Michael Hayton KC
Deans Court Chambers is a well-established set, adept at handling both prosecution and defence in a range of high-profile cases, including corporate and gross negligence manslaughter, health and safety fatalities, environmental offences, and food hygiene and compliance matters. Practice head Michael Hayton KC brings years of experience in cases involving fatalities or life-changing injuries alongside the complex regulatory issues that often accompany them. Peter Smith, who is known for ‘his powerful advocacy in the court’ and extensive expertise in health and safety law, regularly represents defendants and recently acted for the defendant in a case involving an alleged obstruction of a meat hygiene inspector in the course of his duties.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Clerks are always excellent, especially Steven McCormick. He is very proactive in arranging diaries and working with you to try and find mutually convenient dates.'
- 'Peter Kelly and Steven McCormick are helpful.'
- 'The clerks are responsive and communicate well.'
- 'The clears are excellent, personable and helpful.'
- 'Deans Court Chambers has an excellent depth and breadth of counsel at all levels and disciplines. It is a go-to set in the North.'
- 'Deans Court Chambers offer strength in depth, highly competent and experienced in all areas.'
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.
Iain Simkin KC
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.
Tom Gent
‘Tom is excellent with clients. He is a very effective advocate in trials, plea and sentencing hearings.’
Joseph Hart
