Andrew Vout KC
‘Andrew has a very calming and reassuring manner with clients. His written legal arguments are always well-reasoned, and he is an able and articulate advocate.’
Castle Gate Chambers
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‘A go-to local chambers’ with ’a good group of barristers’, Castle Gate Chambers handles both prosecution and defence in serious crime matters, including murder, sexual offences, and drug conspiracies. Andrew Vout KC, noted for being ‘very diligent in preparation’, recently secured convictions against five gang members for the murder of one of their own. ’An excellent tactician and a fantastic jury advocate’, James Horne KC has ‘the ability to grasp the issues in a case swiftly, and confidently navigate clients through any difficulties’ and is renowned for defending clients in high-profile and complex murder cases. Laura Pitman, whose ’advocacy skills make her stand out’, has established expertise in handling cases of homicide, large-scale drug conspiracies and serious violence. ‘A skilled and measured advocate’, Laura Hocknell is currently prosecuting a seven-handed conspiracy involving the supply of Class A and B drugs and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, with defendants using rented Airbnbs across the country as bases for drug preparation and distribution.
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.
James Horne KC
'James tirelessly prepares his cases and knows the evidence inside out. His conversational style is much liked by juries, and his speeches, which combine a brilliant analysis of the facts, law and evidential gaps, are listened to from beginning to end.'
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.
James Armstrong-Holmes
Stefan Fox
‘Stefan has an excellent way with clients. He is responsive and prompt at dealing with queries, and his written work and legal arguments are always of an excellent standard.’
Laura Hocknell
‘Laura is a highly persuasive advocate who works incredibly hard to leave no stone unturned. She can mix several advocacy styles and pick the right approach for the right witness at the right time.’
Laura Pitman
‘Laura is a first-class senior junior. She is superb with clients, always giving clear advice in easily understanding language. She is always approachable, clear and concise.’