Mountford Chambers

Mountford Chambers is committed to equal treatment and diversity.

It is Chambers policy to ensure that no member of Chambers, pupil, employee, contractor or user of our services receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, race colour, ethnic or national origin, nationality / citizenship, social background, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, HIV/AIDS status, religious or political persuasion, whether by way of direct or indirect discrimination, harassment or victimisation.

Chambers has an active Equality and Diversity Committee, which comprises of eight members of Chambers (barristers) and one member of staff who are responsible for delivering the Equality and Diversity policies and procedures.

Initiatives include a podcast series which includes an episode for budding pupils with an emphasis on encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds. Chambers also take on one Pupil each year as part of their involvement with the Bermuda Bar Association.

Mountford Chambers are also actively involved in external equality and diversity initiatives including Bridging the Bar which aims to make the bar accessible to everyone regardless of race sex, class or other characteristics and the 10,000 Black Interns Scheme which aims to create opportunities for underrepresented talent.

Chambers acknowledge that there are significant gaps in the provision of legal representation and are keen to promote initiatives which provide access to justice. Members works closely with a number of non-profit organisations to provide advocacy and advice, including APPEAL, Advocate (formerly the Bar Pro Bono Unit) and Reprieve. Annually, we participate in the London Legal Walk, which raises awareness and funds for charities that provide life changing legal advice to those in need of legal representation that is beyond their means.

We also contribute to the important work of local grassroots charities in our communities, from the Citizens Advice Bureau to law clinics and drop-in centres.

Members have also contributed to discussions about the impact of the criminal justice system on marginalised groups, including women offenders, youth offenders and offenders who have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI).