Cornerstone Barristers has earned client trust as advocates in ‘the most complex and high-profile cases’ on a wide variety of issues ranging from anti-social behaviour to statutory nuisance; allocations to repossessions; homelessness and cases involving human rights arguments. Kelvin Rutledge KC led Riccardo Calzavara in the Supreme Court in R (Imam) v LB Croydon – a judicial review concerning a local authority failing to secure suitable accommodation for a homeless claimant, nearly six years after the duty had been accepted, while Catherine Rowlands represented the local authorities in Fertre v South Oxfordshire DC and Vale of White Horse DC, in which a homelessness appellant, after bringing the appeal against the wrong local authority, sought to simply amend her appeal to add the correct defendant. Lindsay Johnson has engaged in a large number of cases involving vulnerable people in challenging situations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The clerking team at Cornerstone are fantastic. They are incredibly understanding of the pressures that clients are under, and they do all they can to make the process of instructing counsel as smooth as possible.'
- 'The clerks at Cornerstone are extremely courteous and efficient when on the telephone or when meeting face to face.'
- 'The clerks are all easy to contact and pleasant to deal with.'
- 'Cornerstone is an impressive set of chambers, led by skilled and knowledgeable clerks with counsel of the highest calibre.'
- 'Cornerstone's depth of knowledge on social housing is excellent.'
- 'A strong housing and public law focussed set.'
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.
Kelvin Rutledge KC
Kelvin’s knowledge of housing and homelessness is unparalleled. His knowledge of the law as it stands, and its development and evolution over time is exceptional, and he is widely regarded as a leading expert in this field, for good reason. He understands clients, the risks and challenges they face, and provides practical advice that meets their needs. His analysis of the law, and his written submissions are exceptional.’
2023 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.
Kuljit Bhogal KC
'Kuljit is impressive in all aspects of her work - she researches her area of work in depth and has excellent advocacy skills, retaining a calm and measured demeanour in the face of any opposition.'
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.
Andrew Lane
‘All round excellent barrister, always a few steps ahead, prepared for all eventualities, his high level of experience and knowledge.’
Dean Underwood
David Lintott
Victoria Osler
Catherine Rowlands
Sarah Salmon
‘Sarah’s written advocacy is superb. Her writing is clear and precise, and thoroughly well-researched. Her oral advocacy is equally persuasive, and she is a fierce but sensible opponent.’
Wayne Beglan
Riccardo Calzavara
‘Riccardo’s knowledge on social housing law is exemplary, he can cite legislation and quote sections from the Housing Act with ease. He is a wonderful methodical advocate, and judges welcome his clear understanding of the law, which results in successful wins. It is a joy to work with Riccardo as he provides clear action points.‘
Alexander Campbell
‘Excellent client care, pragmatic and practical- really goes the extra mile generally. His advocacy and preparation is faultless – a really impressive barrister. The complexity of matters in the area with over the years has increased, and Alexander has always been years beyond his year of call in capability.’
Lindsay Johnson
Ryan Kohli
‘Ryan is methodical, careful and reliable. He is the classic safe pair of hands but goes beyond that by way of a great intellect, grasp of complicated legal processes and imaginative flair as and when required. His advocacy style is measured, on point and persuasive. He is not fazed by judicial intervention, and unfailingly polite to opponents and others.’
Matthew Feldman
Tara O’Leary
‘Tara is extremely thorough and knowledgeable – she doesn’t miss a beat. She takes a very pragmatic approach and her experience in this area is clear as it comes across in they way she assists on each case. She is able to look into complex issues quickly and provide detailed, clear advice. Tara is an excellent advocate as well.’