
The ‘professional and well-run set’ at No5 Barristers’ Chambers provides counsel at all stages of the disciplinary and criminal process, with particular skill and expertise in police law. Praised as ’reliable and accessible’, Colin Banham is a specialist in police cases, and the ‘always very prepared and thorough’ Christopher Hopkins and Sharon Bahia represent police officers accused of breaching Police Standards of Professional Behaviour. Demonstrating the breadth and experience of the set, Lucy Coulson is often appointed as Presenting Officer for the Teachers Regulation Agency in misconduct cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'They do have strength in depth in this particular area.'
- 'Helpful clerks and help to resolve issues.'
- 'No5 Chambers is a professional and well-run set.'
- 'Always very prepared and thorough. Very friendly with clients.'
- 'No.5 Chambers are a solid set of chambers. Somehow, the personal touch from the clerks is not lost with their size and they provide an excellent service.'
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.
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.

Christopher Hopkins
‘Christopher is a very professional and intelligent barrister who understands a client’s specific concerns as soon as he is instructed. Christopher is able to empathise with a client and provide pragmatic advice which addresses the concerns a client may have and ultimately results in a client achieving the desired outcome’

Sharon Bahia

Colin Banham
He can talk on a level with police officers which they really appreciate. He also benefits from a wider understanding of other proceedings police officers may end up embroiled in, such as inquests and employment law.’

Lucy Coulson
– No5 Barristers’ Chambers