5 Essex Chambers

Claire specialises in public /administrative, inquests, inquiries, civil and employment claims.

Claire practises in public law, inquests, inquiries, civil and employment claims. She is regularly instructed by public bodies, including police forces, and has particular experience in national security cases. Claire has over 15 years of Government experience and was appointed by the Attorney-General as Junior Counsel to the Crown (A Panel) in 2019 (reappointed in 2024). She was appointed to B Panel (2014) and C Panel (2009). In March 2020, Claire was appointed as a Deputy District Judge (Civil) and sits 30 days a year as a fee paid Judge.  

Claire is currently instructed as the senior junior for NHS England for the COVID-19 Inquiry and part of the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan CTI team. Other current cases include: Rhianan Rudd Inquest (for Derbyshire Police), Ashley Walsh Inquest (HMPPS), misfeasance and malicious prosecution claims (HMRC and various police forces), vetting cases, advising Government departments in respect of substantive policy reviews, and defending judicial reviews.  

Claire practised for nine years at a common law chambers before joining 5 Essex Chambers in 2014. She undertakes both advocacy and advisory work for a broad range of Government department, public bodies and private clients. 

Claire has a track record of providing tactical and strategic advice, successfully defending claims on receipt of a letter before claim or at the permission stage in judicial reviews and securing favourable terms when it is necessary to settle. 

Previous high profile instructions include: UCPI, Post Office Inquiry, the Angela Best and Sobhia Khan Inquests. 

Please visit the 5 Essex Chambers website for Claire’s profile, which sets out full details of her practice including relevant work of note. 

ALBA, ELA, FFLM, South Eastern Circuit. Worshipful Company of Security Professionals. 

University of Bristol (LLB), BPP Law School (BVC) 

Rugby, Theatre, Running, Gardening and Gin