Kings Chambers have strength in depth when leading on planning and environment cases. At the silk level, the set can boast the experience of practice leader Giles Cannock KC, who is regularly instructed by developers and local authorities on major schemes, both residential and commercial. He is joined by Ruth Stockley KC, particularly prominent in public inquiries concerning contentious planning matters, Sarah Reid KC, who focuses on large-scale residential planning permission appeals and acted for Sheffield Council in their Local Plan Examination. At the junior level, Alan Evans represents local authorities in complex and extensive planning inquiries and consultations, Philip Robson leads on significant statutory appeals, and Piers Riley-Smith‘s broad practice covers highway law concerns and compulsory purchase orders. Anthony Gill has a niche practice concerning assets of community value, among other areas.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The clerks are always efficient, friendly and informative. Mark Ronson in particular is always very quick to respond with all the required information.'
  • 'Gary Smith and Mark Ronson are approachable, listen and are always looking for ways to help. It is also great to see how they help to get the best out of their barristers. James Bedford gives excellent support.'
  • 'Kings Chambers has exceptionally knowledgeable and responsive clerks who are skilled at matching the right barrister to the right case or client, and bringing on juniors. Gary Smith and Mark Ronson are both friendly and impressive - a pleasure to work with.'
  • 'Kings Chambers town planning team has become an excellent group of barristers offering great experience and offering different styles to suit the needs of different clients. There is considerable strength in depth.'
  • 'Kings are the "go to" planning Chambers not just because of the stellar array of legal talent but also their exceptional approach to service response, value and quality client care. Their clerks are outstanding and compliment the barristers' work by providing the best overall service of any planning set.'
  • 'Kings Chambers is excellent in every respect. Fantastic barristers both at KC and junior level. They are the leading Planning set for Planning on the Northern and Midlands circuit, and their skills, knowledge base, availability and responsiveness is unparalleled.

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.

1
Giles Cannock KC
  'His advice in an appeal situation has always been incredibly useful and he has helped us to numerous successful outcomes at appeal.’
1
Vincent Fraser KC
‘Excellent at focusing on the key issues and commerciality of the claim. Very good rapport with the judge and able to deal competently and succinctly with Judges' interventions’

2024 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.

1
Ruth Stockley KC
‘Ruth’s very good at instilling confidence in clients, she gives clear direction to her team and provides measured advice. A strong advocate she has an excellent command of her brief.’

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.

1
Stephanie Hall
'Her legal acumen is evident in every interaction, and she consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of complex legal issues, providing insightful analysis that enhances our strategic approach.'
1
Piers Riley-Smith
‘Piers is an incredibly bright and knowledgeable lawyer with an ability to turn very complex difficult problems into a series of simple and easy to follow options. His advice is practical and always useful.'

Rising stars

Rising stars at the Bar are defined as barristers between four and eight years’ call who are seen as up-and-coming members of the Bar in their respective practice areas by clients and peers alike. They will already be instructed in high-profile, complex, and high-value contentious and non-contentious matters, working with and opposite more experienced leading counsel.

1
Shemuel Sheikh
‘Shemuel's strengths are his ability to cut to the chase and to distil advice and instructions in a way which clients appreciate. He's approachable and yet direct with his advice.'