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.

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.'

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.