dzameh - St John's Chambers 'Natasha digests the tricky elements of a case and plans out a robust, yet practical, strategy for resolving issues. She brings clarity and direction to a matter. Her advice is very astute.'
Alex Troup - St John's Chambers ‘Alex is extremely astute and robust. He commands respect in the courtroom.'
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers ‘An excellent problem solver with a forensic eye for detail. His reassuring and calming style is a real asset.'
Adam Boyle - St John's Chambers ‘Adam is extremely user-friendly; methodical, clever and highly personable. Very responsive.'
Christopher Jones - St John's Chambers 'An excellent trial advocate who is unafraid to fight his corner.'
Joss Knight - St John's Chambers ‘Joss provides a clear strategy in each case. He is confident in court and able to effectively put forward his client's position.'
Michael Clarke - St John's Chambers 'A barrister with a sharp intellect, who is also pragmatic and great with clients.'
Testimonials
Set
‘St John’s Chambers is a very strong and friendly set. It is a go-to in the South West for all Chancery disputes, particularly those involving inheritance and trust disputes.’
‘A thoroughly modern set.’
‘A strong set of barristers with vast expertise in Chancery work, with a good range of experience and seniority.’
‘Excellent service across the board.’
‘Very reliable set.’
Clerking
‘The clerks’ team is really outstanding. They go out of their way to make it easy. Always contactable and understand the pressures for solicitors.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Clinical negligence Tier 1
St John’s Chambers is noted by clients as being a ‘go-to set in the South West for clinical negligence‘. Justin Valentine is ‘very thorough‘, and predominantly acts for claimants in birth and neonatal injury claims, delayed cancer diagnoses and negligent nursing care cases. The ‘razor-sharp, focussed, thorough and clear‘ Robert Mills has an excellent reputation for handling dental negligence cases. Rachel Segal is regularly instructed in cases involving claims of negligent cosmetic procedures, obstetric care and delayed diagnoses.Leading Juniors
Justin Valentine - St John's Chambers 'He has a no-nonsense and forensic approach, is good in managing client expectations and possesses fantastic attention to detail. Excellent in dealing with medical experts.'
Robert Mills - St John's Chambers 'Robert is an outstanding barrister; he combines forensic analysis with pragmatic problem solving. He guides experts and clients in a methodical yet relaxed manner which allows him to challenge expert views if necessary, without ruffling feathers.'
James Marwick - St John's Chambers 'A junior who prepares meticulously and will fight a case for you.'
Rachel Segal - St John's Chambers 'An approachable barrister who provides reasoned and concise advice.'
Testimonials
Set
‘St John’s Chambers is an excellent set.’
‘A good regional set with a solid reputation.’
‘A very slick outfit.’
Clerking
‘The clerks are fantastic. Derek Jenkins will go out of his way to assist instructing solicitors.’
‘The clerks are always very on the ball and have always been very helpful, approachable and friendly.’
‘Adam Marston and Hugh Maguire are great. Always available and flexible, and very personable as well.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Commercial litigation Tier 1
Led by James Pearce-Smith, the ‘very experienced‘ team at St John’s Chambers is regularly instructed by individuals and large companies in a wide range of contentious work. Contractual disputes are a core area of expertise for Leslie Blohm KC. Charlie Newington-Bridges is ‘very user-friendly and able to engage very positively with judges in court, helping to turn round difficult cases‘. Natasha Dzameh has ‘excellent understanding of the issues and laws‘, and has a solid track record in representing financial institutions and international companies in cases involving alleged breaches of contract and restraint of trade. Nicholas Pointon is now a senior lecturer at the University of Exeter, and Leslie Blohm KC, as was, was appointed a Senior Circuit Judge in October 2022.Leading Juniors
Charlie Newington-Bridges - St John's Chambers 'Charlie is commercially minded and extremely able. He is good at quickly getting to grips with the crux of a complicated factual matrix. He offers commercial solutions to intractable problems.'
James Pearce-Smith - St John's Chambers 'James is a very effective advocate. He has a thorough grasp of details and presents the issues in a comprehensive but extremely clear order.'
Christopher Jones - St John's Chambers 'A junior who is very good on his feet in court, and has an excellent manner with clients.'
John Dickinson - St John's Chambers 'He gets to the heart of the matter swiftly, and his analysis is crystal-clear. He also has a firm and reassuring manner with clients.'
Natasha Dzameh - St John's Chambers 'Natasha has forensic attention to detail and is very analytical. She provides clear-headed, focussed advice which is understandable to clients. A very efficient barrister.'
Matthew O'Regan - St John's Chambers 'Matthew has a strong understanding of competition law. He communicates very clearly and easily for commercial clients in such a way that they quickly understand the complex issues at hand.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A good set with great depth.’
‘User-friendly barristers.’
‘The barristers have all been of top quality.’
Clerking
‘Simon Lyons is very friendly and will always try to fit in any piece of work I send across. He responds promptly.’
‘Paul Bennett and Simon Lyons always respond quickly and are clear on fee estimates.’
‘Simon Lyons and Elizabeth Champion are helpful and responsive.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Court of Protection and community care Tier 1
St John’s Chambers is ‘a very strong and friendly set‘, and is home to a Court of Protection group well known for its strength in handling property and affairs disputes. The team represents a range of parties in matters, including the Official Solicitor, local authorities and family members. Alex Troup and Oliver Wooding continue to advise on cases involving contested deputyship and lasting power of attorney applications, as well as issues of health and welfare and mental capacity.Leading Juniors
Alex Troup - St John's Chambers ‘Alex is the whole package. He is as excellent on his feet as he is on the papers. He has in-depth knowledge and commands respect in the courtroom.'
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers 'Oliver is excellent with clients. He is able to strike a good balance between being authoritative and empathetic in what are often very sensitive matters. His advice is thorough and reliable.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A set upon which you can rely.’
Clerking
‘The clerks are knowledgeable and friendly. They will always provide assistance and guidance where required.’
‘Rob Bocock is a star clerk.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Family and children law Tier 1
St John’s Chambers is a ‘very strong family set‘, housing a team which ‘covers all aspects of family law‘. Christopher Sharp KC ‘is always first-rate‘, with an established track record in acting for guardians, local authorities and parents in serious cases of alleged child abuse, and complex financial remedy claims involving foreign pensions and assets. Judi Evans is ‘determined and unflappable‘, and is sought after for her expertise in cases involving child abduction and international relocation of children. The ‘tenacious‘ Lucy Reed recently represented a journalist before the Court of Appeal in a case concerning the publication of a fact-finding judgment and subsequent identification of the parents. Zoe Saunders heads up the family finance group, and is regularly instructed in cases involving cohabitation disputes.Leading Silks: Child Law (Public and Private)
Christopher Sharp KC - St John's Chambers 'A formidable cross-examiner with a ferocious intellect.'
Leading Silks: Divorce and Financial Remedy
Christopher Sharp KC - St John's Chambers 'Thorough, tenacious, precise, and measured.'
Leading Juniors: Child Law (Public and Private)
Abigail Bond - St John's Chambers 'She is always well-prepared and always calm. She is at her best when cross-examining vulnerable lay parties.'
Judi Evans - St John's Chambers 'She is a champion of child law.'
Susan Hunter - St John's Chambers 'A formidable advocate who provides clear and consistent advice.'
Lucy Reed - St John's Chambers 'Lucy is completely unflappable. She always has a realistic, measured and well thought out approach. Organised and conscientious. Comfortably holds her own against silks. An outstanding advocate.'
Caroline Elford - St John's Chambers 'She is exceptionally well-prepared and puts forward her clients' cases robustly.'
Ryan Morgan - St John's Chambers 'A natural advocate with a very good work ethic. Ryan gives clients sound and clear advice, and manages their expectations well.'
Olivia Pike - St John's Chambers 'She is very approachable and always able to give detailed, balanced and clear legal advice. A tenacious and skilled advocate, who is able to expertly and effectively cross- examine both professional and lay witnesses.'
Leading Juniors: Divorce and Financial Remedy
Andrew Commins –St John’s Chambers 'An impressive advocate who has the ear of the court and provides sound advice.'
Jody Atkinson - St John's Chambers 'A hugely intelligent junior whose advocacy is compelling.'
Richard Norman - St John's Chambers 'A very approachable and user-friendly barrister. He gives pragmatic and sensible advice, yet will always fight the client's corner. He takes a very considered approach but can push hard when needed. A junior who punches well above his weight.'
Zoë Saunders - St John's Chambers 'A very dedicated barrister who is always keen for a challenge.'
Bethany Scarsbrook - St John's Chambers 'Bethany is fiercely intelligent, forthright and dynamic. She is, forensically, extremely astute and provides sensible, client-focused advice.'
Jack Harris –St John’s Chambers 'An eloquent advocate who exudes warmth and charm.'
Testimonials
Set
‘A first-class set.’
‘There is an excellent range of expertise across the set in relation to family work.’
‘A very strong family team.’
‘St John’s Chambers is very efficient and counsel are exceptional.’
‘An excellent chambers with strength-in-depth.’
Clerking
‘Elaine Jewell-Moore goes over and above to help find available counsel and is a pleasure to deal with.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Personal injury Tier 1
The team at St John’s Chambers is praised by clients for its ‘deep breadth of knowledge on all aspects of personal injury‘. ‘Superb advocate‘ Christopher Sharp KC has an excellent track record in representing claimants and defendants in high-value catastrophic spinal and brain injury cases. Senior junior Andrew McLaughlin is particularly strong as a trial lawyer in this field. In recent work, Matthew White and James Marwick appeared in Brown v South West Lakes Trust and others, a Court of Appeal case arising from a fatal car accident in 2017; issues in the case included the extent of the duty of care owed to unintentional trespassers by occupiers of land adjoining the highway.Leading Silks
Christopher Sharp KC - St John's Chambers 'A leading silk in this area. He is fastidious with a fine forensic mind.'
Leading Juniors
Andrew McLaughlin – St John’s Chambers ‘His forensic exploration of the material is his great strength. With Andrew you know he will leave no stone unturned. Clients love him. He is down to earth and personable so that lay and professional clients both equally enjoy working with him. His breadth of experience is a great asset. He is as good dealing with fundamental dishonesty cases as a catastrophic injury case. A superb senior junior.’
Richard Stead - St John's Chambers 'A very good trial advocate with courtroom gravitas.'
Matthew White - St John's Chambers 'Matthew is very astute, and very good on technical detail concerning expert evidence.'
Ben Handy - St John's Chambers 'Ben is very astute and gets to the heart of the issue straight away. He is a details man, yet he communicates in a very clear and concise manner, which enables all concerned to focus on the core issues. He is a very personable barrister.'
James Marwick - St John's Chambers 'James does not back away from a difficult or challenging case. He is robust yet able to change his style in cross examination, depending on the individual in front of him, and his advocacy is second to none. He has an excellent way with clients to make them feel at ease.'
Darren Lewis - St John's Chambers 'Darren is a tenacious advocate who presents his clients' cases with true passion. He is a formidable presence in court; he consistently demonstrates tenacity and rigour and is fearless in cross-examination.'
Rachel Segal - St John's Chambers 'She has impeccable attention to detail, and is able to give quick and firm advice on difficult questions.'
James Hughes - St John's Chambers 'A tenacious advocate, who is very approachable and appreciated by clients and witnesses alike for his easy-going manner and interpersonal skills.'
Testimonials
Set
‘St John’s Chambers has a wide breadth of expertise and experience.’
‘Always able to offer available counsel at the right level on any case.’
‘Strength-in-depth.’
‘A highly efficient set.’
Clerking
‘The clerks of St John’s are outstanding and deserve a special mention. Adam Marston combines a wicked sense of humour with good knowledge of the strengths of the barristers within his care and is always able to make helpful recommendations. Hugh Maguire is also extremely helpful and always willing to go the extra mile.’
‘Hugh Maguire is a first-rate clerk. Easy to work with, a good problem-solver and quick with communications.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Professional negligence Tier 1
Bristol’s St John’s Chambers houses a team which is regularly instructed in cases involving claims against surveyors and solicitors, and is especially strong in handling work brought against architects. John Dickinson acts for banks and insurer clients in a range of professional negligence disputes, and Joss Knight has solid expertise in advising on claims brought against valuers, contract administrators and builders. James Pearce-Smith is sought after for his expertise in assisting claimants, with a core focus on acting for lender clients in cases relating to the banking sector. James Marwick is also a key name to note.Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Property and construction Tier 1
‘High-quality set‘ St John’s Chambers houses a team with established strength in handling contentious property matters and construction issues. Christopher Jones heads up the property team, and has been kept busy advising on cases involving disputed ownership of land. In 2021 Brittany Pearce joined from Guildhall Chambers. Leslie Blohm KC, as was, has been appointed a Senior Circuit Judge.Rising stars
Brittany Pearce - St John's Chambers 'Brittany is pragmatic and solution-focused. She provides excellent, incisive advice, and is extremely effective with clients and in court.'
Leading Juniors
Charles Auld - St John's Chambers 'Charles has superb in-depth knowledge of even the most esoteric points of property law. Coupled with a commercially sensible and robust approach to problem solving, and a winning manner with clients, this makes him a first choice for property disputes.'
Christopher Jones - St John's Chambers 'Christopher has great technical knowledge and an excellent grasp of the law. He is very personable and builds very good client rapport.'
John Sharples - St John's Chambers 'John has a superb ability to identify and crystallise the issues and apply the law to them. He is thorough and decisive in his work and utterly reliable in this field.'
Oliver Wooding - St John's Chambers 'Oliver is very knowledgeable and experienced. He is able to quickly get to grips with complex information, clients feel understood when represented by him, and he works well under pressure.'
Adam Boyle - St John's Chambers 'Adam is incredibly knowledgeable in his field, with a wealth of expertise. He is an excellent and very persuasive advocate.'
Natasha Dzameh - St John's Chambers 'Natasha is very analytical. She goes the extra mile. Her advice and drafting are detailed and she is always keen for a challenge. Natasha is able to build a good rapport with clients with her grounded approach and ability to explain complex legal principles.'
Testimonials
Set
‘Top quality counsel with in-depth subject knowledge.’
‘The barristers are approachable, talented and provide a first class service.’
‘Good reputable set in the South West.’
‘Great strength in depth.’
Clerking
‘Simon Lyons is an excellent clerk – responsive and friendly.’
‘Simon Lyons is excellent to deal with and extremely helpful.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Company and insolvency
Leading Juniors
Charlie Newington-Bridges - St John's Chambers 'He is commercially minded and extremely able, and has a solution-focussed depth to his advice.'
James Pearce-Smith - St John's Chambers 'James always considers the wider commercial implications of an action for the client. His advice is always balanced and measured, and he has a keen eye for detail.'
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Costs
Leading Juniors
Darren Lewis – St John’s Chambers ‘Darren is a trusted name in costs matters on the Western circuit. Solicitors have the same confidence in entrusting him with work as one would a barrister from a specialist London set. His knowledge is current and broad, his advocacy is sharp and effective, and his advice is to the point.’
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Licensing
Leading Juniors
Roy Light - St John's Chambers ‘Roy is extremely familiar with licensing law and its application. He is practical, sensible, easy to contact, and his advice is authoritative and commercial. He has a great rapport with clients.'
Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Planning and environment
Leading Juniors
Harry Spurr – St John’s Chambers ‘Harry is forensic in his approach to analysing the strengths of a case. He has a commercial outlook and is acutely aware of client objectives. He is personable and a pleasure to work with, yet is capable of taking a tough stand when required.’
St John's Chambers > Set Profile
St John’s Chambers is one of the largest and most prestigious barristers’ sets in the South West, with 6 silks and over 80 juniors attracting high-quality work in all major areas of civil law. We were voted ‘Set of the Year’ (outside London) by The Legal 500 Bar Awards 2022, and ‘Chambers of the Year 2022’ by Bristol Law Society. We have recently been shortlisted ‘Regional Set of the Year’ by Chambers UK Bar Awards 2022.
We demonstrate excellence and innovation in the provision of legal services having been involved in a number of landmark decisions in the High Court and Court of Appeal. As one of the go-to chambers for legal advice outside London, we receive high level complex instructions from law firms across the UK, multi-national businesses, high net-worth individuals and people from all walks of life. The leading directories describe us as a ‘Western Circuit Powerhouse’ (Legal 500) and ‘Like having London-quality barristers on your doorstep.’ (Chambers UK).
Our stand-out legal expertise is evidenced by the number of our members who go on to distinguished service in the judiciary. Within the team we have five Recorders, one fee-paid Judge of the Upper Tier Tribunal, two High Court Judges, three Deputy District Judges, an Assistant Deputy Coroner and three members on the Attorney General list.
Our commitment
Whether you are a law firm, a business, a public sector organisation or a private individual, you can be sure you will receive legal expertise and client care of the very highest standards from St John’s. Our barristers are described by peers as easy to work with and committed to delivering quality advice on time. They will prepare the strongest possible case and keep all parties informed at every stage. As part of our commitment to our clients, we make sure all communications are timely, clear and concise.
Our clients
Our client base includes regional and national law firms, representing and advising prominent businesses and private individuals. We also provide advice and representation under the public access scheme to members of the public and individual professionals and executives such as planning consultants, managing directors and doctors. Read more.
Areas of work
We have top tier expertise in: agriculture & rural affairs, clinical negligence, commercial, construction & engineering, Court of Protection, employment, family & divorce, health & safety, inquests & public inquiries, international arbitration, licensing, personal injury, planning, professional negligence, public & administrative law, real estate, tax, and wills & trusts.
Mediation
For cases where mediation is appropriate, we have a team of 26 qualified mediators available to assist in the capacity of adviser, advocate or mediator.
Main Contacts
| Department | Name | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief executive | Simon Rhodes | ||
| Head of Marketing & Events | Sarah Sands | ||
| Office manager | Isabelle Mills | ||
| Key clerking contacts | Rob Bocock (commercial and Chancery) | ||
| Key clerking contacts | Luke Hodgson (family) | ||
| Key clerking contacts | Adam Marston and Hugh Maguire (personal injury and clinical negligence) | ||
| Members of Chambers | SHARP KC, Christopher (1975) | ||
| Members of Chambers | BLOHM KC, Leslie (1982) | ||
| Members of Chambers | WILSON-SMITH KC, Christopher (1965)* | ||
| Members of Chambers | ORNSBY KC, Suzanne (1986)* | ||
| Members of Chambers | PHILLIPS KC, Matthew (1993) | ||
| Members of Chambers | GODWIN KC, William (1986)* | ||
| Members of Chambers | O'SULLIVAN KC, Derek (1990)* | ||
| Members of Chambers | BLACKMORE, John (1983) | ||
| Members of Chambers | STEAD, Richard (1979) | ||
| Members of Chambers | NEILL, Robin (1979) | ||
| Members of Chambers | AULD, Charles (1980) | ||
| Members of Chambers | WADSLEY, Peter (1984) | ||
| Members of Chambers | HUNTER, Susan (1985) | ||
| Members of Chambers | MILLER, Nick (1994) | ||
| Members of Chambers | MORGAN, Simon (1988) | ||
| Members of Chambers | SHARPLES, John (1992) | ||
| Members of Chambers | MARTIN, Dianne (1992) | ||
| Members of Chambers | LIGHT, Prof Roy (1992) | ||
| Members of Chambers | McLAUGHLIN, Andrew (1993) | ||
| Members of Chambers | PHILLIMORE, Sarah (1994) | ||
| Members of Chambers | PEARCE-SMITH, James (2002) | ||
| Members of Chambers | DICKINSON, John (1995) | ||
| Members of Chambers | EVANS, Judi (1996) | ||
| Members of Chambers | WHITE, Matthew (1997) | ||
| Members of Chambers | O'REGAN, Matthew (2015) | ||
| Members of Chambers | HORNE, Julian (1998) | ||
| Members of Chambers | TROUP, Alex (1998) | ||
| Members of Chambers | BOND, Abigail (1999) | ||
| Members of Chambers | VALENTINE, Justin (1999) | ||
| Members of Chambers | THORNTON, Delia (1999} | ||
| Members of Chambers | HUSSAIN, Zahid (2001) | ||
| Members of Chambers | RUSSELL, Rachel (2001) | ||
| Members of Chambers | REED, Lucy (2002) | ||
| Members of Chambers | ELFORD, Caroline (2002) | ||
| Members of Chambers | BELYAVIN, Julia (2003) | ||
| Members of Chambers | SAUNDERS, Zoe (2003) | ||
| Members of Chambers | TAYLOR, Rebecca (2003) | ||
| Members of Chambers | JONES, Christopher (2004) | ||
| Members of Chambers | LEWIS, Darren (2004) | ||
| Members of Chambers | ATKINSON, Jody (2005) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Asprey, Louise (2007) | ||
| Members of Chambers | WEST, Patrick (2007) | ||
| Members of Chambers | HANDY, Ben (2008) | ||
| Members of Chambers | PIKE, Olivia (2008) | ||
| Members of Chambers | BARBER, Jimmy (2008) | ||
| Members of Chambers | MARWICK, James (2008) | ||
| Members of Chambers | CLARKE, Michael (2009) | ||
| Members of Chambers | WOODING, Oliver (2009) | ||
| Members of Chambers | NORMAN, Richard (2009) | ||
| Members of Chambers | DZAMEH, Natasha (2010) | ||
| Members of Chambers | NEWINGTON-BRIDGES, Charlie (2011) | ||
| Members of Chambers | HUGHES, James (2011) | ||
| Members of Chambers | BOYLE, Adam (2012) | ||
| Members of Chambers | HARRIS, Jack (2012) | ||
| Members of Chambers | GROVES, Asha (2013) | ||
| Members of Chambers | SEGAL, Rachel (2013) | ||
| Members of Chambers | MILLS, Robert (2014) | ||
| Members of Chambers | KNIGHT, Joss (2014) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Scarsbrook, Bethany (2014) | ||
| Members of Chambers | RILEY, Oliver (2013) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Smith-Holland, SOPHIE (2015) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Dudbridge, HARRIET (2015) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Soar, Daniel (2016) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Sampson, ANNIE (2017) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Lindfield, JONATHAN (2017) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Thompson, GEORGINA (2017) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Jones, RHODRI (2017) | ||
| Fincham, Sarah (2018) | |||
| Members of Chambers | Morton, Dominik (2018) | ||
| Members of Chambers | Forster, DAVID (2018) | ||
| PEARSON, KATE (2019) | |||
| Pankhurst, Jack (2021) | |||
| M. Panizzon-Pineda, Diana (2021) | |||
| Pritchard, Glen (2022) | |||
| Bloomfield, Kayleigh (2021) |
Barrister Profiles
| Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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 | Louise Asprey | Louise has many years of experience representing both claimants and defendants in… | View Profile |
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| Jody Atkinson | Jody is described in Chambers UK as “a very bright guy of… | View Profile |
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| Charles Auld | Charles has specialised in land-related matters for over 30 years. He has… | View Profile |
 | Jimmy Barber | Jimmy is a specialist practitioner in the fields of clinical negligence, personal… | View Profile |
 | Julia Belyavin | Julia specialises in family law and her practice encompasses all areas within… | View Profile |
 | John Blackmore | Barrister specialising in all areas of commercial litigation. Boasts particular expertise and… | View Profile |
 | Leslie Blohm | Chancery and commercial practitioner with a strong emphasis on property law. Real… | View Profile |
 | Kayleigh Bloomfield | View Profile | |
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| Abigail Bond | Abigail practises in all aspects of the law relating to children and… | View Profile |
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| Adam Boyle | Adam is a specialist Commercial and Chancery barrister. His practice covers a… | View Profile |
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| Michael Clarke | Michael has a commercial and chancery practice. His particular areas of expertise… | View Profile |
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| Andrew Commins | Andrew is a family law barrister specialising in all matters of family… | View Profile |
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| John Dickinson | John specialises in chancery and commercial litigation. John’s chancery practice includes contentious… | View Profile |
 | Harriet Dudbridge | Harriet is a specialist family law barrister who practises in the following… | View Profile |
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| Natasha Dzameh | Natasha has been described in the legal directories as someone who has “a… | View Profile |
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| Caroline Elford | Caroline is a specialist family barrister who practises in all areas of… | View Profile |
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| Judi Evans | Barrister specialising in planning, local government, environment and licensing law, as well… | View Profile |
 | Miss Sarah Fincham | Sarah has recently joined the Family & Divorce team, formerly a barrister… | View Profile |
 | David Forster | David is a member of the Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence teams, and joined Chambers following… | View Profile |
 | Asha Groves | Asha practises in all aspects of the law relating to children. Her… | View Profile |
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| Ben Handy | Chambers’ Head of Pupillage, Ben is an experienced personal injury barrister specialising… | View Profile |
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| Jack Harris | Jack is recognised in Chambers & Partners as a specialist family barrister.… | View Profile |
 | Julian Horne | Julian works in all aspects of personal injury law including employers’ and… | View Profile |
 | Sophie Howard | View Profile | |
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| James Hughes | James is a specialist personal injury and clinical negligence practitioner. He has… | View Profile |
 | Jacqueline Humphreys | Call: 1994 Jacqueline is a confident and highly competent advocate, specialising in… | View Profile |
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| Susan Hunter | Susan has over 20 years’ experience working in family law at all… | View Profile |
 | Zahid Hussain | Specialist family law practitioner; undertakes all aspects of private and public Children’s… | View Profile |
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| Christopher Jones | Christopher is a chancery and commercial specialist with particular emphasis on trust… | View Profile |
 | Rhodri Jones | Rhodri’s practice focusses on clinical negligence, inquests, and personal injury. Rhodri specialises… | View Profile |
 | Lauren Karmel | View Profile | |
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| Joss Knight | Joss has a varied commercial and chancery practice spanning commercial/contractual disputes, real… | View Profile |
 | Tim Leader | Tim specialises in planning, compulsory purchase, local government and commercial law. He… | View Profile |
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| Darren Lewis | Darren specialises in personal injury and employment matters, and was called to… | View Profile |
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| Prof Roy Light | Prof Light enjoys a national reputation for the quality of his work.… | View Profile |
 | Jonathan Lindfield | Jonathan is a sought-after personal injury barrister, acting for both claimants and… | View Profile |
 | Dianne Martin | Specialist family practitioner: Dianne practises across the spectrum of family work with… | View Profile |
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| James Marwick | James is an experienced personal injury and clinical negligence barrister with… | View Profile |
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| Andrew Mclaughlin | Talented and popular practitioner. Known for his ability to provide swift and… | View Profile |
 | Nick Miller | Formerly a solicitor, Nick has specialised in family law, exclusively financial cases,… | View Profile |
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| Robert Mills | Robert is a clinical negligence specialist, acting for both claimants and defendants.… | View Profile |
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| Ryan Morgan | Ryan accepts instructions in all areas of family law with a particular… | View Profile |
 | Simon Morgan | Senior member of chambers specialising in regulatory matters and serious crime. Significant… | View Profile |
 | Dominik Morton | Dominik attends courts across the Western Circuit, assisting clients in highly emotional… | View Profile |
 | Robin Neill | Robin is a highly experienced lawyer, bringing with him the twin benefits… | View Profile |
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| Charlie Newington-bridges | Charlie undertakes a wide range of commercial and chancery work in litigation,… | View Profile |
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| Richard Norman | Richard practises in family law and is a member of the family… | View Profile |
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| Matthew O'Regan | Matthew, a former Solicitor, is a specialist competition and regulatory lawyer. He… | View Profile |
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| Matthew O'Regan | Matthew, a former Solicitor, is a specialist competition and regulatory lawyer. He… | View Profile |
 | Diana Panizzon-Pineda | View Profile | |
 | Jack Pankhurst | View Profile | |
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| Brittany Pearce | View Profile | |
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| James Pearce-smith | Barrister specialising in commercial and chancery litigation. Areas of practice: commercial contract… | View Profile |
 | Kate Pearson | Kate appears on behalf of applicants and respondents at all stages of… | View Profile |
 | Sarah Phillimore | Undertakes public and private law children applications. Sarah is registered with the… | View Profile |
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| Olivia Pike | Olivia is a family law barrister, specialising in public and private law… | View Profile |
 | Glen Pritchard | Glen has recently joined our Family & Divorce team following a successful… | View Profile |
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| Lucy Reed | Lucy is a family law specialist and has practiced in family law throughout… | View Profile |
 | Oliver Riley | Oliver appears on behalf of applicants and respondents at all… | View Profile |
 | Rachel Russell | Specialist personal injury practitioner. Busy practice acting for both claimants (on a… | View Profile |
 | Annie Sampson | Annie’s broad commercial and chancery practice encompasses wills and trusts work, real… | View Profile |
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| Zoe Saunders | Zoë is a specialist family law barrister and mediator, and completed her… | View Profile |
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| Bethany Scarsbrook | Bethany has developed a busy and thriving junior practice as a specialist… | View Profile |
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| Bethany Scarsbrook | Bethany has developed a busy and thriving junior practice as a specialist… | View Profile |
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| Rachel Segal | View Profile | |
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| Christopher Sharp | A personal injury and family law specialist with many years experience, who… | View Profile |
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| John Sharples | Barrister specialising in all areas of real property and landlord and tenant… | View Profile |
 | Sophie Smith-Holland | Sophie is a specialist family law practitioner with a thriving junior practice… | View Profile |
 | Daniel Soar | Daniel is building a broad chancery and commercial practice and is accepting… | View Profile |
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| Harry Spurr | View Profile | |
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| Richard Stead | One of Chambers most senior practitioners, Richard Stead has an extensive practice… | View Profile |
 | Rebecca Taylor | Rebecca is an experienced civil practitioner specialising in construction and personal injury.… | View Profile |
 | Georgina Thompson | Georgina is a commercial and chancery practitioner and a qualified mediator. She… | View Profile |
 | Delia Thornton | Specialises in family law and deals with a wide range of public… | View Profile |
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| Alex Troup | Alex is ranked as the only ‘star individual’ on the Western Circuit… | View Profile |
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| Justin Valentine | Justin specialises in clinical negligence and personal injury litigation. He undertakes all… | View Profile |
 | Peter Wadsley | Barrister specialising in planning and local government law, environment law and licensing.… | View Profile |
 | Patrick West | Practises in all areas of personal injury work for both claimants and… | View Profile |
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| Matthew White | Matthew routinely deals with all aspects of personal injury litigation for both… | View Profile |
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| Oliver Wooding | Chancery practitioner and mediator focussing on contentious and non-contentious probate and inheritance… | View Profile |
Client Testimonials
CLIENT: Sarah Walls
COMPANY/FIRM: Stephens Scown
TESTIMONIAL: “As a firm we use St Johns Chambers on a very regular basis – they are one of the “go-to” sets with a wide range of excellent barristers across different levels of experience. Generally, the barristers all have a superb manner with our clients, a detailed understanding and knowledge of the law, and a practical approach to the resolution of family law cases. We have great confidence in using St Johns Chambers. Their clerking team are superb – they are approachable, friendly, and easy to use. They regularly go out of their way to make our lives easier, and to accommodate requests.
CLIENT: Nick Cooper
COMPANY/FIRM: TLT Solicitors
TESTIMONIAL: “An impressive regional set, going toe-to-toe in terms quality with sets from London, the barristers at St John’s offer high-calibre, insightful and practical advice delivered in a client-focused manner. The clerks, Luke Hodgson and Elaine Jewell-Moore in particular, regularly go the extra mile to deliver service beyond reproach. Whether instructions are complex or straightforward, high or low value, the set is well-placed to fit the right person to the task. Both senior and junior counsel are reliably excellent and leaders or leaders-to-be in their fields.”
CLIENT: Natalie Drew
COMPANY/FIRM: TLT Solicitors
TESTIMONIAL: “St John’s are always our first choice and have an excellent reputation. A strong chambers with robust individuals who take a practical approach, both in relation to finance and children work. They are not only effective advocates, but they also work alongside you from day one. Clients truly appreciate they have a team around them, helping build tactical solutions and fighting their corner when needed. Their clerks are second to none, friendly and approachable and always armed with solutions, no matter what you throw at them. As a chambers they never fail to impress.”
CLIENT: Stephanie Bradley
COMPANY/FIRM: Alletsons Solicitors
TESTIMONIAL: “I have used St Johns for many years as they have a wide range of experience within their family team to match with the variety of hearings needing to be covered. I have used experienced junior counsel as lead with their own junior which has been a great combination and would use again. I have also been very happy to instruct new counsel recommended by clerks who have never let me down. Would highly recommend.”
CLIENT: Spencer Collier
COMPANY/FIRM: Geldards LLP
TESTIMONIAL: “I have recently started to use them and find them an excellent set. They are very well clerked and efficient, and nothing is too much trouble.”
- Western Circuit > Agriculture
- Western Circuit > Chancery, probate, and tax
- Western Circuit > Clinical negligence
- Western Circuit > Commercial litigation
- Western Circuit > Court of Protection and community care
- Western Circuit > Family and children law
- Western Circuit > Personal injury
- Western Circuit > Professional negligence
- Western Circuit > Property and construction
Top Tier Set Rankings
- Western Circuit > Company and insolvency
- Western Circuit > Costs
- Western Circuit > Licensing
- Western Circuit > Planning and environment
Set Rankings
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Agriculture
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Chancery, probate, and tax
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Clinical negligence
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Commercial litigation
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Court of Protection and community care
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Family and children law
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Personal injury
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Professional negligence
- Regional Bar > Western Circuit > Property and construction