Professor John Cooper KC has one of the most high-profile practices at the Bar. He is recognised as one of the most effective cross-examiners and has been instructed in some of the most high-profile court cases in recent years, including cases for members of the security forces (including Generals) and senior police officers. Professor Cooper is well-known for his ability to effectively and rigorously represent his clients and stand up to the most probing scrutiny at tribunals - his reputation for being fearless is well merited.

He is one of the most effective and popular KCs practicing at the Old Bailey and has achieved many notable acquittals both there and up and down the country, successfully representing clients in cases ranging from the most serious of allegations to those which are potentially, individually and personally devastating to the accused and their families.

John represented the majority of bereaved families at the Manchester Arena inquiry.

Called 1983. Appointed Silk 2010. Called to the Australian Bar 1989.

Associated Work

Finalist Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year, Lexis Nexis 2008. Finalist & commended, Bar Council Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year, 2008. Lawyer of the Year, Asian Voice 2015. Alumni Achievement Award, Newcastle University 2022 Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) Freeman of the City of London; Worshipful Company of Coopers. Middle Temple Senior Advocacy Trainer and accredited Vulnerable Witness Trainer.

Master of the Bench at Middle Temple. Vice Chairman of Bar Council’s Public Affairs Committee. Vice Chairman of Bar Conference Organising Board. Director of Education for the SE Circuit. Criminal Bar Association. Editor of Criminal Bar Quarterly (National Magazine for Criminal Practitioners).

LLB (Hons), Butterworth Law Prizeman, University of Newcastle. In 2022, Professor Cooper was awarded the Allimuin Achievement Award for the graduate of the university who had achieved the most significant impact during his career.

Writer for television and theatre including “The Law Lord” [BBC2]; “The Advocates” [ITV] “The Cure” [Royal Court Theatre], and Burning Point [Tricycle Theatre]. Represented by Independent Talent.

Speaks regularly at professional conferences and seminars.