187 Chambers

Adam Butler

Adam is a highly experienced advocate who has always specialised in the field of criminal defence. He has built up an extensive practice, and is available for both private work and legally aided matters. Adam’s expertise and thorough preparation means that he is valued in complicated and novel matters. He is equally able to argue persuasively a convoluted point of law, or to cross-examine a vulnerable witness effectively.

Ali Dewji

Ali was called to the Bar in 2010 and accepts instructions to prosecute and defend in all types of criminal cases.

Andreas O'Shea

An international lawyer par excellence, he specialises in international crime, transitional justice and European law (especially in the fields of crime, employment and immigration), staying at the cutting-edge by publishing and teaching at the University of West London. The advocate of choice in cases with a cross border element, he brings to the table international expertise, skilled advocacy and a relentless determination. In domestic proceedings, he is tailored for advocacy in proceedings involving issues of extradition, immunity, human trafficking, immigration crime, drug trafficking, money laundering, international fraud, bribery of foreign officials, terrorism and war crimes. One of the most experienced war crimes advocates globally, his cases have tracked much of the development of modern international criminal law, starting with the acquittal of the former Rwandan education minister for genocide.

Andrew Newton

Andrew Newton is a highly experienced counsel both for the prosecution and defence. He was called in 1989 and before returning to a purely criminal practice in 1998 undertook a volume of civil and matrimonial work in addition to crime. As defence counsel he has appeared as leading junior or alone in many serious trials, notably conspiracy to blackmail and kidnapping, a multiple rape of sex workers trial, other rape cases, large scale class A and B drug dealing and importation, multi-handed violent disorder, numerous successful section 18 OAPA defences, firearms, armed robbery cases, computer hacking, multimillion-pound VAT fraud and money laundering. As junior counsel for the defence he has been led in cases involving murder, conspiracy to and attempt to murder, gunpoint rape, substantial class A drugs importation, major benefit fraud and international bank fraud. He has prosecuted throughout his career covering the whole range of trials including rape, serious violence and public disorder and has acted alone for the crown against Queen’s Counsel at trial. He has been instructed to appear for the crown in judicial review cases in the Administrative Court.

Andrew Trollope KC

Recognised for expertise in fraud and serious/organised crime cases. Long-established practice in City, commercial and other fraud cases in courts and tribunals. Fraud cases have involved market-rigging, insider dealing, tax, VAT and commercial frauds. Other specialisations include advising and representation in the tax tribunal, restraint, and confiscation. Serious and organised crime cases have involved murder, money laundering, armed robbery and drug trafficking. Notable cases in fraud include: R v Del Basso (planning/confiscation); R v Majumbar (RGB resources plc); R v Ibori Ibie (money laundering). Currently retained in respect of cases involving a football club, a firm of tax advisers and a national chain of builders’ merchants. Also representing companies on appeals in tax tribunal. DPR Futures [1990]; Blue Arrow [1991]; Guinness [1992]; R v Masterton (Caird Plc) [1994]; R v Keys and ors (McNicholas) [1998]; R v Grant and ors (LCB) [2002]; R v McKeown (Powerscreen Plc) [2003]; R v Sykes (Cheney Pension Scheme) [2004]; R v Golechha and ors (MTIC fraud) [2004]; R v Lindsay and ors (MTIC/CPU fraud) [2004]; R v Matthews (Peakviewing Plc film production VAT fraud) and R v Goldshield (alleged price fixing). Notable cases in serious crime include: Brinks Mat [1987]; Knightsbridge Safety Deposit case [1988]; R v Ireland (gay serial killer) [1994]; R v Evans and ors (Joy Gardiner deportation) [1995]; R v Flynn (M20 coach crash) [1997]; R V Herbert (theft of informant material by CPS clerk) [1999]; R v Humphreys [1999]; R v Sagar [2000] (both drug trafficking cases); R v Siddiqui (export of prohibited materials for WMD development) [2001]; R v Beiber (murder of police officer).

Anna Hamilton Shield

Anna Hamilton-Shield has over twenty years experience at the criminal bar. She has, in that time, obtained a reputation as a fearless opponent, with a passionate approach to fighting any case in which she is instructed. She has a singularly persuasive approach that will often result in unexpectedly positive results. She is determined, pugnacious and displays a desire to win. She has a combative style, often described as ‘dogged’ in the pursuit of justice. Her desire to succeed in any case in which she is instructed leads her to work over and above that which might normally be expected. Anna has a capacity to identify the weaknesses in the prosecution case how to turn that to her client’s advantage. Anna’s experience in the field of criminal law includes serious sexual offences and many other serious criminal offences including fraud, money laundering, murder and serious assault and drugs offences which often involve ‘cut throat’ defences. Anna Hamilton-Shield has a reputation for winning cases other lawyers have described as “unwinnable”, she is a well-established and trusted barrister, a successful trial lawyer and specialist advocate highly regarded by those who instruct her. With a Masters Degree in Employment Law, Anna is increasingly in demand in the employment field. Anna is renowned for being able to reduce a challenging brief to its essentials and offers pragmatic, clear and well balanced advice focused on a successful conclusion. She is determined and works tirelessly on behalf of her clients, always prepared to go the extra mile. Anna advises and represents clients in the fundamental areas of employment law: unfair dismissal; redundancy; discrimination and disability and human rights (such as freedom of association and the right to a private and family life). Anna has wide-ranging experience of the Employment Appeal Tribunal having won leave to appeal at the EAT on Human Rights grounds. She has also represented individuals at the EAT on grounds that they have been discriminated against because of their disability and has successfully represented claimants in allegations concerning unfair dismissal and complaints of unlawful discrimination. She has secured excellent compensatory settlements for claimants who have been unfairly selected for redundancy and has expertise in cases alleging misconduct.

Anna Keighley

Anna Keighley’s core practice is recovery of the proceeds of crime arising out of financial and other serious, organised, crime. Her practice has led to international instructions, advisory work, niche applications and legal argument in criminal, civil courts, the High Court and Court of Appeal. She has lectured here and overseas on the area of proceeds of crime and is contributing author to ‘Mitchell Taylor and Talbot on Confiscation and the Proceeds of Crime’ (Sweet & Maxwell). Anna is specialist appointed Counsel in this field for the CPS and SFO. Between 2015 and 2020, Anna was a Financial Ombudsman deciding Banking and Credit cases. “Anna is knowledgeable, diligent, exceptionally hardworking with superb people skills. Anna provides good practical advice and direction.” L ‘A superb POCA lawyer. Brilliant on the law. Defends and prosecutes with equal alacrity. Has some significant higher court cases to her name. A star.‘ Legal 500 2023 “She knows POCA inside out and provides very good, practical advice.” “Anna is excellent with difficult clients.” Chambers and Partners 2023 “Anna Keighley is a financial crime specialist who continues to demonstrate a burgeoning practice in the proceeds of crime. She regularly advises on asset forfeiture and confiscation orders and has appeared before the High Court and Court of Appeal.” – Chambers and Partners 2023

Anthony Rimmer

Mr Rimmer’s practise encompasses all aspects of serious crime, including homicide, complex fraud, sexual offences, drugs and money laundering. He has a predominantly defence practice and has been a leading junior in cases involving conspiracy to serious violence, fraud, robbery, drugs and firearms. Particular expertise is in prison law, human rights law and issues of disclosure and confiscation. He receives instructions on judicial review issues in the administrative court. Mr Rimmer regularly receives instructions to appear in professional disciplinary tribunals in particular, on behalf of the Police Federation of England and Wales, and continues to receive instructions in all of the above sub-areas of practice. Notable cases include: Palk v Mortgage Services Funding plc [1993] 2 WLR 415; R v Guniem [1994] 15 Cr App R (S) 91; R v HM Coroner for Northamptonshire (Kettering District) ex Parte Tomkinson [1996] 160 JP 69 [1996] COD 191; Melville v Hammersmith & Fulham LB LTL [15/3/2002]; R v Toia (Vasile) (2) lanovici (Boznea) (2004) [2004] EWCA Crim 1634; R v Evans (Dean Williams) (2) Reilly (Richard Phillip) (2004) [2004] EWCA Crim 107 R v Grant (Dane) (2) Noel (David Christopher) (2005) [2005] EWCA Crim 757 R v Ansell (Jacolin Patricia) [2006] EWCA Crim 767; R v Gyamei (Edward) [2006] EWCA Crim 380; R v Farley (Kevin [2006] EWCA Crim 517; R (on the application of A) v South Staffordshire Magistrates’ Court (2006) DC LTL 3/5/2006; Jackson v The Law Society [2006] EWHC 1381 (Admin).

Avirup Chaudhuri

Avirup Chaudhuri is a long standing member of chambers with extensive experience of conducting cases involving serious crime, sometimes instructed by the prosecution but mainly for the defence. He is regularly instructed for the defence in cases, often multi-handed, involving allegations of serious violence, importing and supplying controlled drugs, armed robbery, sexual offences, money laundering, duty evasion and fraud on individuals and larger bodies including the National Health Service, financial institutions and insurance companies (“crash for cash”). He also receives instructions from the Crown Prosecution Service. Notably he prosecuted, at first instance and on appeal to the Queen’s Bench Division, cases arising from a demonstration against an army parade in Luton which led to the formation of the English Defence League. ‘Avirup is totally charming even with the most challenging of lay clients. He is unflappable, determined and just good.’ – Legal 500 – 2024 “He both defends and prosecutes challenging cases.“ Legal 500 – 2020

Ben Hayhurst

Ben practices in heavyweight crime and tax litigation. He both prosecutes and defends. He is grade 3 Prosecutor, on the CPS rape list. Ben is a robust advocate with a personable style. His eye for detail and thorough approach to preparation means he is ideally suited to complex legal and factual issues. Having just successfully prosecuted a nine week historic child sex case, Ben is currently instructed in two multimillion pound fraud cases for HMRC. In 2003 Ben spent six months as an intern at the United Nations International Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). He worked on a number of cases including the trial of Slobodan Milosevic. Cases: Richard Adefeye (Court of Appeal) – Conviction quashed following the defendant having an unfair trial; Marcus McAuley (Court of Appeal) – Conviction quashed following the judges refusal to allow a defence to go before a jury.

Brian Reece

A substantial and continually growing practice featuring prosecution and defence of serious crime of all types. Regularly leads or appears alone in cases of gang rape, serial rape, internet pornography and child rape/abuse. These are all areas of particular experience and expertise. Equally regularly, appears for prosecution and defence, in cases involving allegations of fraud, firearms, serious violence and importation/supply of drugs. A meticulous, astute, and articulate advocate of very considerable experience. Is able rapidly to analyse a case and identify the key facts and issues of law affecting both sides. Currently advising and appearing pro bono in a number of appeals and potential appeals, and expecting to continue to do so. Some notable 21st century cases: leading for prosecution in trial involving firearms, including one of only three TEC-9 machine guns ever recovered in the UK (A TEC-9 can fire 600 rounds of 9mm ammunition in one minute); leading for prosecution in trial of leader of gang of rapists, successfully argued for introduction of evidence of previous rape acquittal and previous untried rape allegation, leading to a 14 and half year sentence; leading for prosecution in case involving trafficking from Romania, forced prostitution, frequent rape of two victims, and the systematic laundering of the cash proceeds of prostitution, leading to a 21 year sentence; leading for defence in Trading Standards ‘time share’ fraud in which all defendants were acquitted; defending what was believed to be the oldest ever case of alleged child abuse in which the time between alleged offence and trial was between 41 and 46 years (case withdrawn from the jury at the conclusion of the prosecution case); defending in money laundering case involving £315,000 in accumulated legitimate cash earnings concealed from tax authorities; acquittal on POCA offences followed legal argument, and grounds of appeal against sentence for cheating the revenue established the principle that compensation orders should not be used as a substitute for confiscation, especially where the loser is an entity with its own remedies; prosecuting one of the first cases of sex offending abroad, in which a UK national had filmed himself raping small girls, some of whom could not be identified (life sentence was imposed following a guilty plea); leading for prosecution in case of a violent serial rapist who attacked four different women on the street late at night (life sentence imposed following conviction on all counts). Appeared for the defence in £20m MTIC fraud – Operation Vaulter, (Trial 1) representing the only defendant who was not convicted; Led for the defence in £4m benefit / immigration fraud; Appeared for the defence in Operation Mirato, part of the Dale Cregan murder indictment tried in Preston. Prosecuted major internet pornography case against a serial paedophile in a case involving complicated expert evidence.

Christopher Kerr

Christopher Kerr is an expert in fraud, money laundering, confiscation, and regulatory law, areas in which he has specialized for the last fifteen years in both the criminal and the civil courts. He has particular expertise in missing trader intra-community (MTIC) fraud, and regularly appears as leading counsel before the First Tier Tax Tribunal. He has considerable experience in local authority and regulatory law, and in particular trading standards and health and safety. He has also both prosecuted and defended numerous fraud, and other serious criminal trials, as leading counsel in the Crown Court. Christopher is qualified for direct access. Christopher is appointed to the CPS Fraud Panel at Grade 4. Areas of practice: fraud; money laundering; confiscation of assets; regulatory law; trading standards; health and safety; general crime (both prosecution and defence). Cases: Instructed as leading counsel by HMRC in multi-million pound platinum fraud which is currently pending before the First Tier Tax Tribunal; Instructed as first junior by HMRC in ground breaking multi-million pound MTIC fraud appeal currently pending in the First Tier Tax Tribunal. This is a test case on whether HMRC can de-register a taxpayer on the basis of the Halifax doctrine of abuse of the VAT system; Instructed as first junior by HMRC in Direct Communications Ltd – a £10m tax appeal pending in the First Tier Tribunal; Instructed as first junior by HMRC in Fairford Group PLC – a £10 million tax appeal to be heard in 2015; Instructed as leading counsel for the prosecution in Operation Compton, a 7-handed drugs and money laundering allegation to be heard in 2014-15; Instructed as leading counsel by Suffolk Trading Standards in Operation Neptune (2014), a multi-handed allegation of mis-selling fraud in the water industry; Instructed by the Health & Safety Executive in prosecutions of public limited companies arising from fatalities on industrial sites, including John Mowlem, Bison Structures, Balfour Beatty, Ipswich Docks, Carillion, and the Thames Tunnels Project; Foneshops v HMRC (2013) – Instructed by HMRC in £20m MTIC fraud. Taxpayer’s appeal struck out for non-compliance; Synectiv Limited v HMRC (2013) ([2013] UKFTT 677 (TC) – Leading counsel for HMRC – successfully resisted a £1 million MTIC fraud appeal in the First Tier Tribunal; Intekx Limited v HMRC (2013) ([2014] UKFTT 277 (TC) – Leading counsel for HMRC – successfully resisted MTIC fraud appeal in the First Tier Tribunal; Global Enterprises Ltd. v HMRC (2012) ([2013] UKFTT 014 (TC) – Leading Counsel for HMRC – successfully resisted a £1 million MTIC fraud appeal in the First Tier Tribunal; Softhouse Consulting Ltd. v HMRC (2012) – Leading Counsel for HMRC – successfully resisted a £3 million MTIC fraud appeal in the First Tier Tribunal. Upheld on appeal. [2014] STI 748; CCA Distribution Ltd. v HMRC (2012) ([2013] UKFTT 253 (TC) – Leading Counsel for HMRC in £10 million MTIC fraud appeal in the First Tier Tax Tribunal. Appeal to the Upper Tribunal pending; Harwich GSM Ltd. v HMRC (2011) ([2012] UKFTT 279 (TC) – Leading Counsel for HMRC – successfully resisted an £11m appeal in an MTIC fraud case before the First Tier Tax Tribunal; HT Purser Ltd. v HMRC (2011) ([2011] UKFTT 860 (TC) – Leading Counsel for HMRC in £650,000 MTIC fraud appeal in the First Tier Tax Tribunal. Appeal allowed; Annova Ltd. v HMRC (2011) ([2011] UKFTT 742 (TC) – Leading counsel for HMRC – successfully resisted a £2 million appeal in an MTIC fraud case before the First Tier Tax Tribunal. Judgment handed down in November 2011. Decision upheld by Arnold J sitting in the Upper Tribunal in January 2014; Flashpoint Technology Ltd. v HMRC (2010) ([2011] UKFTT 353 (TC) – Successfully resisted an MTIC appeal in the Tax Tribunal on behalf of HMRC. Judgement handed down in June 2011: [2011] UKFTT 353 (TC) Christopher Kerr has also acted as leading counsel for both the prosecution and the defence in the following notable cases: Operation Magnet [2009] – Housing benefit fraud; R v Alabaster & Others [2009] – Insurance fraud; R v Holland & Others [2008] – Contract kidnapping; R v Cowler [2008] – Fraudulent use of telecommunications systems; R v Brooks [2007] – Long firm fraud; R v. Stapleton & Others [2007] – Money laundering; R v Andress & Others [2006] – Insurance fraud; R v Goldstein & Others [2006] -International conspiracy to counterfeit credit cards; R v Ahmed & Others [2005] – Long firm fraud; R v Curno [2005] – Indecent images shared via Kazaa peer to peer system; R v Bhagwant Rai [2005] – Money laundering; R v Gibson & Williams [2005] – Loss adjusting, insurance and mortage fraud; R v. Mercer & Others [2004-2005] – Ebay fraud; R v. Odewale & Others <2003> – Nationwide identity fraud, and the subject of the Channel 4 programme Stealing Lives; R v Hardy [2002] – Sexual assault and gross indecency with children; Enviro-Waste [2007] – Triple fatality in the farming industry; Operation Ultrasound [2005] – International money laundering; Operation Avon [2001] – Industrial counterfeiting conspiracy; The Chelmsford Old Convent case [1999-2000] – Major nationwide police investigation into allegations of serial child abuse at a childrens’ home. Cases: Intekx Ltd. v HMRC [2014] UKFTT 277 (TC); Softhouse Consulting Ltd v HMRC [2014] STI 748; Synectiv Ltd. v HMRC [2013] UKFTT 677 (TC); Global Enterprises Ltd. v HMRC [2013] UKFTT 014 (TC); CCA Distribution Ltd. v HMRC [2013] UKFTT 253 (TC); Harwich GSM Ltd. v HMRC [2012] UKFTT 279 (TC); Annova Ltd. v HMRC [2011] UKFTT 742 (TC); HT Purser Ltd. v HMRC [2011] UKFTT 860 (TC); Flashpoint Technology Ltd. v HMRC [2011] UKFTT 353 (TC); R v G & G [2009] EWCA Crim 1943; R v Odewale (2005) 2 Cr App R (S) 102; Ferrous Protection Ltd v Health & Safety Executive (2000) COD 273; R v Bosson (1999) Crim LR 596.

Daniel Janner

High profile cases include: The Heysel Stadium football extraditions; The Knightsbridge Safety Deposit box robbery; Oyston and Martin rape trials; French student murder trial; “Happy slap” murder trial; London City Bond fraud trial; Gouldbourne Cayman Islands murder; McGrath money laundering; Cleeve Prior missing body murder; Lord of Fraud, Rodley trials. He has been an editor of the Criminal Appeal Reports since 1994. Daniel has been called to the Cayman Islands Bar and has been instructed by the International Criminal Court as a member of its panel of defence advocates. He is qualified to accept instructions directly from clients under the Bar Council’s Public Access scheme. Daniel was President of the Cambridge Union Society and was awarded Dr Cooper’s Law scholarship at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. He was a Jules Thorn Scholar and is a Bencher of the Middle Temple. Homicide Daniel is frequently instructed in murder trials, often featuring drugs and firearms. These have involved complex forensic evidence such as death by arson; cell site analysis; anonymous witness and cases of “cut-throat” defences. He has considerable experience representing young defendants charged with murder. Notable cases include: R v Swayne. Cut-throat murder trial. R v Crompton. The defendant punched and killed an elderly man during the course of a burglary. R v Barratt. Multi-handed stabbing murder trial. Complex CCTV expert evidence. Victim was a former European Welter Weight boxing champion. R v Matthew Taylor. Missing body gypsy murder trial. R v Simon Sheen. Daniel defended a young man charged with the murder of his mother and attempted murder of his two siblings in a house fire. The case involved challenging highly complex forensic evidence. R v Shosanya. Prosecuted the defendant who murdered a French student. R v Chuong Nguyen. Vietnamese contract killer trial as featured on Crimewatch. R v Gouldbourne. Cayman Islands diminished responsibility murder trial. R v Case and others. South bank “Happy Slap” Murder trial. R v Chaplin Daniel represented a 15 year old girl charged with murder of a friend’s boyfriend. R v Brima. 16 year old defendant, street stabbing. R v Ogier Ascot Racecourse murder trial. Fraud and Financial crime Daniel has appeared in numerous complex and serious fraud trials, often representing professionals (including solicitors, accountants and financial advisers) Notable cases include: R v Lonnie Smith. 5 month multi-million pound MTIC and fraudulent loan agreement trial. R v Rodley The “Lord of Fraud” Rodley bank and boiler room fraud trials, involving over £200 million. R v Gillespie. This was the largest counterfeit medicines prosecution in Europe involving several million pounds. Daniel represented the main defendant. R v Darienzo. Operation Erasure. £20 million VAT fraud. Multi-handed complex serious fraud trial. R v Cotton. Daniel represented a financial advisor charged with a long-term and involved Ponzi type fraud. R v McGrath. Daniel defended a well-known Preston politician in Operation Angel which involved corruption, fraud and drugs money laundering offences. R v Peacock . Daniel represented an accountant charged with money laundering and a mortgage fraud. R v Shah. Daniel represented a solicitor on a multi-million mortgage fraud. R v Issitt Operation Divert. £85 million carousel fraud. London City Bond Trial. Daniel appeared for one of the main defendants. Drugs R v McDonnell. Drug related blackmail and kidnapping. R v Lawson and others. Daniel prosecuted multi-handed drugs trial. R v Briggs-Price. East Midlands drugs conspiracy. Sexual offences R v Green. Defended former headmaster charged with historic sex abuse against children. R v Smith and others. Child sex abuse ring trial. R v Kevin O’Dowd. Daniel was court appointed cross-examiner in rape trial. Police civil actions Daniel has acted for both Claimants and defendants in actions involving malicious prosecution, false imprisonment and assault. Disciplinary and Regulatory Daniel has acted in police disciplinary tribunals and solicitors regulatory proceedings

Daniel Setter

Daniel joined Chambers in April 2017 following the successful completion of his pupillage. He was supervised by Peter Clark and Nick Barraclough. Daniel defends and prosecutes in the Crown Court, magistrates’ courts and youth courts. He prepares every case thoroughly, joining a detailed omega replicaknowledge of the law with a human approach to his work. In court, he has an easy and courteous court manner, which effectively reassures his clients and persuades tribunals. Prior to coming to the Bar, Daniel worked with both the Citizens Advice Bureau and the Essex Youth Offending Service. He therefore has a wide experience of dealing with young and vulnerable people, and is especially able at guiding them through the criminal justice system. Daniel also spent time at a civil practice and is able to advise on a wide range of matters.

Daniel Kersh

Daniel Kersh has over 25 years’ experience in criminal law, having practiced as a solicitor since 1990 and was one of the first solicitors to be awarded the right to appear in the Crown Court as an advocate in 1993. He was a founding partner in a very well established Central London criminal defence firm for 19 years before transferring to the Bar. He has been repeatedly recognised as a leading practitioner in Chambers and Partners and Legal 500 legal directories. His practice is in serious criminal work. He has a wealth of experience in a broad range of offences, from violent and sexual offences (Murder, rape, blackmail) to fraud and financial crime.Recent notable cases include the acquittal of a man accused of armed robbery in a domestic setting, an acquittal in a case involving marital rape, an acquittal of a male masseur alleged to have sexually assaulted a client in a top end spa retreat, and representation of a man accused of bank fraud using an insider employee. Daniel is known for his trial advocacy and his ability to secure acquittals in telling circumstances. He also has experience in Court Martials, road traffic law, planning cases and local authority prosecutions.

Dasiy Monahan

Daisy gained tenancy at 187 Fleet Street in April 2015 and appears regularly in the Crown and the Magistrates’ court. A tenacious, engaging and likeable advocate, Daisy has defended and prosecuted in a wide range of cases, covering sexual assault, VAT fraud, violent crime, drugs, burglary, public order and road traffic matters. She has attended POCA hearings and provided written advice for confiscation proceedings. In addition to her criminal practice, Daisy has assisted with three cases for HMRC, assisting with the preparation of cases and appearing as junior counsel being led in the first-tier Tax Tribunal, in HMRC v ATML Before being called to the bar, Daisy worked at the BBC as a producer and script editor in television drama.

David Baird

David Baird prosecutes and defends serious criminal offences. He specialises in complex cases involving multiple defendants. Cases he has prosecuted include Conspiracy to Murder and Attempted Murder. David Baird has defended clients, often youths, accused of Rape, Armed Robbery and Aggravated Burglary as well as England’s most prolific burglar in 2015. He has a particular interest in serious road traffic offences stemming from a passion for motorcycles. David Baird has developed an in-depth knowledge of drugs offences and has both prosecuted and defended ‘Chemsex’ cases.

David Lyons

David Lyons was called to the Bar by Middle Temple in 1987. He is a specialist criminal barrister. His practice covers the entire range of courts, alone and as a led and leading junior. He appears in all types of criminal cases but has particular expertise in cases involving; serious sexual offences (including historic rape allegations), computer crime including; hacking, grooming and indecent image cases, duty and VAT evasion, death by careless and dangerous driving, MCA prosecutions and non-insane automatism caused by prescription drugs particularly the SSRI’s (Prozac etc) in cases of serious violence. He appears in Courts Martial both in the UK and overseas, he has recently acted for Special Forces troops involved in a case with a national security dimension. He acts for the Appellants in appeals against the refusal and/or revocation of shotgun and firearms certificates. In addition to his work in London and the South-East he has an extensive practice in the West Country and is happy to travel to any part of the UK for the right case. David Lyons also provides advice on appeal against sentence and conviction in cases where he did not appear in the original trial including historical cases. Cases: R v Sirignano [1997] EWCA Crim 2824; R v Owen & Anor [1998] EWCA Crim 3142; R v Owens & Stevens [1999] 2 Cr.A.R. 59; R v John Smith [1999] EWCA Crim 1906; R v John James [2000] EWCA Crim 64; R v Santiago [2005] EWCA Crim 556; R v Johnson [2010] 2 Cr.App.R.(S.) 154; R v B Neutral Citation Number: [2012] EWCA Crim 1433; R v Kane [2013] EWCA Crim 148 (Trial Counsel and junior for the appeal). Cases: R v R Operation Barlow I where he acted for the alleged ringleader and one other in the (then) largest ever VAT / duty evasion prosecuted by Customs at over £300m, both were acquitted; R v R Operation Barlow II, follow on from Barlow I, this time a mere £7.5m; R v B- £5m ‘long-firm’ fraud in the carpet trade; R v D – Juvenile alleged to have killed two motorists by moving a road sign, case dismissed at the close of the prosecution case; R v S – Ex post facto appeal based on the effects of Prozac on a teacher of good character charged with attempting to murder his neighbour, sentence reduced to allow for immediate release; R v O – Attempted murder/robbery case appeal based on juror who repeatedly used her telephone while in the jury box at the Old Bailey; R v A – Court martial of Special Forces troops with national security dimension; R v G – Unreported, at least in the law reports, he acted for a Bank manager who stole over two million pounds and spent it on Parrots! See The Independent (London), Sep 3, 2003.

Diana Pigot

Since her call in 1978 Diana has practiced entirely at the Criminal Bar. She prosecutes and defends. She has considerable experience in dealing with cases involving violence, drugs, grave sexual offences and those involving children. Diana has been a Leading Junior in a number of cases, particularly those involving sexual complaints. She is a Grade 3 prosecutor and is on the Rape List Panel. She has lectured defence solicitors on how to be successful in cases involving sexual offences. She sits as a DDJ in the Magistrates Court. Diana has developed a specialist expertise in dealing with young and vulnerable defendants. Solicitors praise her patience and her ability to explain the law and facts in a way that defendants can understand. Her main field of work involves serious sexual allegations (including rape and historical complaints). Diana is often the first choice for someone charged with an offence of a sexual nature. Solicitors like her hands on approach, the fact that she works hard and to deadlines and is familiar with the complexities of the law. Defendants praise her ability to fairly put forward their case and explain issues. She has often been praised by the Court for conducting cross examination of vulnerable witnesses in a sensitive manner. She is frequently instructed to represent those charged with non accidental injuries to children and has done a number of ‘baby shaking ‘cases. She has extensive expertise in cross examining co defendants in ‘cut throat’ defences and in dealing with expert evidence from the medical profession. She was also involved in the case of R v C (sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder impeding choice). This case involved the cross examination of a number of psychiatrists. An appeal to the Court of Appeal was successful. The Crown then appealed to the House of Lords. It is still the leading authority. Cases: R v S – Defendant charged with serious sexual assaults on two young girls. After successful legal argument a basis of plea was advanced which considerably reduced sentence; R v B – Defendant in his late 50s charged with a number of serious sexual assaults on a young girl over a period of time. Element of grooming; R v Y – Defendant very immature, charged with rape on a number of occasions on a girl under 16; R v S – and another defendant charged with child cruelty with partner. Child 6 weeks old suffered numerous non-accidental fractures and possible brain damage. A number of experts were instructed by the defence and prosecution. Current cases: R v H – Defendant charged with numerous historical sexual assaults on three complainants. There will be legal argument on jurisdictional issues; R v C – Defendant aged 15 and suffering from learning difficulties stabbed a fellow pupil with a chisel causing paralysis and brain damage which might result in a murder charge.

Donal Lawler

Donal has a wide-ranging criminal defence practice, including fraud, money laundering and serious violence offences. Donal is also instructed to prosecute by the CPS. Some notable recent cases: R v M (led junior in conspiracy to import 200kg of cocaine); R V H )led junior in gangland shooting); R V H (Defence counsel in case of robbery and s.18 wounding featured on ‘Crimewatch’); R V F (Aggravated burglary and s18 wounding).

Edward Duncan Smith

Ed came to the Criminal Bar after a number of years practising as an advocate in the County Courts. He now appears regularly in the Crown, Magistrates and Youth courts at all stages of Criminal proceedings. He prepares every case diligently, combining a thorough knowledge of the law with pragmatism and common sense. In court his calm, confident manner is effective both in persuading tribunals and reassuring clients and he is regularly instructed on behalf of vulnerable defendants suffering with mental health issues, learning difficulties and personality disorders. Notable Cases: R v GS: A trial of Assault Occasioning ABH at Huntingdon Crown Court in which the Defendant was alleged to have strangled his partner and held a knife to her throat before punching her unconscious. A knife, identified by the Complainant as being the one used during the assault, was later found outside the Defendant’s home. After a trial lasting six days, involving allegations of juror intimidation and contempt of court, the jury returned a Not Guilty verdict. R v AW: Allegations of Aggravated Stalking, Assault and Criminal Damage at Peterborough Crown Court in which the Defendant’s ex-partner claimed that, after she broke up with him, the Defendant at various times had followed her, turned up at her workplace and phoned her to describe in detail what she was wearing. Evidence in the case included hundreds of text messages sent from him to her. The Defendant’s case was that the contact had been exaggerated and that his behaviour did not amount to stalking in the context of their dysfunctional, volatile relationship. He was acquitted by the jury after only 40 minutes’ deliberation. R v RS: Assault with Intent to Rob at Huntingdon Crown Court. The Defendant was alleged to have approached a woman on the street and asked for money. When refused, she pulled the Complainant to the ground by her hair. When witnesses intervened, the Defendant claimed that she was not attempting to rob the Complainant but was responding to racial abuse from the Complainant. Acquitted after trial. R v TC: An appeal against sentence at Southend Crown Court. The Defendant appealed a custodial sentence imposed by the magistrates court. Despite failing to attend the listed appeal and having it dismissed on three separate occasions, the court was ultimately persuaded to re-open the appeal and to overturn the magistrates’ decision in favour of a suspended sentence. R v RA: A trial of Assault and Breach of Non-Molestation Order where the Defendant was alleged to have threatened his ex-wife at a doctor’s surgery before trying to drag her into a lift. The doctor gave evidence for the Prosecution but was persuaded, in cross-examination, to admit that her account of the incident might have been affected by conversations she had with the Complainant after the event. The Defendant was acquitted. R v TWB: Criminal Damage, in which the Defendant was alleged to have deliberately flooded a shared property after an argument with another resident. A submission of no case to answer on the basis of a lack of evidence linking the Defendant to the crime was upheld and the case dismissed.

Emma Nash

A specialist in criminal law, Emma is an experienced and able advocate who is instructed to both defend and prosecute in the Crown Court and in the Court of Appeal and other appeal Courts. Emma’s practice has a particular emphasis on serious sexual and violent offences but her expertise encompasses a wide and diverse range of offences including murder, rape and sexual assaults, violence, child cruelty, arson, robbery, large scale drugs offences and firearm offences, along with serious dishonesty offences and money laundering. Emma is particularly suited to dealing with cases which are sensitive or those involving vulnerable or young witnesses and/or defendants. She is extremely approachable and is recognised for her high level of professional care shown to witnesses and defendants. Her meticulous preparation of cases and, in particular, her formidable skill in cross examination and closing speeches is recognised and often praised by those who instruct Emma. Emma’s high level of expertise is reflected in her positions as a both a grade 3 approved prosecutor and a specialist approved rape advocate. Emma is experienced in defending members and employees of the armed forces at trial for both military and civil offences before Courts-Martial or Standing Civilian Courts both in the UK and abroad. Emma serves on the executive committee and is the current secretary of the Criminal Bar Association. Areas of practice: criminal defence; criminal prosecution; Courts Martial. Cases: R v K C [2009] All ER (D) 290 – murder – juror bias, juror writing about case. Led by Chris Sallon QC; R v Lamb [2007] EWCA Crim 1766 – Sexual assault by a teacher on 2 pupils, cross admissibility of counts; R v Mohammed Ishaque [2006] EWCA Crim 2538 – Appeal against conviction- interpreters, abuse of process; R v Darren Webb [2006] EWCA Crim 2496 – Appeal against sentence – making indecent images of children; Essen v DPP [2005] EWHC 1077 (Admin) – Case stated – adjournments, delay, legitimate expectations; R v Paul Cannon – 32 counts of sexual misconduct towards young children over 10 years by a teacher; R v Sandell and 3 Others – 8 week multi-handed money laundering trial being led; R v Downie – s18 stabbing case, defendant with significant mental health issues, led by William Clegg QC; Army Prosecuting Authority v a Private Soldier (Parachute Regiment) 2 week; GBH with intent trial by General Court-Martial; R v Hand and Phillips – 2 ½ week GBH with intent trial; R v MA – multiple rapes and sexual assaults on two 8 year old children by a 12 year old aged 17 at trial; R v Sherman – multiple rapes of child aged 9 years by adult; R v Cureton – sexual abuse of 2 step grandchildren aged 6 and 8 at trial over a 3 year period; R v Hwayrana, R v Bilton, R v Sabir – rapes of adults; R v Weeks – Sexual assault on 4 year old child; R v Ibrahim – historic sexual abuse of defendants family members; R v Phipps – historic sexual abuse of child, 80 year old defendant; R v Whitten – Aggravated burglary with a firearm and possession of firearm with intent.

Gareth Hughes

Over the past 25 years, Gareth has developed a reputation as an extremely able criminal advocate. Those who instruct him, find him to be friendly and approachable but also hard working. He is often instructed in cases that require a particularly sensitive approach. He is usually able to get on with and reassure even the most difficult and troubled lay clients. In court, he is well-prepared and persuasive and is considered to be a first-rate jury advocate. Gareth is regularly instructed in all areas of heavyweight criminal work, more often than not as a leading junior. He is also frequently led by Queen’s counsel. Although regarded predominantly as a defence practitioner, Gareth is also instructed regularly by the Crown. (Grade 3). Gareth is also instructed to represent British soldiers in Court Martials both in the United Kingdom and abroad. He has successfully represented soldiers charged with murder. He has also successfully represented soldiers charged with offences ranging from the most serious sexual allegations to more mundane service offences. He is able to receive instructions to represent those tried abroad and within the United Kingdom. Cases: instructed as a leading junior: Regina v R.R – Murder: Epping Forest ‘honour killing’; Regina v T.F – Murder. Mentally disturbed defendant killing partner; Regina v J.P – Murder. Drunk defendant knifing best friend; Regina v R.F – Attempted murder. Horrific attack causing multiple injuries; Regina v B.G – Causing death by dangerous driving. Newly qualified driver loses control. Car hits group of school children; Regina v M.T – Conspiracy to supply class A drugs. Major police operation to eradicate drug supply in residential area. Main defendant out of some 50 arrested. Instructed as a lead junior: Regina v B & Others – Murder: Gangland contract killing; Regina v C – Kidnapping, false imprisonment and sexual assaults on members of family; Regina v D.T – Murder. Husband on wife; Regina v S.H & Others – Attempted Murder. Machete attack; Regina v Pt. M & Others – Courts Martial. Murder.

Gavin Capper

Gavin has experience in a broad range of criminal and regulatory matters both prosecuting and defending. Gavin also specialises in motoring law regularly representing clients for a variety of driving matters. Before joining Chambers Gavin qualified as a criminal defence solicitor for a large regional firm in 2013. It was at this firm he obtained his police station accreditation, duty solicitor qualification and Higher rights of audience before transferring to the bar in 2015 and continuing to work at the firm as in house counsel. Gavin moved to a local set of chambers shortly after and obtained his CPS grading continuing to work throughout London, Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk both prosecuting and defending a wide range of cases. Gavin has also appeared at the Court of Appeal where he was successful in having a sentence significantly reduced for his client.

Gerard Renouf

Gerard Renouf is a criminal practitioner of considerable experience who both prosecutes and defends in London and the South East. He has been engaged in a number of important trials ranging from murder, fraud, drugs importation and serious sexual abuse. Cases: R v G Basildon Crown Court – Prosecuted in a £200,000 insurance fraud by an insurance agent on an elderly victim. The victim was deceased at the time of trial; R v N Southwark Crown Court – Prosecution Junior to Martin Heslop QC in an historic case of rape and buggery of a very elderly victim in the course of a burglary, with the evidence resting mainly on LCN DNA. The victim was deceased at the time of the trial and the case was considerably complicated by the defendant having multiple convictions for burglary, but none for any sexual assault; R v S Snaresbrook Crown Court – Prosecuted a defendant who was declared ‘unfit’ for trial for rape and buggery of a victim with Down’s Syndrome; R v D (and Others) Chelmsford Crown Court – Prosecuted a conspiracy to defraud involving the case of multiple stolen US credit cards through a garage outlet in Essex; R v A Canterbury Crown Court – Defended in a conspiracy to export high value dismantled Mercedes cars from the UK to Africa; R v M Southwark Crown Court – Defended on a 12 count indictment where the complainant was falsely imprisoned and repeatedly raped and generally assaulted over a two day period; R v W Basildon Crown Court – Prosecuted an armed robber of a Securicor van (£60000 value). The case turned upon the reliability of DNA evidence. The Court of Appeal sought my opinion on Low Copy Number DNA generally. The Appellant subsequently abandoned his appeal on that point. The appeal is still under consideration; R v M Croydon Crown Court – Instructed on behalf of a defendant declared criminally insane on the authority of two psychiatrists, with the Crown asserting that the defendant was entirely responsible for his acts. This case is still continuing (threats to kill, dangerous driving, criminal damage).

Gideon Cammerman KC

Gideon Cammerman KC is a highly experienced and robust advocate in fraud, regulatory and disciplinary cases. Gideon is currently instructed in many of the highest profile SFO investigations including ENRC, Balli Steel, Unaoil, Petrofac and Petrobras. Gideon has also appeared in many of the highest profile trials in recent years including the Carillion Audit trial before the FRC, the Alstom corruption case, LIBOR rate–fixing, Weavering Capital Fund fraud, the “Gypsy Slavery” cases and the “Anonymous” computer hacking case. Gideon has prosecuted multi-million pound private prosecutions, all successfully. Gideon is also instructed by individuals, company directors and government departments to advise and act in cases outside the sphere of public litigation. These clients have included offshore jurisdictions, companies conducting internal investigations, online gambling companies and sportspeople. “Gideon Cammerman KC is a experienced criminal silk with noted expertise in defending and prosecuting financial crime cases. He is highly proficient in fraud and corruption cases, and is highlighted for his particular skill in leading private prosecutions. Cammerman has significant experience of representing clients in SFO investigations.” Chambers and Partners 2023 “Gideon is an extremely able advocate. He is always in demand to take on the more difficult and challenging cases.” Chambers and Partners 2023 “Gideon is a formidable silk.” Chambers and Partners 2023 “He is extremely thoughtful, academically very smart and fearless about putting forward arguments. Gideon is clear and focused in the advice he gives and is strong on the detail.” “He will really fight in the trenches for you.” “He is really intelligent and extremely persuasive.” “A fearless advocate.” – Chambers & Partners, 2022 “Gideon is hard working, client-focused and very user friendly. He is also very commercial in his approach to cases.” Legal 500, 2024 “A ferocious advocate with an eye on the end game.” – Legal 500, 2020 “Extremely hardworking, commanding and able.” – Legal 500, 2019

Grant Vanstone

Grant Vanstone is a leading junior and has wide experience in all criminal cases including murder, attempted murder, serious fraud, conspiracy to steal, money laundering, serious sexual offences, kidnapping, armed robbery, public order and serious drug offences. His practice incorporates all areas of crime, but particular specialities include fraud (including computer and internet fraud), drug offences (National Crime Squad), people trafficking, murder, all offences of violence (including large scale prison riots and a number of football cases), car ringing and rape. Other areas of speciality are police discipline, inquests, football banning orders, health and safety and other financial regulatory work. He is also involved in training and lecturing added to this he is a registered pupillage supervisor with Middle Temple, since 1996, and involved in training the Bedford Police.

Greg Unwin

Greg Unwin is a specialist advocate in serious criminal trials including murder, terrorism, drug trafficking, financial crime and money laundering. He is a sought after junior, particularly in cases requiring complex legal argument. Recent cases include a publican prosecuted for gross negligence manslaughter following the electrocution of a child; a large scale people trafficking and modern slavery trial; the head of a country lines drugs network tried for the attempted assassination of a rival dealer; a conspiracy to commit multiple armed robberies of cash-in-transit vans; an international corruption prosecution for the SFO; and the ‘Bulmer Art Heist’ trial.

Harry Warner

Harry has a broad-based criminal practice and regularly appears to prosecute and defend in the Magistrates, Youth and Crown Courts. Harry represents individuals charged with the full spectrum of offences, including violence, dishonesty, public disorder, drugs, animal cruelty and road traffic offences. He also has experience dealing with confiscation proceedings in both the Crown Court and the Magistrates Court. Harry is known as a tactically astute advocate who has a keen eye for detail and an ability to make his points succinctly and eloquently. Harry has a background in fraud and proceeds of crime matters. Prior to joining Chambers he was employed at a City solicitors firm specialising in business crime and civil fraud, and assisted with a number of high-profile cases and complex disclosure reviews. During pupillage Harry also assisted with the preparation of cases before the Tax Tribunal and the High Court in this area.

Henry Hughes

Henry Hughes is a specialist criminal practitioner. His practice is predominantly defence based, but he has experience of both prosecuting and defending in proceedings before the Court of Appeal, Crown Courts and Magistrates Courts. He has diverse experience in all elements of proceedings from trial and appellate proceedings to Judicial Review. Henry has been instructed both alone and as junior counsel in a wide range of serious criminal matters. He has expertise in cases of fraud, white-collar crime and money laundering offences, representing defendants in proceedings brought by the Department of Trade and Industry (now the Department of Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform), the Department of Work and Pensions, Customs and Excise, and in proceedings brought under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. He is also regularly instructed in cases of serious violence, in complex cases of drug dealing/importation and crimes of acquisition. Henry is being led by the Queen Counsel, both in Operation Inertia, the longest ‘MTIC’ fraud to date, and in proceedings brought by the Serious Organised Crime Agency and the Serious Fraud Office arising from the International Asset Restraint and the Proceeds of Crime Act. He is also involved as sole counsel in representing defendants accused of a wide range of offences including large-scale fraud, drug importation, proceedings relating to asset seizure and to corporate misfeasance, in the upper tier of the Chancery division.

James Onalaja

Ranked as a Leading Junior in The Legal 500 UK Bar ‘Intelligent, meticulously researched, charismatic, and understanding of challenging clients and their needs.’ – The Legal 500, General Crime and Fraud (2021) James is an experienced and effective advocate with a great eye for detail. He has cultivated a structured common law practice particularly focused on: all aspects of criminal law including cases of violent and organised crime, serious and complex frauds, allegations of sexual offences and gender based crimes, asset forfeiture and confiscation; extradition matters; military justice and armed forces law; regulatory law and tax litigation; and civil actions to protect the rights of vulnerable individuals including actions against government bodies especially on matters involving allegations of violations of human rights. He is ranked in The Legal 500 Lawyer Rankings as a Leading Junior Counsel in all areas of General Crime and Fraud. James was recently instructed as Lead Counsel in a complex matter re allegations of a spate of conspiracies to defraud financial institutions and telecommunication companies with a potential value of £119 million, involving an international network of co-conspirators, the dark web, crypto currencies and substantial amount of electronic data evidence. James is admitted to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) List of Counsel and the List of Specialist Counsel at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers (KSC). As a result, he is eligible to represent defendants and victims at both international criminal tribunals in the Hague on international criminal law matters including war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. He is an elected member of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA) Amicus Committee and Training Committee. He is fully trained in and has an in-depth experience in dealing with vulnerable and youth clients as well as in the handling of sensitive cases and vulnerable witnesses with the necessary respect and delicacy in order to extract essential and cogent evidence. James is accredited by the Bar Standards Board to receive cases and instructions directly from members of the public and non-legal corporate entities in all practice areas.

James Lachkovic

Both defence and prosecution practices, including work for HM Customs and Excise. Particular expertise in large drugs conspiracies, fraud and offences of violence. Undertakes work in all fields. Has prosecuted a number of cases involving the National Crime Squad, including as a leading junior. Other work as leading junior includes conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and conspiracy to steal. Recent junior work includes: murder (prosecution and defence), possessing explosives with intent to danger life and conspiracy to defraud.

Jason Bartfeld KC

Jason Bartfeld specialist in Criminal Law, Sports Law, Disciplinary Proceedings and Regulatory Law. Having spent the first 10 years of practice acting predominantly for the prosecution, in the last 10 years Jason has expanded his practice to include a significant volume of defence work at the very highest level. During that time he has been involved in some of the most notable cases tried across the country. In particular, Jason has specialist expertise in cases of homicide, serious/organised violence, fraud and large-scale drug trafficking (including complex confiscation proceedings). He is recognised as an expert in cases involving complex telephone/electronic evidence as well as cases involving complex legal issues of both joint enterprise and bad character. ‘Jason is a formidable advocate of the old school. He is a real pugilist who crossexamines with devastating affect and with an effortless and consummate charm.’ Legal 500 2024 “An excellent all-rounder who has developed a very strong practice in homicide and other difficult, high-profile cases.” Chambers and Partners 2023 “Jason is business-like and pragmatic, yet at the same time easy going and approachable, with a talent for cutting to the heart of the issue and a reputation for gaining the very best possible outcome for his clients. The sort of advocate and lawyer that you want on your side.” Jason Bartfeld KC has been ranked as band 3 for Crime KC in the Legal 500 2022

Kate Davey

Kate has practised criminal law for over twenty-five years. She has an extensive practice in all areas of heavyweight crime particularly but not exclusively serious sexual offences. She has a reputation as a forthright and fearless advocate and is frequently successful defending and prosecuting those charged with the most serious and unpleasant offences. She is frequently asked to defend in the gravest of matters where the facts are unpalatable or bizarre. Kate defends and prosecutes equally. She is a grade four prosecutor and welcomes instructions from CPS areas who value working as a team with counsel. She can effectively and sensitively cross-examine young witnesses or those with mental health issues or other vulnerabilities.

Kuljeet Dobe

Kuljeet specialises in Criminal Law, defence and prosecution. Also undertakes immigration and asylum law work. Formerly Senior Lecturer in Criminal Law & Land Law (1995 to 2002 at the University of West London).

Laureen Husain

Laureen Husain is a criminal practitioner who predominantly defends. She has extensive experience in cases of a serious nature with complex issues of law. She has been instructed in cases of murder, manslaughter and other grave offences. She also has many years of experience in offences of fraud, drugs and firearms. Laureen is highly regarded for her expertise in representing vulnerable defendants, and those charged with serious sexual offences. She enjoys an excellent reputation for her ability to deal sensitively and skilfully with clients suffering from learning disabilities and those with mental health issues. She has a recognised aptitude for representing young persons facing serious sexual allegations. A significant proportion of her practice involves cases of considerable sensitivity, such as allegations of child cruelty, road traffic fatalities and sexual offences involving young complainants. Cases: R v O (Basildon Crown Court) – Defending a 12 year old boy accused of rape of a seven year old girl; R v G (Leicester Crown Court) – Defending a 17 year old with learning disability charged with raping a 12 year old girl; R v H (Basildon Crown Court) – Defending a mother accused of child cruelty. This involved physical violence to her two year old baby including bite marks; R v G (Basildon Crown Court) – Defending a 20 year old man charged with false imprisonment and sexual assault of a 13 year old walking home at night; R v Williams (Kingston Crown Court) – Bus driver charged with death by dangerous driving which involved sudden unintended acceleration syndrome; R v Jarvis (Basildon Crown Court) – Defending in a manslaughter case. The deceased was 90 years old and the case involved complex medical evidence; R v Mykoo (Wood Green Crown Court) – Defence junior counsel in a case involving women in London subjected to strangulation robbery (Nicole Fahri was one of the complainants). Money laundering case – Mark Roochove led Laureen Husain defending in a multi-handed money laundering case at Southwark Crown Court for eight weeks. They successfully defended a senior fire officer. Submission of no case to answer was successful and the client was duly acquitted.

Liam Edwards

Liam was called to the Bar in 2014 and has joined Chambers after successful completion of his 18-month pupillage.Liam regularly appears in the Crown, Youth and Magistrates courts in London and on the South-Eastern and Essex Circuit. In the Crown Court, Liam has defended in a broad range of offences including serious violent offences (ABH and s.20 GBH), theft (over 100k), fraud, robbery, public order and drug offences.Liam is a dedicated and tenacious advocate who consistently fights to get the best result for those he represents. He is regularly instructed to represent vulnerable clients with complex mental health and substances abuse issues, using his compassion and sensitivity to put such clients at ease. Liam has been instructed on behalf of Wandsworth Council, London Probation Service and Wandsworth Youth Offending Team to prosecute in contested breach proceedings. Liam also has experience in confiscation and forfeiture proceedings.He has successfully resisted civil orders in the Crown Court including Criminal Behaviour Orders, Sexual Harm Prevention Orders and Serious Crime Prevention Orders.

Mark Tomassi

A very experienced highly regarded courtroom advocate, who is fearless and effective in his approach. He is regularly instructed in heavyweight criminal cases and has acted as a leading junior in two of the longest-running and largest criminal trials ever. He is noted to be a good listener, with a relaxed and approachable manner at the case preparation stage. He gains the confidence of others in difficult situations and has an ability to assimilate vast amounts of detail in a narrow time frame. In addition to his normal workload of very serious criminal cases, including murder and fraud, he accepts work in the High Court and in the Court of Appeal on reference. He is retained mainly by Legal 500 firms but is willing to travel nationwide and internationally in appropriate cases. He has represented individuals accused of murder in the Caribbean and was recently successful in the Court of Appeal (Cayman Islands)He is instructed in an Office of Fair Trading case due to last three months. He also has aspecialist knowledge of VAT carousel fraud and a proven ability in cases where theprosecution has failed to disclose essential material.He has a wide knowledge of asset confiscation work. He has recently been engaged infive High Court trials in the current year. He is regarded as someone who can get thebest out of any case and situation.Major drug trials have included representing the only westerner ever to successfullyescape from the ‘Bangkok Hilton’ prison.

Mathew Bagnall

Matthew has an extremely busy practice, both publicly and privately funded, in all areas of the criminal law An experienced trial advocate, noted for his meticulous preparation and sound judgement, Matthew is highly regarded by those that instruct him. Matthew has been ranked in the Legal 500 2024 Matthew has a thorough, careful and meticulous approach to case preparation. He provides understandable and realistic advice and is able to engage with clients.’ Matthew has been ranked as band 6 for Crime Junior in Chambers and Partners 2021 “An impressive advocate with a keen eye for the minutiae of a case, who is very tech-savvy, so good for cases with reams of information.” Matthew has been ranked in the Legal 500 2021 Matthew Bagnall – 187 Chambers Chambers ‘He is extremely adept at all forms of electronic working and able to prepare and analyse cell-site and CCTV in a way that is second to none.’ Ranked: Tier 2 https://www.legal500.com/firms/9480-chambers-of-andrew-trollope-qc-and-richardchristie-qc/9480-london-england https://www.legal500.com/c/regional-bar/south-eastern-circuit/crime-general-andfraud/ Matthew was ranked as band 6 for Crime Junior in Chambers and Partners 2020 “I instruct Matthew Bagnall on most of my cases as he has a fantastic eye for detail and prepares his cases meticulously. He is able to digest large swathes of information and process it precisely and quickly when needed.” https://chambers.com/department/187-fleet-street-crime-ukbar-14:347:11841:2:10462

Matt Morgan

Primarily a defence practitioner, Matthew has experience in all areas of serious crime. He has been instructed in his own name in cases of: attempted murder; multiple cash-in-transit armed robberies; aggravated burglary; serious sexual offences including: rape; assault by penetration; child pornography including multiple level 5 images; firearms offences; large-scale drugs dealing, importation and cultivation; money-laundering; trademarks and copyright infringement cases and complex fraud where his knowledge of financial markets is a valuable asset. He has expertise and is frequently instructed in road traffic matters for privately-paying clients. He also specialises in prison law and has conducted adjudications and parole board hearings for serving prisoners including those convicted of murder. As a prosecutor he is able to conduct a wide range of criminal cases but he has developed a particular specialism in private local authority prosecutions including major multi-handed housing benefit frauds, licensing matters and confiscation. Cases: R v F and Others (2012-2013) – Led junior for the defence in 11 count conspiracy to rob cash-in-transit custodians over a 4 year period. The case involved counter-allegations of planting of evidence by the Flying Squad and complex and cutting-edge legal argument to do with the admissibility of partial profile DNA evidence; R v B and Others (2012) – Defence counsel (junior alone) for one of nine defendants in multi-million pound conspiracy to steal and ‘recycle’ BT copper cable on an industrial and almost unprecedented scale; R v B (2012) Attempted murder (junior alone) – Currently instructed as defence counsel in: R v M and Others (2013) – Three defendant gang rape (junior alone); R v K and Others (2013) Defending fifth defendant (of 9) in sophisticated and far-reaching international money-laundering case involving £tens of millions in an operation spanning the UK, Iran and the UAE (led junior); R v W (2011) – Defence counsel in conspiracy to import 1kg of cocaine. Case subject to Attorney General’s Reference and cross-appeal against conviction; R v B (2011) – Defence counsel in s. 18 wounding involving complex hearsay argument to do with admissibility of ‘partial’ Facebook messages. Crown conceded argument following service of defence skeleton arguments and case resolved by plea to lesser charges; R v E (2010) – Defence counsel in complex fraud involving the alleged creation of false trading and credit accounts, including falsified Companies House documents and use of bona fide company details and double accounting; R v B (2010) – Defence counsel first on the indictment in five-handed aggravated burglary revolving around drugs transactions. Case involved complex phone evidence and expert cell site analysis; R v N & A (2010) – Prosecution counsel in case involving supply of 500g of cocaine. Both defendants duly convicted; R v G (2010) – Successful private prosecution for local authority in case of trademarks and copyright infringement involving tens of thousands of pirate DVDs; R v W (2009) – Successful private prosecution for a London local authority of a hospital doctor for fraudulent use of a disabled parking badge. The doctor was privately represented by an eminent QC; R v H and Others (2008) – A case involving the sexual assault by penetration and filming of an unconscious victim in the presence of her young children. Junior counsel for one of four defendants. The case drew much national media coverage following the suicide of the victim before the case came to trial; R v M (2008) – Defence counsel in case of robbery and s. 18 wounding of elderly village post-mistress. The case involved complex expert evidence notably DNA analysis and facial mapping; R v S (2008) – Defence counsel in case of making indecent sexual images of children (up to level 5). Particularly unusual and difficult features of the case were the age of the defendant at just 18 and the volume of prosecution evidence, which ran to several thousand pages; Buckley & Anor v Director of Public Prosecutions [2008] EWHC 136 (Admin) (14th January 2008) – Held that sequential events on one day could be broken down into different ‘episodes’ for the purpose of finding conduct on more than one occasion sufficient to justify a conviction for harassment contrary to sections 2(1) and (2) of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997; AG’s Ref No 40 of 2011, R v Lee Williams, [2011] EWCA Crim 2126 – Case in which the defendant’s suspended sentence for his part in the importation of nearly 1kg of cocaine was increased to three and a half years following an Attorney General’s Reference. LJ Pitchford commented: ‘I don’t know what spell you were casting in the Isleworth Crown Court, Mr Morgan, but this was a remarkable sentence, was it not?’ (www.dailymail.co.uk).

Mitchell Cohen

Although not formally called to the Bar until November 2020, Mitchell Cohen was admitted in November 1986 as a Solicitor, was awarded a post graduate diploma in Advanced Criminal Law in 1997 and granted Higher Rights of Audience in August 2003. He worked as an advocate throughout. He held Duty Solicitor status from 1987 and was appointed by the Legal Aid Authority to be a Senior Panel Member of the Independent Peer Review Panel. He is instructed, mainly, in serious and complex matters involving violent or sexual offences especially where defendants, complainants or witnesses have a wide range of learning difficulties or vulnerabilities and in 2016 was appointed as one of the trainers on the Inns of Court College of Advocacy Vulnerable Witnesses course. He is also often instructed in matters involving forensic evidence and has been a member of British Academy of Forensic Science since 1986. Mitchell’s attention to detail, work rate and client care is described as excellent and one client described him as “an oasis of calm, reason and hope in a desert of despair” In 1995 he was named as runner up in the Solicitors Journal’s “My favourite Solicitor” and in 2014 he was shortlisted as solicitor advocate of the year at the Law Society Excellence Awards. The same year he was praised by the then Lord Chief Justice, Lord Thomas, in a child rape case of R -v- OEA, who said “It is apparent from the papers with which we have been provided that Mr Mitchell Cohen, counsel who appeared for the applicant at the trial, advised against an appeal. It is evident from our consideration of the transcript of the trial that counsel conducted the case with great skill. It is right to point out that the judge described his closing speech as “excellent”. Mitchell is a grade 3 prosecutor.

Mozammel Hossain KC

Mozammel Hossain QC has defended in some of the most complex and high-profile cases in the country. He has been described by the Court of Appeal as an advocate of ‘great eloquence’. Both his peers and clients refer to him as a very powerful trial advocate. Recent and Notable Cases Operation Orient (2021) – Murder. Operation Knowlton (2021) – Double Murder. Operation Rumford (2020) – Murder. Operation Radnor (2020) – Murder. Operation Khamsin (2019) – International money laundering involving a London-based film production company. Operation Spruce (2019) – Large scale conspiracy to export high value cars. Operation Bowen (2018) – Murder. Operation Endorse (2018) – Drug related revenge shooting. Operation Holms (2018) – Multiple gangs related shooting. Operation Departer (2017) – Concerning escape to Syria of an aspiring jihadi who committed the ‘ISIS’ inspired murder of a local imam. Operation Gospodar (2017) – Terrorism. R v A & Ors (2017) – Gang related kidnap and firearms. Operation Windless (2016) – Large scale conspiracies to supply heroin and cocaine in Hampshire that culminated in the killing of a local man carrying a firearm. R v RM & Ors (2016) – Murder. Operation Yiges (2016) – Terrorism. Operation Crackerjack (2016) – Organised immigration fraud in relation to Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC). Operation Airbrick (2015) – Company director allegedly involved in a multi-million pound money laundering case relating to the under bond alcohol trading industry. Operation Kodod (2014) – Murder. Operation Van (2014) – Murder. Operation Guildship (2014) -Terrorism. Operation Sable (2014) – Organised car Ringing, drugs and firearms offences. Operation Sallie (2014) – Escape (October 2013 escape from the John Howard Centre). Operation Movie (2013) – Terrorism. Re CD (2013) – Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures. R v H (2013) – Terrorism. R v H (2013) – Alleged Assault on Hollywood actress Ms Tara Reid. Operation Relko (2013) – Large scale conspiracies to supply heroin and cocaine. R v A & Anor (2012) – Terrorism. Operation Vex (2012) – MTIC Fraud arising out of the dealings of FCIB Bank in Europe and Dubai. R v Lescinkas (2012) – Successful appeal against conviction for ‘Nazi style’ salutes at London Olympics. Operation Langwood (2011) – Multiple large scale conspiracies to Supply heroin and cocaine across the UK. R v U and Ors (2011) – ‘Cisco’ Fraud. Operation Scarp (2011) – ‘Crash for cash’ Fraud. R v I and Ors (2010) – Terrorism (the ‘Blackburn Resistance’ case). R v A (2010) – Attempted Murder. R v S and Anor (2010) – Conspiracy to Rape. Operation Exhort (2010) – ‘Crash for cash’ Fraud. R v C and Ors (2009) – Kidnapping and Blackmail by a Triad group. R v Lusha (2009) – Terrorism. R v A (2009) – Child Cruelty involving religious ceremonial self-flagellation of a child. R v J A and Ors (2008) – Conspiracy to Murder.

Neelie Sharma

Neelam practices in all areas of criminal law, both prosecuting and defending in equal measure. She has been designated a Grade 3 prosecution advocate and is on the prosecution list of accredited rape advocates. Neelam has been instructed in a wide range of serious criminal matters, both in her own capacity and as junior counsel, including murder, firearms, drug importations and money laundering offences. Unusually for her call she has gained significant experience and a strong reputation as a specialist defence advocate in serious sexual offences. In recent years, her practice has developed with a particular emphasis in complex fraud offences. Notable cases include: R v Rastogi and others (second junior in one of the largest multi-million-pound global frauds to be prosecuted in the UK, she was heavily involved in preparing the cross examination and drafting the legal arguments); R v Rigden and others (junior counsel in complicated ‘phoenix’ fraud); R v Fensham and others (junior counsel in carousel fraud); R v Naeem and others (instructed in her own capacity in £2m banking fraud); R v M [2005] (instructed in her own capacity in a case of stranger rape/indecent assault on a disabled complainant); R v H [2005] (instructed in her own capacity where the defendant was charged with nine counts of rape and the prosecution were given leave to call evidence of seven previous allegations of rape by a previous complainant); R v H [2006]; R v K [2007]; and R v W [2008] (instructed in her own capacity as defence advocate in historical rape allegations, ‘date’ rape and allegations involving child complainants).

Neil Fitzgibbon

Neil is a successful criminal defence barrister called to the Bar in 1989 and undertakes a wide range of criminal trials and Court Martial cases around the country and abroad. Over the last 20 years he has successfully defended in a number of notable trials receiving considerable acclaim for his thorough approach and skilful but determined cross examination. He has developed a specialty for defending in health and safety cases and regulatory work at Coroner’s Inquests and Inquiries. Neil represents airline personnel including pilots and crew involved in both criminal and civil aviation breaches. He is a member of the Criminal Bar Association, Fraud Lawyers Association and the International Criminal Bar and he can be approached directly through the Direct Public Access scheme. His areas of practice include, offences of fraud, murder, sexual offences (including offences involving the internet) and other offences of violence. In addition to general criminal cases he also represents people charged with serious motoring offences. Neil has appeared in a variety of high-profile criminal trials some of which are mentioned below, and regulatory cases brought by the Health and Safety Executive most notably the case of R V Corbould who was prosecuted for alleged breaches whilst the filming of ‘Batman, Dark Knight’, he was subsequently acquitted.

Nicholas Rhodes KC

Nicholas is a Recorder (Crown Court), qualified to deal with sex crimes as a result of his experience in that sphere, but primarily a highly regarded advocate experienced in business and regulatory crime, specialising in serious commercial fraud, bribery and corruption, financial crime, revenue offences, MTIC, money laundering and confiscation. Considered approachable and client-friendly with a hard-hitting court style, his experience also includes murder, manslaughter and serious organised crime offences in trials conducted in the UK, Northern Ireland, and the Cayman Islands. His practice includes advising and representing UK and overseas commercial organisations, legal and finance professionals, on corporate governance issues, regulatory compliance, Financial Services regulation, and corporate criminal liabilities from the earliest pre-litigation stage through the processes of investigation and in the event in the Courts or before the Regulators. ‘His practice includes sex cases’ – Crime – Leading Silk (Legal 500 – 2020) ‘His work includes murder and drug cases’ – Crime – Leading Silk (Legal 500 – 2018) He has extensive experience of conducting trials concerning the most serious criminalallegations, which include homicide, organised criminal activities and serious sexualoffences. He provides advice and guidance to commercial organisations, directors and professionals, in respect of professional regulators including the SRA and FCAregulation under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and the Conduct ofBusiness Rules of UK Financial Services. He advises on criminal and regulatory liabilities arising in the governance of companies,including bribery and corruption, accounting and money laundering regulations, assetforfeiture and recovery and corporate manslaughter. He has experience of ‘blue bag’disclosure relating to legally privileged documentation in the course of inquest andinvestigation. His practice includes advising on trade restrictions in restricted countries, ExportControl Orders and sanctions relating to arms dealing. He works with the Horizon Institute (SL) and Department for International Development (UK), he also advises the Chief Justice, Minister of Justice and Government of the Republic of Somaliland in respect of judicial training and the reform of the justice system and facilities within that country. He has also advised clients and appeared in a number of cases in Grand Cayman.

Peter Guest

Peter Guest qualified in 1975 and specialises in criminal and financial fraud cases. He is also a Recorder of the Crown Court dealing with crime and serious sexual offences. He leads in criminal defence at all levels up to and including murder, serious sexual offences, serious fraud and serious drug offences. In addition, Peter is listed as one of the top barristers for fraud in the U.K in the Legal 500. “Peter Guest is a leading figure at the London Bar in defending criminal fraud charges” ‘Peter has a wonderful balance of personal warmth and dogged professional determination which appeals to all of his clients. His written opinions are always concise, and his courtroom manner has jurors spellbound.’ “A highly-respected criminal defence specialist” “an accomplished courtroom performer” who “always impresses” “With more than 30 years’ experience and a proven track record of success”: Chambers and Partners “‘Solicitors say he’s one of the best advocates they have seen.” Legal 500 “He has real authority and presence in the courtroom, and can be firm with judges and witnesses if required.” Legal 500 Previous clients recommend him: “The first barrister to really understand me and my case” and “the perfect crossexaminer” “Before your speech, I felt we were 6-nil down. Now we are 7-6 up” Judges are also generous with praise: “The best final speech I have ever heard in a fraud” “It was a joy to watch you work” He has wide experience of defending clients charged, with all aspects of crime, including fraud, money laundering, drugs, sexual offences and murder, both in the Crown Court and on appeal. He is also considered an expert in confiscation and cash forfeiture under the Proceeds of Crime Act and he undertakes regulatory work. His practice has taken him to the Privy Council in a ‘death row’ appeal and to the European Court of Justice in a VAT appeal. He is approved by the Bar Council to accept instructions direct from the public, without the need for a solicitor. Associated work Peter has been an advocacy trainer at Inner Temple, training barristers in all areas of court practice procedure and presentation.

Peter Clark

Peter is a very experienced and highly respected leading junior who deals with wide-ranging cases but specialising in sexual offences and serious violence, including murder. Exclusively criminal practice, equally balanced between defence and prosecution (Grade 4 CPS) Published author of textbook on sexual offences – Co-author of Richardson & Clark: Sexual Offences, A Practitioner’s Guide, published by Bloomsbury Professional Extensively involved in advocacy training “An excellent and gifted advocate, well respected by other counsel and the judiciary” “Someone you want with you in a crisis … quick-witted and unflappable … displays confidence without arrogance and establishes excellent rapport … his manner is immediately reassuring”

Rachel Bright

Barrister with extensive experience in all areas of crime; in recent years her practice has developed with particular emphasis on serious and complex frauds, murder and manslaughter, armed robbery, drug importation, fraud and drug-related confiscation (including the leading case of R v Shevki and Steele) and serious sexual offences involving both children and adults.

Rebecca Lee

Rebecca’s practice comprises predominantly defence work, principally in the Crown Court, but also in the Magistrates court and the Court of Appeal. She has defended and secured the acquittal of defendants in cases involving serious offences of violence (including GBH with intent), weapons, robbery, burglary and other offences of dishonesty, drugs offences, money laundering and sexual offences (including indecent images of children). She also has experience dealing with confiscation matters in the Crown and magistrates’ courts. In 2011 and 2012 she was involved in a number of cases involving cash in transit robberies and a number of cases where GBH with intent was alleged. In 2011, she successfully argued in the Court of Appeal that a conviction should be quashed where the judge had incorrectly directed the jury in a bladed article case (R v Clancy [2012] EWCA Crim 8; (2012) 176 JP 111). Rebecca has dealt with a whole range of vulnerable and difficult clients, including young defendants and those with serious mental illness. She also has experience of professional disciplinary tribunals, including the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the General Dental Council.

Richard Christie KC

Richard Christie was appointed to the Attorney General’s A list of prosecution counsel in 2002 after many years specialising in heavy defence work. His practice continues to reflect a mix of both defence and prosecution work in almost equal measure. He deals in all areas of criminal work but especially serious fraud, murder and cases that require substantial client care. He successfully concluded the hugely complicated defence of the historic axe murder of Private Eye Daniel Morgan, a case which involved numerous allegations of police corruption and is linked to the News International phone hacking scandal and the murder of Stephen Lawrence (see observations of Maddison J in the case section below). The case has been subject to an 8 year long Independent Panel Inquiry which finally reported in 2021 – concluding that there was institutional corruption in the Metropolitan police. Please see the full report – https://www.danielmorganpanel.independent.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/0 6/CCS0220047602-001_Daniel_Morgan_Inquiry_Web_Accessible.pdf He also appeared before the Leveson Inquiry. His successful prosecution of a multi-million pound 10 handed excise fraud was featured on the ITV programme “Fiddles, Cheats and Scams” and he is the only counsel successfully to have defended a murder case brought by DCI Colin Sutton – The subject of Sky Crime’s “The Real Manhunter”. He has been recommended in Chambers and Partners every year since taking silk in 2006 and has also been recommended in the Legal 500. He has also been on the SFO panel of approved counsel for both prosecution and proceeds of crime work since 2009 being re-appointed in 2013 and 2017 respectively. He is one of only a few designated counsel, appointed to deal with rough justice/historic appeal cases by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. He is also engaged in a number of these cases at any one time on behalf of the defence. He regularly acts on behalf of the Criminal Cases Review Commission in judicial review proceedings in relation to these cases. He was engaged as independent counsel to the IPCC in the shooting of barrister Mark Saunders Before coming to the Bar, he trained with the leading accountancy firm Touche Ross and Co. (now Deloitte). Richard Christie KC has been ranked as: Tier 1 for Crime (General and Fraud) (South Eastern region) for Legal 500, 2024 Tier 3 for Crime (London) for Legal 500, 2024 Band 3 for Crime KC for Chambers and Partners 2021 Richard is one of the finest barristers. His attention to detail is incredible, able to absorb huge amounts of material very quickly and produce a forensic analysis of it. He is very good at client care and able to explain the most complex of legal points in a way the lay client can understand.’ Legal 500, 2024 Richard is one of the most determined advocates in the game. He leaves no stone unturned and his persistence cannot be stopped or thwarted. That dedication is matched by his work ethic. He is one of the few silks who reads all his used and unused material and then around the subject.’ Legal 500, 2024 He can pick up a difficult case at short notice and ensure that the defendant is represented to a very high standard.” – Chambers UK 2023 ‘‘He is diligent, articulate, has an eye for detail and is highly respected by judges and his peers.’ Legal 500, 2021 ‘He leaves no stone unturned. Very calm and collected in presentation and an excellent communicator with varying audiences. Works well and is inclusive of others ensuring thorough explanations, sharing of knowledge and foresees issues to deal with them effectively.’ – Legal 500, 2021 “Relentless and doesn’t let anything push him off course even if things aren’t going his way.” – Chambers and Partners 2021 “Incredibly resilient when placed under pressure by defence teams” – Legal 500, 2020

Richard Potts

Richard Potts practices predominantly in East Anglia, where he both defends and prosecutes criminal cases up to the most serious level. He is on the CPS Advocate Panel at level 4 for both London and the South Eastern Circuit generally and is an accredited rape prosecutor. Richard is also regularly instructed to defend in criminal trials of complexity and gravity and has experience of regulatory work and courts martial. He is also registered for direct access work. Cases: R v T & 6 others [2014] – The defence (junior alone) of one defendant in a substantial conspiracy to defraud covering several years and with losses actual and attempted of approximately £7m; R v W & H [2014] – The prosecution of two defendants charged with the kidnap and robbery of a man with quadriplegic spasticity who is mute. The trial involved extensive and novel uses of special measures to facilitate the victim giving evidence and also required considerable skill and sensitivity; R v L (& 4 others) – As a junior alone Richard defended one of five tried for the murder of a man in the street; R v Keith W [2012] EWCA Crim 355 – An interesting case where Richard appeared for the prosecution and in which the Court of Appeal, in refusing leave to appeal against conviction, upheld the decision of the trial judge to admit evidence of bad character relating to convictions for sexual misconduct against young females when trying a defendant for sexual offending against a young male on the issue of propensity; R v W [2011] – The successful defence of a man charged with numerous counts of historic rape of the same victim; R v O’B [2011] – The defence (junior alone) of a man charged with the murder of a housemate. Unusual circumstances of death involved extensive cross-examination of Home Office pathologist; R v T [2010] – The prosecution of a man for conspiracy to burgle involving 92 dwellings across East Anglia. A highly complex case with difficult issues of presenting the case in such a way as to make it ‘jury friendly’; R v W [2010] – The prosecution of man for sexual misconduct against three generations of one family; R v S, C & J [2008]. (Leading junior) – Successful prosecution of a murder case, of a second defendant for manslaughter and ABH and a third for attempting to pervert the course of justice. The case involved extensive arguments on the admissibility of bad character evidence and the fitness to be tried of one of the accused, arising unexpectedly mid-trial. One notable feature of the case was the highly unusual cause of death –the rupture of the pharyngeal wall following insertion of a walking stick through the throat. Upheld on appeal – [2010] EWCA Crim 1149; R v D [2007]. (Leading junior) – The defence of one of 13 defendants in a very large case alleging brothel-keeping and POCA offences. Originally briefed at pre-committal stage he secured the discharge of 3 of the 5 charges at an old-style committal. The defendant subsequently admitted two courts but on a very limited basis; R v G [2006]. (Leading junior) – The prosecution of a serial paedophile (dubbed ‘The Pied Piper of Horning’) successfully convicted of rape, indecent assault and other sexual activity with children in respect of 12 victims over a 20-year period in Essex and Norfolk. The case involving some very young child witnesses resulting in a week-long voir dire arguing the admissibility of video interviews following alleged breached of ABE guidelines; R v K [2004]. (Leading junior) – The defence of the proprietor of a care home originally arrested for manslaughter but subsequently prosecuted under the Health & Safety Act, the Mental Health Act (neglect/ill treatment of patients) and the Offences against the Person Act (administering noxious substance). A very large and highly technical case (medically) ultimately resolved by pleas of guilty on a very limited basis; R v H [2004] (Leading junior) – Four defendants (Proprietor and staff of a school for children with special needs) were charged with allegations of historical abuse dating back to the 1970/80’s. The trial lasted about 10 weeks ad involved considerable legal argument. His client (a teacher) faced four counts. One count was stayed as an abuse; two were dismissed for want of evidence. The client was acquitted on the final charge by the jury. The case involved abuse of process arguments based on delay and unavailability of contemporaneous documents. The case was classified as a VHCC. The other defendants were convicted – on appeal reported as Robson, Robson &Wilson [2006] EWCA Crim 2754; R v V & V [2004] EWCA 2233 (Leading junior) – Successful prosecution of a mother (proprietor) and son (manager) charged with ill treatment of residents of a care home. The indictment contained 20 counts. Throughout, the case relied upon evidence of people other than the residents themselves who were all patients within the definition of the Mental Health Act. The case highlighted shortcomings of the inspection of such homes and prompted the jury to add a rider to that effect to their verdict.

Richard Burrington

Richard is an experienced trial advocate, noted for his judgement and tactical skill, Richard Burrington is regularly the first choice of those who instruct him on behalf of both the defence and prosecution. Over the course of two and a half decades he has accumulated a wealth of experience in conducting cases involving the most serious of criminal allegations including murder, manslaughter, gang related violence, drug supply, rape and child abuse, fraud and forgery, together with ancillary hearings under POCA.

Sarah O'Kane

Sarah defends and prosecutes all manners of crime; she is a Level 3 prosecutor.Sarah deals with a vast range of complex cases covering dishonesty offences, sexual offences, violent offences, drug matters, firearm offences and child cruelty cases. Sarah also deals with issues of confiscation.Sarah enjoys all aspects of oral and written advocacy and prides herself on her ability to convey legal advice in a practical way. Sarah also particularly enjoys legal argument. Sarah is on hand to provide advice both in written format and more informally on the telephone, as required, to those that instruct her. Sarah has a professional but friendly approach to her work and is able to adapt to the needs of her different clients; she strives to provide a first-rate service to those requiring representation. Sarah approaches each of her cases with a fresh mind, has an eye for detail and is meticulous in her preparation.Sarah also undertakes prison law matters, namely parole hearings. This work compliments her criminal practice and vice versa.Immediately prior to her life at the Bar, Sarah worked for a city-based firm of criminal defence and prison law solicitors where she was responsible for a full caseload of general crime matters, as well as dealing with high-profile fraud cases. Sarah therefore understands the pressures upon her professional clients and is always keen to work with them to assist with the smooth running of a case. .

Satya Chotalia

Satya has been described by a Crown Court Judge as “a fine advocate and an asset to the bar”. Satya’s broad criminal practice includes cases of serious violence, sexual offences, armed robbery, burglary, drug offences, dangerous driving, money laundering, fraud and confiscation. He has conducted appeals before the Court of Appeal and High Court. Satya served in the Officer Training Corps and Air Training Corps. He has a particular interest in military, courts martial and international criminal law cases. Satya has travelled to various military bases throughout the world.

Sean Kivdeh

Practicing in serious crime, terrorism, murder, money laundering and extradition. He has maintained a high profile criminal practice stretching over 24 years experience and has led in the most serious and complex cases in the country. Renowned for his cross-examination skills and ability to deal with highly complex issues, he is regularly instructed as a leading junior in high profile criminal cases. He is instructed as lead counsel in cases of murder and money laundering. Recently instructed as lead counsel in a large scale case of terrorism, with the trial lasting several weeks. He has extensive experience in cases of restraint orders under Proceeds of Crime Act, banking fraud, human trafficking. He frequently advises international corporations, company directors and individuals resident in UK and overseas in relation to all aspects of compliance, money laundering regulations and other financial crimes.He frequently advises international corporations, company directors and individualsresident in UK and overseas in relation to all aspects of compliance, money launderingregulations and other financial offences.

Subagarey Pathmanathan

Subagarey has an established and busy practice as both a defence and prosecution advocate, though she predominately defends. Subagarey represents clients charged across a spectrum of offences involving serious violence, sexual abuse, unlawful entry into the UK, robbery and drug trafficking. She consistently impresses both lay and professional clients. Solicitors have praised her “cool under pressure manner” and her “ability to process large volumes of information effectively and efficiently”. She is highly regarded and has built a reputation as a dedicated, well-prepared and passionate advocate and she has been praised accordingly by defendants, opponents and the judiciary. Subagarey prides herself on being approachable and friendly and she is known for her exceptional client care. She is able to quickly win the trust of those she represents and sensitively deal with those with complex support needs. Prior to joining chambers, Subagarey worked within the Regulatory team at Kingsley Napley LLP and was responsible for conducting investigations within quasi-Criminal proceedings. She is currently authorised to conduct matters on behalf of the NMC and is regularly instructed accordingly.

Terence Woods

Terence joined Chambers in 2003 from a common law set, 2 Grays Inn Square Chambers. Since then he has expanded his practice in London and on the South Eastern Circuit, although he has worked on cases as far afield as Liverpool and Newcastle. He has substantial experience in cases involving murder, manslaughter, drugs importation, people trafficking, rape, fraud and money laundering as both junior and leading junior counsel. Recently, he has developed an interest in regulatory work, including disciplinary and local authority proceedings. He is a member of the Criminal Bar Association, the Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers and the South Eastern Circuit. Reported cases: R v Roci -leading junior in sentencing guidelines case in people trafficking case involving trafficking from eastern Europe for purposes of prostitution in UK; R v Hartrey -for co-defendant in guidelines case on downloading of indecent images of children. Other notable cases include: R v D -junior counsel for first defendant in large scale Class A drugs conspiracy, defendant acquitted after four month trial (case involved prolonged pre-trial argument, including European jurisprudence re legality of pre-RIPA surveillance); R v R -junior counsel for defendant charged with murder/manslaughter, manslaughter verdict on basis of diminished responsibility due to psychiatric condition brought on by post traumatic stress disorder resulting from family trauma in Burundi; R v H -counsel for defendant in large-scale cannabis importation, appeal allowed after fresh evidence/public interest immunity hearing re co-defendant who gave prosecution evidence; and R v I -junior counsel in baby murder case involving substantial scientific and character evidence as to whether mother/father or both responsible.

Vakas Hussain

Vakas joined Chambers in April 2018 following the successful completion of his pupillage, under the supervision of Gareth Hughes, Terence Woods and Sasha Bailey.Vakas regularly appears in the Crown Court, Magistrates’ Court and Youth Court. He has also appeared in the Court of Appeal where he successfully appealed a sentence where the defendant was not given a sufficient reduction in his sentence for a guilty plea. He has defended in a broad range of cases which have included, ABH, s.20 GHB, robbery, sexual assault, drug offences, theft and public order.Vakas has a very good grasp of identifying what the key issues in a case are, and how best to tackle them. He has been described as a “fine advocate” who “invests himself deeply in the plight of his clients.” Vakas is highly relatable to those who he defends as he has an “unpretentious style of communicating,” which serves him well when dealing with vulnerable clients, who present with significant mental health and substance misuse issues. Prior to starting pupillage Vakas undertook various internships and paralegal roles. He interned at the Capital Post-Conviction Project of Louisiana in New Orleans, where he worked with other Attorneys representing individuals who had been sentenced to death with the appeals. He also co-chaired the ‘Rotherham 12 Defence Campaign’ where all 12 Asian men were acquitted of violent disorder at Sheffield Crown Court. The men were charged after they were attacked by members of a far-right racist group following a protest in the town center.

Yasmin Punjani

Yasmin practises in all areas of general crime, defending and prosecuting all types of serious crime, attempted murder, other violent offences, rape, sexual assault, false imprisonment, perverting the course of justice, importation of drugs, conspiracy to supply drugs, death by dangerous driving, armed robbery and false accounting. Her practice involves appearing as a junior alone and being led in multi-handed cases in equal measure. She is also regularly instructed to appear in the Court of Appeal and the Administrative Court. She has a recognised reputation and specialisation in all aspects of fraud and money laundering, including SOCPA, FSA cases and ancillary confiscation proceedings, restraint proceedings and Administrative Court proceedings. In the last year she has been instructed to defend in three notable bank frauds. She is highly regarded for her meticulous preparation, research and legal argument, as well as being an experienced jury advocate. Notable cases: R v A [2004] (serious indecent assault of two 14-year-old complainants by a 16-year-old defendant); R v T [2004] (successful judicial review of promise not to prosecute, instructed by the RMT); R v B [2004] (successfully argued ‘issue estoppel’ as an abuse of process); R v M [2004-05] (NHS fraud by an unqualified dentist, instructed as junior counsel); R v M [2005] (multimillion-pound Royal Mail and DWP fraud, instructed as junior counsel); R v G [2005] (multimillion-pound money laundering within companies set up in UK and Columbia, instructed as junior counsel); R v W [2006] (multi-handed people trafficking, prostitution and running of high-class brothels in central London); R v F [2006] (multi-handed, multiple rape and sexual assault of a child); R v B [2007] (multimillion-pound VAT evasion on imported prestige cars, instructed as junior counsel); R v O [2008] (large-scale conspiracy to supply class A drugs in the South East of England); R v S [2008] (large-scale bank fraud with the use of false identity documents); R v S and Others [2009] (multi-handed bank fraud); R v W and Others [2010] (multi-handed murder and familial homicide); R v K and Others [2011] (multi-handed mortgage and bank fraud); R v C and C [2012] (multiple historic rapes and sexual assaults of children). Approved to undertake work on behalf of the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

Legal 500

Our Team

FAQs

Marketing Resources

Newsletters

Contact us