Matrix Chambers continues to maintain a reputation for public inquiry, appellate, and heavyweight criminal work, with members regularly instructed in matters of substantial public and constitutional importance. Clare Montgomery KC acted in a major EncroChat prosecution involving allegations of conspiracy to murder and large-scale drug supply. Richard Whittam KC represents Fujitsu in the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry, examining disclosure failures, expert evidence, and the prosecution of sub-postmasters arising from the Horizon scandal. Helen Law KC appointed silk in the 2026 round.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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.
Mark Summers KC
Mark Summers KC has one of the finest legal minds at the Criminal Bar. His legal submissions are a joy to watch.
Alex Bailin KC
Alex is one of the cleverest and most capable criminal silks. He advises in very complicated and challenging cases. His manner is calm and reassuring. His tactical judgment and legal knowledge are hugely impressive. He combines a hugely impressive intellect with an approachable and down-to-earth manner. It is always a relief to be able to instruct him.
2026 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.
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.
Joanna Buckley
Joanna is fantastic when it comes to any criminal case with a knotty public law or human rights element. She is a Swiss army knife when it comes to cases that fall between the cracks and is excellent at identifying the client's objectives and seeking out the right forum in which to achieve them. Her written work is stunning and immensely persuasive.
Danielle Manson
Vedrana Pehar
Vedrana is always exceptionally well prepared and a delight to instruct.
Rosalind Comyn
Fiercely intelligent, strategic, and hardworking, Roz knows her cases inside out and contributes positively to every decision in the lifespan of a case. It's little wonder that she is one of the most sought-after juniors at the Bar.
James Robottom
James is one of the hardest-working barristers who is incredibly intelligent and leaves no stone unturned in his case preparation. James handles complex cases with immense skill, and his drafting of difficult and sensitive legal arguments is assured and highly effective. James is highly regarded by his peers, and his clients appreciate his accessibility and his calm and considered approach.
Robbie Stern
Tim James-Matthews
Tim is an outstanding barrister. He is super smart and will look at a case from every angle. He will give every case his absolute all to great effect. He is a pleasure to work with and collaborative in his approach.