No.18 Barristers Chambers is home to ‘incredibly talented barristers who are tenacious in their approach to achieving the best outcome for the client’. One such practitioner is Laura Baines, ‘a walking legal encyclopaedia’ with notable expertise in public law proceedings, especially those surrounding care and supervision orders and matters concerning other jurisdictions. Nigel Cholerton is ’an exceptionally skilled and compassionate advocate, particularly in sensitive areas like domestic abuse’, as well as disputes surrounding contact residence issues. Tracey Hennessey ‘is able to articulate complex legal arguments, making her a first port of call for complex cases’, and she is well-equipped to represents clients with mental health difficulties and issues of capacity in both public and private children law proceedings in cases arising from allegations of sexual and physical abuse, as well as neglect.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The clerks are exceptional, especially Mark Windebank. He will always go the extra mile.'
  • 'The clerking team at No 18 Chambers deserves special recognition for their exceptional service. Led by Mark Windebank, the clerking team provides seamless administrative support that enhances the barristers' ability to deliver outstanding representation.'
  • 'Mark Windebank, senior clerk, can be relied upon to go that extra mile and is always so happy to help.'
  • 'All the clerks are extremely helpful and knowledgeable. In particular, Mark Windebank and Dan Fantham have always ensured they make the time to discuss all relevant information needed and provide support and guidance.'
  • 'Mark Windebank and Dan Fantham at No 18 Chambers are very personable, friendly and understanding. They will help whenever they can and if you have a query, they ensure they contact a barrister to provide an answer even when they are not representing a client of theirs to ensure they are assisting you as a client service, rather than simply a booking service. Breandan OCaoim is a fantastic new clerk, and a senior clerk in the making.'
  • 'Mark Windebank always makes you feel welcome and that he is happy to hear from you and nothing is to much trouble.'

Lawyers

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
Laura Baines
 'Laura is an exceptional advocate, as she is quick thinking and articulate with a deep knowledge of the law. Her strength is her ability to communicate effectively with professionals and lay clients alike and she is extremely approachable and personable.'
2
Tracey Hennessey
 'Tracey is an experienced and exceptional advocate with a deep knowledge of the law and she is able to articulate complex legal arguments, making her a first port of call for complex cases. She is personable and friendly and well liked by both professional and lay clients.'
3
Nigel Cholerton
‘Nigel is an excellent advocate in court and the feedback from clients is always positive. He puts the clients at ease and is also a good negotiator outside of the courtroom, managing to reach an agreement with the other side outside of court on many occasions.’
3
Sara Chalk
 ‘Sara is well adept at dealing with highly complex legal matters including FII and NAI cases. She is exceptionally well prepared and familiar with a wide array of expertise making her a valuable resource.’
4
Rachel Chapman
 'Rachel is an excellent all-round advocate, she is always well prepped and knowledgeable about discreet points of law, and she is excellent at reporting the outcome in a timely manner and is always happy to answer any further queries.'
4
Claire Hook
 'Claire is an extremely strong advocate who puts a client's argument to the court in the strongest way possible, often leading to positive outcomes for clients. She has a soft and gentle approach and excels with vulnerable clients due to her personable and sensitive approach.'
4
Amelia King
'Amelia is robust and thorough in her approach, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and a strong grasp of the law and case law. Amelia manages clients effectively, ensuring they understand the process while setting realistic expectations.'
4
Francis Payne
 'Francis is a highly skilled barrister known for his exceptional advocacy and meticulous case preparation. His strength really does lie in his clear, persuasive communication style, strategic thinking and ability to adapt his arguments effectively to the needs of the case.'