Adam Wiseman KC specialises in Financial Services Regulation, Investigations, Fraud, Inquests & Crime. Recognised by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 as one of the leading barristers in practice, Adam is regularly instructed to act in an advisory capacity for individuals and institutions.
Aimee provides advice and representation in criminal and public law cases. She has appeared in cases involving serious violence (violent disorder, offensive weapons, “acid attacks”, and grievous bodily harm), fraud, sex, drugs, and proceeds of crime. She has particular interest in representing vulnerable and young people, including experience with expert reports, intermediaries, ground rules hearings and video-linked cross examination. Aimee also has a practice in inquiries and inquests. She is currently First Junior to Counsel to the Chair of the Dame Linda Dobbs Review, the review is considering whether issues in relation to HBOS Reading were investigated and appropriately reported by Lloyds Banking Group. Aimee was also instructed in the Undercover Policing Inquiry as part of the counsel team to the Inquiry. She was junior counsel to the Inquest Touching Upon the Death of Ellie Butler, led by Adam Wiseman QC. She is regularly instructed by government departments in advisory matters, including on matters of human rights law. Aimee has a strong academic background having completed an LLM in Human Rights Law, awarded with distinction. She specialised in the intersect between human rights and national security, criminal process and prison law. Prior to pupillage, Aimee was a member of the Independent Monitoring Board at Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre. She carried out work for a number of leading NGOs both in the UK and internationally. Aimee has completed the Bar Council “Advocacy and the Vulnerable Training Programme” and has security vetting to “SC” level. Recent notable work First Junior to Counsel to the Chair of the Dobbs Review considering whether issues relating to HBOS Reading were investigated and appropriately reported to authorities following Lloyds Banking Group’s acquisition of HBOS (ongoing) Junior counsel to the Inquest Touching Upon the Death of Ellie Butler Co-authored submissions for the International Criminal Court on behalf of Bangladeshi NGOs in relation to the Rohingya crisis Currently instructed in criminal matters including violence and dishonesty offences, including serious youth matters (ongoing) Advising a central government department on issues relating to Brexit and human rights (ongoing)
Alistair has substantial experience as a criminal practitioner, specialising in defence advocacy and covering Sexual Offences, Drugs Offences, Business Crime & Fraud, Serious Violence and other areas of Serious & Organised Crime. Alistair has represented a wide variety of clients and has a calm reassuring disposition that puts clients at ease. With substantial experience in conducting jury trials, Alistair is confident, persuasive, and focused when appearing in court. He has appeared frequently before the Court of Appeal where he has successfully appealed against both conviction and sentence. Alistair also has experience working on Inquiries including the Undercover Policing Inquiry (examining the conduct of undercover policing within England and Wales from 1968) and the Dame Linda Dobbs Review (examining whether Lloyds Banking Group investigated and appropriately reported the HBOS Reading fraud). Alistair also works, pro bono, for the Communities Empowerment Network which provides advocacy support for children who have been excluded from school. He is also part of the Red Lion Chambers mentoring scheme which provides support and guidance to students pursuing a legal career. Alistair also supports the Aim High project spearheaded by Lambeth Borough Council which involves giving presentations about his career journey to school children from under-represented groups.
Andrew Marshall is a committed and highly experienced barrister sought both for his advice and advocacy. Andrew was made a Recorder in 2003 and Standing Counsel to the Attorney General (Crime) in 2005. Drawing on many years’ experience prosecuting at the highest level, and across many different areas, Andrew’s instructions (often through recommendation across prosecuting agencies), in the last decade or so have been in the largest and most difficult or sensitive of cases. This has resulted in a varied Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary practice, ranging from the largest investigations/prosecutions undertaken by DEFRA (Op Victor), MHRA (Op Singapore), BERR (Op Barber) and the Environment Agency (Op Durable) through to large MTIC frauds (RCPO/CPS) and insider trading (for FCA) as well as equally important cases, such as prosecutions of international arms-trafficking, drug trafficking and money-laundering. He was entrusted to prosecute barristers for alleged VAT fraud and is instructed on some of the more important Environment Agency and Health & Safety cases. This practice has taken Andrew not only to the Crown Court and the Court of Appeal but also the Administrative Court, the Mercantile Court, Court of Appeal (Civil Division), Chancery Division, First Level Tribunal (Planning Inspectorate for the EA) (Health Education & Social Care for the CQC), Coroners’ Court and even to speak at the Serious Crime Convention, United Nations in Vienna, at the request of the World Health Organisation. Andrew is a founding director of Edmonds Marshall McMahon solicitors, where he has a complementary practice in private prosecutions but remains an active member of Chambers.
Andrew is able to provide advice and representation in criminal, regulatory and civil matters. He has particular expertise in Business Crime & Fraud and Professional Discipline cases. In addition to professional discipline cases, Andrew’s regulatory practice includes advisory work for regulators. He is also able to assist with civil issues in cases involving contempt of court and cash forfeiture. Andrew holds an LLB (first class) and LLM (with distinction). He is a Grade 3 prosecutor, a Specialist Fraud and Proceeds of Crime panel member, a member of the SFO C panel, a member of the Civilian Stabilisation Group, and a contributor to the practitioner text, Arlidge and Parry on Fraud.
Andrew Thompson appears most often in cases where serious Sexual Offences are alleged, in particular those involving vulnerable or child witnesses, and defendants who have mental health or learning disabilities. His recent caseload includes alleged sexual offences in schools and care homes, by medical practitioners, and within youth groups and charitable organisations. Andrew has extensive experience in cases involving allegations of Murder & Manslaughter, serious assaults and of non-accidental injuries to children or vulnerable adults. Other areas of practice include Drugs Offences, public disorder, Business Crime & Fraud and Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime. Andrew is an accomplished communicator with an excellent jury manner, highly effective cross-examination and tactical skills and has a keen eye for detail.
Barnaby Jameson KC is a barrister with globally recognised expertise in terrorism and terrorist funding. He has appeared in many of the most serious terrorist trials this century from 21/7(conspiracy to bomb the London Underground) to more recent cases involving neo-Nazi terror groups concerned in political assassination. He has unique experience of both Islamic terrorism and neo-Nazi terrorism (‘White Jihad’). In addition to his court practice, Barnaby lectures the United Nations, foreign governments and the UK Parole Board on terrorism law.
Bethan Rogers maintains a busy Crime practice and has built a significant reputation in both defence and prosecution work. She is a CPS Grade 3 prosecutor and is regularly instructed in cases of large-scale drug dealing. She is also instructed to advise on pre-charges issues in cases of particular evidential complexity. She has developed a considerable practice defending in cases involving serious Sexual Offences and cases which require a sensitive approach. Bethan is a tenacious advocate with notable experience in the examination of vulnerable witnesses. Furthermore, Bethan is regularly instructed to represent those in positions of authority, such as teachers or prison officers. In addition to this, Bethan is experienced in regulatory matters and Extradition law. She is also very familiar with post-conviction confiscation proceedings including appellate work and applications to vary existing orders, cash seizure and forfeiture and confiscation enforcement. Bethan has been instructed as disclosure counsel on large scale Fraud and Bribery & Corruption cases with the SFO and murder cases with the NCA. As a result of that work, she was instructed as junior counsel in a SFO prosecution. Bethan also prosecutes on behalf of the Insolvency Service and the Health & Safety Executive.
Brendan is a specialist Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary barrister, advising prosecution and regulatory authorities on the development and implementation of legal professional privilege policy and internal privilege protocols. He is instructed to act as Independent Counsel, to plan, manage and supervise teams of independent counsel engaged in large-scale reviews of privileged material in complex fraud investigations. He also advises on matters of waiver, joint and common interest privilege and the application of the crime-fraud exception. Brendan delivers lectures and provides legal updates to the SFO, CPS, HMRC, ICO, NCA and Environment Agency on matters of legal professional privilege.
Cameron specialises in the most serious Fraud, Bribery & Corruption and Company Act cases. Recognised in the Legal 500, he is known for his down to earth approach to clients, detailed case preparation and targeted, fearless cross examination. He is regularly instructed in such cases by private individuals and major corporate clients, to appear in court or on an advisory basis, who appreciate his tactical approach, commitment to clients and commercial judgement. He has considerable knowledge and experience of compliance issues, internal investigations by the leading prosecuting and other regulatory agencies, corporate criminal liability and Deferred Prosecution Agreements. He has appeared in a number of cases involving complex market frauds, international corruption and legal professional privilege issues. He has specialist knowledge of disclosure issues and restraint/ confiscation applications arising in financial crime investigations/ prosecutions. His experience and approach led to a number of notable appointments prior to taking silk, including Standing Counsel to the Insolvency Service and a member of the ‘A’ Panel for the Serious Fraud Office. He has acted for the FCA in a number of their cases. He conducted a number of major cases for those agencies, frequently as leading Junior. Cameron is well placed to advise on the latest developments in white collar crime, having appeared regularly and recently at the Court of Appeal, including in a number of leading authorities relating to money laundering and confiscation. He has previously contributed to LexisNexis in relation to fraud offences and lectured to Police Forces, Government Departments and Law firms on topics ranging from the FCA to Police Disciplinary Powers. Cameron sits part time as a Judge in a number of regulatory disciplines and is thus well placed to assess cases from a judicial standpoint. This includes sitting as an independent judge for the Met, City of London Police and Ministry of Defence Police. He also sits as judge for England Golf and the Lawn Tennis Association, in relation to their disciplinary and safeguarding cases, and is familiar with many of the issues arising in sports litigation. Cameron is able to accept cases through direct access and is GDPR accredited. Cameron is an associate member of St Pauls Chambers, Leeds.
Originating from a common law background, Carey Johnston QC practice principally covers serious and complex fraud, often multi-handed fraud cases in a variety of contexts including Taxation (Income & Corporation Tax, VAT, Excise Duty, and Film Tax Credits), mortgages, re-insurance, insolvency, probate, identity theft and money-laundering. The complexity of these cases usually involves work which is undertaken over a number of years. Her practice has included cases of murder, attempted murder, serious offences of violence, drugs and sexual offences. Carey is an extremely reliable, focused advocate, with case management skills, working efficiently and effectively with others, quickly distilling the evidence, identifying the relevant legal and factual issues, and providing prompt and clear advice. She is exceptionally organised and has impeccable judgement that is demonstrated through her high-quality preparation and presentation skills. For these reasons, she is often called upon at short notice to resolve issues including being instructed to advise and lead in prosecution appeals to the Court of Appeal. The nature of her practice means that she is well versed in PII, Disclosure and LPP issues
A confident, tenacious and likeable advocate, Caroline Baker has defended and prosecuted in a wide range of criminal matters. She is instructed regularly in cases involving Serious Violence, Fraud, Drugs Offences as well as Restraint, Civil Recovery & Confiscation and Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime matters. She has experience in international law, investigating, documenting and analysing historic war crimes and current human rights abuses, focusing on sexual violence and torture. Caroline is regularly instructed on behalf of defendants who are vulnerable by virtue of age, mental health or cognitive ability. Her easy and straightforward approach provides reassurance at each stage of the process. Before being called to the Bar she worked as a paralegal at Lawrence & Co. solicitors. While at this firm she represented clients at the police station for the full spectrum of criminal offences. The cases she worked on included an Iraq fatality inquiry and multi-million pound money laundering investigation.
Chris is cited in both the Legal 500 and Chambers UK directories. He is a highly regarded criminal advocate who both defends and prosecutes. He provides leadership when leading large teams, brings strategic oversight to complex issues and is a highly persuasive advocate. His client care is excellent, and he has an approachable manner, instilling his clients with confidence in even the most challenging situations. His work covers a broad range of disciplines. He has extensive experience in Murder & Manslaughter, Fraud, Serious & Organised crime, serious Sexual Offences, road transport and regulatory work, and has appeared in a wide range of courts and tribunals. Many of his cases have involved very young and vulnerable witnesses, and he has represented many young and vulnerable clients. He has experience of prosecuting cases for the CPS (including the Complex Case Unit), DVSA, GMC and local authorities. Chris defends both private individuals and companies and has particular expertise in the road transport and regulatory field; he works throughout the England and Wales both in courts, tribunals and in an advisory capacity. He has also advised in a broad range of cases including IPCC submissions as well as utilising his forensic skills to assist in civil litigation.
Cyrus Shroff appears on the CPS List of Advocates at Grade 4 but undertakes work both as defence and prosecution counsel. Called in 1983, his practice covers all aspects of Crime, and consists of cases of Murder & Manslaughter, Sexual Offences, Drug Offences, Serious Violence and Proceeds of Crime, amongst other criminal matters. He has particular aptitude for serious cases of a violent or sexual nature and has conducted cases of homicide both as leading counsel and junior counsel. He has acted as leading counsel for the defence and the Crown. He also has experience in the High Court and in various more isolated areas such as bigamy. He has been on the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (“RASSO”) list since its introduction and has extensive experience of dealing with ‘vulnerable’ witnesses. He is an approved facilitator for training in this field. He has been described as having a particularly effective manner when defending in cases of a sensitive nature and is often instructed for both sides in the youth court. He has been instructed on many of the most serious cases by the CPS and defence solicitors.
Daniel has built a successful practice encompassing International Criminal Law, public inquiries and heavyweight Crime. He is a sought after led junior for both prosecution and defence, has a wealth of experience in complex Fraud and Bribery & Corruption investigations, and has significant experience in public inquiries. Most recently Daniel was instructed in the Dobbs Review into Lloyds Bank. Daniel is a Grade 3 advocate for the CPS, including specialist panels for serious crime and fraud, and a Panel B advocate for the SFO on both the general prosecution list and the POCA list. Daniel has spent time working with City of London Police, advising on confiscation and intellectual property offences and providing training. Before coming to the Bar, Daniel worked for NGOs in Rwanda and Jamaica. His work encompassed genocide and war crimes, crimes against humanity and human rights. Daniel has worked with defendants on Death Row in Jamaica and advised as to their prospects of appeal to the Privy Council, and has delivered human rights training to police recruits in Jamaica. Daniel is on the counsel list for the Special Tribunal in Kosovo.
Dan Taylor is a robust and tenacious advocate, with experience of defending and prosecuting in cases across the criminal spectrum, including those of Murder & Manslaughter, Serious Violence, Sexual Offences and Serious & Organised Crime. As one of the first to complete the Bar Council vulnerable witness training, many of the cases he is involved in feature young and/or vulnerable witnesses and defendants. He is often instructed in cases which involve significant quantities of technical or electronic evidence. Dan prides himself on his strategic approach to cases, meticulous attention to detail and excellent client care skills. He is cited in Chambers UK (2022), as a diligent, well prepared and intelligent barrister. He is proactive in managing his caseload and is able to provide early advice on charge, evidence and/or sentence. Dan is also happy to hold conferences at any stage of proceedings, with lay and professional clients alike, in person or electronically. In addition to his defence practice, Dan is a CPS Grade 3 prosecutor and on the RASSO list. Dan is regularly instructed to prosecute on behalf of the CPS, in addition to local authorities and regulatory bodies across England and Wales.
Having historically had conduct of many of the most complex cases for all the major fraud prosecution agencies (including as former Standing Counsel to the Revenue and Customs Prosecutions Office and Standing Counsel to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills), David’s work is now almost exclusively for front-rank fraud defence firms. He is the founder and frontman of the updating website [crimecast.law] on which he presents video case reviews of recent judgments. The site currently hosts more than 200 free-to-view videos. He is also the crime correspondent for the New Law Journal, commenting on recent case law in his ‘Crime Brief’ column.
David Claxton is a leading junior, recognised for his skill in matters relating to Business Crime & Fraud and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary matters. He has been reported as having strengths [that] lie in his keen intellect, attention to detail and clarity of written and oral expression (Legal 500 UK, 2017), strength in complex and obscure legal arguments (Legal 500 UK, 2017) and extensive knowledge of regulatory case law combines with a sharp focus on the relevant issues (Legal 500 UK, 2018). David’s expertise covers: Economic and Business Crime, including Fraud, Bribery & Corruption, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime, Sanctions, Tax & Insolvency) Internal Investigations Regulatory crime (including Health & Safety and Fire Law) General Crime Asset forfeiture (civil and criminal) Regulatory & Professional Discipline Inquests & Inquiries Judicial Review Extradition Legal Professional Privilege (LPP) David has appeared at all levels of court and tribunal in his main practice areas. In 2015 David was the first barrister under ten years’ call to be appointed to the General Medical Council’s List of Advocates. David has published and lectured on corporate crime, professional regulation, cross border jurisdiction, abuse of process and expert evidence in leading practitioner texts, trade publications and to professional audiences such as in-house regulatory lawyers and City law firms.
David is a skilled and experienced lawyer who has been described as a strong advocate who will give robust advice where necessary. He is a formidable jury advocate who is able to advance purposefully his client’s case whilst engaging the interest of the jury. David enjoys a balanced practice of both prosecution and defence work. David is regularly instructed in serious sexual offence cases and has strong client and witness empathy, as well as the ability to deal with vulnerable witnesses. David also frequently acts as leading counsel in large-scale frauds and organised crime cases and undertakes complex advisory work for local authorities.
David Young is a highly accomplished barrister, who has consistently defended in high profile complex International criminal trials. He provides strong representation to his clients, both internationally and nationally. In 2020 he was appointed Lead Counsel for one of the four accused charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity before the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in the Hague, where he leads a team of international defence lawyers preparing for contested trial proceedings. Previously he was the only UK counsel instructed to lead for the defence in the Hariri assassination case before The Special Tribunal for Lebanon in the Hague (2011-2020). In the 18th August 2020 judgment from the STL Trial Chamber the accused (Assad Sabra), whose interests he represented, was acquitted of all charges. Between 2018 to 2019 he was also appointed as Counsel in the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals in the Hague, on another war crimes case. He is the current Director of International Affairs for the Criminal Bar Association for England and Wales, having been appointed in 2020. David is co-chair of Red Lion Chambers’ International team of barristers. In the UK he defends in, and advises upon, cases across the spectrum of criminal and regulatory matters.
David Miller prosecutes and defends in cases of serious crime. He has detailed knowledge of police procedure and investigative techniques, with particular expertise in disclosure issues, organised crime and intelligence led operations, informant handling, forensic science and fraud. He has a wide ranging practice including Business Crime & Fraud, Serious Violence, Drugs Offences, Road Traffic Offences, and Judicial Review. David’s recent cases include defending in prosecutions brought by the Serious Fraud Office, murder, money laundering, perverting the course of justice, conspiracy to commit robbery and GBH, importation of Class A drugs, possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply and confiscation hearings. David regularly appears as a leading junior and has led, for example, in cases concerning riot (the Harmondsworth Detention Centre riots), conspiracy to defraud, conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, conspiracy to commit robbery with loaded firearms and money laundering charges including those relating to the alleged conspiracy to supply heroin nationally. David has appeared in the Court of Appeal involving allegations of fraud against serving police officers. On a number of occasions he has been instructed by the Registrar of Criminal Appeals to advise on the merits of fresh appeals against old convictions where there is a suggestion of new evidence. David is a CPS Grade 4 prosecutor in Serious Crime and Fraud, a pupil supervisor and an Inner Temple advocacy trainer.
“A dedicated and impassioned criminal defence advocate. He has always displayed a very analytical and quick thinking mind, with brilliantly tailored advice. One of his best strengths is also the immediate and impactful presence with the client” – Legal 500 (2020-21) David Malone is currently on a sabbatical from Red Lion Chambers. He intends to return to independent practice in September 2021. Until then he will be acting as a Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor (‘DCCP’) and a Deputy Head of Division for the Specialist Fraud Division (‘SFD’), during a secondment with the Crown Prosecution Service (‘CPS’). The profile below relates to David’s practice at the independent Bar: He is an established leading barrister who provides advice and representation in high-profile and demanding cases across a wide-range of legal disciplines. He can be most frequently seen acting in serious criminal cases before the Crown Court and in the Court of Appeal. David is accustomed to conducting cases in the full-glare of the media spotlight. He originally trained as a biochemist and is well-equipped to deal with complex expert and scientific evidence. David will act on a pro bono basis in appropriate cases where there are no other reasonable sources of funding. He has been commended by the Bar Council for his pro bono work.
David (Charles Lynch) KC Etherington
Hall of fameRed Lion ChambersDavid Etherington KC is an established Crime and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary barrister with over 35 years’ experience. He was previously Head of Chambers at Red Lion Chambers, and his criminal practice focuses on fraud and serious organised crime, he is acknowledged as a leader well known to solicitors who instruct in these areas. In addition to his criminal practice, David has substantial experience in the regulatory field, having been Chairman of the Professional Conduct Committee and the Professional Practice Committee of the Bar Council, as well as a member of both committees for over ten years. Additionally, he has also been a legal adviser to the General Optical Council and General Dental Council and has defended in front of the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority. David has acted as legal adviser to a number of television drama series, such as Kavanagh KC, The Brief, Judge John Deed, Wing and a Prayer and Incognito (film) as well as advising in factual programmes such as Hypotheticals in which he also appeared as a panellist. He was the legal adviser to The Verdict (2006) and The Trial (2017) in which real juries, together with actual barristers and judges, tried two fictional cases to explore the workings of the jury system.
Edmund Vickers KC is instructed in the most serious criminal cases at Crown Court, High Court and Appellate level. Ed both defends and prosecutes in Murder & Manslaughter, Fraud and corruption and Serious & Organised Crime cases. His skills in cross-examination, dealing with experts and analysing detail has led to a growing Business Crime & Fraud practice (complex fraud, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime and cases before the tax tribunal). Ed is regularly asked to advise companies and individuals involved in business, tax and complex fraud investigations and to advise at an early stage so that strategic decisions can be made involving matters such as voluntary disclosure, Legal Professional Privilege and confidentiality. Ed has appeared in many high-profile cases particularly at the Old Bailey and Southwark Crown Court and has enjoyed success in cases as diverse as defending protesters storming the House of Commons, prosecuting the police in the Tuition Fees Riot in Parliament Sq, and successfully defending in the UK’s first FGM trial. With over 25 years’ experience of forensic advocacy both defending and prosecuting. Ed is instructed by a wide range of firms of City and high street solicitors and prosecuting authorities. Ed is a lead advocacy trainer at the Middle Temple and is a member of the scholarship panel at the Inn. He is a trustee and former treasurer of the Kalisher Trust, a charity that encourages and supports students from non-traditional backgrounds to go on to higher education and pursue a career in the law, promoting greater diversity throughout the criminal justice system. He is currently lead trustee of the Kalisher Trust mentoring programme, pairing students with senior members of the Bar and judiciary. In 2021, Ed chaired the Criminal Bar Association C-21 Working Group, examining issues facing criminal practitioners in the Crown Court. The report was published in January 2022 and called for the establishment of the Royal Commission on Criminal Justice without further delay. Since taking Silk, Ed has also been instructed to prosecute murder and other complex cases. He is currently prosecuting a complex corruption and money laundering case in the Republic of Seychelles.
Emma Gargitter practises in Crime, Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary and Public & Administrative Law. She combines an eye for detail with hard work, seeking always to provide informed but practical advice to her clients, and has a particular interest in cases which straddle the criminal and public and administrative law spheres. Emma began practising in 2005, and for the first five years concentrated almost exclusively on crime work. Those years allowed her to develop into a versatile advocate, with broad experience of prosecuting and defending before the criminal courts at all levels. Since 2010 Emma has applied and expanded that experience in the fields of Public & Administrative Law and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary. In particular Emma’s recent work has focussed on Judicial Review, medical regulation and related Inquests & Inquiries work. She also continues to accept instructions to act and advise in relation to a variety of criminal cases, with particular emphasis on the prosecution of terrorism offences. She is a member of the CPS specialist Counter Terrorism Panel (Level 3) and the General Crime, Serious Crime and Fraud panels (Level 2). In 2014 Emma was appointed to the Attorney General’s Panel of Counsel (C Panel), allowing her to accept work from all government departments. Emma also has particular expertise in the field of legal professional privilege. She has advised corporate clients in relation to their obligations to disclose material in the context of criminal proceedings and acts as independent counsel advising law enforcement bodies in relation to the handling of privileged material seized during investigations.
Faras Baloch is a specialist in the most serious and complex criminal cases. He has particular expertise in Business Crime & Fraud, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime, Financial Services Regulation & Professional Discipline and Serious and Organised Crime. He acts for and against companies and senior professionals accused of serious financial misconduct. He has also advised in internal investigations relating to financial misconduct by major financial institutions and breaches of international Sanctions. He lectures nationally and internationally on topics including the Bribery Act, Common Reporting Standard and the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Faye Rolfe is a determined advocate with an eye for detail. She has a busy practice across the range of Chambers’ practice areas, both defending and prosecuting Crime cases. Faye has been instructed in trials for offences of dishonesty, Serious Violence, Drugs Offences, Sexual Offences, Road Traffic Offences, Fraud and contested Restraint, Civil Recovery & Confiscation proceedings. Faye prosecutes on behalf of the CPS as a Grade 2 panel advocate in General Crime, Serious & Organised Crime and Fraud. Before coming to the Bar, Faye worked as a paralegal at private criminal defence firm Hickman & Rose, where she deployed the specialist knowledge gained through her work in the pharmaceutical sector to help build the defence case for a pharmaceutical company under investigation for corporate manslaughter.
Felicia Davy is ranked in the 2019, 2020 and 2021 editions of the Legal 500 as a leading junior for both Crime and Business Crime & Fraud matters. She is recognised as a skilled and versatile advocate whose practice encompasses Fraud and Restraint, Civil Recovery & Confiscation, as well as heavyweight crime including Murder & Manslaughter and serious Sexual Offences (often historic, multi-complainant). She has considerable experience of handling all manner of witnesses and is approved as a trainer in the handling of vulnerable witnesses. She is also used to defending in cases in which cut-throat defences or conflicts arise. Felicia has been appointed to a number of specialist panels and is frequently instructed on behalf of a number of specialist government departments and regulatory bodies. Often instructed pre-charge, Felicia is regularly required to provide advice on charge, disclosure management and general case strategy from an early stage. She is adept at managing and presenting paper heavy cases, often involving complex financial material. Felicia has appeared before the divisional and appellate courts in a number of key appeals in relation to abuse of process, Restraint, Civil Recovery & Confiscation and Bribery & Corruption. She has also appeared before regulatory tribunals representing individuals facing disciplinary offences and before the company's court on behalf of liquidators in cases where suspected fraudulent conduct and/or breaches of the Insolvency Act are alleged. Felicia also advises individual and corporate clients concerning discrete issues such as directors’ disqualification and regulatory compliance. Felicia’s wide range of work has given her experience in a number of areas of law, ranging from the deployment of complex legal argument, abuse of process, the applicability of local and foreign domestic laws, RIPA and autrefois acquit through to bad character, PII, LPP, non-disclosure and human rights. She is also skilled in handling cases involving forensic and expert evidence (including cell site analysis and call data, forensic, footwear tread pattern, DNA, blood distribution and splatter evidence, firearms evidence, CCTV continuity) as well as pathology, neuropathology and psychiatric expert evidence (diminished responsibility). In her Fraud practice Felicia is skilled in handling matters concerning corporate and financial structures, including international and multiple offshore or jurisdictional bank accounts and entities.
Francesca has a busy Crime practice defending and prosecuting a broad range of offences in the Crown Court and Magistrates Court. This has included appearing in cases involving Serious Violence, Sexual Offences, Drugs Offences and Restraint, Civil Recovery & Confiscation proceedings. She has experience in representing vulnerable clients, including youths and those with mental health issues. She has dealt with cases involving fitness to plead issues and cases requiring intermediaries. Francesca is a member of the Dobbs Review Team considering whether the issues relating to HBOS Reading were investigated and appropriately reported to authorities at the time by LBG, following its acquisition of HBOS. During the course of her pupillage at Red Lion Chambers, Francesca developed an interest in Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking offences. She assisted Kate Bex KC and Paul Evans on Operation Piberia, a county lines trafficking trial, and Riel Karmy Jones KC in researching and editing four sections of the 2019 edition of Archbold (Chapter 19 Offences Against the Person), including the section on Modern Slavery. Francesca also has experience of Inquests & Inquiries, having been instructed to assist Adam Wiseman KC in his role as Counsel to the inquest touching the death of Ellie Butler. Prior to joining chambers Francesca worked at the Free Representation Unit as the Assistant Legal Officer representing pro bono clients in employment and social security matters. This included representing clients at tribunals and the Employment Appeal Tribunal.
Genevieve Reed is a tenacious barrister with excellent advocacy skills. She has a well-respected practice advising and acting in Fraud, Serious & Organised Crime and Sexual Offences cases. Genevieve appears in the Crown Court and Court of Appeal, as a led and leading junior and junior alone, on a range of serious and complex Crime matters, including homicide, large scale Fraud cases, large scale Drugs Offences, Human Trafficking, serious Sexual Offences, Serious Violence & Serious Organised Crime, particularly cases involving alleged gang violence. She also has particular expertise in representing individuals charged with allegations arising in the workplace, including dishonesty offences, sexual offences, perverting the course of justice and misconduct in a public office, on behalf of teachers, prison officers, police officers and those working in the financial industry. She has advised on international cases involving parallel importing, cross-border issues, Extradition, and MLA requests. She has also worked on cross-jurisdictional investigations with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice. She has advised and appeared for companies in relation to all Restraint, Civil Recovery & Confiscation matters, including disclosure orders, restraint orders, production orders, search warrants, as well as cash seizure and forfeiture. Genevieve understands the need for first rate client care having gained valuable experience working at leading criminal law firms Hickman and Rose and Irwin Mitchell prior to coming to the Bar.
Gillian Jones KC has a high-profile practice advising on Business Crime & Fraud, Murder & Manslaughter, Serious & Organised Crime and serious Sexual Offences. Gillian is described as a brilliant practitioner who is fabulous and absolutely faultless – solicitors appreciate her quality of advocacy before juries and her adaptability. She is an extremely bright and extremely hard-working …assiduous, quick-thinking, formidable silk …who is able to navigate the most complex cases and get to the heart of the matter almost instantly. She is a go-to person for those seeking pragmatic, sensible and reliable advice. Gillian has developed a high-profile practice with a specialisation in Financial & Business Crime, acting on behalf of individuals, corporate clients, and the prosecution – many of her cases are well-known with a global reach. Gillian also advises companies on compliance issues, internal investigations, and strategically following commencement of investigations by the SFO, FCA and other regulatory bodies. Her practice is such that she has acquired specialist knowledge of restraint and confiscation, the obtaining of material from foreign jurisdictions, and an understanding and analysis of complex bank movements and offshore transactions. Gillian is also noted for her significant expertise in Private Prosecutions. Gillian is noted for being a tactically astute and persuasive advocate who has a reputation for meticulous preparation, excellent client care skills and commitment to her clients. She is described as having an incisive legal mind which enables her to cut rapidly to the crux of the issues in the most complex cases. She is able to take the client through difficult decisions, attracting plaudits for both her advocacy and her upbeat attitude – she stands her ground and holds her own… Her advice is pragmatic and vigorous, making her highly sought after. Gillian also regularly defends in cases involving Murder & Manslaughter, Serious Organised Crime, misconduct in public office (including deaths in custody, Fraud, and sexual misconduct), death by dangerous driving and serious Sexual Offences having developed specialist expertise in trials involving vulnerable witnesses. Gillian was appointed joint Head of Chambers in 2018. Appointed a Recorder of the Crown Court in 2012, Serious Sexual Offences ticket 2016, and appointed to sit at the Central Criminal Court 2018. Gillian has been named in The Hot 100 list 2021, produced by The Lawyer Magazine. She was the winner of Crime Silk of the Year at Legal 500’s UK awards 2020, won Highly Commended in the Women-in-Law category at the British Legal Awards 2019, and was cited as a Leading Silk across Financial Crime, Business and Regulatory Crime (including global investigations), Private Prosecutions, as well as General Crime by Chambers UK, Legal 500 and Who’s Who Legal.
Guy Bowden acts as leading or junior counsel in substantial Fraud cases and has done so for the past eight years. Guy’s practice encompasses all areas of criminal defence and prosecution work, including Fraud, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime, Sexual Offences, Serious Violence, Serious Organised Crime, conspiracies and public order offences. He also undertakes Inquest & Inquiry work in the Coroners’ Court which often involves issues in relation to Article 2 rights. Guy has excellent analytical skills and is adept at assimilating complex data and issues. He is frequently instructed in cases which require intense preparation and skilled presentation in court.
Having been a specialist advocate in serious, financial and regulatory crime for many years with significant experience of exceedingly large, multi-handed and complex cases, Hannah has now decided to dedicate the majority of her time to teaching at University College London (UCL) where she is a Lecturer (Teaching). She will continue, however, to maintain an advisory practice in Chambers. Repeatedly recommended as a junior, as well as a New Silk in Chambers UK for her work in criminal fraud / financial crime, Hannah is cited as being ‘always so cerebral and thoughtful’, 'a first-class advocate and excellent lawyer, whose attention to detail is of the highest order', 'incredibly bright', 'very strong' and 'highly efficient'. Acknowledged as having a "remarkable capacity for mastering volumes of material", Hannah is also extremely adept at addressing intricate issues of fact and law. Highly organised and efficient, she is recognised for her "methodical" thinking and diligence.
Ian McLoughlin is a specialist Crime practitioner who both prosecutes and defends in a broad range matter, including high profile Murder & Manslaughter and Sexual Offences cases. Much of his work is as a leading junior. He has particular expertise in cases involving modern slavery and Human Trafficking offences, including s1 slavery cases and trafficking for economic and sexual exploitation. These cases frequently have an international dimension and Ian is well versed in dealing with multi-jurisdictional issues. Ian also advises over a wide range of Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary and Business Crime & Fraud matters.
James Holland specialises in defending allegations of White Collar Crime, including all aspects of Business Crime & Fraud. James has experience in conducting Investigations and Inquests & Inquiry work, having been engaged as counsel to the Dame Linda Dobbs Review in relation to which he sits on the Regulatory Sub-Panel. James has also defended allegations of Serious & Organised Crime, in particular those cases involving modern slavery, Human Trafficking, Serious Violence offences and Murder & Manslaughter. James is able to master complex and voluminous materials quickly and efficiently and adopts a client-focused approach to all cases. He is a tenacious advocate and skilled legal draughtsman, diligent, and approachable but fierce and uncompromising in the defence of his clients’ interests in court.
Jamie Sawyer has extensive general Crime experience, both defending and prosecuting in courts throughout Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk as well as conducting appellate work before the Court of Appeal. His practice principally covers Fraud, Sexual Offences, Serious & Organised Crime, Serious Violence, Offences, Murder & Manslaughter, Road Traffic Offences and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary matters. Jamie has been instructed as junior counsel in relation to a number of large-scale murder enquiries. Most recently, Jamie has acquired a high level of experience in the area of pre-recorded cross-examinations of vulnerable witnesses (under s 28 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999). His fair and balanced courtroom manner lends itself well to cases involving such witnesses. Jamie also acts for local authorities and in particular in relation to Trading Standards matters. He has been involved in several major prosecutions of businesses, and regularly advises local authorities on Investigations as well as acting in proceedings on their behalf.
Jamie Sharma is a specialist Business Crime & Fraud barrister with a particular skill and expertise in handling Investigations, Tax & Insolvency, Private Prosecutions and associated Public & Administrative Law matters. He has been instructed, regularly, by UK government agencies for over a decade. These include instructions from the Attorney General’s Office, SFO, FCA, and HMRC. His cases frequently involve an international dimension and matters of utmost sensitivity and public interest. Jamie is presently retained by the SFO on its A Panel of counsel.
Jane Bewsey KC principally prosecutes in serious and complex corporate Fraud, Proceeds of Crime, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime and tax cases instructed by the CPS and the SFO (current prosecution panel member) appearing as lead advocate in the Crown Court and the appellate courts. She is thoroughly familiar with all aspects of disclosure, public interest immunity and confiscation issues. She also has extensive experience of prosecuting Serious & Organised Crime and Drugs Offences.
Jane is currently ranked as a leading junior for her expertise in Crime and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary matters. She has built a strong all-round criminal practice. As well as accepting instructions from a number of highly respected defence firms, Jane is a CPS Panel Advocate (Grade 4) and has also prosecuted on behalf of various public and private bodies, including the Health and Safety Executive, RSPCA, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, and local authorities. Her practice embraces the entire range of criminal conduct. She is an extremely experienced jury advocate, and has appeared before the appellate courts on numerous occasions. She is a persuasive advocate and an adept technical lawyer with the organisational and communication skills necessary for varied and complicated cases. As a prosecutor, Jane is fair but robust, and works well as part of a team. As a defender she is tenacious and committed, and takes very seriously the trust reposed in her by her clients. Her commitment to detailed case analysis, combined with her intellect and friendly manner, have enabled her to build a successful and diverse practice as a criminal and regulatory barrister. She is expert at witness handling, both in examination-in-chief and cross-examination, and has a style which adapts easily to the various different forums in which she appears.
Janine has excellent communication skills and detailed knowledge built up over 30 years at the Bar, which she applies when prosecuting and defending in cases of Sexual Offences, rape, Serious Violence and all Serious & Organised Crime matters. She is particularly adept at dealing with cases involving vulnerable adults, children and witnesses or defendants with special needs and is on the CPS rape list and is a Grade 4 prosecutor. She has lectured lawyers, doctors and other professionals on trial preparation and presentation and has also helped train intermediaries. She has prosecuted and defended in cases of serious abuse such as the prosecution of a care home manager and her staff for abusive behaviour towards learning disabled adults in their care. She conducts all cases of Serious & Organised Crime and has been instructed by the Government Legal Service in the Cayman Islands in a tribunal hearing involving misconduct in office of a High Court Judge. She was counsel for a number of the bereaved families in the 7/7 Bombing Inquest conducted by Lady Justice Hallett in 2011. She also has an extensive family practice and is regularly instructed in care and adoption cases in the High Court which have an unusual complexity or sensitivity. Her practice often involves cases where there are concurrent proceedings in the family and criminal jurisdictions as she is able to deal with difficult issues involving confidentiality and disclosure. She has dealt with several care cases representing clients accused of murdering their co-parent and is able to advise both the family and criminal team of solicitors as a result of her knowledge of both sets of proceedings. She is registered with the Bar Council as a Public Access Advocate and in appropriate cases she is able to accept instructions directly. She is also specifically qualified in prison law following a 12-month course and is a qualified Family Mediator with the FMA.
Jenni Dempster KC is a very experienced and extremely able advocate whose practice primarily involves defending in cases involving Murder & Manslaughter, serious Sexual Offences, Road Traffic Offences, Drug Offences and Fraud. She is instructed regularly in high-profile and sensitive cases and has, over nearly 30 years, built up a loyal following of solicitors. She is known as a remarkably tenacious, diligent and extremely hard-working advocate. She deals regularly with difficult, unusual and complex cases and is currently holding instructions in a number of serious cases due for trial in 2022. Jenni has a special interest in cases involving young defendants and witnesses. She is very well respected within the profession and often represents members of the legal profession in various proceedings. She is committed to providing representation under public funding and frequently appears pro bono in the Court of Appeal.
Jeremy Benson KC is a pre-eminent silk with over thirty years’ experience both prosecuting and defending in fact-heavy, complex cases of considerable importance. He has been ranked in the legal directories every year since 1990. He is currently ranked as a leading silk in Crime, Fraud, corporate and vat. His practice demonstrates a breadth of experience in varied arenas, which produces a refreshing, knowledgeable and useful perspective to cases. He is recognised for his strategic, practical and tenacious approach. Jeremy has been sitting as a judge since 1994. He is a tutor judge at the Judicial College. He is frequently called upon to teach various advocacy courses worldwide, including the American Bar Association advocacy course in Florida, the Keble College Annual Advocacy Course and the teacher trainer advocacy course at Middle Temple. He teaches Chambers’ pupils.
Described as ‘an absolute star’ by the Legal 500, Joanna is an accomplished defence barrister in very high demand. Joanna enjoys a high-profile caseload defending serious allegations. She is a popular jury advocate who prides herself on attractive advocacy, no-nonsense advice, a personable approach, and the capacity for sustained hard work. The ‘outstanding results she achieves for her clients’ have been praised by the Legal 500. Recent instructions include double attempted murder [stabbing], attempted murder [shooting], manslaughter, death by dangerous driving, rape, kidnap, child cruelty, firearms, extensive drug operations and high-level fraud. Joanna has appeared against, and co-defended with, King’s Counsel. Joanna has experience as leading counsel and enjoys working as part of a team. She is also regularly led by King’s Counsel in murder trials and is known for being a diligent, trustworthy, and hardworking junior. Joanna enjoys ‘case ownership’ and early involvement in the shape of a case. She encourages early conference with a client and their family to map out a strategy and to provide support. Joanna has had recent success in securing bail for clients in the early stages of murder and conspiracy to murder proceedings. Joanna is often asked to represent professionals and high-profile individuals in the criminal courts. She has represented teachers, police officers, prison officers, nurses and business owners. She is experienced in handling sensitive allegations of misconduct in a public office. Joanna is discreet and skilled in managing cases attracting media attention. Joanna is approachable and experienced in representing young and vulnerable defendants. She is proficient in trials involving intermediaries, special measures and the pre-recording of evidence. Joanna has particular expertise in defending those accused of sexual offending in both the Crown Court and Court of Appeal. The Legal 500 noted Joanna’s skill in the face of cases where ‘the jury may have initially taken against her client due to the nature of the allegations.’ Joanna undertook one of the first pre-recorded s28 cross-examination pilot trials and is able to accept a very limited number of such cases per year. An experienced appellate lawyer, Joanna is regularly instructed to advise and act in first-instance cases involving difficult or unusual points of law. She has appeared before the Court of Appeal on behalf of both appellants and respondents. She appeared before the Lord Chief Justice in the leading authority establishing the correct approach to inconsistent verdicts (F and others [2016] EWCA Crim 550). She was counsel for the successful respondent in a frequently cited authority as to non-defendant bad character (E [2016] EWCA Crim 839). In a recent appeal against sentence, Joanna successfully argued an extended sentence of eight years was manifestly excessive; it being reduced to a determinate sentence of 40 months (T [2019] EWCA Crim 1378). Joanna is experienced in Attorney General’s reference proceedings. She has successfully opposed applications by the Attorney General to refer her client’s sentences as unduly lenient (C [2023] EWCA Crim 483) and has also been led in relation to an unduly lenient minimum term of a life sentence imposed for the offence of conspiracy to murder (W [2017] EWCA Crim 1353). Joanna recently successfully argued that an ‘interim’ sentence for murder, served between the commission and conviction dates of separate offending, ought to have been taken into account at the point of sentence (D [2021] EWCA Crim 119). Joanna is an accredited advocacy trainer for Middle Temple and a pupil supervisor within chambers. She regularly volunteers with the Kalisher Trust to widen access and entry to the profession. Joanna is listed in both of the leading legal directories; the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. Joanna came to the Bar from a strong academic background. She read Law at King’s College London where she graduated with First Class Honours. She was awarded a postgraduate scholarship to read for her LLM Master of Laws, graduating with Distinction. She was the recipient of the Harmsworth Scholarship from Middle Temple. Joanna speaks and writes about the criminal justice system. In 2019 she was listed in the ‘Law and Order’ category of the Evening Standard’s ‘Progress 1000’, a list of the most influential people in London. Joanna has appeared on BBC television and radio. She has twice given evidence to the House of Commons’ Justice Committee. Joanna is experienced in the pre-recorded cross-examination of vulnerable witnesses and has conducted multiple cases falling within the new regime. Joanna is an active member of the bar. She is an advocacy trainer, a pupil supervisor and is committed to increasing both diversity and social mobility within the profession. Joanna came to the bar in 2010 from a strong academic background. She holds a First Class Law degree and a postgraduate Masters of Law from King’s College London. She was awarded the Harmsworth Scholarship by Middle Temple.
Joe maintains a busy, solid practice, both alone and as led junior, prosecuting and defending across the full range of criminal offences. Joe’s practice is predominantly in the Crown Court but he also maintains a Magistrates’ and Youth Court practice, delivering effective advocacy in those fast-paced jurisdictions. Joe is a Grade 3 prosecutor and a RASSO panel advocate. He brings focused preparation, robust advocacy, a down to earth approach and sensitive interpersonal skills to all his cases. In April 2015, he moved to independent practice at Red Lion Chambers after a successful two-and-a-half years with the CPS, where he gained experience and skills that continue to serve him today. Based in Red Lion Chambers’ Chelmsford Annexe, Joe regularly appears across East Anglia, but also accepts instructions in London and nationally.
John Lyons specialises exclusively in criminal defence, in particular Business Crime & Fraud. He also acts for those accused of Serious & Organised Crime, including Terrorism-related offences, large-scale Drugs Offences, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime, serious Sexual Offences, and Murder & Manslaughter. He has been instructed on behalf of potential victims of miscarriages of justice and is involved in representing those seeking to appeal historic criminal convictions through the Criminal Cases Review Commission. He has a clear understanding of the approach of the prosecution and disclosure issues, having previously been appointed a Grade 4 (highest grade) CPS prosecutor. John regularly undertakes leading junior work and is also led by King’s Counsel. He also defends in large-scale financial Frauds, high-tech computer frauds and VAT and tax offences. As a former qualified Company Secretary and with a degree in economics, John is well equipped to understand and analyse complex company accounts and other financial documents. He is highly proficient in the use of computers for case preparation. He has lectured in the use of case preparation software. He is able to establish case-based intranets and designs, develops and uses bespoke databases and spreadsheets for case preparation and presentation of complex evidence. He has considerable experience of large-scale drug conspiracies. Often these cases involve vast amounts of phone evidence. John is able to efficiently and confidently review enormous quantities of call data and cellsite information using sophisticated data analysis tools. He regularly discovers unexpected and often crucial contact patterns, and can present this material in a jury-friendly format. On many occasions John’s grasp of the data has avoided the need to instruct costly phone experts. In addition to his noteworthy Crime and Fraud & Business Crime practice, John has a background in Public & Administrative Law and Civil Liberties & Human Rights. He served for many years as a member of the Legal Services Commission Public Interest Advisory Panel. As a former Chair of Liberty and member of the International Federation of Human Rights he has a strong knowledge of the impact of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Jonathan Fisher KC is ranked as a leading barrister, with extensive experience in civil, criminal and regulatory cases. Jonathan has particular expertise in the areas of Bribery & Corruption, Sanctions, Financial Services Regulation, Fraud, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime, and Tax & Insolvency disputes. Much of Jonathan’s work involves international transactions, offshore companies and trusts. He has represented defendants and prosecution authorities in many serious or complex criminal and civil trials. Today, Jonathan’s practice is mostly advisory. Jonathan holds a PhD, awarded by LSE, following his research into the obligation to report suspicious money laundering activity and corporate rights.
Nominated for Crime Silk of the Year 2022, Kate Bex is a highly regarded criminal advocate who defends and prosecutes. She specialises in Murder & Manslaughter and large scale Serious & Organised Crime. Kate has experience of dealing with novel areas of law; she prosecuted an importation and supply of firearms by rival south London gangs involving a new weapon not seen by forensic scientists before which required expert evidence on the interpretation of s5 Firearms Act to set a precedent for future cases. Kate prosecuted the first FGM trial and successfully defended in the second. She prosecuted the first case of County Lines using Human Trafficking law, which went to the Court of Appeal twice. Kate has been involved in cases requiring considerable sensitivity; defending a mother in the tragic killing of both of her children whilst suffering from an undiagnosed serious mental illness and defending a man accused of sexually assaulting eight women including children in a campaign lasting fifteen years. Kate was a Steering Committee Member of the Private Prosecutors’ Association who contributed to the drafting of the Code for Private Prosecutors.
Kenneth Millett has for many years been an experienced leading junior in all aspects of the field of general Crime, both as a defence and prosecution advocate. He has particular expertise in the prosecution of multi handed sensitive, complex cases many of which are lengthy and high-profile and which specifically relate to Serious & Organised Crime. His work has taken him across the full spectrum of criminal offences with considerable expertise in the presentation of gang-related Serious & Organised Crime cases, Murder & Manslaughter, International and domestic Drugs Offences – particularly the presentation of ‘county line’ cases – armed robbery, Serious Violence, Human Trafficking and modern slavery. He has lectured on the presentation and admissibility of ‘gang evidence’ and the use of local police officers as ‘gang experts’. As a long-standing CPS Grade 4 prosecutor, he has also prosecuted the most serious types of serious Sexual Offences, both historic and current and those which also involved people trafficking. He has experience of all levels of courts from the Magistrates’ through to the appeal courts and has extensive experience in appellate work. (recent notable case R v Stewart 2016). He served on the BAFS executive committee and has a keen interest in all aspects of forensic science. Ken is qualified as a rugby referee, rugby coach and ECB cricket coach.
Klentiana Mahmutaj is a barrister of 15 years’ call. She acts as counsel in Business Crime & Fraud, Civil Liberties & Human Rights and International arbitration, with a focus on investment arbitration. Klentiana regularly handles politically sensitive material, acting for governments and other stakeholders. She has substantial public inquiry experience, having represented the Metropolitan Police Service for the last four years in the Undercover Policing Inquiry. In March 2020, Klentiana became a United Nations mandate holder. She was appointed by the UN Human Rights Council as Independent Expert on the Expert Mechanism on the Right to Development. In July 2021, Klentiana co-founded the Balkan Arbitration Conference. The first event truly inclusive of the whole region, it brings together world leaders in the field of arbitration as well as local practitioners, supporting the rule of law in the Balkans.
Laura has developed a thriving Crime practice and appears regularly on the South Eastern Circuit. Laura is a robust advocate, whose meticulous approach to preparation allows her to present cases concisely and persuasively. Laura is known for having a consistently high level of oral and written advocacy. She is able to assimilate large quantities of information quickly, allowing her to present it in a jury-friendly manner, and to prepare persuasive and detailed legal arguments. She has a logical approach to factually complex cases, which is of particular value in Serious & Organised Crime cases, such as Drug Offences and Human Trafficking, involving the assimilation of large quantities of telephonic material. She has particular expertise in dealing with cases involving gang evidence or complex/ sensitive issues of disclosure. Meanwhile, her approachable and reassuring manner, have allowed her to develop other areas of her practice, including work involving Sexual Offences. She has undertaken and organised specific courses to hone her ability to deal with vulnerable parties, especially in relation to sexual offences.
After many years of trial and appellate advocacy experience at the Canadian Bar (Alberta Bar 1983), with many reported judgments, Laura Hoyano developed a high-profile academic career at the University of Oxford, where she is now Emeritus Professor of Law. Laura has an international reputation for her research in the Crime and Civil Liberties & Human Rights aspects of child abuse and child sexual exploitation as well as Human Trafficking, abusive relationship cases and the handling of vulnerable witnesses. Since 2015 she has also practised in these fields at the English Bar. Laura also practises in Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary law, where vulnerable witnesses requiring special measures often appear. Due to her long experience working within the higher education sector, she brings unique knowledge and expertise to the handling of harassment and other complaints of misconduct, in student/academic relations and academic/academic relations alike. She has a particular interest in professional tribunals in the medical sector; she lectured for many years on accountability for clinical errors in medical law at the postgraduate level in Oxford. Her expertise in criminal and civil issues vaulting across juridical boundaries, and across practice and academic research, makes her adept in developing lateral and creative strategies for cases. Laura’s distinctive contribution to developing the law, practice and public policy on many fronts because of her dual perspectives as advocate and academic was acknowledged in a feature article in Counsel (‘Laura Hoyano: Advocating for Change’, March 2020 issue). Since 2012 she has written the chapter in Blackstone’s Criminal Procedure on vulnerable witnesses and defendants and special measures directions (Chapter D 14), and she is a contributor to Rook & Ward on Sexual Offences (2021) and every edition of Achieving Best Evidence in Criminal Proceedings, the official guidance for the management of vulnerable witnesses. She is a frequent author and commentator for the Criminal Law Review. She has lectured on these topics over many years for the Criminal Bar Association, the Services Prosecuting Authority, Judicial Studies Board, Magistrates’ Association, Family Justice Council, Old Bailey Mess and Middle Temple, as well as internationally. She is famed for her flow diagrams mapping the rules of evidence for the use of practitioners, judges, and students of the law. She is frequently sought as an expert commentator by British and international media. She has carried out research commissioned by the Home Office, Ministry of Justice and the Scottish Government, as well as by foreign public inquiries into sexual offences and child abuse. Because of her acknowledged expertise, including representing the Criminal Bar Association on the Rape Review, Laura is frequently interviewed in the media on child abuse/RASSO issues.
Laura is a dedicated criminal practitioner who has spent 10 years working within criminal litigation. Laura enjoys a busy Crown Court practice as both a led junior and junior alone. She is regularly instructed in relation to complex and serious cases, including murder, serious violence, modern slavery, large scale drug conspiracies, fraud and sexual offending. Laura has extensive trial advocacy experience in cases involving vulnerable and child witnesses, complex medical and financial expert evidence, intricate legal arguments and novel points of law. Prior to being called to the Bar, Laura qualified as a solicitor advocate defending cases against the Crown Prosecution Service, National Crime Agency, HMRC, RSPCA and the Environment Agency. Laura also gained experience of regulatory crime, having prosecuted Housing Act, environmental, trading standards and food hygiene offences as well as confiscation proceedings, on behalf of a prominent London local authority. Laura has experience of liquor licensing, including appeal proceedings. In her spare time Laura enjoys attending pop up theatre events and restaurants. She is also an avid supporter of Newcastle United.
The hallmarks of Lauren’s advocacy are preparation and determination. She is a hard-working and committed barrister, single-minded about achieving the best results for her clients. Lauren prosecutes and defends as led junior, leading junior and junior alone, on a range of serious and complex cases, including homicide, large scale Fraud cases, large scale Drugs Offences, Human Trafficking, serious Sexual Offences, Serious Violence & Serious Organised Crime. Lauren is regularly instructed by leading firms in matters involving the highest levels of sensitivity and complexity. She often represents professionals and high net worth individuals facing criminal proceedings.
Leila Chaker prosecutes and defends in Crime and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary cases. She delivers balanced advice in clear terms and is persuasive in both oral and written advocacy. Leila has substantial experience in Healthcare Regulation and Professional Discipline and has been instructed in a wide range of cases involving allegations of clinical malpractice and professional misconduct. A strong technical lawyer, Leila is experienced in complex cases and investigations. She works well as part of a team, taking a collaborative and friendly approach. She prioritises organisation and communication to ensure effective preparation and to achieve the best available outcomes. Leila is currently instructed by the Dame Linda Dobbs Review.
Lorraine Tucker is a Crime specialist based in our East Anglia location. She covers all aspects of Crime with an emphasis on Serious Violence, Drugs Offences and Sexual Offences, being instructed both by the prosecution and defence. She has also been instructed by the Norfolk Constabulary as independent counsel to review seized material subject to LPP. Lori joined Red Lion Chambers in 2010, bringing with her 24 years’ experience as a CPS prosecutor. She spent her last years in the CPS Special Casework/HCA Unit for Norfolk where she was responsible for some of the most serious investigations and prosecutions involving offences of Serious Violence, Fraud, Sexual Offences, Drugs Offences – particularly those involving the use of covert investigation by the police. Lori also provided training to the CPS, witness support and police, including the Major Incident Team, Drug and Serious Crime Squad and Child Protection Unit in respect of covert policing, sexual offences and disclosure.
Lucy is a tenacious barrister with an impressive academic background. She brings tactical acumen to all her cases and offers a robust and persuasive approach. Lucy has substantial experience prosecuting and defending in cases involving Crime and Sexual Offences and is a member of the CPS Advocate Panel (Grade 3). Lucy is also an experienced Inquests & Inquiries barrister as well as being experienced in cases involving Business Crime & Fraud. She is a diligent and efficient junior and has been led in a variety of cases, including allegations of murder, causing an explosion likely to endanger life and historic Sexual Offences. Lucy has also developed notable experience of large-scale reviews, particularly involving Fraud & Business Crime. She has extensive knowledge of the disclosure process having assisted with disclosure on major prosecutions, including by the SFO. Lucy is currently instructed as part of the team of counsel assisting Dame Linda Dobbs DBE with the Dame Linda Dobbs Review, considering whether the issues relating to HBOS Reading were investigated and appropriately reported to authorities at the time by Lloyds Banking Group, following its acquisition of HBOS. .
Marc is an experienced Crime practitioner who prosecutes and defends as both a leading and led junior across Murder & Manslaughter, Serious Violence, Sexual Offences, and Business Crime & Fraud matters. He has a particular expertise in cases that involve the use and misuse of technology. He undertakes cases involving hacking, the creation of malevolent software; and general computer enabled crime such as manufacture and distribution of indecent material. He also undertakes some quasi-criminal Public & Administrative Law work, and regularly appears on behalf of the Criminal Cases Review Commission in Judicial Review proceedings. Marc was appointed to grade 4 on the CPS General Crime Panel in December 2019. He was appointed to the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences panel in 2015.
Marcus Rickard has an ever-growing practice and reputation, advising on a wide range of Business Crime & Fraud, Serious Crime, Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary, Public & Administrative Law and Inquests & Inquiries. Marcus is a persuasive advocate with a pragmatic style and user-friendly approach. He has been instructed in cases right across the criminal and quasi-criminal spectrum. He has a particular interest in handling Appeals, abuse of process and is a specialist in Data Protection & Technology, in particular GDPR and privacy work as well as the related compliance, commercial issues, data investigations and data fraud work in the software, technology, fintech, data & AI markets. Marcus also has extensive and growing knowledge regarding voluntary disclosure, confidentiality and legal professional privilege. His most recent instructions include a high-profile case at the Old Bailey to defend a vulnerable 18-year-old charged with double murder and a gross negligence case in the Court of Appeal. Marcus is also privately instructed on a number of high-profile Appeals, both recent and historic. He is also an expert on the implication of the data protection legislation in the criminal justice system. Marcus has experience in the civil courts having appeared in both the Chancery Division of the High Court and First-tier Tribunal (Tax). From 1999 to 2000 Marcus worked for a leading firm of regulatory law solicitors working alongside KPMG’s Tax Investigations team. His background is in white collar crime, legal privilege, and civil / criminal investigations into corporate bodies and high-net worth individuals charged with tax, regulatory and Fraud offences.
Marilyn Vitte provides advice and representation in all areas of Business Crime & Fraud, Murder & Manslaughter, Serious Violence, Sexual Offences and Drugs Offences as well as Inquests & Inquiries. She is a skilled, astute and persuasive advocate, who offers meticulous case preparation, a keen tactical acumen and exceptional client care. She regularly appears in the Crown Court and Court of Appeal in cases involving complex issues of law. Marilyn is instructed regularly in Serious & Organised Crime. She has both acted and advised in high profile and complex trials, including murder, large-scale conspiracies to commit violence, Fraud and Drugs Offences. She can quickly assimilate substantial amounts of material and is skilled at identifying key issues. She has an engaging court style and a firm yet steadfast approach. She is frequently instructed as sole and led junior.
Mathew Dance is instructed as both leading and junior counsel for the defence and is very experienced in highly complex and serious criminal cases. He specialises in defending large-scale Fraud, Serious and Organised Crime. He is an advocate of the tactical approach and determined and meticulous preparation required to get the best results. In addition, Mathew maintains a very friendly and approachable manner with both his instructing solicitors and lay clients.
Matthew Sorel-Cameron is a robust and persuasive advocate advising on Business Crime & Fraud, Serious & Organised Crime, Serious Violence, Sexual Offences, Road Traffic Offences and Inquests & Inquiries. He brings a forensic approach to cases. His skill, tactical acumen and judgement have helped him develop a successful and diverse practice. He has significant experience in representing vulnerable clients and handling vulnerable witnesses. Matthew defends and is also regularly instructed to represent the Crown Prosecution Service. He is Grade 4 on the CPS Advocate Panel for General Crime, and is on the Fraud, Serious Crime and RASSO panels.
Matthew specialises in Business Crime & Fraud and has substantial experience of associated Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime, civil and regulatory matters. He is often instructed by prosecution and other public agencies and has successfully defended individuals against a wide range of allegations. Matthew frequently assists and advises on large-scale investigations involving allegations of financial misconduct. He also has substantial experience in the field of general crime and has acted in both criminal and civil regulatory proceedings.
Max is ranked as a leading junior in financial crime, business and regulatory crime (including global investigations) and sport. A specialist in serious Crime and Fraud, both prosecuting and defending, Max has been instructed in some of the most complex and high-profile cases in recent years including LIBOR and Forex. Over the last decade Max has appeared in cases ranging across the criminal spectrum, including homicide, organised crime, drug conspiracies and serious violence. He also has experience in private prosecutions. Max is a member of the SFO’s A panel and is a CPS Panel Advocate (Grade 4). He is also a Grade 4 CPS Specialist Panel Advocate for both Fraud and Serious Crime, and a Grade 3 member of the Terrorism panel. Max is also a leading practitioner in the sports arena. He is regularly instructed to represent the Football Association in matters of professional discipline and has appeared on behalf of UK Athletics and the British Horseracing Authority. He is an advisor to UK Anti-Doping and has undertaken work for the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League. Max additionally represents athletes in disciplinary proceedings across a range of sports.
Michael Goodwin KC is highly regarded as an expert in Business Crime & Fraud, and Serious & Organised Crime cases. The Legal 500 describes Michael as clever, organised, calm and a class act in the courtroom, and as being a serious heavy-hitter in criminal fraud. He combines a powerful intellect with a measured and effective advocacy style. According to Chambers UK Michael has amazing flair in court and outstanding knowledge. He is a great court advocate who charms juries and judges. He is also very technically skilled and a well-respected barrister with notable expertise in prosecuting and defending high-value financial crime cases. Michael has extensive experience defending and prosecuting in high profile and complex criminal litigation. Michael represents corporate and professional clients. He provides strategic advice during the investigative stages of a case, and court representation throughout the life of a case. He conducts cases fearlessly and with tactical precision. He is a meticulous and extremely persuasive advocate. Michael also has particular expertise of Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary proceedings, and represents professional clients in concurrent criminal and non-criminal proceedings if required.
Michael Skelley has established a reputation as an accomplished jury advocate defending a broad spectrum of Crime work. Michael brings commitment and careful analysis to all of his cases, seeking to develop the right tactical approach. His aim is always to bring a case to life for the jury, identifying the features which are most likely to lead to an acquittal. He believes in establishing a rapport with his client, and a bond of professional trust with his instructing solicitors. He also tries to bring sensitivity and support to the families of his clients. He offers a track record of hard work, meticulous preparation, perceptive analysis and high quality, thoughtful advocacy. Over recent years Michael has increasingly been asked to represent clients on a private basis. Michael is ranked in the Legal 500 (2019) Seriously good: a conscientious, diligent, measured and persuasive advocate.
Over the last few years Michael Epstein has focused on heavy Crime defence work, particularly cases involving Fraud, large-scale Drugs Offences and all other forms of Serious & Organised Crime. Michael also specialises in Road Traffic Offences and has successfully represented many high-profile clients from the worlds of sports and entertainment. Michael has conducted many serious criminal cases both prosecuting and defending.
Michelle Nelson defends and prosecutes across the criminal spectrum. She has a strong background in prosecuting and has prosecuted in some of the most serious, difficult and high-profile Crime cases. As Treasury Counsel she has been involved in the prosecution of a large number of high-profile murder and manslaughter cases. She has also prosecuted fraud and large-scale money laundering on behalf of the SFO, RCPO and DBIURR. Her defence work includes general crime, fraud and murder. Her work includes dealing with restraint and confiscation and she has worked at the Asset Forfeiture Unit of the RCPO advising on and pursuing restraint and forfeiture. She has advised on and represented the Attorney General in the Court of Appeal on unduly lenient sentence appeals. Other work includes advising appellants in Privy Council appeals. Michelle appeared as prosecution junior, led by Max Hill QC, in Channel 4’s The Trial (2017) in which real juries, together with actual barristers and judges, tried a fictional murder case in order to explore the workings of the jury system. She has also appeared as a panellist on Radio 4’s Unreliable Evidence on Sentencing (2017) alongside Treacy LJ, the Attorney-General and the Legal Director of the Howard League.
Naomi Parsons acts in Crime, Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary and Public & Administrative Law cases. In recent years, her criminal practice has focused on financial crime and Terrorism. Her public law practice encompasses Judicial Review and Inquests & Inquiries. Naomi has taken instructions in both Russian and Spanish. Her language skills mean she is well suited to cases with an international dimension.
Nicholas is a determined barrister and a skilled advocate. He is regularly instructed to prosecute and defend in Crime, Business Crime & Fraud and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary cases. In the Crown Court, Nicholas has a busy practice prosecuting and defending in cases across the Criminal spectrum. Nicholas is a CPS Grade 2 Prosecutor. In Professional Discipline, Nicholas has experience representing professionals at Fitness to Practise Committee proceedings. Nicholas has also represented Regulators, such as the NMC, GMC and BSB. Nicholas has experience representing both families of the deceased and medical professionals in Inquests at the Coroners Court. Nicholas has experience in disclosure and has taken part in large Financial cases whilst on secondment at White & Case LLP. Shortly after being called to the bar, Nicholas received a Kalisher Award for his essay on Criminal Evidence and Procedure. Before practising at the Bar, Nicholas gained valuable experience working in the legal, educational, and charity sectors. Nicholas received an international scholarship and spent nineteen months in Tokyo working undertaking intensive Japanese studies, whilst working at Hogan Lovells and at the Japanese Association of Refugees. Nicholas also completed a Masters in Law and Social Sciences in Cuba on a prestigious EU scholarship. Whilst completing an MPhil in Criminology at the University of Cambridge, Nicholas researched Irish Travellers’ and Roma Gypsies’ perceptions and experiences of the criminal justice system. Nicholas is currently a member of the Dobbs Review Team considering whether the issues relating to HBOS Reading were investigated and appropriately reported to authorities at the time by LBG, following its acquisition of HBOS.
Nicola is an experienced senior junior who both prosecutes and defends in the full spectrum of Crime cases encompassing Murder & Manslaughter, Sexual Offences (including historical sexual abuse), neglect, and large scale Drugs Offences conspiracies. She is regularly instructed in cases involving vulnerable witnesses or defendants where she is recognised for her excellent witness and client management skills.
Nina has a diverse practice that spans International Criminal Law and Inquiries both in the UK and internationally. She is ranked as a leading international criminal lawyer in UK legal directories Chambers UK and Legal 500 and is co-chair of Chambers’ International practice group. Nina has extensive experience of genocide and war crimes prosecutions. She is currently instructed as part of the defence team representing Hashim Thaçi, former president of Kosovo, before the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague. She has previously acted in ground-breaking cases before the International Criminal Court (Rohingya jurisdiction), the Special Court for Sierra Leone (Charles Taylor), and numerous cases before the UN International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Nina is highly experienced in International Investigations, with particular expertise working with male survivors of sexual violence and torture. She advises on best practice in war crimes investigations and on securing accountability for these crimes at the national and international levels. In the UK, she is currently instructed in a senior role as part of the core team of counsel to the Dame Linda Dobbs Review. Nina qualified as a solicitor in 2003 before transferring to the Bar in 2014.
Noel is an experienced and versatile practitioner in criminal law, with a practice evenly balanced between prosecuting and defending. He has conducted trials of homicide, rape, historic sexual abuse, drugs/people trafficking, serious violence, serious fraud, and has taken instructions as a leading junior. He routinely provides advice and opinion on all aspects of criminal cases, and is moreover fully cognisant of issues regarding disclosure, public interest immunity and confiscation. Noel also sits as a Recorder on the Western Circuit. As a substantial part of Noel’s practice has involved cases regarding sexual and child abuse, he has acquired significant expertise in trials involving child defendants and/or witnesses, vulnerable witnesses, and cross-examination via video-link. He has been on the Crown’s Rape List since its inception. Noel has also acquired expertise in workplace-related criminal cases, including sexual offences, and NHS fraud. He has prosecuted regulatory matters for the county of Essex; acts for the General Medical Council; and has defended cases of serious malfeasance in public office. Noel regularly provides advice on grounds of appeal and has appeared in the Court of Appeal on numerous occasions. Although a busy practitioner, Noel has invested time in extending his range of activity and qualifications, mainly in the field of international law. He has undertaken major projects, including work in Afghanistan in Kabul and Kandahar, building the country’s first team of public defenders, attending courts and prisons, as well as liaising with embassies, the UN and other international entities. Thereafter, he obtained an LLM in the USA, specialising in international and criminal law. As a member of the Human Rights Clinic he co-drafted a study paper for the UN International Expert on Minorities.
Paul is an accomplished and highly regarded barrister, who prosecutes and defends in cases of Serious & Organised Crime. He covers the whole criminal spectrum including Murder & Manslaughter, Sexual Offences, Drugs Offences, Serious Violence and Human Trafficking. Paul is frequently sought out for highly sensitive and complex matters and is forensically astute in dealing with extremely difficult legal issues.
Priya Khanna is a highly regarded and experienced advocate, specialising in Regulatory & Professional Discipline, Inquests & Inquiries and Investigations. She conducts work in public inquiries, independent reviews and large scale investigations in both the private and corporate sectors. She is a seasoned jury trial advocate, with extensive experience in complex Fraud cases and general Crime.
Rachel practises in all areas of Crime, Business Crime & Fraud and Public & Administrative Law. She combines an eye for detail and meticulous preparation with clear, tactically prudent advice. Rachel defends and prosecutes in the full range of Crime work with a focus on business crime and fraud, particularly in the context of large, multi-handed cases. In recent years, Rachel has built on that experience in the field of Public & Administrative Law, focusing on Inquiries and Judicial Review.
Rebecca Chalkley specialises in all areas of Business Crime & Fraud and Financial Services Regulation. Her areas of expertise include insider dealing, Bribery & Corruption (international and domestic), financial regulation, legal professional privilege, Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime and tax fraud (direct and indirect), fraudulent trading, financial vehicles and the full spectrum of frauds. She is regularly instructed in matters of complexity and sensitivity, and often with an international dimension. Rebecca is a LexisNexis Expert in Corporate Crime. Rebecca was The Times Lawyer of the week- 21 April 2022. [Press Report] Rebecca has also been included in The Lawyer Hot 100 2023. Please see here for more information: [The Lawyer] Rebecca has been and is instructed in the largest Private Prosecutions and is a leader in that field. She has been ‘spotlighted’ as such in Chambers UK. She has been instructed in various cases which resulted in Deferred Prosecutions Agreements (DPA), including what is believed to be the largest to date. She has acted in these for both individuals and companies. She is Standing Counsel to the Department for Business and the Insolvency Service and consequently advises the department on the most complicated issues of policy and their prosecutions. She has a vast experience of bankruptcy and liquidation and prosecutions under the Insolvency Act and Directorship Offences. She has considerable expertise in all matters connected to disclosure and legal professional privilege. Rebecca is frequently instructed in regulatory and quasi-criminal matters on cases involving breaches of Regulatory & Professional Discipline and on behalf of regulatory bodies. This includes the Health and Safety Executive, the Environment Agency, the Financial Conduct Authority and the General Medical Council. She is regularly instructed to defend Opticians at the General Optical Council. She is also consistently instructed in Extradition cases. This includes cases involving the USA, the Russian Federation and Bermuda. She is instructed by various government departments in cases before the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC). Rebecca was instructed by the Government, in the Kamoka litigation, concerning allegations of rendition and ill treatment sustained in Libya, brought against the British Government. Rebecca has also been appointed Visiting Professor of Practice at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (IALS) at the University of London and has taken up the role, for one year, from October 1, 2022.
Owing to his vast experience and consequential deep understanding of the criminal law and its developments, Richard Sutton KC boasts an extremely strong multi-faceted Crime and Business Crime & Fraud practice defending and prosecuting. His practice includes multi-handed cases of business crime and fraud (including Revenue, VAT and Excise Duty, money laundering and confiscation), Drugs Offences, Murder & Manslaughter, serious Sexual Offences and Serious Violence. He also possesses years of experience dealing with evidential and procedural issues encountered in Serious & Organised Crime. The non-exhaustive list includes public interest immunity, legal professional privilege, foreign evidence, Extradition issues, letters of request, covert police operations, s.72 SOCPA 2005 evidence, evidence through UK and international television links, vulnerable witnesses, forensic expert evidence (accountancy, medical, scientific), cell-site evidence and entrapment. His experience also extends to regulatory work, specifically in Bar and solicitor disciplinary action and as an adjunct to fiscal and corporate crime. With a wide-ranging Crime and Business Crime & Fraud practice, complemented by Richard’s extensive knowledge, he provides a comprehensive service to his clients. He is extremely personable with strong advocacy skills.
Richard is a fearless Crime advocate who acts for both the prosecution and the defence. Early years of practice included work in civil litigation, family law and employment law; this developed over time into a practice specialising in the prosecution and defence of the most serious and complex crime cases. Richard has a broad Crime practice and has developed a particular expertise in serious Sexual Offences, particularly those with troublesome evidential elements. Richard is also very experienced in complex, often high profile, multi-handed Murder & Manslaughter, Serious Violence and Drugs Offences cases. These cases often bring complex issues such as PII, young or otherwise vulnerable witnesses or defendants and contested DNA evidence. Richard is regularly instructed in cases led by Queen’s Counsel and as leading junior counsel. His meticulous attention to detail, his ability to quickly distil and tackle the real issues and his charming and persuasive jury manner make him a formidable opponent in any case. He has a particular specialism in cases which involve the collation and analysis of voluminous amounts of documentation (such as telephone data or accounting documents) and cases which involve vulnerable defendants or witnesses. Richard has been a grade 4 prosecutor on the CPS Advocates Panel and on the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) panel since their inception. He has lectured fellow professionals on vulnerable witnesses and the use of the Advocates Toolkit. For a number of years Richard has been cited by the Legal 500 as being a leading junior barrister and he has been ranked in ‘Tier 1’ in both 2016 and 2017.
Richard Beynon has a wide experience of criminal litigation, specialising over a number of years in the prosecution of large and complex cases involving Crime, Serious & Organised Crime and Business Crime & Fraud (including tax and duty evasion along with ancillary confiscation proceedings following conviction). Both as leader and junior, he has prosecuted a number of large multi-handed cases where investigations have been measured in years. He has a keen interest in equally complicated prosecutions for the Environment Agency and the Health and Safety Executive. A conscientious advocate with a hard-working approach he has the ability to handle vast amounts of material, used and unused alike. He serves on the CPS Advocate Panel at the highest level and also serves on the Regulatory Panel.
Riel Karmy-Jones KC' principal area of practice, and both prosecutes and defends. As a leading silk she is best known for her work in the murky world of organised crime. She has a high-profile practice which includes Murder & Manslaughter, Serious Organised Crime, Sexual Offences, and Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking, particularly cases involving vulnerable witnesses and defendants. Riel also has regulatory experience and has in recent years been instructed in high-profile cases where regulatory law intersects with criminal offences, principally in sexual and historic allegations (SRA, NMC, UKA). Between 2017-2019 she was Senior Counsel to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse leading the investigation into the Roman Catholic Church, and specifically dealing with the hearings and reports on the English Benedictine Congregation. Riel was shortlisted for Crime Silk of the Year in Legal 500’s UK awards 2019, and listed in the Hot 100, by the Lawyer Magazine in 2020. She is a contributing editor to a number of legal texts, including Archbold – Criminal Pleading, Evidence and Practice; Rook and Ward Sexual Offences: Law and Practise; Young, Corker and Summers on Abuse of Process In Criminal Proceedings; and Human Rights in Criminal Law.
Robert Woodcock KC has nearly 40 years of criminal law experience. He is an expert within his field and has considerable experience of both defending and prosecuting Serious & Organised Crime, Sexual Offences, Murder & Manslaughter, Fraud and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary. He is able to say that he has been led for the defence and the Crown by some of the finest leaders in the land and believes that a wealth of prosecuting makes him a better defender as defending makes him a stronger prosecutor. He is an outstanding cross-examiner, persuasive advocate and skilled tactician.
Rosina is a highly respected silk whose reputation for excellence has led to her instruction in high profile cases. Her practice involves heavyweight prosecution and defence of multi handed cases of serious Sexual Offences, Murder & Manslaughter and Fraud, many of which are in the public eye. A fearless advocate who brings tactical discipline and immense emotional intelligence to each facet of her case. She brings a calm and dignified approach to every problem. Well known for her work in cases involving vulnerable defendants and witnesses, she applies skill and care when representing and cross-examining those with a learning impairment, those on the autistic spectrum, and those diagnosed with mental health problems. Rosina also demonstrates expertise in respect of the cross-examination and instruction of experts in pathology, psychology and psychiatry. Rosina is a true expert within her field with extensive knowledge of law and practice and a calm and measured approach when presenting arguments. She received nothing but praise in her dealing with the high-profile Max Clifford case and soon after featured as The Times Lawyer of the Week. Her work in the case of Aravindan Balakrishnan was skilful and professional. Rosina is a member of the Sentencing Council and is called upon by the media to comment or provide expert advice on matters of serious Sexual Offences, Murder & Manslaughter and Fraud. Rosina also teaches and lectures on advocacy in respect of vulnerable witnesses and is a lead facilitator trainer for legal professionals in cross-examination of vulnerable witnesses.
Rufus D’Cruz is an able, experienced leading junior who is instructed to prosecute and defend in serious, complex, multi-handed Crime, Fraud, Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary and International work. The breadth of his practice both prosecuting and defending, has provided him with extensive experience of representing a wide range of clients, from those on death row to corporate clients and he has dealt with a wide range of witnesses from child and vulnerable witnesses to senior police officers, company directors, senior lawyers and expert witnesses in many specialisations. Rufus is particularly adept and experienced at representing and advising corporate clients in relation to Health and Safety and Environment Agency offences, money laundering matters, production orders relating to special procedure material/LPP and corporate fraud. In particular Rufus has expertise, experience and insight in representing and advising clients based in Russia and the FSU, having studied Russian language, literature, history and social sciences at university, and having undertaken seminars and lectures both in the UK, Russia and the FSU over many years. He advised clients on the alternative criminal/regulatory remedies available in commercial litigation and civil fraud cases, including cases involving allegations of unlawful enrichment and share dilution schemes. He brings to this work a unique combination of proficiency in the language, knowledge of the political and economic context and his experience of the interplay between commercial and criminal/regulatory remedies. He is a member of the British-Russian Law Association. He has considerable experience as an appellate advocate across a range of tribunals including the Divisional Court, the Court of Appeal, the House of Lords, the Privy Council and the US Supreme Court as part of a team of Barristers who prepared an Amicus Brief in a leading case in relation to Guantanamo Bay and fundamental Habeas Corpus principles. Rufus also has over 20 years experience of domestic and international Human Rights work in the UK, the Caribbean, the U.S.A., Russia and the FSU, through his work for NGOs including the Bar Human Rights Committee and Liberty. Rufus is instructed increasingly to lead in cases and the breadth of his practice, both prosecuting and defending is a reflection of his ability as an accomplished lawyer and advocate.
Sailesh Mehta prosecutes and defends in some of the most complex and high-profile cases in the Crown Courts and Appellate Court. He sits as a Recorder (part-time Crown Court Judge). He has been described in legal directories as a heavyweight and charismatic advocate who commands the respect of Judges and opponents. He is known for providing strategic and robust advice which is often decisive in a case. Although Sailesh specialises in Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary, his recent high-profile cases include: Terrorism (British soldier charged with disseminating State secrets to enemies) Murder & Manslaughter (county lines drugs feud) Human Trafficking (part of a drugs conspiracy) Stalking (involving a well-known political figure) Malicious Communications (a senior navy officer who allegedly made a bomb hoax call to a nuclear submarine site). Sailesh represents private clients, including companies and directors on a range of matters including serious Fraud and Money Laundering & Proceeds of Crime and Regulatory & Professional Disciplinary cases.
Sam Roake is typically instructed in large and complex investigations and inquiries into corporations and individuals. In addition to his inquiry work, he has extensive Business Crime & Fraud experience, often in extremely large and complex cases involving multi-jurisdictional issues, and challenges to disclosure and legal professional privilege. Sam is also well-versed in the design & implementation of data analysis strategies across large data sets in an investigation's context. Extremely user-friendly, Sam enjoys working collaboratively as part of investigative teams.
Serena Gates was appointed as a Treasury Counsel Monitoree in September 2021 and was ranked in the Legal 500 directory, in 2020 and 2021 under fraud and general crime respectively. Serena is a skilled and respected advocate with a sharp mind and broad range of both national and international experience. Her criminal practice, both prosecuting and defending, focuses on Terrorism, Murder & Manslaughter, Serious & Organised Crime, Fraud and serious Sexual Offences. She is also frequently instructed in regulatory cases, particularly those relating to proceedings brought on behalf of the GDC. Serena also has extensive experience advising, training and mentoring prosecutors in foreign jurisdictions in the prosecution of terrorism offences. She is also well versed in investigating, documenting and analysing evidence relating to war crimes and human rights abuses by both terrorist organisation and Government forces and their affiliates. Serena is a Grade 4 advocate on the General CPS panel and a Grade 4 on the specialist panels for Counter Terrorism, Fraud, Organised Crime, Rape and Serious Sexual Offences. She has also been instructed in numerous Courts Martial. Serena has particular experience in a number of specialist areas including: legal arguments in terrorism cases including on closed proceedings; legal arguments on abuse of process, autrefois convict, PII, bad character, human rights and interpretation of human trafficking provisions. advising on unduly lenient sentences in her capacity as a Treasury Counsel Monitoree; dealing with intermediaries for young and vulnerable witnesses. advising on drafting of letters of requests from foreign jurisdictions and utilising evidence obtained pursuant to such LORs,forensic and expert evidence including cell site analysis and call data, handwriting analysis, blood distribution and splatter evidence, expert psychiatric evidence, footwear tread pattern and ballistics. significant experience of international and cross border money laundering networks including the use of the hawala and international third-party payment systems. admissibility of cell site and secure phone data including EncroChat used by organised crime syndicates; and extensive knowledge of firearms related issues.
Shane Collery brings a highly unusual combination of skills and understanding of commercial work to a varied and extensive practice in serious organised crime, serious fraud and tax tribunal litigation. He was a City of London UK Equities trader before attending University, experienced commercial work for 2 years at Slaughter and May under a quasi-training contract and more recently attained a Master in Taxation from the School of Advanced Legal Studies. Accordingly, he combines the skills and rigour of someone with formal training in tax, with the forensic skills of a high-level criminal bar practitioner with years of experience in fraud and serious organised crime cases His skills and diligence have been recognised by his numerous appointments as Standing Counsel to five Government departments or agencies since 2002. Most recently in October 2017 he was appointed as Standing Counsel to the Insolvency Service advising upon and prosecuting the most serious criminal matters investigated by that agency. He has 25 years of high level experience of large organised crime cases involving Class A drugs, firearms and the violence that goes with large scale drug trafficking and at the same time in large fraud cases in particular those with a tax element. He is becoming increasingly involved in the investigation of allegations of bribery and misconduct in public office at Council level and in relation to a Parliamentary election. Most recently in December 2019, he was appointed to the Advisory group for the Home Office Serious Organised Crime review. He has significant experience in advising on the criminal liability aspects of tax avoidance schemes including the various incentive schemes in the UK for Films. This includes the pre January 2007 schemes and the later Film Production Company Film Tax Relief and Credit scheme under the Corporation Taxes Act 2009.
Simon Spence KC undertakes an even mix of prosecuting and defending Crime work across East Anglia and London. Before taking silk, he worked regularly as a leading junior and often led in high-profile cases. In 2008 he was the prosecution junior in the successful prosecution of Steve Wright, the man accused of murdering five Ipswich women.
Stephen is a specialist criminal practitioner who both prosecutes and defends in serious crime. He lives in Essex and appears regularly in courts in East Anglia. He is often instructed to appear as leading counsel.
Stephen has a wealth of expertise in defending and prosecuting Business & Fraud Crime, Sexual Offences, Organised Crime, Serious Violence, and Road Traffic Offences resulting in death and serious injury. He has acted as leading junior for both prosecution and defence. A natural jury advocate, Stephen has a practical, hands-on approach and establishes excellent working relationships with his instructing solicitors and lay clients. Stephen is also highly experienced in Inquiry work. He was instructed by the Treasury Solicitor in the Bloody Sunday Inquiry and since 2019 has been engaged in specialist work for the Dame Linda Dobbs Review into matters relating to the HBOS Reading Fraud.
Steven Dyble’s practice covers all areas of criminal defence work with a particular emphasis on homicide, Sexual Offences, Drug Offences, Fraud and money laundering. He regularly accepts leading briefs and is instructed by many of the leading solicitors undertaking criminal work. He is authorised to undertake direct professional access work.
Tim manages a busy Crime practice across a wide range of matters in both the Crown and Magistrates’ Courts. He has experience of prosecuting and defending on a variety of criminal matters, including Serious Violence, Drugs Offences, Road Traffic Offences, Fraud, burglaries and cases involving domestic violence. These matters frequently involve dealing with vulnerable defendants and witnesses. He has undertaken drafting work for the Government Legal Department on Immigration matters and he is currently part of the Metropolitan Police counsel team on the Undercover Policing Inquiry chaired by Sir John Mitting. He has also handled confiscation matters following conviction in Money Laundering & Proceeds Of Crime Act (POCA)-related proceedings. Tim has completed the ICCA ‘Advocacy and the Vulnerable’ training course. Prior to joining chambers, Tim worked both as a county court advocate in a variety of civil matters on the Midlands circuit, and as a paralegal at Corker Binning and Fulcrum chambers in London. From January to April 2015 he was an intern at the Capital Appeals Project, a legal non-profit based in New Orleans where he assisted with the most complex and contentious criminal appeals, as well as campaigning more generally for the abolition of the death penalty in Louisiana.
Tim has a busy criminal practice both prosecuting and defending. He is a specialist in financial crime as well as serious and organised crime cases and regulatory work. As grade 4 counsel, Tim prosecutes serious and complex cases for the CPS, frequently as a leading junior. His experience encompasses cases brought by HMRC, the HSE, BIS (now BEIS) and The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency as well as serious violent crime. Tim is instructed in defence work around the country and has considerable experience of defending in matters including fraud, money laundering and large-scale drugs trials. Tim has expertise in dealing with stand-alone applications relating to cash and asset forfeiture, confiscation and preventative orders such as sexual harm prevention orders. He advises the police and prosecution agencies in the sensitive areas of search warrants and legal professional privilege, e.g. for the LIBOR investigation, the Grenfell Tower Fire investigation and relating to terrorism suspects and mutual legal assistance.
Tom Forster KC has extensive experience in the fields of Business Crime & Fraud, Serious & Organised Crime, Public & Administrative Law, Civil Liberties & Human Rights, Health & Safety and Regulatory & Professional Discipline. He brings his invaluable career experience of acting for all sides – claimants, defendants, and prosecuting authorities.
Tom Payne specialises in Business Crime & Fraud (particularly cases of financial crime involving complex issues of taxation, accountancy and money laundering) and complex general Crime. He is routinely instructed in cases of unusual complexity or sensitivity (e.g. EncroChat, Hillsborough), and his career has included a number of legal firsts: the first paperless criminal trials in England and Wales using EPE and iPad jury bundles in a series of highly complex tax frauds; the first prosecutions for the cartel offence; the first prosecution arising from the Victims Right of Review scheme; and the first prosecution for offences under s2(16) CJA 1988. He is regularly instructed in major cases by the CPS, FRC, and SFO.
Tom has a broad range of experience as a junior barrister acting on behalf of both the prosecution and defence. His clients include individuals and corporate entities. He is regularly instructed in cases of Fraud and has a particular interest in Financial Crime cases. Tom specialises in regulatory offences arising from commercial activity. He has acted in private prosecutions in relation to offences under the Insolvency Act 1986, Companies Act 2006 and Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986. Tom also practises Extradition law. He accepts instructions on behalf of judicial authorities and requested persons and was formerly seconded to the CPS Extradition Unit. He is regularly instructed to appear at first instance and has appeared in the High Court. Additionally, Tom is often instructed in advisory and review work. He has acted as Independent LPP Counsel and Disclosure Counsel in large fraud investigations conducted by the Serious Fraud Office and the National Crime Agency. Tom is available to be instructed under the Direct Access Scheme.
Described as having a reputation as one of the country’s pre-eminent fraud practitioners and a brilliant lawyer, who puts his life and soul into his cases, Tony Shaw KC has been mentioned or ranked every year in the field of Fraud by annual directories since 1989. His practice in serious Business Crime & Fraud, corporate and financial crime is extensive. It pre-dates the creation of the SFO and the FSA/FCA, when he was instructed as a junior to represent the principal defendant in the SFO’s first major trial (Guinness). He is said to be a highly convincing jury advocate with a nice touch with judges and juries. Tony principally defends, although he has also prosecuted for the SFO and the FCA. His legal expertise is wide. He is said to be scholarly and intellectual. For many years he has written for and edited some of the leading publications in corporate crime, serious fraud and conspiracy, including Archbold, OUP’s Fraud loose-leaf and Practical Law’s Business Crime and Investigations. Tony strongly believes in the benefits of working as part of a team. He works very closely with solicitors and always complements the work they have done. He is very good at using new technology to aid case management and is technologically savvy. He is analytical, commercially focused, attentive to business and client objectives, and extremely user friendly. He advises corporate clients on internal investigations into financial crime and corruption issues arising both at home and abroad.
Trevor Archer impresses across a variety of specialisms. He is regularly ranked in the major legal directories as a leading practitioner in Financial Crime, and Business & Regulatory Crime (including Global Investigations). His regulatory practice includes Health and Safety and Professional Discipline. Trevor also undertakes Murder & Manslaughter and Serious & Organised Crime cases.
Valerie’s diverse practice spans serious criminal cases involving Murder & Manslaughter, Fraud, Health & Safety and Sexual Offences. She also has considerable experience in acting before a number of regulators in Professional Discipline proceedings. She is instructed in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. She is appointed by numerous professional and public bodies to do advisory and advocacy work, and has a broad range of clients from across the public and private sectors. With vast experience in complex and multi-handed cases, she both prosecutes and defends as a leading junior and is public access accredited (meaning she can take on private work directly). Her defence work includes representing a variety of professionals before their regulatory bodies. Her broad experience means she is very well placed to advise in cases where criminal and civil law intersect. Her skill in cross-examining experts across a broad spectrum of areas is well recognised. Valerie has a particular interest in mental health and is experienced in vulnerable witness advocacy. She delivers training to barristers on this. Valerie is appointed as a CPS Panel Advocate (Grade 4, highest tier) and to the specialist rape and serious crime group panels. She was also appointed to the Grade A (top tier) list for Specialist Regulatory Advocates in Health & Safety, and to the Panel A list for the Serious Fraud Office. Since 2004 Valerie has sat as a part-time judge for the First Tier Tribunal (Mental Health), and she specialises in child and adolescent cases. She also represents health authorities before the First Tier Tribunal and the Upper Tribunal, in restricted cases. Valerie is Chair of the Regulatory Practice Group at Red Lion Chambers. She is the Wellbeing Director for Chambers. Valerie has represented the Criminal Bar Association as Wellbeing Director and the South Eastern Circuit on wellbeing. She remains a member of the Bar Council’s working party group on the subject. Valerie is also an ethics and advocacy trainer for Middle Temple, and a lead facilitator for the vulnerable witness advocacy training for the South Eastern Circuit.
Zoë enjoys a busy practice both defending and prosecuting. She has experience across a wide range of cases, including those involving dishonesty offences, Drugs Offences, Road Traffic Offences, Serious Violence and Sexual Offences, as well as confiscation and forfeiture proceedings. Prior to coming to chambers, Zoë worked for the law reform and human rights charity, JUSTICE (having initially joined as an intern funded by a Kalisher Trust scholarship), and in particular was rapporteur of its Mental Health and Fair Trial working party report, chaired by Sir David Latham. She brings her insight into the law and procedures relating to mental health (including the use of intermediaries, other special measures, and the relevant defences and disposals) to bear when working with vulnerable clients. The JUSTICE Mental Health Working Party was reconvened in April 2019 to consider the draft CPS Guidance on mental health, which the CPS is developing in response to the recommendations made in JUSTICE’s report. Zoë was previously Assistant News Editor at Just Security, an online forum for the analysis of US national security law and policy run out of the Reiss Center on Law and Security at New York University. Prior to that, she gained experience in fraud and financial crime whilst assisting a campaign group of SMEs with the private prosecution of bank employees who had fraudulently mis-sold its members Interest Rate Hedging Products ahead of the 2008 financial crash. Zoë was awarded the Sibel Dedezade Pro Bono Award for her work establishing and running City Law School’s free legal advice clinic, which was recognised nationally in the Times Higher Education. She has also volunteered for the Free Representation Unit, the UCU, and various other organisations. Before pursuing a legal career, Zoë worked in the financial services industry. Zoë has completed the ICCA Vulnerable Witness training.