QEB Hollis Whiteman‘s barristers are sought after by companies and executives to advise on SFO investigations and prosecutions concerning allegations of cross-border bribery and fraud. Ben FitzGerald KC has a strong track record in defending companies in SFO prosecutions relating allegations of bribery. Adrian Darbishire KC is 'at the very top of the financial crime Bar', 'a great advocate who commands the attention of judge and jury alike'. Among the juniors, Mark Aldred continues to act for a former Glencore executive in ongoing proceedings concerning the SFO's investigation into alleged bribery offences involving officials in five different West African countries. Allison Clare KC joined the team in February 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Chris Emmings’ judgement on the right horse for the right course is excellent.'
  • 'The clerks are exceptional. Chris Emmings and Faye Stimpson are an absolute pleasure to work with.'
  • 'Faye Stimpson is good to deal with.'
  • 'Very well established and knowledgeable clerks' room.'
  • 'A leading set in business and regulatory crime.'
  • 'QEB is a standout set for business crime and regulation. There is quality throughout.'

Lawyers

Leading Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

1
Adrian Darbishire KC
‘Adrian is an excellent silk with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the law. His advocacy is skilful, elegant and persuasive. He has the ability to charm even the most difficult of judges or opponents.’
2
Mark Ellison KC
3
William Boyce KC
3
Allison Clare KC
‘Allison is technically brilliant. She is able to efficiently take incredibly complex facts and areas of the law and make them appear clear and simple. She has tremendous judgement, works tirelessly, and presents as a dedicated and fierce advocate.'
3
Ben FitzGerald KC
‘He is one of the sharpest minds around at the criminal Bar, but wears it lightly. He is very personable.'
3
Sean Larkin KC
‘Sean is a fantastic advocate who brings charisma, confidence and eloquence in equal measure. No matter how difficult the case or the issue, he rises to it.’
3
Selva Ramasamy KC
‘Selva is charming, very astute both in legal knowledge and judgement, and extremely hard working. He has exceptional client care skills and one is always left with the clear impression that every case receives his total attention and effort.’
3
Paul Raudnitz KC
‘Thorough but never overbearing, Paul has a great manner that endears him to clients and opponents alike. He has an excellent instinct for the outcome of a case.'

Leading Juniors

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

2
Tom Doble
2
Rachna Gokani
‘Rachna's advocacy is focused and smart. She is absolutely not to be underestimated.’
2
Jason Mansell
‘Jason is experienced, responsive, practical and persuasive. If you have a fight on your hands, you want him on your team.’
3
Mark Aldred
3
Tom Broomfield
Tom is thorough in all that he does. He has an easy manner, but a steely approach in court when required. A tactically sharp junior.'
3
Senghin Kong
‘He is incredibly diligent, with a razor-sharp intellect. As an advocate, his calm but incisive manner means witnesses do not see laser-sharp attacks coming.’