2BR is recognised for its involvement in some high-profile criminal cases, with particular strength in large-scale organised crime, and appellate work. Brian Altman KC acted in the Post Office Horizon litigation, an unprecedented case in scale involving numerous appeals, extensive disclosure, and sustained political and public scrutiny. Jim Sturman KC acted in an unusual attempted murder case arising from a dispute over cryptocurrency, ultimately resolving with a non-custodial outcome. Charles Langley KC successfully challenged forensic evidence in a prosecution concerning CBD imports, leading to the case collapsing. Nick Barraclough acted in a gang-related firearms conspiracy involving high-profile individuals, with issues surrounding gang evidence and drill music. Christine Agnew KC acted in a lengthy multi-handed drugs conspiracy trial involving substantial quantities of Class A drugs and extensive evidential material.
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.
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.
2025 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.
Sean Hammond
Ashraf Khan
David Patience
Tomas McGarvey
Tim Hunter
Jessica Ward
Alastair Smith
Ashley Hendron
Rising stars
Rising stars at the Bar are defined as barristers between four and eight years’ call who are seen as up-and-coming members of the Bar in their respective practice areas by clients and peers alike. They will already be instructed in high-profile, complex, and high-value contentious and non-contentious matters, working with and opposite more experienced leading counsel.