Queen Elizabeth Building (QEB) boasts ‘a very talented collection of barristers’ and is sought after for its particular expertise in relationship breakdowns and the related financial remedy proceedings. Among its silks, Katie Cowton KC is lauded as ‘an exceptionally well prepared and thorough judge’, and is notable for her experience as a qualified financial arbitrator; she frequently handles both financial divorce cases as an PFDR judge, as well as Schedule One children cases. Tim Amos KC is also a key silk at the set. Turning to the juniors, ‘superb mediator’ Tristan Harvey has strengths in both children and matrimonial matters; he handles mediations and arbitrations, and he often undertakes PFDRs, as well as ENEs. Former senior clerk Howard Rayner retired in March 2025, and Jon Bartlett has taken over this role.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The QEB clerks are extremely helpful and flexible.'
- 'QEB are a very talented collection of barristers.'
- 'A great clerking team and high-end facilities for hosting PFDRs and arbitrations.'
- 'QEB are a powerful set. They have a number of excellent barristers across all seniority.'
Lawyers
Leading Private FDR Judges and Arbitrators
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.
Duncan Brooks KC
Katie Cowton KC
'Katie is an exceptionally well prepared and thorough judge, she is always on top of the case and ready to offer sound and pragmatic advice, as well as balanced appraisals of the competing cases.'
James Ewins KC
Tristan Harvey
'Tristan is one of the best barristers for private judging. He gives careful thought to the delivery of his indication, which is well reasoned and client-friendly, taking out the jargon.'