Karim Khalil KC
'Karim is a class act. He is in control while striking the right balance between being measured and tough. He is skilled and hard-working while being quick on his feet in responding to the unexpected.'
Drystone Chambers maintains a strong reputation for its broad criminal law practice, covering serious offences including homicide, sexual offences, and gang-related crime. Karim Khalil KC is ‘an authoritative and persuasive advocate with excellent analytical skills and attention to detail’, and was instructed by the CPS in the successful prosecution of defendants involved in a nightclub and street shooting between rival drug gangs in a case involving issues surrounding bad character evidence and the legal definition of gang affiliation. Lynne Shirley is building a reputation as a talented junior with a broad practice that includes murder and serious sexual offences cases. She is particularly noted for her ’thoughtful and razor-sharp cross-examination’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Steve McCarthy is phenomenal.'
- 'Steve McCarthy is always available and happy to help in almost any circumstance.'
- 'The clerks at Drystone are particularly skilled. Steve McCarthy's commitment is unwavering.'
- 'The clerks are very helpful and approachable.'
- 'Drystone Chambers is a good set.'
- 'Drystone Chambers is a first-choice 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.
Allison Summers 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.
William Carter
Lynne Shirley
‘Lynne has a very easily comprehensible approach. She is understanding and ensures no stone is left unturned.’
Azza Brown
‘Azza’s attention to detail is exemplary. She is a wonderful advocate, and clients trust her completely.’
Stephen Spence
Kenniesha Stephens
‘Kenniesha has excellent communication skills and great attention to detail. She has a real depth of knowledge.’
Claire Matthews
‘Claire is meticulous in her drafting of documents and provides the reassurance that is so much appreciated.’