Sonia is a second six pupil undertaking work across all areas of Chambers’ practice.
33 Bedford Row
33bedfordrow.co.uk33bedfordrow.co.ukBarristers
Afzal has 14 years continuous experience at both the employed and independent Bar which includes successfully leading in a number of large and complex trials involving organised crime. He regularly appears for the defence in serious fraud, drug conspiracies, sexual offences and homicide cases.
Introduction
In whatever area of practice, Alex can be relied upon to take an approach that does the following, and indeed prides himself on so doing:
1. Provides the client with a barrister who listens, understands and comes to grips with their case, along with personable and empathetic client care.
2. Gives pragmatic and common sense legal advice, combining experience and knowledge of the law with real, working solutions.
3. Persuasive and extremely robust advocacy.
Prior to coming to the Bar, Alex had a varied career which included work in Africa, teaching law, representing clients of the Citizens Advice Bureau in (Scottish) courts, and pro-bono experience on Death Row in the USA.
Outside of practice, Alex also teaches a number of courses at the University of Aberdeen and enjoys anything to do with dogs, fish, the countryside or history. He enjoys Historical European Martial Arts, classic rock, boat building and property renovation.
Alex has recently joined Chambers from a Chambers based in the South West of England. He maintains strong links with that area but has moved to London to develop a more cental practice to the UK and to further his interests in international work.
Alex is both down to earth, approachable and client focused. He consistently receives excellent reviews from those instruct him as well as their clients. A tenacious advocate who represents his clients interests without hesitation or fear.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Bribery and Corruption Care & Supervision Child Arrangement Civil Commercial Commercial Chancery Commercial Landlord and Tenant Company & Partnership Consumer Credit Consumer Rights Contract Corporate Insolvency Court of Protection Defence Employment Family Health & Safety Housing Insurance Intellectual Property International Law International Law in Domestic Courts Landlord & Tenant Molestation & Occupation Personal Injury Personal Insolvency Professional Discipline Property Regulatory Road Traffic & Motoring Wills, Trusts & Estates Civil Alex regularly appears in small claims track matters for both Claimants and Defendants. Alex's practice encompasses the entire gamut of civil practice including RTA claims, contractual disputes and possession proceedings. Increasingly Alex is instructed on interim applications as well as more complex Fast and Multi-Track disputes. Alex has also appeared in the High Court in relation to obtaining interim injunctions and has most recently provided a webinar, as part of chambers team, on Super Injunctions. Additionally Alex regularly provides webinars and lectures on developing areas of Civil Law. Most recently Alex was successful in seeking the strike out of an £80,000 TOLATA claim and he was further successful in resisting a relief from sanctions application to have the claim reinstated. Employment Alex regularly represents the Claimants on both an instructed and direct access basis covering the entire spectrum of Employment Law. Alex has appeared, and continues to appear, in multi-day Employment Tribunal disputes particularly covering areas of unfair dismissal, whistleblowing and TUPE transfers. Alex also regularly advises on redundancy and redundancy pay. Direct Access Alexander is qualified to provide advice and representation on a Direct Access Basis. Alex offers assistance specifically in relation to Civil, Commercial and Employment disputes.
Amber appears in the Magistrates, Crown and Youth Courts in both a defence and prosecution capacity. She undertakes work across all aspects of Criminal and Regulatory law, including:-
Violent crime (such as Robbery, GBH and ABH);
Public Order offences;
Weapons offences;
Road Traffic and Motoring offences;
Fraud and Confiscation matters.
A versatile and thorough advocate, Amber is known for her ability to engage and reassure clients. She is able to quickly build up a strong rapport and gain clients’ confidence quickly.
Amber has regularly represented vulnerable clients, including those with schizophrenia, autism, severe learning difficulties and the elderly.
Prior to joining Chambers, Amber practised as a solicitor. Her varied practice included dealing with matters in areas such as:-
Drugs offences;
Sexual offences;
Rural Crime and Animal Welfare;
People Trafficking and Modern Slavery;
Licensing, including Taxi Licensing, Premises and Houses in Multiple Occupation;
Shotgun and Firearms Licensing;
Contempt of Court matters.
Amber continues to welcome instructions in the above areas.
Away from Chambers, Amber is a keen horse rider. She also enjoys live music, reading, travel and walking, often in the Yorkshire Dales.
Introduction Year of call 2006 Andrew has an established and recognised expertise in fraud, fmoney laundering, confiscation proceedings and financial crime in the Crown Court and Court of Appeal both prosecuting and defending. He is also recognised for his work in environmental law and regulatory work, particularly for local authorities. Andrew is known for his ability to read and analyse large quantities of documentation and to prepare supporting spreadsheets to enable a deeper scrutiny of fraudulent transactions. He has an unusual ability to present complex data to juries, taking them through the information in a user-friendly way. He can draw upon his experience of examining witnesses and financial investigators in relation to financial documents. His case management and preparation is meticulous, including the drafting of supporting paperwork and opening notes to assist the court. He has dealt with cases of benefit fraud, cases under the Fraud Act, 2006 and the (former) deception offences under the Theft Act, 1968. He has recently been involved in a large-scale conspiracy to defraud exceeding million pounds. Andrew’s experience defending complements his ability to prosecute because he can anticipate arguments and tactics and deal with them. He finds his experience defending particularly useful when advising prosecution authorities and that his experience in prosecution informs his ability to act effectively for the defence.
Andrew has over 30 years of experience as a barrister, initially both prosecuting and defending almost every type of criminal allegation. For the last 15 years he has specialised in criminal defence and has appeared in many high-profile cases of the utmost seriousness. He is known for his work in cases of murder, terrorism, major fraud, money laundering and sexual offences. He has built up a formidable reputation amongst lay clients and solicitors as an outstanding jury advocate.
Andrew is often instructed to give a second opinion on both conviction and sentence and has been successful in cases where the original advice was that there was no reasonable prospect of success.
Andrew can make the difference in the outcome of a finely balanced case and is committed to giving proper and realistic advice. He thinks tactically from the outset and always advises realistically on the merits and possible sentence. He gives clear advice on the merits of a case and his "down to earth" manner and his professional handling of cases including his approach to mitigation when an offence is accepted in whole or in part has meant the difference between a custodial or non-custodial disposal.
Andrew often represents professionals facing criminal allegations. He is presently instructed where there are allegations of a £15 million fraud against the Legal Aid Fund.
At the other end of the spectrum, Andrew is known as an advocate who has a particular ability when dealing with clients with vulnerabilities. He treats all clients with respect whatever the allegation or difficulty and understands the impact on those facing criminal allegations.
A long association with a number of well-known solicitors has seen him develop a history of acting in some of the largest and most complex drug importations or conspiracies to supply drugs, for example R v U and R v AS. Further, he is regularly instructed in cases involving the NCA/Trident and particularly firearm cases.
In recent years, Andrew has represented a number of clients charged under the Terrorism Acts, including offences of acts of terrorism in Syria and offences under section 5{1}(a) intending to commit acts of terrorism and section 58 (1){b) possessing material/records of a kind to prepare or commit acts of terrorism. Andrew has experience of cases involving section 57 (1) of the Act and possession of firearms with the intention of conducting terrorism offences in this country and abroad (R v MA and R v T at the CCC).
The very nature of his practice has seen Andrew develop an in-depth understanding of Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) and confiscation proceedings.
Following his many years of experience and practical involvement in many areas of law Andrew is often contacted to give a second opinion after trial counsel have provided a negative advice on appeal.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Bribery and Corruption Confiscation Crime Defence Drugs Financial Crime & Fraud Murder & Manslaughter Prosecution Road Traffic & Motoring Sexual Offences Violent Crime Introduction Andrew is a distinguished advocate called who was appointed Queens Counsel in 2010. He both defends and prosecutes and has an enviable depth and breadth of experience across the full range of criminal and regulatory offences. Andrew has appeared in multiple high-profile cases. He is frequently the advocate of choice for cases involving serious violence, murder, corporate manslaughter where there have been serious breaches of health and safety legislation. He is highly experienced in both prosecuting and defending confiscation applications under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Andrew has advised the SFO and prosecuted in a series of cases involving student loan frauds and associated money laundering. He has specialist experience of large-scale Carousel tax frauds and missing trader frauds. His experience includes advising in the specialist area of housing fraud, including advising a large London borough in the complex issues arising from interlocking multiple identity and misappropriation of housing stock. Prior to taking Silk, Andrew developed a formidable reputation for dealing with complex cases, particularly serious violence, fraud and sexual offences. Whether appearing for the prosecution or defence, Andrew is known for his court room presence, his incisive analysis and ability to get to the heart of the matter. He is known for his mastery of detail, ability to think strategically and to advise a full range of clients with clarity based on long experience. Expertise: murder; manslaughter; serious fraud (VAT, tax, diversion, subsidy, CIS, etc); sexual offences (adult, child, historic, grooming, etc); serious crime. Before taking silk Andrew practiced in all areas of major crime. He was involved in most of the major diversion frauds as well as other serious types of fraud in particular missing trader, carousel frauds. He also specialised in sexual offences particularly those involving children. He also did serious crime such as attempted murder, GBH and drugs offences. Since taking silk he has defended in several murders and defended in the case of Hassani at Maidstone, a fight between rival Afgan gangs, where after a three month trial the prosecution accepted a plea to manslaughter based on loss of control. The defendant received five and a half years. He represented a defendant in one of the biggest carousel frauds at Kingston Crown Court where the prosecution accepted a plea on a very limited basis and the defendant walked out of court with a suspended sentence. He represented the principle defendant in a CIS fraud where the client was a registered agent for HMRC. After an intense legal argument the prosecution had to offer no evidence. He recently appeared for the principle defendant in a child prostitution case where the children from a local care home were alleged to have been groomed, raped and put to work as prostitutes. He was unanimously acquitted of all the counts to do with the children of the care home.
Ann is an experienced advocate, appearing in all levels of court and in complex care, placement and adoption proceedings, representing local authorities, parents and children. She has significant experience in EPOs; education supervision orders; care and supervision orders; secure accommodation orders; designation disputes; discharge of care orders; placement and adoption orders; revocation applications; and special guardianship. She represents parties in cases involving allegations of inflicted injuries, sexual abuse and fabricated and induced illness and domestic violence. She represents parents with mental health problems (including capacity to litigate), drug and alcohol problems and with learning or physical disabilities. She has represented local authorities in designation disputes, disclosure applications and in criminal courts in applications for third-party disclosure of social work records. She represents parents in private law proceedings including Child Arrangements Orders, parental responsibility, prohibited steps orders, specific issues orders, domestic violence and fact-finding and leave to remove from the jurisdiction and child abduction. Before becoming a barrister, Ann was a practising solicitor, qualifying in 1995 and gaining higher rights of audience in 2009. She developed expertise as a family lawyer, representing parents, extended family members and children in care, and advising on private law and adoption proceedings. Ann represented Islington’s legal department on the steering group responsible for setting up the Family Drug and Alcohol Court. She also served as one or two members of the advocates’ team for the London Borough of Islington
Aqsa Hussain has a broad multidisciplinary practice spanning criminal, public, civil and international law.
Arthur is a dedicated and adaptable junior barrister, who combines commercial acumen with strong academic background and international outlook. During his pupillage and early period in practice, Arthur was involved in complex, high value work encompassing a wide range of civil and commercial practice areas. His work includes drafting pleadings, contracts and advice in matters involving commercial, chancery, insurance, personal injury and private international law issues, as well as representing clients in County Court and High Court. Among many notable matters, Arthur has: Advised on the merits of a claim against an auction house of international standing, involving issues of economic duress; Settled pleadings on behalf of City of London livery companies in subrogated recovery actions in connection with damage sustained by their historic livery halls; Advised on contemplated international arbitration proceedings at the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes in Washington DC; Taken to trial a million-pound discrimination claim against a global hedge fund; Advised a mobile application startup on how to protect its intellectual property in negotiations with developers, and drafting on its behalf bespoke non-disclosure and non-competition agreements;
Ashleigh is a second six pupil with vast experience in criminal law who prosecutes and defends in a range of cases at the Crown Court. She has also received private instructions to defend in the Magistrates' Court.
Prior to pupillage, Ashleigh was the Head of the Crown Court department for a criminal defence firm where she was trusted with the most serious and complex cases. She has had strong exposure to the Criminal Justice System with working in the legal field for several years. She has litigated on a range of offences, including terrorism where the client was acquitted of terrorism charges. This attracted coverage from the national media, where junior counsel and leading counsel trusted her to perform the role of second junior. Within her role, Ashleigh was responsible for preparing the cases in the Crown Court and considering the evidence. Most recently, instructed counsel referred to her as 'striking gold' when perusing unused material in a Conspiracy to Murder case which would undoubtedly assist the defence case resulting in acquittal. She has excellent repertoire and skills dealing with the vulnerable and young.
Ashleigh has been instructed as advocate on parole hearings, for example, IPP prisoners, with the Parole Board directing release from closed conditions.
She is well regarded by professionals and clients for her personable approach and conducts great care and skill and is sensitive to issues that a case may generate.
Introduction Austen practises private law and public law, especially with international aspects. He advises from chambers in London, but also appears in Northern Ireland courts. Expertise: public law, EU law, human rights, commercial, property, employment. Austen practises generally in the civil courts and tribunals, representing individuals and SMEs. Austen advises and represents clients in the following areas: commercial and civil: contracts; partnerships; banking and credit; mortgages; insolvency; multinational arbitration and litigation; injunctions; employment law: wrongful dismissal; unfair dismissal; redundancy; wages; equality law: anti-discrimination for protected characteristics; positive action; EU law: many aspects; Family law: international and domestic; children (public law); children (private law); financial remedies; negligence: mainly professional; public law: immigration; nationality; mental health; judicial review; real property: business leases; residential landlord and tenant. EU law public law: judicial review (all categories of applicants) nationality & immigration law: advisory, nationality & applications; all immigration appeals (first-tier tribunal, upper tribunal, court of appeal) human rights law: all aspects (domestic, Strasbourg and international). Austen has a special interest in the constitution of the United Kingdom, on which he has written and lectured extensively. Direct Access Austen is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Austen on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Aysha completed her pupillage at a leading family law set in 2012 and joined 33 Bedford Row in 2013 as a tenant. Although Aysha has commenced her life at the Bar as a family specialist she has expertise beyond core family areas. This wide ranging experience allows her to provide cross-disciplinary representation and advice. Aysha's testimonials include a comment by a senior circuit judge that Aysha was “thoroughly prepared, succinct, clear, well-reasoned and had the case at her finger-tips”. Most recently another judge described Aysha’s drafting as “impeccable”.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Adoption
Asylum
Care & Supervision
Child Abduction
Child Arrangement
Corporate Immigration
Divorce
Entry Clearance & LTR
Extradition
Family
Family Finance & Property
Financial Provision
Forced Marriage
Immigration & Nationality
International Criminal Law
International Human Rights Law
International Law
International Law in Domestic Courts
Molestation & Occupation
Nationality & Citizenship
Relocation Internal and Abroad
Removal & Deportation
Visas
Introduction
Baldip Singh is an experienced human rights practitioner with a wide ranging practice based around family law, immigration law and international law. He has significant experience in both private and public law matters.
Baldip is regularly instructed in significant cases involving family law that overlap with immigration issues.
Acting for Local Authorities, parents and children, Baldip has had extensive exposure to care proceedings involving children who have died whilst in the parents’ care, suffered from non-accidental head injuries, long term neglect, sexual abuse and factitious illness.
In respect of international children law, Baldip is a specialist on international relocation, child abduction and forced marriages.
Baldip has a well established practice in immigration law, he represents clients at all levels up to the Court of Appeal. He also has a strong Judicial Review practice.
Baldip enjoys the fast pace that immigration and public law work has to offer and has successfully represented clients with respect to emergency injunctive relief to stop removal via High Court applications. He has developed a specialty niche in making urgent applications out of hours when essential to prevent injustice.
Baldip has an increasingly international practice and has been instructed to assist in significant cases involving Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Libya and a number of countries in Asia including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Prior to coming to the Bar, Baldip worked in a leading immigration law firm that was involved in significant high profile cases. Baldip is heavily involved within his community raising awareness of domestic violence and other legal issues affecting ethnic minorities. Baldip has worked, volunteered and acted as a trainer for various organisations and provides training and seminars to solicitors, law centres and community groups. He has been an invited lecturer and given talks at prestigious universities in India and visited several Bar Associations in that country on such topics as 'The Importance of an Independent Judiciary' and 'Collecting Best Evidence'.
Baldip is fluent Punjabi and conversational Hindi and Urdu.
Baldip is licensed to accept Direct Public Access work. Baldip will consider pro bono work on a case by case basis.
Expertise: European Union law; judicial review and administrative law; human rights law; private child law proceedings; financial remedies. Baldip joined Thomas Bingham Chambers following completion of a specialist administrative law pupillage at a leading human rights set in London. Baldip is a practiitioner specialising in international human rights law, European Union free movement law and immigration and asylum law. Baldip has worked at leading immigration law firms throughout the course of his legal studies; during pupillage he was instructed at all levels of court up to the administrative High Court in his own right. Within the first two months of tenancy Baldip was instructed in the Court of Appeal with a successful outcome. He is a very passionate and fearless advocate known for fighting the corner of the underdog inside and outside of court. Baldip is also instructed to draft grounds of appeal and challenging decisions of the Secretary of State by way of Judicial Review. Baldip enjoys the fast pace that immigration and public law work has to offer and has successfully represented clients with respect to emergency injunctive relief to stop removal via High Court applications during and out of office hours. Baldip is regularly instructed in private children law and domestic violence cases, particularly when there is an overlap with immigration issues. Baldip is also instructed in criminal law matters appearing at the Crown Courts. Baldip has a broad practice encompassing areas of law that overlap with immigration and human rights issues. Baldip has a passion in teaching law. He has been regularly invited to give talks and seminars on immigration and EU law and the law and issues affecting minorities and those most vulnerable in society across the UK. Baldip speaks fluent Punjabi and conversational in Hindi and Urdu dialects. Baldip runs various legal clinics within the community in Birmingham and East and West London.
ARBITRATOR AND MEDIATOR Barry was the Presiding Judge (Commercial Division), Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, in the Territory of the Virgin Islands, known as the BVI Commercial Court, from 2015 to 2018. In that capacity he presided over a range of international commercial disputes involving parties from around the world, including shareholder and corporate disputes, insolvency matters, contractual disputes, fraud and asset recovery proceedings, judgment enforcement and arbitration assistance and arbitral award enforcement.Until 2009 he was a Partner with Torys LLP in its Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice in Toronto, Canada, and for many years served as Coordinator of the Practice. He has more than 35 years of experience as counsel in litigation, arbitration and mediation, acting on many complex and significant cases for a wide variety of clients and involving many different industries including financial services, natural resources, energy, technology, intellectual property, manufacturing and construction. Barry also served as an arbitrator and mediator for several years prior to his appointment to the BVI Commercial Court. He continued to do so occasionally while serving on the Court.
Introduction
Having undertaken extensive criminal work, Cassie has now developed a regulatory and professional discipline practise, specialising almost exclusively in fire safety. Having formed a relationship with one fire authority, she now acts regularly for several fire authorities either directly through their legal teams, or through their Local Authority legal assistance. Having appeared for the Fire Authorities, defence work followed, and Cassie is regularly consulted by Fire Risk Assessors, Housing Associations and others about enforcement and prosecution issues.
As a result of prosecuting landlords in relation to housing of multiple occupancy, the cross over with Local Authorities and on occasions the HSE have all been dealt with. Most of the issues that arise fall within the Fire Safety Order, but occasionally more novel points arise under local byelaws that Cassie has considered and successfully prosecuted.
Cassie has advised Housing Associations in relation to potential high rise block issues, fire authorities as to their approach to cladding; keeping fully aware of the ever-developing issues following Grenfell etc.
Cassie also undertakes private prosecutions, mainly for local authorities, in relation to frauds and regulatory offences.
Cassie has a no-nonsense down to earth style, where informing clients where they are and what steps should be taken is paramount. She offers excellent client care, responding to communications promptly and often making herself available at short notice. She is available by telephone and email and more than happy to hold conferences in person or via Microsoft Teams/Zoom. Cassie is willing to provide training on any aspect of her professional expertise.
Other Information
In 2016 Cassie was appointed as a member of the Parole Board. She chairs hearings for life sentenced prisoners, dangerous offenders and those recalled to prison. This can be as a single member chair or as chair to a two or three member panels. She also sits as a Reconsideration Member and her decisions are published on Bailii.
Cassie led the RADAR project for the Parole Board which has delivered a new template for decisions, a significant development for the Board.
In 2021 she was appointed as a member of the Management Committee for the Parole Board.
Cassie has had a long-standing interest in legal education and was a freelance lecturer for many years alongside her career as a barrister.
In 2017 she was appointed by the Secretary of State for Education to chair a panel of legal experts to develop a new T-Level qualification to be delivered to young people aged 16-19 as a direct equivalent to A-Level study.
She holds numerous roles with the Bar Standards Board including a standard setter, question writer and Professional Ethics marking team leader. She has considerable experience as an External Examiner and, in 2020, when a new Bar Training approach began, she was appointed by the BSB as the Lead External Examiner for Advocacy for all Authorised Education and Training Organisations.
Christina is an experienced advocate in all aspects of private child and Family Law Act proceedings.
Committed to supporting families who face challenges related to disability, Christina provides advice and representation on various issues including parental rights, spending time arrangements, child protection and adoption.
Christina ensures that families challenged by disability have equal access to justice and that their unique needs are understood and considered throughout the legal process. She is a passionate advocate for the rights of disabled individuals and their families and strives to promote their interests and those of their children.
Apart from her legal work, Christina also advises on matters relating to disability discrimination, special educational needs, and disability-related benefits. She understands families’ challenges and is committed to helping them navigate the legal system to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Christina’s dedication to supporting families managing disability-related challenges has been highly-praised and commended by multiple legal bodies and associations. She is dedicated to providing the highest level of legal support and representation and is a trusted ally for families facing difficult and complex legal issues.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Court of Protection Divorce Family Financial Provision Molestation & Occupation Property Co-Ownership Relocation Internal and Abroad Clive was admitted as a solicitor in 1991 after completing his training contract with Bindman & Partners. Following periods with firms in North and South London, he moved to Sternberg Reed in 1996, where he became a partner and joint head of the public family law department. In November 2010, he transferred to the Bar and joined Tooks Chambers. Clive is an experienced Child Law advocate, having appeared at all courts from the Family Proceedings Court to the Court of Appeal. He has experience of being instructed in complex cases involving, amongst others things, multiple injury, sexual abuse and placement outside the jurisdiction. Reported cases: Re A (A Child) 2011 EWHC 517 Fam.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Divorce Family Financial Provision Mediation Relocation Internal and Abroad Constance has a background in civil law specialising in landlord and tenant and housing. In this capacity, she is the co-author of The Landlord and Tenant Act 1987: A Guide and Steps to Possession: A Guide. Constance served for many years as the commercial property editor of the Journal of Business Law, Sweet and Maxwell, and has written numerous articles and case reviews. Constance has specialised in family law for over 15 years but finds her multi-disciplinary background of great assistance in considering the issues arising in all aspects family breakdown. Constance is known for her expertise in complex care cases where there are significant issues of child protection. She is an experienced advocate in child abduction, relocation cases, both internal and international and regularly advises in cases with an international element including the validity of marriages and divorces contracted abroad, international placements and issues involving enforcement of foreign orders. Constance regularly advises in cases relating to finance on family breakdown. She is a trained mediator and offers Early Neutral Evaluation to both parties early on in a dispute with a view to focused advice on outcomes. Constance is known for her client care, her analytical ability, her skills as an advocate and her commitment to ensuring that each client has the advice and support needed to make informed choices about how his or her case is conducted. Constance is Head of Chambers Emeritus, having served as Head and subsequently Co-Head of Chambers between 2011-2018. Direct Access Constance is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Constance on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Craig has experience in landlord & tenant disputes. Further, he has acted in a range of contentious probate proceeduings including challenges to the vality of Wills as well as inheritance Act appocations.
Schomberg v Taylor [2013] EWHC 2269 (Ch)
El Naschie v Pitt Place (Epsom) Ltd (1999) 31 H.L.R. 278
The latter case involved the proposition that tenants getting together to buy their landlords’ interest must provide a notice which is correct and accurate. A notice will be invalidated if it contains gross mistakes (listing dead and departed tenants).
Craig has considerable experience in regulatory/public law. He regularly acts for the London Borough of Southwark. Appointed standing counsel in Adult Care Law to Denbighshire County Council from 2014 and similarly to Gwynedd and Conway from 2016 .
Craig has experience of both the “health and welfare” as well as the “finance and property” pathways in the Court of Protection. He has experience of advising both Applicants and Respondents in ‘best interests’ applications relating to medical procedures, residence as well as objections to Attorneys, Deputies and the making of Statutory Wills.
He has appeared before a number of professional regulatory panels and tribunals including the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, the General Medical Council, the General Osteopathic Council and the General Council of Chiropractors.
Crispin has expertise in insolvency; commercial; contract; asset recovery; employment; general civil litigation. Crispin is also an accountant and a licensed insolvency practitioner. Prior to coming to the Bar, he worked as a company director and at PricewaterhouseCoopers. he also specialises in cost effective, commercial remedies for clients. He appears regularly in courts and tribunals at both County Court and High Court level and can provide second, independent opinions where litigation at first instances has gone wrong. As well as his general commercial caseload, Crispin has developed a niche practice in the area of child support disputes. For many years he has been instructed by government departments in cases that have gone before the courts, but he also accepts instruction on behalf of individuals affected by the litigation.
ADMITTED TO PRACTICE (THE VIRGIN ISLANDS): 1981
YEAR OF QC: 1996
ARBITRATOR AND MEDIATOR
Introduction
Dancia is a lawyer in active practice. She is a former Attorney General of The Virgin Islands and became Queen’s Counsel in 1996. Her legal experience includes contentious and non-contentious matters in corporate and commercial law including financial services, insolvency, dispute resolution, regulatory matters as well as a wide range of other areas of private law, including trusts and estates, and public law.
Dancia regularly advises and assists clients in BVI, in the Caribbean, United States, United Kingdom, Europe and Far East on matters of BVI law. She appears in the High Court and the Commercial Court in major commercial disputes. She has appeared in the Courts at all levels including the Privy Council.
Dancia works as an Arbitrator and is a qualified Mediator on The Roster of the Mediators of The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. She regularly sits as Chair or Member of various Ad Hoc Tribunals and also represents parties before them. Recently she was appointed to a four-year term as a member of The Caribbean Community Administrative Tribunal (CCAT). This is a body set up by the Caribbean Community to hear and determine claims by employees of Commonwealth Caribbean Public Institutions. She is also Co-Founder of Caribbean Arbitrators.
Dancia has the unique distinction of serving at the highest levels in all three branches of Government – Executive, Legislative and Judicial – and working prominently in the private sector of the legal profession in The Virgin Islands, and beyond.
January 2012 -– Present Private practice of law based in The Virgin Islands - Head of Chambers Dancia Penn & Co
August 2007 – November 2011 Member of the First House of Assembly of The Virgin Islands
August 2007 - November 2011
First Deputy Premier, Minister of Health, Social Development and Gender of The Virgin Islands
Member of The First National Security Council of The Virgin Islands
Regional Representative for Women Parliamentarians of Caribbean, Atlantic and Americas on Commonwealth Women’s Parliamentary Association
April – July 2007 Justice of Appeal (Acting), Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
Sept 2004 – March 2007 Deputy Governor of The Virgin Islands
Executive position under The Virgin Islands Constitution that supports and facilitates the Governor of The Virgin Islands in the Governor’s constitutional functions which include oversight of external affairs, defence, internal security, administration of the courts, general elections and disaster preparedness and the Public Service and its management.
September 2000 – September 2004 Head of Chambers, Dancia Penn & Co.
A well-established boutique law firm in The Virgin Islands founded in 1984, with a strong local and international client base and a practice concentrating primarily on civil and commercial matters and dispute resolution. Mrs. Penn was involved in major commercial litigation as well as marketing of the jurisdiction with private clients in Europe and the Far East.
1999 - Admitted of the Bar of Barbados
1996 - Appointed Queen’s Counsel
1999 - Admitted of the Bar of Barbados
1996 - Appointed Queen’s Counsel
1992 - 1999 Attorney General of The Virgin Islands/Director of Public Prosecutions
Member of Executive Council (now Cabinet) as well as Legislative Council (now House of Assembly). At the time, the Attorney General was also Director of Public Prosecutions.
Tenure as Attorney General coincided with a period of marked growth and expansion of the financial services sector of The Virgin Islands. Involved in formulation of the policy, and the drafting and enactment of much of the legislation which is today the backbone of the financial services industry in The Virgin Islands.
In addition, responsible for drafting and piloting through the Legislative Council of legislation which amended and codified the criminal laws of The Virgin Islands, as well as legislation for the social sector.
Functioned as Central Authority for International Cooperation matters under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty with the United States and under the Proceeds of Criminal Conduct Act
Served as Chairman of The Caribbean Financial action Task (CFATF) - This is the Caribbean arm of the Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), the prominent Anti- Money Laundering Agency in the Caribbean
Represented The Virgin Islands in several regional, Commonwealth and International Conferences and Fora
1984 -1992 Private Practice of Law. Founder and Head of Chambers, Dancia Penn and Co.
1982 - Appointed Notary Public
1981 - Admitted to practice as a Barrister and Solicitor of The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in The Virgin Islands.
1981 - 1984 Legal Assistant (now Crown Counsel) and Senior Crown Counsel, Attorney General’s Chambers, The Virgin Islands
1973 - 1975 Graduate Teacher – History and Spanish, The Virgin Islands High School
1975 - 1976 Administrative Officer, Office of the Chief Minister (now Premier)
In England and Wales, Dancia is an arbitrator and mediator and provides arbitration and mediation services; Dancia is not a barrister in England and Wales.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Crime Defence Drugs Family Financial Crime & Fraud Murder & Manslaughter Regulatory Road Traffic & Motoring Serious Fraud Sexual Offences Sports Violent Crime Introduction Dan is an experienced and respected family advocate with a strong reputation for his ability to tackle complex and serious contested cases. As a former criminal defence barrister he has successfully undertaken numerous jury trials. Over the years he has accumulated extensive experience of representing defendants in the most serious of cases including murder, serious violence and serious sex cases, including historic matters. Within the criminal jurisdiction he won judicial praise for the quality of his advocacy, both in rigorous cross examination and closing speeches and he now brings those qualities to his family practice which is primary focus (Dan no longer accepts instructions in criminal cases unless there are exceptional circumstances) He is therefore highly in demand for serious public law cases, often those involving non accidental injury and sexual abuse. He is instructed equallty by Local Authorities and solicitors acting for parents. He is also regularly instructed in private law for serious finding of fact cases, especially those that feature an overlap with the criminal law. Dan is also very experienced in parental alienation cases and is routinely sought after by numerous solicitors in such cases having obtained extensive experience in this area in care proceedings and the High Court in addition to private law, where is often instructed on behalf of 16.4 guardians. He has been approached by local authorities to deliver training in this area and will be arranging to do so in the coming months. Dan also has experience of contested vaccinations cases in the High Court and successfully represented the mother in a reported and at the time leading case (see link in notable cases section). It is anticipated that in the post Covid world this unusual area of law may become more frequently visited. Instructing solicitors often comment that Dan’s ability to form a strong rapport with lay clients coupled with an honest and down to earth approach to giving advice make him a popular choice. Dan Foster has a growing regulatory practice with a current focus on representing athletes. He is also instructed in licensing and regulatory matters (extensively in relation to taxi licenses) and is very keen to develop and widen his regulatory practice, welcoming instructions across the spectrum of regulatory law matters. As for sport, he is sole legal advisor to the world-famous Ingle boxing gym in Sheffield, and has represented and assisted many professional boxers for criminal and regulatory matters of all kinds. His many boxing clients have included world champions and challengers such as Kell Brook, Billy Joe Saunders and Kid Galahad (Abdul Bari Awad). Mr Saunders and Mr Awad instruct Dan on an ongoing basis in relation to a various matters. In a very high-profile case, Dan represented Mr Saunders before the British Boxing Board of Control and obtained a good result in enabling his client to avoid suspension from boxing for an infamous incident. Dan also represented Mr Awad in his successful appeal to United Kingdom Anti Doping (UKAD) for a reduction in his suspension from boxing due to doping offences. With Dan’s assistance, Mr Awad is thought to be the only athlete ever to have achieved such a result whilst maintaining his innocence of any doping offence. This was reported by Sky Sports. Dan’s extensive experience and expertise in criminal law has also allowed him to obtain excellent results for professional sportspersons under investigation from regulatory bodies. Dan successfully represented a professional footballer in a major National Crime Agency investigation into match fixing. Dan’s client Stephen Dawson, who was captain of Barnsley Football Club at the time, was released from the investigation with no further action taken against him. This was reported in The Guardian. Dan also successfully represented a former professional footballer in a Serious Fraud Office investigation. Again, the SFO took no further action.
Daniel joined Chambers in November 2018 and has established a multi-disciplinary practice spanning Public, Professional Discipline & Regulatory and Criminal Law. Having begun his career practising predominantly in Criminal, Professional Discipline and Regulatory matters, Daniel has amassed considerable advocacy experience before a range of courts and tribunals. The advocacy skills and experience have enabled a smooth transition into other areas of law. In relation to Public Law, Daniel acts in both Public Inquiries and Coroner’s Inquests. Having previously been instructed as part of the Counsel Team for the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse dealing specifically with the Roman Catholic Church Investigation, Daniel is currently instructed as part of the Counsel Team for the Undercover Policing Inquiry. As for Coroner’s Inquests, Daniel has acted for Interested Persons at a number of Coroner’s Inquests spanning a four-day hearing to three-week hearings. Daniel is experienced in resisting submissions calling for Regulation 28 concerns to be noted against public bodies. As for Professional Discipline & Regulatory matters, Daniel is regularly instructed by the Nursing & Midwifery Council to act as a case presenter before the Fitness to Practise Committee. He is experienced in Interim Order applications, conducting Substantive Hearings, and reviewing Substantive Orders. Alongside the NMC, Daniel has previously been seconded to a leading Sports Law firm and worked on Regulatory cases being brought before The Football Association and FIFA. Daniel has been instructed to act for both the Prosecution and Defence in the full range of criminal matters in the Crown Court. Daniel has conducted multiple jury trials and been instructed in relation to offences such as Fraud, Armed Robbery, Possession of Firearms, Kidnap, Section 18 GBH and Wounding, Conspiracy to Burgle, the Supply of Class A and B drugs and Property offences. Daniel has been instructed on large-scale disclosure reviews for leading city law firms. Daniel is very experienced in dealing with Road Traffic matters and has particular expertise in exceptional hardship and special reasons hearings, alongside advancing challenges to procedure at trial. Daniel also has experience acting in Private Prosecutions having prosecuted on behalf of luxury designer brands in Trademark Offences.
Danny started Clerking in 2015 and joined chambers in October 2022 as a Second Junior Clerk Family, having previously worked at a specialist family set.
Danny's responsibilities include dealing with the day to day running of the diary and any general enquiries.
David is a senior member of the 33 Bedford Row Civil and Commercial Practice Group. He has nearly 30 years' experience specialising in property law and commercial contracts. He has appeared in cases at all levels of court including the Court of Appeal. David is co-author, together with Piers Harrison, of the leading practitioner book on leasehold enfranchisement, Leasehold Enfranchisement: Law and Practice. This specialist book has been warmly welcomed by the professional community as well as by lay clients as a first port of call for careful and balanced advice in an area of law that is notoriously complex. In addition, David regularly advises in cases of disputed restrictive covenants, easements, rights to light and property development and planning generally. He is fully conversant with both commercial and domestic property issues, including issues relating to the provision of public housing and the maintenance of housing stock general including houses in multiple occupation.
Introduction Head of ChambersDuring the 1980s, David led in numerous high-profile and serious cases including two of the trials resulting from the Brinks Matt gold bullion robbery (which were at the time the largest of their kind ever in the UK). David also went on to lead in a number of armed robbery cases involving particular members of the Arif family and their associates. He also represented Ronnie O'Sullivan (the father) for murder. Then in the 1990s, David led at the Central Criminal Court for Kevin Cressey, charged alongside a police officer with drug and corruption offences in what became known as the Panorama Corruption trial, because the client had gone to the BBC with his story. During the course of that decade, however, most of David's leading work involved the very large importation and supply of Class A and B drugs, serious violence, and fraud, for example, Belchamber and others (Southwark Crown Court) was the alcohol diversion fraud which finally exposed the London City Bond as informants and led to a number of successful appeals in other cases.David's first case in Silk in 2002 was the defence of a survivor of the Paddington Rail crash who had inflicted multiple stab wounds on a complete stranger and was found to be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Since then his cases have involved most aspects of serious crime, including gangland and domestic murder, firearms, armed robbery, drug trafficking, counterfeit steroids, serious sexual offences, fraud, revenue offences and money laundering. Recently, among many others, he has represented the deputy manager of a care home accused of raping one of its residents with a mental age of four, a young man charged with the manslaughter of a friend who died from positional asphyxia when he became trapped in the rungs of a loft ladder, and a business man charged with a multi-million pound fraud on Barclays Bank. David has extensive experience of dealing with forensic experts, including forensic pathologists, psychiatrists and accountants, DNA, mobile telephone and cell site, facial mapping, and voice recognition and linguistic experts. Apart from crime, David has also undertaken VAT tribunal work and a fact finding hearing in the Family Division of the High Court. Direct Access David is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct David on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
David is a specialist in Criminal advocacy and advice. A former solicitor advocate [1991], he was called to the Bar in 1998. He both prosecutes and defends in serious crime.
Practice
A senior civil barrister (1984 call), Deborah worked, after pupillage, as claims manager for a Lloyd’s Syndicate; in-house counsel for a run-off company; and for many years as a solicitor specializing in insurance and re-insurance disputes, while acquiring an LLM in Commercial Law and ACII (Associateship of Chartered Insurance Institute). She returned to the Bar in 2000.
Deborah has a real passion for advocacy and relishes both original and difficult arguments. Clients appreciate her attention to detail, thorough preparation, and team approach.
She has a down to earth approach, speaks plainly, and looks for pragmatic solutions. A former purchaser of legal services, she understands the demands driving business decisions and the disruption of human and financial resources entailed in litigation.
She is a qualified mediator.
Whilst Deborah accepts instructions for most areas of common law, her interests lie with the following key areas:
• Costs. She regularly attends Detailed Assessments in the SCCO and across the country. She also has a reputation for fighting hard at CCMCs, and appreciates that the approved costs budget can be vital to the future of a case.
• Insurance and Reinsurance, including assisitng with Ombudsman references
• Personal Injury (including RTA, EL and PL) and Clinical Negligence. She represents Claimants and Defendants.
• Contract disputes (including Agency and Consumer Contracts)
• Fraud – Deborah has written the sections on Part 18 Questions and Witness Statements for the Chambers Fraud Manual
• Tort disputes, Negligence
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Adoption
Care & Supervision
Child Abduction
Child Arrangement
Court of Protection
Divorce
Family
Family Finance & Property
Financial Provision
Forced Marriage
Mediation
Molestation & Occupation
Professional Discipline
Deborah is a specialist Family law practitioner, with a particular focus on complex public and private law. She has in-depth knowledge of the family courts in the areas of private and public law, providing an ability to help and guide clients through what can be a difficult and daunting process and ensuring positive outcomes. Experience: Deborah has extensive experience in representing local authorities, parents and guardians in complex cases concerning chronic neglect, emotional abuse, mental health issues and non-accidental injuries. She has also represented extended family members in special guardianship applications and adoption matters.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Adoption
Care & Supervision
Child Abduction
Child Arrangement
Divorce
Family
Family Finance & Property
Forced Marriage
Molestation & Occupation
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Bribery and Corruption Confiscation Crime Defence Defending Professionals Drugs Financial Crime & Fraud Inquests Murder & Manslaughter Police Discipline Professional Discipline Public Inquiries Regulatory Sexual Offences Violent Crime Expertise: serious crime; sexual offences; fraud; regulatory; company. Dee has over 30 years of experience obtained across the full range of criminal offences and verified by an impressive array of high profile and widely publicised cases. Dee is instructed to defend in cases of a serious nature in the UK and abroad. She frequently appears as leading junior counsel as well as junior alone in cases alleging murder, attempt murder, fraud (VAT, MTIC, Advance fee, Banking, DSS), money laundering, large scale drug trafficking, kidnap, firearms, offences alleging violence as well as extensive experience of rape and serious sexual offences. Dee has an exceptional reputation for her handling of clients and her dedication to the client’s case. Dee is frequently instructed in privately funded cases by a number of solicitors which exemplifies the quality of her work and the regard in which Dee is held. She is recommended as an ‘elegant advocate who inspires tremendous confidence and is unflappable, engaging and hugely experienced’. Dee is known for her commanding presence and great aptitude in assimilating evidence and cases quickly. Dee has been sent by the British Council to China to teach the Chinese judiciary about the English legal system. Notable cases 2014: R v GG and others – defending in a privately funded, multi defendant historical rape case; R v G leading defence junior in a multi defendant, land bank and carbon credit fraud; R v P leading defence junior in a privately funded company fraud case; R v F (Operation Jammed) defending in a £21m pound international fraud. Introduction Dee has over 30 years' experience as a specialist criminal lawyer dealing with an impressive array of high-profile, widely publicised cases. She has expertise in dealing with all types of sexual offences and has successfully represented numerous clients. She is well known for her meticulous preparation, analytical skill and the way in which she handles these sensitive and highly contentious cases. Dee recognises the vital importance of mastering the detail of each case and persisting in ensuring that there is comprehensive disclosure at the earliest opportunity, which is often the key to the just resolution of a case. She is a sensitive and persuasive jury advocate who adds value to each case she undertakes. Dee advises in pre-charge instances and is fully conscious of the need to consider impact, including the reputational impact of the issues in the case. She is fully aware of the need to consider wider issues that can arise, including advice that may be relevant in cases where social services are considering intervention. Dee undertakes privately funded cases and appreciates the advantages of teamwork. Dee is also known for her work on complex fraud cases, particularly Missing Trader Intra-Community (MTIC) and Very High Cost Case (VHCC) financial crime cases in which she has represented a wide spectrum of professional clients where she is often privately funded. She has a commanding courtroom presence and is considered an attractive and engaging jury advocate dedicated to achieving the best possible results for her clients. Her international profile continues to grow, including an invitation to teach Chinese Judges and Senior Advocates for the British Council.
Dermot Flanagan FCIArb, S.C has been in practice as a Barrister in Ireland since 1987 and was appointed Senior Counsel in 2000.
In England and Wales, Mr Flanagan is an arbitrator and mediator, and so can provide arbitration and mediation services. Mr Flanagan was called to the Bar in England and Wales in October, 2019 and holds a practising certificate. He accepts instructions as counsel in England & Wales.
Media The HuffPost published an article about successful lawyers and Diana was named ‘The lawyer of the week’. She has been mentioned a couple of times in the local newspapers of Cyprus for her work and representations of the island to global summits. She was included in a Law Forum magazine and Cypriot newspapers. Direct Access Diana is accredited to accept work under Direct Access, also known as Public Access, in suitable cases under the Bar's Direct Access Scheme, Transparency Standards Guidance and Public Access Guidance for Lay Clients. In order to instruct Diana on a Direct Access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0)20 7242 6476 or at [email protected]. The areas of practice in which Diana most commonly provides legal services are matters relating to: (1) Interantional Human Rights Law; (2) International Criminal Law; (3) Public International Law; and (4) General crime. Her most commonly provied legal services are: (1) Representation in international and domestic courts and tribunals; (2) Drafting written submissions and/or correspondence to international courts and tribunals; and (3) Advising in conference. Diana's most commonly used pricing models, are: (1) A fixed fee - for specific hearings, drafting of specific submissions or for phases of cases. (2) Hourly rate - for other work. Contractual Terms Diana accepts instructions under the 33 Bedford Row Standard Contractual Terms.
Introduction Dudley specialises predominantly on criminal matters, both defence and prosecution, appearing daily in the Youth, Magistrates, Crown and Appellant courts across all circuits in England and Wales. He is a particulalry sought after advocate for matters concerning allegations of fraud, sexual offences, drug supply and violence and noted for his attention to detail, client rapport and trial advocacy. Other areas of his practice include civil, family, regulatory, property, immigration, costs and private prosecution. He has a busy private practice in defending allegations of motoring offences. Dudley is a Graded CPS Advocate and prosecutes on behalf of private corporations and regulatory bodies across the breadth of the UK as well as for Local Authorities and Local Government across a wide spectrum of offences and specialisms. He also appears on behalf of the National Probation Service as a breach prosecutor in the Crown Court.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Bribery and Corruption Confiscation Crime Defence Drugs Financial Crime & Fraud Health & Safety Inquests Murder & Manslaughter Professional Discipline Prosecution Public Inquiries Regulatory Road Traffic & Motoring Sexual Offences Sports Trading Standards Violent Crime Introduction Edward has nearly 30 years’ experience as a criminal and regulatory specialist who both prosecutes and defends in high-profile, complex cases that require a particularly sensitive and experienced advocate. His portfolio of criminal cases includes homicide, sexual offences and large-scale fraud. He has been described in a recent BBC radio programme as "a senior barrister who has conducted some of the most notorious child abuse cases in recent years". These cases include allegations involving the child sex ring at St Benedict's School, Ealing, and Operation Midland representing a high-profile public figures alleged to have been involved in a child sex ring with wider allegations of conspiracy to murder and others. Edward’s regulatory work involves representing a range of medical and other professionals in cases where issues of competence and professional misconduct arise. In addition to representing individuals, Edward is engaged as chair and, on occasions, assessor for the General Medical Council and the Nursing and Midwifery Council. In addition to his acknowledged expertise in professional discipline, Edward is in demand in cases involving sports persons. Edward is a member of Sports Law where he acts in cases especially Rugby Union and horseracing. Edward is an experienced Courts Martial advocate and understands the special demands and sensitivities of such work.
In crime, Elise has led in cases of murder and multi-handed drugs conspiracy, as well as being instructed in matters of rape and serious sexual, violence, drugs, theft and fraud. She both prosecutes and defends and is a preferred counsel in difficult or complex cases. In family, Elise has been instructed in all manner of Children Act matters, as well as in non-accidental injury (baby shaking) and child abduction. She is known for her ability to put witnesses at ease, explain complex information under stressful conditions when at trial and for her persuasive manner when making submissions and especially pleas in mitigation. Elise is a disciplined, determined and committed legal practitioner, who is experienced in multi-tasking caseloads and representing clients with complex legal issues. Elise also has considerable knowledge of intellectual property, having worked in the contentious intellectual property department of Theodore Goddard. AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Confiscation Crime Education Family Family Finance & Property Financial Provision Forced Marriage Health & Safety Molestation & Occupation Murder & Manslaughter Professional Discipline Public Regulatory Sexual Offences Crime Elise is regularly instructed in all areas of crime, including serious offences of violence, armed robbery, sexual offences, aggravated arson, possession of class A drugs with intent and matters of theft, including complex fraud and general dishonesty. She is regularly instructed in cases involving grievous bodily harm and wounding, often involving expert evidence relating to complex DNA, blood-staining and mechanism of injury. Elise has experience of dealing with young defendants, often with behavioural and other medical problems including Aspergers, autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Family Elise accepts instructions in both Public and Private Law applications under the Children Act 1989, as well as ancillary relief proceedings. She has acted in cases involving care orders, the instructions of experts, contact, injunctive relief and the making and opposing of non-molestation and occupation orders. Elise has been complimented on her approach when opposing litigants in person and making the prospect of a court hearing less traumatic for clients who find facing abusive partners an ordeal. Direct Access Elise is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Elise on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Banking & Finance
Care & Supervision
Child Arrangement
Civil
Commercial
Company & Partnership
Contract
Corporate Insolvency
Family
Family Finance & Property
Financial Provision
Housing
Landlord & Tenant
Molestation & Occupation
Personal Injury
Personal Insolvency
Property
Property Co-Ownership
Public
Before commencing pupillage, Elizabeth practised as a County Court Advocate and conducted over 450 hearings. Elizabeth accepted instructions in a wide range of matters, including: small claim disputes, landlord and tenant disputes, contested possession hearings, infant approvals and interim applications. Elizabeth also worked at a commercial estate agents in Kent, where she assisted in the negotiation of high value joint venture property development projects, landlord and tenant disputes, Housing Act notices and property licensing. Furthermore, Elizabeth accepts instructions for both defence and prosecution. Elizabeth has represented clients charged with various offenses. She has defended in road traffic offenses, raising arguments including special reasons and exceptional hardship. Elizabeth also has experience appearing in landlord and tenant disputes in the County Court, relating to possession and rent arrears. She has acted in forfeiture hearings. During pupillage, Elizabeth has had experience drafting opinions and pleadings relating to interests in land, landlord and tenant and housing matters. She has represented both Claimants and Defendants in contractual disputes, debt recovery claims and enforcement. She has made successful applications to strike out, for relief from sanctions, application to set aside and other interim applications. Elizabeth has also acted in road traffic cases, cases involving credit hire and MOJ Stage 3 hearings. She has advised on quantum and can provide advice in respect of liability and causation and draft pleadings. Elizabeth accepts instructions in all private and public family proceedings and has experience of handling cases involving domestic violence.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Bribery and Corruption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Confiscation Crime Defence Divorce Drugs Family Family Finance & Property Financial Crime & Fraud Forced Marriage Murder & Manslaughter Prosecution Road Traffic & Motoring Sexual Offences Violent Crime Direct Access Elizabeth is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Elizabeth on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected]. Expertise: murder; fraud; serious sexual and violent offences; children private, public and international; matrimonial finance. Elizabeth is instructed in a full range of criminal offences including murder, fraud, serious sexual offences, drug offences and violent offences. Elizabeth is currently instructed as sole counsel to defend a conspiracy to defraud Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs in the sum of £2m. In addition to the more traditional criminal work, Elizabeth is frequently instructed to appear in relation to the wide range of ‘civil’ orders that can now be obtained before the Magistrates’ Courts, including ‘civil’ cash detention and forfeiture applications under POCA, football banning orders, ASBOs and Sexual Offences Prevention Orders. Elizabeth undertakes work at all levels in family law. Her practice has a particular emphasis on public law care proceedings where she has acquired considerable expertise in representing parents, relatives and guardians in cases involving suspected non-accidental injuries; psychiatric physical and sexual abuse; adoption and special guardianship, as well as placement outside the jurisdiction. She is experienced in cases where issues of cultural sensitivity arise. In private law proceedings, her practice has included all aspects of residence and contact (now child arrangement) disputes including those with an international element, those where the children have been separately represented and wardship. She is regularly instructed in cases of complex nature and often appears on behalf of vulnerable adults. Elizabeth also has a broad range of experience in advising and representing clients in financial provision. She has advised at all stages in such proceedings from pre-application conference to final hearing. She is experienced in advising on appeals and applications for the enforcement and variation of court orders. Prior to coming to the Bar, Elizabeth spent some time with The Commissioners of Customs and Excise, as it was then known, dealing with cases with international elements. As such she is familiar with the use of letters of request and the exchange of sensitive information across international borders. Additionally, Elizabeth regularly provides written advice on appeals against conviction and/or sentence and as a result has a wealth of experience in arguing technical points of law in the Court of Appeal. Significant cases: R v Puttock & another – Appearing as junior counsel in a five-week murder trial which took place at the Central Criminal Court in 2007. The case depended partly on DNA evidence and facial mapping. After 7 days of deliberations, the defendants were convicted, but their convictions were quashed in 2008 with the Court of Appeal ordering a retrial. The retrial was heard over an 8-week period in 2009. The jury was unable to reach a verdict. A third trial was due to start in June 2010 but the prosecution indicated, for the first time that guilty pleas to manslaughter would be acceptable. Such pleas were entered, leading to the early release of the defendants; R v Mohammed Ali (2010) – Junior counsel in 6 week trial defending allegation of conspiracy to smuggle cigarettes involving covert recordings; R v Ha Thi Vu Tran (2010) – Instructed as junior alone to defend a gardener in this multi-handed conspiracy to cultivate cannabis; R v Thomas Still (2009) – Junior counsel in a trial defending numerous allegations of sexual abuse on very young children; R v Marks & Others (2009) – Instructed as junior alone in this multi- handed conspiracy to commit burglaries; R v Irena James (2008) – Junior counsel in trial defending allegations of defrauding a vulnerable 73-year old of all his assets; R v Dana Ali & Others (2008) – Junior counsel in an 8-week trial defending an alleged participant in a Kurdish gang killing; R v Winston Jarrett (2006) – Junior counsel in a 55 day trial defending an allegation of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. The case involved a covert recording by a co-defendant of an alleged confession.
Emma specialises in Crime.
Emma has a breadth of experience defending clients accused of a range of criminal offences including: sexual offences; violence; terrorism; drugs; offensive weapons, bladed articles and firearms; burglary; robbery; fraud; road traffic; and dishonesty offences. She has particular experience defending clients accused of violent crimes (including s.18 and s.20 Grievous Bodily Harm), drug offences and sexual offences.
Emma’s practice has an emphasis on sexual offences. She regularly defends clients at trial accused of rape (including historic offences), child sex offences (including offences on family members and against those under 13), and possession of indecent images of children. She has experience of pre-recorded cross-examination of Complainants (s.28), the use of intermediaries, and representing vulnerable defendants. Emma’s cases can involve the application, appeal, variation and breach of Sexual Risk Orders and Sexual Offences Prevention Orders/Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, as well as Criminal Behaviour Orders.
Emma has experience working as a led junior and on multi-handed and lengthy trials. She represents clients at appeals, from appeals from the Magistrates’ and Youth Courts to the Crown Court, and in the Court of Appeal. She represents clients who are not fit and conducts trials of the facts.
Emma also has experience of financial crime and fraud. She previously spent four months working in the Anti-Bribery and Corruption Department at Deutsche Bank.
Additionally, Emma has experience appearing before the Court Martial.
Background
Prior to coming to the Bar, Emma worked as a Paralegal at a number of firms, including Corker Binning, Macfarlanes, and the on-site legal firm servicing GE Money.
During the time she worked as a Paralegal at Corker Binning, she was heavily involved with a range of cases including defending a senior executive in a Serious Fraud Office overseas corruption prosecution relating to Bahrain and defending clients subject to Serious Fraud Office and/or Financial Conduct Authority investigations. At Macfarlanes, she worked as a Paralegal on a range of Financial Conduct Authority cases relating to the mis-selling of interest rate hedging products by a major bank. At the on-site legal firm servicing GE Money, Emma handled mortgage repossessions.
Expertise: general crime; sexual offences; money laundering and confiscation. Emma is considered a passionate advocate with a manner that appeals to juries, the Judiciary and her lay clients. She offers a dedicated and approachable manner that enables her clients to feel at ease and to have their concerns listened to.
Eorann prosecutes and defends, appearing in the magistrates’ and youth courts as well as in the Crown Court.
Her experience includes cases of drugs supply, weapons offences, violent and sexual offences, robbery, burglary, Public Order Act offences, fraud and motoring law. Eorann has secured acquittals for clients accused of assault, weapons offences, and handling stolen goods. She has secured lenient sentencing disposals including in relation to serious drugs offences and robbery. Eorann has experience representing vulnerable clients and has completed specialist youth training with the Youth Justice Legal Centre.
She also accepts instructions from local authority departments and regulatory bodies and is keen to develop her practice in regulatory work.
Eorann has experience representing requested persons in extradition proceedings at preliminary and final hearings. On behalf of immigration clients, she has won appeals against Home Office decision making in the First-tier Tribunal.
Before joining the Bar, Eorann practised as a solicitor in the areas of immigration and asylum, public law, and judicial review. Given her background, she has first-hand understanding of the particular demands of case preparation and as such is highly competent in working with solicitors to achieve success for clients.
As a Third Six month pupil, Eorann is not a tenant/member of 33 Bedford Row.
Francis has a diverse and overlapping practice that incorporates the following general and specialist areas:
Civil litigation (including personal injury)
Regulatory
Coroner’s inquests and inquiries
Data protection and information technology
Court of Protection
Property
Contract
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Family Family Finance & Property Forced Marriage Inquests Molestation & Occupation Public Inquiries Introduction Gayle is a specialist family lawyer who has more than than 15 years' experience in all areas of family law litigation, both public and private. She represents the full range of clients, including parents and children (whether by their court-appointed guardian or those with independent legal capacity). She has a particular interest in clients who are vulnerable either because of learning disabilities or because of a range of psychological or psychiatric conditions. She is noted for her ability to establish rapport and trust with a whole range of family clients. Gayle has dealt with the full range of family proceedings including complex cases involving sexual abuse, domestic violence, mental health issues, non-accidental injuries, drug and alcohol difficulties and neglect. She is experienced in the full range of public law issues including cases where an international dimension is involved and in private law cases including abduction, forced marriage, international and internal relocation cases. Gayle provides advice and advocacy on enforcement including enforcement under Brussels II, wardship and the international recovery of children. Gayle is an acknowledged child protection expert, which has resulted in her instruction in a senior role for the British Council and the London Borough of Lambeth in relation to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse which is due to report on the welfare of children and young people. Gayle accepts instruction in the area of matrimonial finance and Schedule 1 applications on behalf of children whose parents are not married. She is committed to the rights of the elderly and vulnerable and accepts instruction in the Court of Protection. Gayle has a long-standing personal and professional commitment to prison law and reform. Practice groups: family; immigration. Gayle was called to the bar in 2002 and has specialised almost exclusively in Family Law for the past 7 years in both public and private law children proceedings. She regularly appears in the Family Proceedings Court, County Court and High Court for Local Authorities, parents, grandparents and guardians alike. Gayle has also gained experience in fact findings, care proceedings, injunctions, wardship, applications to remove from the jurisdiction, abductions and recovery of children, Brussels II and adoption. She has specific experience in dealing with parents with learning difficulties and mental health issues. Gayle completed a family pupillage and then spent her early years practising in criminal law and thereby developed excellent advocacy skills and in depth knowledge of police procedures appearing in both the Magistrates Court and Crown Court. She also gained experience in prison law appearing in several prison adjudications. Gayle teaches advocacy to new practitioners on behalf of Lincoln's Inn and she regularly arranges seminars on a range of legal issues.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Divorce Family Family Finance & Property Financial Provision Forced Marriage Molestation & Occupation Property Co-Ownership Relocation Internal and Abroad Wills, Trusts & Estates Geraldine is a specialist family practitioner who has over 30 years experience dealing with all aspects of family work. She is known not only for professional standards but also her ability to listen with compassion and to work with clients including those who are vulnerable and have special difficulties and challenges. Geraldine has in-depth experience representing parties in complex public law cases which include fabricated illness, sexual abuse (including multi-generational abuse) violence, disputed medical and psychiatric evidence as well as chronic neglect. She regularly appears in cases with a foreign element. Geraldine is known for a variety of cases relating to disputed medical treatment of children where parents have not been able to agree a course of action or where medical views differ from those of the parents. She is known for the detail of her preparation and ability to work with clients both lay and professional to achieve best outcomes in challenging circumstances. Geraldine has an impressive track record of success in the Court of Appeal dealing with cases that have addressed fundamental issues relating to Child Abduction (Hague and non Hague), relocation both internal and international, European enforcement including Brussels II and placements abroad. Geraldine is also experienced in cases relating to family finance following relationship breakdown including married couples, unmarried co-habitants and provision for children. Geraldine is available to assist with mediation and other forms of dispute resolution. In addition to her work in the area of children and relationship breakdown Geraldine is committed to the human rights issues that arise in the family context including claims for damages. Geraldine is known as an experienced advocacy trainer including the training of psychiatrists and social workers and guardians in how to provide evidence effectively. Geraldine participates in 33 Bedford Rows Annual Family Law Update lectures and is a keen member of the Family Law Practice Team. A selection of Geraldine's reported cases gives an indication of the depth and breadth of her professional experience. For a more comprehensive list see "Notable cases". NIB v TS &ES [2016] EWHC 3213 (Fam) Application to discharge wardship when child found to have been wrongfully removed from jurisdiction had lived in Egypt for five years PH v AH [2016] EWHC 1131 (Fam) Circumstances in which oral examination of a CAFCASS officer in a final Hague Convention hearing may be dispensed with MD v CT [2014] EWHC 871 (Fam) Acted for appellant mother against registration and enforcement of a French order granting sole residence to father. First case on consideration of the effect of Article 23(c), Brussels II a when French service complied with Annex II and a certificate had been granted but actual service had not been effected. Appeal allowed. X v Y & Z Police Force, A, B and C [2013] 1 FLR 1277 Police joined as parties in child abduction case where client was an undercover police officer. Re S (A Child) [2012] UKSC 10 Further consideration of Art 13(b) of the Hague Convention 1980 in case where client resisting return of a toddler to Australia and had a pre-existing anxiety condition and applicant had admitted domestic abuse. Re W [2012] 2 FLR 133 First case where successive orders for committal were made against abducting father. Acted for mother whose three year old daughter was abducted to father's family in Pakistan. Child eventually returned to Mother's care. Direct Access Geraldine is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Geraldine on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Care & Supervision Child Abduction Divorce Family Family Finance & Property Property Property Co-Ownership Wills, Trusts & Estates Dr Giuseppe Calà (Senior Counsel Italy 1991) was called to the Bar in Italy and in England and Wales in 1971 and he has been in practice in Italy and in England for more than 45 years.He has right of audience before all Italian Courts as well as before the Roman Catholic Ecclesiastical Courts since 1971. In the year 1991 he was admitted to plead before all Superior Courts in Italy: Supreme Court of Cassation, Constitutional Court, Conseil d’Etat, Cour des Comptes and before the European Court of Justice. Through his chambers in Rome Studio Legale Calà at Via dei Gracchi 283 he provides an efficient approachable service in order to meet the demands of his clients in Private International disputes in civil and commercial matters. Dr. Calà is fully qualified to undertake Direct Access work in England and in Italy on behalf of members of the public. Introduction Dr Giuseppe Calà (Senior Counsel Italy 1991) was called to the Bar in Italy and in England and Wales in 1971 and he has been in practice in Italy and in England for more than 45 years. He specializes in Private International Law disputes in Civil and Family matters, including child abductions (Hague Convention), prenuptial agreements, inheritance disputes, issues of choice of jurisdictions in family and succession matters according to the EU Regulations. He also specializes in Matrimonial Matters governed by the Rules of the Roman Catholic Ecclesiastical Laws. He has right of audience before all Italian Courts as well as before the Roman Catholic Ecclesiastical Courts since 1971. In the year 1991 he was admitted to plead before all Superior Courts in Italy: Supreme Court of Cassation, Constitutional Court, Conseil d’Etat, Cour des Comptes and before the European Court of Justice. Through his chambers in Rome Studio Legale Calà at Via dei Gracchi 283 he provides an efficient approachable service in order to meet the demands of his clients in Private International disputes in civil and commercial matters. Dr. Calà is fully qualified to undertake Direct Access work in England and in Italy on behalf of members of the public. Family Dr. Giuseppe Calà has relevant experience in family proceedings in cross border disputes in the Italian and English Courts, the European Court of Luxembourg and in the Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. P-v-L (Supreme Court of Cassation United Divisions, Decision N° 27091/2017) 15.11.2017 on the Jurisdiction of the Italian Court for the maintenance of the minors and of the wife resident in England against the husband resident in Italy. B –v- E (Court of Appeal of Bologna 1s tDivision) Decision N° 453/2012 on the Jurisdiction of the English Court on the residence of a child conceived in Italy and born in England by both parents resident in Italy. B –v- E (Brighton District Court) HB 11P00128 residence order for the mother of A. (child) resident in England. Italy –v- B (Criminal Court of Modena - 1stDivision ) Decision N° 1865/17 of 24th April 2018 - Acquittal of the mother of the charges of abduction of a Fetus by the mother leaving Italy to deliver the baby in England. Ecclesiastical He appears before the Ecclesiastical Courts of the Roman Catholic Jurisdiction (Vatican) in matrimonial matters for the nullity of Roman Catholic marriages in England, Valencia (Spain), Genoa (Italy) and Bagdad (Iraq). He appeared before the Karachi Religious Court for a grant of a Talaq between a British citizen and his Pakistani wife according to the Muslim Family Law Ordinance 1961. Civil Extensive practice in all branches of Italian Civil, Family and Commercial Laws. Giuseppe was instructed in Re: The deep vein thrombosis and the air travel group litigation [2003] 1 All E.R. 935, in the High Court. Arbitration & Mediation In England according to the Arbitration Act 1996. In Pakistan and in Italy according to the Italian Rules for Arbitration Proceedings. Experience Giuseppe has experience in International Property Transactions, including Lebanon Company Laws, Panama Company Laws, Cyprus Company Laws and Uruguay Contract Laws. In Italian Court Proceedings, Giuseppe has expertise in cross border disputes in family matrimonial property transactions in England and in Italy. Further, Giuseppe has experience in cross border tax evasion (Italian Excises) proceedings in England and in the Italian Appeal tax Commission in Trieste.
Introduction Year of QC 2018 Year of Call 2000 Naz Hussain QC specialises in high-profile, complex, and serious criminal defence work. He also acts in sport disciplinary and regulatory matters. Naz has appeared in some of the most high-profile trials in the country alleging murder, terrorism, drug conspiracies, gang land violence, high value fraud, electoral fraud, and serious/historic sexual offences. Naz has represented high net worth individuals, successful businesspeople, professionals and celebrities from the Sporting, Entertainment and Music worlds. Within his first 3 years of practice Naz was recognised as a leading barrister by Chambers UK and The Legal 500; he has consistently been ranked by them ever since. His exceptional ability and excellence in his chosen fields was officially acknowledged upon his appointment as Queen’s Counsel. A true jury advocate, the courtroom is where he thrives. In a rape trial where the defendant had fled the country Naz had no client, no proof of evidence and no defence statement. In such circumstances his solicitors thought conviction an inevitability. The defence case rested entirely upon Naz’s cross examination of the complainant and his closing speech. The jury unanimously acquitted. His skill before a jury is not at the expense of his legal submissions. Chambers UK has recognised his “ability to develop great novel arguments”. In appellate work Naz has enjoyed significant success at the Court of Appeal, particularly when appealing convictions upon the notoriously difficult ground of “fresh evidence”. Naz has a particular expertise in terrorism trials. He has defended in cases generating national and international interest. He represented, amongst others, the alleged fifth bomber in the 21/7 attempted terrorist bombings in London, the mastermind behind the “Bank of Terror” fraud that allegedly used £1 million to fund extremists travelling to join ISIS and a man charged with the alleged attempted murder of convicted Serb war criminal Radislav Kristic. Naz also has a remarkably successful sexual offences practice. He has secured acquittals in the most serious cases alleging multiple rapes, familial historic abuse and CSE. Naz is one of only a handful of barristers to have defended in a case alleging electoral fraud during a General Election. He has successfully defended clients in multi-million-pound fraud trials ranging from vishing scams to those involving professionals. Naz’s life experiences have impressed upon him the importance of standing up and speaking fearlessly for those who are unable or unwilling to do so themselves. Naz is regularly invited to speak and comment upon topical legal issues by the media, universities, and large organisations. For example together with Lord Burnett of Maldon, The Lord Chief Justice of England & Wales, Naz addressed students, practitioners and members of the judiciary at Sheffield University on modernising the justice system. He regularly speaks to and advises grass roots, community, and protest/issue groups.
Introduction Gwen deals with a wide variety of offences across the crime spectrum, including matters of violence, drugs, fraud and sexual offences. She acts for defendants at all levels and prosecutes for the CPS and local authorities in addition to other prosecuting bodies. Gwen’s work covers types of criminal law, environmental law, animal cruelty, regulatory offences and prison law. She is experienced in any follow-on proceedings, including confiscation proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (including advice and drafting). Gwen is dedicated to ensuring the best representation whether defending or prosecuting. She will provide advice (oral and written) whether it be on points of law, on the strengths and weaknesses in the evidence, the prospects of success, skeleton arguments for court or appeals. Gwen brings to her cases experience and understanding. She can think tactically throughout her cases and will give realistic advice on likely outcome and sentence, when needed. Gwen’s practice is almost entirely crime-based, meaning she is in court daily defending and prosecuting. Gwen has the ability to prepare and present complex, document-heavy cases in such a way that a jury can easily comprehend the contents whether factual or financial. Gwen’s regular appearances in Court combined with her prosecution and defence track record creates a valuable collection of experience upon which she can draw. She has undertaken the vulnerable witness course and she continues to deal with cases under the new guidelines. Gwen also understands that some clients can be vulnerable, too, and she will ensure her client’s rights are protected and assistance is made available, when possible. She is Grade II CPS prosecutor, meaning that she is aware of, and applies, the various guidelines and policies for prosecutors (Farquarson, CPS/Bar Framework of Principles, and the Code for Crown Prosecutors etc.). Gwen has built a good working relationship with solicitors, which has developed into being a trusted advocate in cases involving complicated and sometimes historic difficulty in allegations of sexual abuse and rape, R v D at Burnley CC, R v A at Wood Green CC and R v H at Woolwich CC. She is regularly instructed in cases of violence such as a section 18 as in R v M at Peterborough CC, and in firearms cases.
Hammad advises on all aspects of commercial litigation, domestic and cross border VAT and Customs & Excise law. He is listed as an expert by Tolley (Tax Intelligence by LexisNexis) in this area of law. He is experienced at in-depth analysis of complex provisions in disputes with Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs.
Hammad brings firsthand litigation experience and authors articles on tax fraud and commercial litigation. He regularly appears at the courts and, in particular, before the Tax Tribunals. He accepts instructions in civil and criminal matters in relation to tax issues. He has experience in challenging detentions and seizures of goods in condemnation proceedings or by requesting restoration.
He regularly offers seminars on Tax / Revenue Law matters. Details for his next seminar can be found at: Customs Duties and Excise After Brexit
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Arrangement Family Molestation & Occupation Hannah is an experienced barrister handling children's cases on behalf of Local Authorities, parents and guardians. Introduction Hannah is an experienced barrister handling children's cases on behalf of Local Authorities, parents and guardians. She has a background in private practice and in-house with Local Authorities as a solicitor before transferring to the Bar in 2017 which gives her a breadth of knowledge. Hannah has considerable experience in serious and complex children’s cases. She transferred to the Bar in 2017, having previously worked both in private practice and as an in-house solicitor for Local Authorities for 10 years, conducting her own advocacy throughout. She transferred to the Bar in order to focus full-time on her advocacy in a specialism that she is passionate about. Hannah is instructed on behalf of Local Authorities, parents and guardians. She has experience in the most complex cases, including non-accidental injury, sexual abuse, the emotional abuse of children and neglect. She has a wide range of experience in all types of private law proceedings and undertakes work in cases involving domestic abuse and Family Law Act injunctions, child arrangement orders, and Rule 16.4 appointments.
IntroductionHaydee Dijkstal is a barrister practicing international criminal law, international human rights law and general crime. She is also a US attorney with nearly a decade of experience in international law. Haydee's practice in the area of international criminal law includes cases before the International Criminal Court, International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia, and the Special Court for Sierra Leone, and has involved the representation of victims, governments and accuseds. She is currently instructed as co-counsel at the ICC representing the Government of the Comoros, as well as victims, in the case concerning the Gaza Freedom Flotilla. She is also involved in victim representation in the ICC Situation concerning Palestine, and has been instructed as counsel for the submission of amicus curiae briefs in the Palestine Situation and case against Bosco Ntaganda. Her previous instructions before the ICC include work in the Kenya cases for the Government of Kenya, Banda & Jerbo case for Sudanese Victims, Defence team for Abdullah Al-Senussi in the Libya Situation, and work on a number of Article 15 Submissions to the Office of the Prosecutor. She was previously on the defence team for Charles Taylor at the SCSL, and for Milan Lukic at the ICTY for review proceedings. Her practice in the area of international human rights law includes cases before the African Commission and African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and UN bodies such as the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Committee on Enforced Disappearances. She has also worked on cases addressing international crimes in domestic courts under the principle of universal jurisdiction, and has worked on cases involving the Alien Tort Statute, Torture Victim Protection Act and Foreign Sovereign Immunity Act in US federal courts. Haydee is recommended as a 'Rising Star' in International Crime in Legal 500. The 2021 edition states that: "While Ms Dijkstal is a relatively recent addition to the Bar of England and Wales, she brings with her an already established international practice. She is extremely hard-working and puts a lot of herself into the cases she works on. Her work ethic and strong analytical skills have been recognised by her team mates." In addition to her legal practice, Haydee founded and manages a UK ‘small charity’, called ICL Media Review, dedicated to providing publications on developments in international criminal and human rights law. Haydee received an LL.M. in International and Comparative Law with a focus on international criminal law from George Washington University Law School in Washington DC, a juris doctor degree from University of Wyoming College of Law and a Bachelor's degree in international relations from Rhodes College.
Expertise: trade mark litigation; trade mark registry; passing off; designs; fashion and luxury brands; consumer products; retail and manufacturing. Helyn is a barrister specialising in intellectual property law. She has experience in a broad range of intellectual property matters including registered and unregistered designs, copyright, community and UK trade marks, passing off, IP related contract and breach of confidence cases. Helyn was previously a senior litigation lawyer at the international law firm, Pinsent Masons LLP and, prior to that, a tenant at the specialist IP set, Three New Square, for over eleven years. She joins Chambers to enhance its existing civil and commercial capability and to lead its diversification from media and sports law into the wider intellectual property arena. Helyn has advised a number of well-known domestic and international clients including the Arcadia Group, Phones-4-U, Ritz Hotel, Hard Rock International, Standard Life, Philips Van Heusen, Ford, Ann Summers, Cantor Index, Oyster/TFL, BAT, Agence France-Presse, AXA, Sweaty Betty, Laura Ashley and Burberry. Her practice experience includes such high profile cases as Interflora v Marks & Spencer and Specsavers v Asda.YEAR OF CALL 1998 Introduction Helyn is an experienced advocate specialising in all aspects of intellectual property law. She provides tactical, commercially grounded advice, not only to large corporations, including international brands, but also to small and medium size enterprises where the need to act quickly and effectively in relation to intellectual property issues is essential to establishing and maintaining a presence in the marketplace. She is a strategic thinker in this fast-moving area of law and is always sensitive to commercial imperatives as well as issues of reputation management, costs and enforcement. Helyn joined 33 Bedford Row to enhance its existing civil and commercial capability and to lead its diversification from media and sports law into the wider intellectual property arena. She is a first port of call for her work: appearing as an advocate and advising in relation to litigation in various courts and tribunals including the UKIPO, the High Court and the Court of Appeal advising clients in relation to IP protection, enforcement or defence advising on IP-related contract and commercial issues Direct Access Helyn is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Helyn on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Ishrat offers advice and advocacy across the full spectrum of immigration work. Her practice ranges from tribunal hearings up to the Court of Appeal which include but not limited to applications, appeals and judicial review claims on private and publicly funded basis. As a Direct Access Barrister, Ishrat also receives instructions from private lay clients. Ishrat’s expertise covers representation in Court, drafting of grounds of appeal and judicial review. She attends out of hour injunction hearing too. She deals with Part 7 and interim support applications under the Housing Act and the Immigration and Asylum Act. The high standard of Ishrat's grounds of judicial review resulted on many occasions in Home Office conceding in advance the applications at the pre-hearing stage before the Upper Tribunal and Administrative Court of the High Court of Justice. Ishrat's success includes obtaining a permission to appeal before Lord Justice Singh in the Court of Appeal (Civil Division) in March 2018. Ishrat has extensive experience in personal injury matters where she represents both claimants and defendants in road traffic accidents. She provides expert advice on cross-jurisdictional issues on Family and Immigration laws, enforcement of British orders in overseas jurisdictions, specially in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan and how mirror orders may be obtained. Before returning to the UK to practise, Ishrat was a partner in a top-rated Legal 500 firm in Bangladesh specialising in corporate and commercial matters with a particular focus on infrastructure and construction projects. She is a specialist in developing corporate models, including incorporating international charity funds operating in Asia and Bangladesh. Some of her notable assignments were registering the women's dyeing workers as a charity, advising the US charity Care, University of Chicago and Columbia for their various projects in Bangladesh. In recognition of her outstanding contribution in 2007 to the field of human rights in relation to Bangladeshi tribal community land settlement issues, Ishrat was invited by the US government to tour USA as a state guest.
Jamil regularly appears in the Family Court, acting in both public and private law proceedings. Jamil accepts an array of instructions including cases of a complex and contested nature in financial disputes, dispute resolution, non-molestation orders, interim care orders, occupation orders, urgent injunctions, fact finding and final hearings. Jamil is known for his in depth analysis and hands on approach to every case. Jamil appears daily in Crown Court, Magistrates’ Courts (including Youth Courts) and in the Family Court. He is experienced in a wide range of criminal matters, having conducted numerous and varied trials, including GBH, PWITS Class A, domestic burglary, theft, possession of knife/bladed articles, sexual assaults, common assaults and domestic violence as well as a wide range of road traffic & motoring offences. Jamil also has experience before disciplinary tribunals and regulatory bodies having presented cases on behalf of the Nursing & Midwifery Council, as well as regularly acting on behalf of local authorities prosecuting trials and other hearings. Jamil has a particular interest in sports law and has previously been involved with British Association for Sport and Law (BASL). Direct Access Jamil is accredited to accept work under Direct Access Scheme, also known as Public Access Scheme, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Jamil on a Direct Access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Introduction
Jamila graduated from Oxford University with degrees in law (BA honours 2011, MA honours 2016). After this time, she completed the Bar Professional Training Course at City Law School where she was a finalist at the City Law School Part Time Mooting Competition.
Prior to undertaking pupillage, Jamila gained valuable advisory experience volunteering as a Union Support Service Adviser at the City University Union Support Service. She also honed her advocacy skills representing students at risk of exclusion before governor disciplinary panels for the Community Empowerment Network.
Jamila has been able to develop her case preparation skills whilst undertaking legal support roles at the NHS Litigation Authority, Crown Prosecution Service and General Dental Council. Whilst at the GDC, Jamila assessed fitness to practise complaints with respect to her assigned cases.
Jamila seeks to establish a mixed practice with a stong emphasis on criminal and civil work.
Family Law barrister with expertise in all areas of family law: Private Children, Parental Alienation, Public Law/adoption/non-accidental injury, Leave to Remove from the Jurisdiction, Financial Relief and Direct Public Access.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Divorce Family Forced Marriage Inquests Molestation & Occupation Professional Discipline Public Inquiries Relocation Internal and Abroad Janet Plange has a reputation for her work and commitment to vulnerable parents in public law proceedings who appear to be in difficult or hopeless cases. She is regularly instructed on behalf of local authorities and guardians. Janet undertakes some pro bono work where it is considered that the parent is otherwise unable to access justice in the Family Courts. In suitable cases she will work with solicitors to keep her costs within legal aid limits where clients fall just outside the limits for eligibility. Introduction Janet has been practising at the Family Bar for nearly 40 years and is a well known for her commitment to every aspect of the family justice system. She advises on both public and private law proceedings. She has a reputation for her work and commitment to vulnerable parents in public law proceedings who appear to be in difficult or hopeless cases. She is regularly instructed on behalf of local authorities and guardians. Janet undertakes some pro bono work where it is considered that the parent is otherwise unable to access justice in the Family Courts. In suitable cases she will work with solicitors to keep her costs within legal aid limits where clients fall just outside the limits for eligibility. Previously, Janet worked for two years as an in-house lawyer in two busy London local authorities where she gained invaluable experience and insight into the role of a child protection solicitor. This experience informs her work on behalf of all clients. Janet's interests include all aspects of dance (particularly Latin American) and ballet, and she is a Sadler's Wells member. She also enjoys visiting art galleries and museums, and is a Tate Member. Janet loves international travel, and visits Spain and South American countries several times every year. She speaks fluent Spanish and French. Family Public and Private Law proceedings representing parents and other adult family members Public and Private Law proceedings representing children/guardians Public and Private Law proceedings representing the Official Solicitor in cases of parents under a mental health disability Private Law Proceedings representing parents in highly complex cases where expert evidence (psychiatric and psychological) is commissioned; cases of implacable hostility and where a change in living arrangements is considered in view of this Public and Private law cases where there are serious allegations of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, and where there is a conflict of expert evidence Public Law proceedings where there are parallel criminal proceedings High Court Wardship proceedings Adoption proceedings at all levels of first instance court Representation of local authorities in Public Law proceedings at all levels of Court Court of Appeal cases Same sex couple cases involving living/time spent with conflict, including complex High Court cases Removal from the jurisdiction cases and cases with an immigration/foreign aspect
Expertise: arbitration and mediation proceedings; arbitration and mediation proceedings; civil and commercial litigation; employment; GMC; CESR and registration appeals; health professional regulatory and disciplinary proceedings (Fitness to Practise) and registration appeals; immigration; India-related matters; Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) and appeals. Jayesh is a dual qualified lawyer having first qualified as a barrister and then as a Solicitor Advocate. In 2007 he founded Axiom Stone as senior partner until his arrival back at the Bar in 2012. Jayesh spearheads the India Desk at Thomas Bingham Chambers. He has had extensive experience in immigration, litigation and dispute resolution and employment matters having advised multi-national corporate organisations, including one of the world’s largest international steel companies on a long term basis. He has represented clients at all levels upto proceedings in the European Court of Human Rights and often represents in the multi-track in the county courts and High Court, as well as in the Civil Division of the Court of Appeal. However, his main area of expertise is in the health professional, disciplinary and regulatory bodies. Jayesh undertakes work on behalf of health professionals and practices regarding their business affairs and disputes with other professionals or public bodies. His particular niche is representing doctors wishing to become specialists via the General Medical Council’s (GMC) Certificate of Eligibility for the Specialist Register (CESR) – (formerly known as PMETB’s Article 14 route). Over the past years, Jayesh has developed a fierce reputation in the defence of health professionals before the GMC, GPHC, NMC and the HCPC where he has successfully defended psychologists, pharmacists, paramedics, physiotherapists, hearing aid audiologists and doctors to name but a few professionals before Fitness to Practise Panels. Jayesh is a member of the Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers (ARDL) and is also a co-founder and Vice Chairman of the Hindu Lawyers’ Association (HLA). He is also the founder of and Secretariat Lead of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Hindus advising cross party MPs and Peers in Parliament. Introduction Jayesh is dual-qualified. He was called to the Bar in 2002 and cross-qualified as a Solicitor Advocate whilst working at MLS Chase Solicitors in Westminster. Jayesh is also a qualified Mediator. In 2007, he founded Axiom Stone and served as its senior partner and litigator until his arrival back at the Bar in 2012. Jayesh now spearheads the India Desk at 33 Bedford Row. He has extensive experience in civil/commercial litigation and alternative dispute resolution having advised national and multinational corporations, including international steel, aluminium, international freight and logistics, healthcare, construction and property as well as aviation consultancy companies. He has advised clients at all levels including proceedings in the European Court of Human Rights as well as in the Civil Division of the Court of Appeal. As part of his commercial work, Jayesh has drafted a number of contractual agreements covering a number of industries mentioned above. Jayesh often represents in fast and multi-track cases at the County and High Courts. His main area of expertise lies in representing health professionals before regulatory bodies/tribunals in disciplinary matters and GMC CESR and registration appeals. Jayesh also undertakes some criminal work involving prosecutions brought by local authorities and regulatory breaches. He has rights to conduct litigation on a direct access basis. Direct Access Jayesh is accredited to accept work under Direct Access, also known as Public Access. He is also certified by the Bar Standards Board to Conduct Litigation, which means he can offer additional services similar to a solicitor. In order to instruct Jayesh, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected]. Testimonials "Jayesh’s help was invaluable in my appeal application which got me my CESR. As doctors we can think of the points we want to make but to formulate them Into legal language specially in an appeal case requires an expert like Jayesh. He took all my points into consideration and made a legal document which brought forward my arguments helping me win my CESR appeal. I would highly recommend him for his expertise."Dr S - 2021 (CESR appeal - Breast Surgery) “I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Jotangia for helping me navigate the complicated path of obtaining a CESR. Having completed my training in the United States, I spent 3 years outside of the UK working on my application and experiencing multiple barriers as I did not have any support during the process. After I found Mr. Jotangia, I obtained my CESR within a month and am incredibly grateful to him for his expertise and patience with me.” Dr J – 2019 (CESR appeal Psychiatry) “I had identified Jayesh to represent me if my review application was refused. When it did happen, I was ready and after reading testimonials on his website, I’d made up my mind and it was a good decision! He is pleasant but forthright. Without talking to him I was unaware that meeting GMC recommendations now, outside of appeal, also meant submitting a brand-new application. I had no stomach for that. As part of the appeal my previously submitted evidence was also accepted. I think if one is considering an appeal then a good, dedicated barrister like Jayesh is invaluable. Thank you Jay.” Mr Q – 2019 (CESR appeal Otolaryngology) "Mr Jotangia recently supported me in my successful Appeal to the GMC for admission to the Specialist Register via the CESR route. I found him to be very straight forward to deal with and reassuring through a stressful process. He is obviously very knowledgeable and has broad experience of the CESR process in particular, which is not necessarily the case with less specialised legal representatives. He has a pragmatic approach and I was impressed that he identified the key points that I felt were most relevant but was then very capable in applying the “legal process” to delivering these. I felt that this was the main advantage to seeking legal representation. It was his ability to set out my case and the points that I wished to raise in a formal, legal manner and to steer the process thoroughly through a series of representations to a successful conclusion which I felt made his assistance invaluable and I am not sure that I would have achieved the same outcome without his support. I would therefore recommend his services in optimising an application which potentially has a huge impact on our professional careers." Mr T – 2018 (CESR appeal T&O Surgery) "My CESR application was initially rejected. I applied for an appeal. I got the help of Mr. Jayesh Jotangia for legal advice and in processing my appeal. I found him to be very professional and has a great deal of experience in dealing with CESR issues. My appeal was accepted and I was added to the specialist register. I strongly recommend him for my colleagues." Dr E – 2018 (CESR appeal Opthalmology) "I have been recently appointed as a community consultant paediatrician in a substantive capacity. I owe a large part of this achievement to the role Jayesh Jotangia played in helping me securing my specialist registration. My application to obtain my CESR was rejected twice by the GMC despite my hard work and effort. I believed I had secured and fulfilled all the requirement set in the Royal College curriculum. I was advised on my second application rejection that I have the right to appeal. I contacted Jayesh and asked him to act as my barrister in the appeal process. Jayesh examined all my documents thoroughly and managed to re-organise my documents in a way relating to the curriculum and then, he was very professional and meticulous in writing and dealing with the GMC. The GMC set initially a hearing date. Jayesh wrote and laid a detailed appeal on my behalf which resulted in my appeal being accepted before the hearing date. My application was approved, and I was granted the specialist registration. I found Jayesh very conscientious, systematic, knowledgeable and meticulous at his work." Dr M - 2018 (CESR appeal Paediatrics) "Without a shadow of a doubt, it was Jayesh’s excellent drafting that I succeeded in my CESR appeal against the GMC. If it were not for Jayesh’s intervention and assistance, I would not be on a specialist register now." Dr K – 2017 (CESR appeal T&O Surgery) "I would also like to thank you for how brilliantly you managed our case that even the Respondent's barrister was full of compliments." Mr S – 2017 (Employment) "Jayesh has never failed to impress and is a very polite, approachable and professional individual who performs his duties exceptionally, to the extent that he always makes himself available on the phone to answer queries, attends to our clients very quickly. That is why we continue to instruct Jayesh and remain impressed by his track record and success rates throughout all litigation matters. On one matter, to the delight of our client, Jayesh successfully managed to secure 100% indemnity costs recovery at conclusion of trial." PKP French Solicitors (Litigation) "Mr Jayesh Jotangia came highly recommended by a friend and he lived up to our expectations and more. He is an extremely professional lawyer with an ability to put his clients at immediate ease. He was very meticulous in drawing points that could have been easily missed and helped me to win the case. It is because of his earnest efforts that I can now practice medicine in the UK and earn a living." Dr B – 2016 (GMC Registration Appeals Panel) "Jayesh came highly recommended from other doctors and the choice to instruct him over others, was made on the fact that he was very approachable and took on board everything I had to say. This placed me at ease at the very outset and it was the best decision to have instructed him. In addition, his cross-examination skills in court were simply brilliant and turned expert testimony upside down." Dr S – 2014 (GMC Fitness to Practise)
Jemma works across several practice areas including commercial litigation, landlord and tenant.
Introduction Jennifer is a committed junior barrister with significant experience in fraud and white collar crime, regulatory offences and licensing law. She accepts instructions for both Prosecution and Defence work. She regularly provides written advice and is recognised for her concise analysis and pragmatism. As an advocate, she is clear and direct. Expertise: contract; property; wills and probate; insolvency; partnerships; negligence – including personal injury, employers’ liability and occupiers’ liability – general crime. Jennifer joined Thomas Bingham Chambers as a Third Six Pupil in September 2014, before being taken on as a tenant in December 2014. She continues to develop her core practice areas within Chambers as well as expanding into other civil fields. She believes in thorough preparation and takes a meticulous approach to all her cases, whether civil or criminal. She has the benefit of substantial advocacy experience, developed through criminal work, and strong legal research and case preparation skills, derived from her civil work which has been consistently recognised as far exceeding her level of experience. Civil: Jennifer went directly from the Bar course into pupillage at a highly ranked common-law set. She trained under a senior civil practitioner (now full-time district judge) in the above civil practice areas. She undertook substantial devilling work as well as pro bono work from the outset, with particular emphasis on unfair dismissal and employment discrimination claims, sale of goods disputes, partnership agreements, insolvency proceedings and estate agency contracts. She was also heavily involved with the property group, working on multi-track trust disputes and applications before the Land Registration division of the Property Chamber. Since getting onto her feet in April 2014, she has appeared in the county courts in a wide variety of civil claims as well as providing written advice and pleadings in contractual and tortious disputes. Criminal: Jennifer spent a large proportion of her second six prosecuting across the Magistrates’ Courts. She was in court every day running back-to-back trials as well as presenting legal applications across the spectrum of criminal law. Since coming to Thomas Bingham Chambers, she now exclusively defends. She is regularly instructed to appear in both Magistrates’ and Crown Courts. She has covered a broad range of criminal offences; from private road traffic matters and common assaults to burglary and high-level drugs offences. She has already received Crown Court trial instructions in her own name.
Introduction
Over many years John Black has maintained a distinctive specialist practice split between both prosecuting, defending and acting for corporates in very high-profile, complex and serious domestic and international criminal cases, which has led in recent times to him being heavily in demand to appear in multi-million pound corporate fraud, money laundering, corruption and murder cases in particular. He has also led in many civil fraud and tax cases in the Tax Tribunal and in the Chancery Division. John is particularly well known for his advocacy and advisory work in matters involving civil and criminal fraud, corruption and business crime, and the crossover between them in all types of courts and tribunals. He is able to undertake direct access instructions.
In recent years John has developed an international practice, which includes the provision of strategic and tactical advice to corporate and private clients in relation to civil and criminal proceedings. His current caseload includes clients in the United Kingdom, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and Monaco. Over the last two years John has been appearing in extradition and corruption proceedings in the BVI. John is also instructed in several civil and criminal cases in the UK, as well as inquests.
John is particularly well known for his advocacy and advisory work in matters involving civil and criminal fraud, corruption and business crime, and the crossover between them in all types of courts and tribunals. He combines his expert tactical advice, renowned advocacy skills, consummate case preparation and approachable style for every case, making him highly recommended and sought after by all who instruct him.
Throughout his career John has appeared in many murder cases in behalf of the prosecution and defence. These include high profile contract killings, gangland murders and multiple killings. John’s experience involves the use of accomplices, scientific evidence, jury tampering and complications, and specialised phone and cell site analysis. He also has experience of terrorist-related murders. Over the years he has appeared in over 200 murder cases.
Current instructions include advising clients in the UK and Monaco in relation to criminal and civil fraud proceedings, as well as prosecuting corruption and murder cases in the BVI. John is also engaged in inquests in the UK and as an arbitrator in the Dubai International Arbitration Centre.
Recent instructions included advising and successfully representing a defendant in a multi-million pound corruption prosecution; representing the successful appellant individual in an appeal in the Tax Tribunal; and he has defended in two highly complex confiscation cases, prosecuted a UN Development Programme corruption case, represented the appellant in a civil case concerning the registration of classic cars, and defended a very high-profile traveller murder case.
Since taking silk, John has further developed his heavyweight practice in complex criminal work and civil work, especially those involving serious fraud and financial crime, cases in the Tax Tribunal, regulatory offences, murder, bribery and corruption, serious sexual offences, people-trafficking, large-scale drugs importations and multi-million pound confiscation proceedings. Many of John’s cases have involved notorious defendants and attracted high levels of media publicity, and he enjoys a very successful track record of appellate advocacy.
John has developed particular expertise in dealing with cases involving issues of complex disclosure, jury tampering, accomplice evidence, offenders/defendants assisting in investigations and prosecutions, and complicated mental and psychological topics.
John is regularly sought to provide highly effective and specialist advice on whether civil and criminal proceedings should be brought, evidence sufficiency and admissibility of evidence plus witness and defendant immunity. He is increasingly instructed in cases of judicial review and inquests, and often represents professional third parties in connection with their disclosure obligations and legal professional privilege in criminal and civil cases.
In all cases John is renowned for his careful and conscientious approach to every case, his ability to master and marshal large volumes of documentation, his witness handling skills, and his receptive management of teams of instructing lawyers, junior counsel and officers. John is also highly adept at dealing with cases involving cultural sensitivities, international practice and procedure, and defendants and witnesses from ethnic minority backgrounds.
John is also very familiar in dealing with the complicated issues arising for both the defence and prosecution in confiscation hearings, having appeared in many cases concerning the various confiscation regimes of the Drug Trafficking and Offences Act 1986, the Criminal Justice Act 1988, the Drug Trafficking Act 1994, and the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
John also specialises in extradition matters and in the legal aspects of the registration of Classic cars
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Care & Supervision Child Arrangement Divorce Family Family Finance & Property Financial Provision Molestation & Occupation Property Co-Ownership Introduction He frequently appears in family courts across the country, specialising in private law children disputes and financial remedies. He is often instructed in cases of a particularly sensitive nature including cases involving allegations of rape and parental alienation. John was also instructed by a leading city law firm on behalf of a Core Participant in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. He was involved in this high profile and sensitive case for approximately one year, during which time he drafted detailed written documents regarding the evidence in the Inquiry. Moreover, John is clear and precise both in his advice and written work. This is why he is the junior counsel of choice for many solicitors in various teams at the Government Legal Department. John has been instructed in the Inquest into the Death of an Officer Cadet at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where he has interviewed some of the most senior members of the British Army, drafted witness statements, and advised on evidence. John has also been instructed in several high value personal injury and clinical negligence cases on behalf of Government bodies including the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Justice.
John-Paul was called to the Bar by the Middle Temple in 2008 and cross-qualified as a solicitor in 2011. He worked for many years for a Top 100 Law firm and was eventually promoted to partner and Head of Crown Court Advocacy, before moving to GT Stewart Solicitors and Advocates in 2017. He has appeared in the Crown Court as Leading Junior, Led Junior and Junior alone and has advocated extensively in the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). He has represented defendants for offences ranging from intercontinental drug importation to kidnap and murder. He completed his vulnerable witness training with the Law Society and is well known in London courts for his measured style of advocacy and tenacious closing speeches. J-P was shortlisted in the 2015 and 2016 Law Society Excellence Awards in the category of "Solicitor Advocate of the Year". In the 2016 shortlist the Judges' panel, described him as "having developed a reputation as a leading advocate - particularly in cross-examination of expert witnesses". At GT Stewart he was a prominent member of their Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners ranked crime teams and won the "Lawyer of the Year Award" with the Surrey Law Society in 2019. J-P is currently a lecturer at City University (formerly the Inns of Court School of Law) and teaches on the Bar Vocational Studies course. He also lectures pupils at Middle Temple and is an experienced defence practitioner.
Jon has over 30 years’ experience as a barrister, specialising in criminal cases in his formative years (prosecution and defence). Jon has for many years undertaken work in a broad range of areas. He now specialises largely in civil litigation and family (private law) cases. Jon has represented a number of ‘high value’ clients in financial remedy proceedings. He also has extensive experience in private law Children Act matters.
Jon still undertakes a small number of criminal cases on a private basis. He was led by Bill Clegg QC in the case of R v Shrimpton – the former immigration judge who was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for the 2012 Olympics nuclear bomb hoax. He appears also in Senior Courts costs matters and was successful in setting aside a conditional fee agreement in the widely reported case of Vilvarajah v West London Law [2017] EWHC B23 Costs.
Jon’s other areas of work include insolvency, contentious Chancery work, professional discipline and immigration.
Articles: Jon was the co-author of ‘Deport First, Appeal Later?’ published in Counsel Magazine in December 2018.
Jon is licensed to accept public access instructions.
Door Tenant Dr. Katherine Simpson, FCIArb, is an arbitrator based in London (33 Bedford Row) and in the US (Simpson Dispute Resolution). She has been involved in over 30 international commercial and investment cases chaired by Prof. Dr. Karl-Heinz Böckstiegel, Prof. William (Rusty) Park, and Ms. Edna Sussman, among others. These cases had amounts in controversy ranging from US$5 million to US$2.5 billion and have become the most influential arbitration cases of the past decade, including Bear Creek v. Peru (ICSID 14/21) (elaborating the need for a “social license” to conduct business) and UP v. Hungary (ICSID 13/35) (Global Arbitration Review’s “Most Important Award” of 2019, the Achmea Decision's impact on ICSID jurisdiction). In 2019, Dr. Simpson was invited to join the AAA-ICDR international panel. She has experience in investor-state arbitration (7 cases) as well as international commercial disputes related to the hospitality industry, joint ventures, life sciences, telecommunications, patent licensing, construction, green energy, mining, oil & gas, human rights, financial services, and financial disputes. She has served as sole arbitrator in international disputes conducted under the Commercial Rules of the American Arbitration Association ("AAA") and has experience in cases conducted under the rules of the International Chamber of Commerce (“ICC”), London Court of International Arbitration (“LCIA”), Dubai International Arbitration Centre (“DIAC”), the German Institution of Arbitration (“DIS”), and the Chinese European Arbitration Centre (“CEAC”). She has served in ad hoc arbitrations under the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (“UNCITRAL”) Rules (2010) and in investor-state arbitrations before the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (“SCC”) and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (“ICSID”).
Introduction Keith has a general civil practice which includes personal injury, housing, property and insolvency (personal and corporate). He has experience in dealing with housing matters ranging from possession to homelessness, unlawful evictions and HMOs. His practice includes both commercial and residential leases and appears in tribunals. As a result of his experience, he appears in county and high courts regularly for applications, trials as well as appeals. Keith also has extensive experience in personal injury matters, where he has represented both Claimants and Defendants in road traffic accidents, employer liability and public liability cases. He adopts an empathetic, yet pragmatic and meticulous approach to cases and displays excellent advocacy, securing great outcomes for clients. He is able to negotiate and/or provide solutions to commercial problems and handles complex issues effortlessly. Prior to becoming a barrister, Keith worked at the Financial Ombudsman Service. The knowledge he gained is particularly useful when dealing with consumer credit matters as well as financial products. Keith’s experience in crime includes prosecuting and defending in magistrates court and has undertaken family law matters as well.
Kevin is a commercial chancery barrister, specialising in property, chancery, insurance and commercial law. His work includes drafting statements of case, contractual documents, insurance policies and advising on and representing clients before the High Court and County Court in commercial, chancery, international, intellectual property and insurance matters. Particular areas of interest are policy coverage disputes, subrogated recovery actions on behalf of insurers, and advising financial institutions on financial regulation and international trade sanctions.
Introduction
Kevin has practised as a barrister since 1986 and is a qualified mediator. He joined 33 Bedford Row in 2019 as Head of the Planning, Property, and Environment Group, having previously been a member of the Planning and Chancery groups at No.5 Chambers from 2008.
In addition to being instructed by solicitors and local authorities, Kevin regularly works directly with professional clients and members of the public under the Licensed Access and Direct Public Access schemes.
Outside the Bar, Kevin was planning director of a property development and construction group of companies. He remains involved with property development outside professional work.
Kevin's approach is commercially focused and collaborative. He is able to work hands on with any team to attain the best achievable outcome. He works quickly and strives to add practical and commercial value to any dispute or project. Kevin is always willing to go the extra mile to achieve the right result. He is available by phone and email to suit the needs of his professional and lay clients.
Practice
Kevin specialises in planning and land law including judicial review. He appears in court and before tribunals as well as in mediations. In addition to all aspects of land development, his work areas include boundary disputes, rights of way, trespass and nuisance, restrictive covenants, hedgerows, high hedges and trees, and connected matters reviewing local authorities’ conduct. Kevin appears at public inquiries and hearings on planning and enforcement appeals as well as development plan examinations; and acts in both the criminal and civil courts in relation to planning and land law cases.
Kevin is instructed in development cases ranging from residential matters (from one-off to estate schemes) through to commercial/industrial sites (such as retail, office, leisure and hotel projects) as well as traveller cases. In disputes involving boundaries and rights of way, he travels throughout England and Wales to give advice and, when necessary, appears in court and mediations. Kevin's clients are individuals, groups, businesses and local authorities. He also has a niche practice in taxi licensing.
Kevin gives talks to audiences of lawyers, other professionals, local authorities and developers on matters related to both substantive and procedural planning law and development issues including preparing for and participating effectively in planning appeals. He also answers practical questions for the LexisNexis website on its property, planning and litigation panels.
Introduction Lara is a sought after civil practitioner with a wealth of experience in dealing with shipping and property related disputes, in particular. For over a decade prior to being called to the Bar in 2015, Lara was in practice as a solicitor. Lara has a rich and varied legal background. In 2003 she qualified in South Africa as an attorney, conveyancer and notary public. She emigrated to England and in 2004 qualified as an English solicitor. She also qualified as a notary public of England & Wales in 2008. Lara commenced practice in England working with a large regional firm, specialising in property law. She then extended her practice into the niche area of shipping, working in the City for almost a decade. Lara obtained higher rights of audience in April 2015 and was called to the Bar six months later. As a property specialist with broad experience and expertise largely in Landlord & Tenant and Real Property, Lara offers expedient advice and robust advocacy before the courts and tribunals. Within her maritime and commodities practice, Lara adopts a commercial approach when dealing with disputes, with her clients’ best interests always at the forefront of her mind. She accepts instructions from solicitors but is also fully accredited by the Bar Standards Board to accept instructions direct from individuals and businesses including shipowners, charterers, insurers and traders. Direct Access Lara is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Lara on a Direct access basis, please contact her clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Professor Gormley is Emeritus Professor of European Law and Jean Monnet Professor at the University of Groningen in Netherlands. His expertise is in: Free Movement; Internal Market; Public Procurement; European Tax Law; Customs Law; Trade Law; Judicial Protection; Institutional and Governance Questions. Laurence Gormley was appointed to the Chair of European Law in September 1990. He also holds the Jean Monnet Chair which was awarded to the Faculty in 1995, and he leads the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence at Groningen, recognised by the European Commission in 1999. He graduated from the University of Oxford in Modern History and Modern Languages in 1975 (M.A., 1979); took a M.Sc. in European Studies at the London School of Economics in 1976, and he was called to the Bar of England and Wales by the Middle Temple in 1978. In 1978 he received the Hon. Sir Peter Bristow Award from the Middle Temple, and held a Rotary Foundation Fellowship at the Europa Institute at Utrecht. He took his doctorate in 1985 at Utrecht, with a dissertation on ‘Prohibiting Restrictions on Trade within the EEC’. After completing pupillage in 1979, and then being a Lecturer in Law at the University of Liverpool and a door tenant in chambers in London, he worked as an official of the Commission of the European Communities in Brussels from 1983 to 1990 (dealing with competition; free movement of goods, and public procurement). Professor Gormley’s principal publications have been in free movement of goods; customs law; public procurement; taxation, and the internal market, although he has also published a number of articles on the judicial architecture of the EU and judicial review. He edited and revised the 2nd. (1989) and 3rd. (1998) editions of Kapteyn VerLoren van Themaat’s Introduction to the Law of the European Communities and wrote the contributions on Customs Union and the Free Movement of Goods and on Taxation in Vol. 52 of Halsbury’s Laws of England 4th. ed. (1986).
Lucy is qualified in four jurisdictions. She is a barrister in England & Wales, an attorney at law in New York, an advocate in Scotland and a barrister at law in Ireland. She specialises in international dispute resolution, with particular interest and expertise in international commercial arbitration. Lucy’s breadth of experience has included a judicial appointment in Scotland as a part-time Sheriff sitting in the sheriff courts in both civil and criminal cases. She has appeared in courts at all levels in Scotland and has taken a case from first instance to the House of Lords. She is an extremely competent advocate whose advocacy experience ranges from interlocutory matters to complex appeals. Lucy was awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Advocacy by the Faculty of Advocates in 2016.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Civil Family International Criminal Law International Human Rights Law International Law International Law in Domestic Courts Expertise: domestic and international human rights; public law, discrimination and employment; private and public child law proceedings; financial remedies and child abduction; personal injury, child abuse and institutional abuse; mental health; restorative justice. Maeve joined Thomas Bingham Chambers in 2013 following a pupillage in a leading set and secondment to a major human rights firm. She has the unique distinction of having had a junior brief in the Supreme Court in her own right during her pupillage and has been the recipient of the prestigious Harvard Law School Global Human Rights Fellowship. Maeve was honoured as the Jordans Publishing Family Law Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year 2013 for her internationally recognised campaigning work for ‘Justice for Magdalenes’ (see www.magdalenelaundries.com). She is a skilled musician and enjoys a variety of sports. Decided cases: In the Matter of A (Children) [2013] UKSC 60.
Maeve is a barrister with a diverse practice. She practices in all aspects of criminal law both prosecuting and defending. Maeve has a busy criminal practice in the Crown Court. Maeve is experienced in representing clients charged with a variety of offences across the criminal law spectrum, including offences against the person, fraud, sexual offences and drug offences. Maeve’s persuasive and confident style of advocacy, combined with academic legal arguments and empathetic client care, has resulted in outstanding results and highly commendable feedback from clients.
Maeve also has an active practice in professional discipline and regulatory cases, often appearing for regulators at final and interim hearings. Maeve has expertise in the healthcare field. She is instructed on a regular basis to act on behalf of regulators and regulated professionals before bodies.
Maeve also specializes in Extradition Law. She accepts instructions in both Part 1 and Part 2 cases. She has knowledge of a wide range of legal issues arising under the Extradition Act 2003 and the European Convention on Human Rights.
Introduction
Manisha has been recognised as a tier one leading junior for consecutive years in the Legal 500 in the fields of family law (particularly cases involving an international element) and public law. Manisha is described in the Legal 500 as a “rising star” with “considerable experience in cases with an international aspect as well as representing vulnerable clients.” Manisha has also been appointed to the Attorney General’s Regional Panel of Junior Counsel to the Crown and has considerable expertise in administrative law and inquests and coronial law.
Manisha has been instructed as junior counsel in the Court of Appeal and frequently appears in the High Court. She is regularly instructed at appellate level and at first instance where novel or complex points of law have been identified. Manisha has represented clients as a both a leading junior and led junior and is further described in the Legal 500 as “a patient, robust and determined junior. Very knowledgeable and forensic.” She brings a wealth of experience and expertise beyond her year of call.
Notable Cases
Re M [2021] – Led Junior in a matter before the High Court involving a father in public law proceedings where allegations of international child abduction and serious domestic abuse were raised. Proceedings involved three different jurisdictions, including the USA and St Kitts and Nevis. The case concluded with a care plan involving the return of the children to their father.
Re H [2021] – Leading Junior for a Local Authority in public law proceedings, which included a separate hybrid finding of fact hearing to address allegations of fabricated and exaggerated illness by the mother. The case involved extensive oral evidence from 20 witnesses, including the mother, numerous professionals and expert witnesses.
Re S [2021] - Represented a father in public law proceedings in one of the first cases involving a European transfer to be heard following the UK’s exit day from the European Union. At the time of the final hearing the available avenue for transfer was no longer via the Brussels IIa Regulation. Accordingly a then novel application was advanced for transfer via the 1996 Hague Convention, as set against the new legal climate following Brexit.
Re D [2020] – Advised and represented the Local Authority in a rare and successful interim application for the return of multiple children to the UK via the Brussels IIa Regulation.
Re Z [2019] – Advised and represented the Local Authority before the High Court in a matter where the jurisdiction of the court was contested. The child concerned was born in the UK with complex health problems including Downs Syndrome and feeding via a PEG system. The family previously fled the UK to Slovakia and averred they returned for medical treatment only. The child presented on return with life threatening symptoms. Following a disputed hearing on jurisdiction, involving substantial oral evidence, the High Court ultimately agreed with the Local Authority’s novel application of the Brussels IIa regulation and case for retaining jurisdiction.
Re Q - Represented a father in private law proceedings in a contested application for contact where serious and multiple allegations of rape, sexual assault and physical abuse had been advanced against the father. The matter involved a lengthy finding of fact hearing in which the mother was ultimately found to have fabricated many of the sexual allegations and substantially exaggerated her evidence in other areas. The father further had an outstanding immigration claim and accordingly the case required knowledge and advice on relevant aspects of immigration law. Manisha was uniquely instructed in both jurisdictions.
Re G – Represented a father in multiple sets of proceedings concerning firstly the relevant child arrangements and thereafter the enforcement proceedings brought by the father against the mother in relation to the ordered arrangements. The mother was ultimately found to be in breach of the existing order without any reasonable excuse and made subject to a financial penalty and unpaid work.
Re M – Acted on behalf of a vulnerable mother in private law proceedings in an application for contact where the mother suffered from severe learning difficulties and allegations of serious child neglect had been advanced against her.
Re D – Represented a father in private law proceedings in which the father wished to prevent the mother from relocating to China, where the parties had previously lived. The child arrangements ordered were favourable to the father and thereby prevented the mother from relocating with the children.
Re R - Represented a father in a complex care case involving issues of child abduction, neglect and human trafficking. Analysis of lengthy phone and multimedia evidence was required. In addition sensitive and measured cross examination was undertaken of a vulnerable young adult mother with learning difficulties who required the use of an interpreter throughout.
Re F – Represented the Local Authority in public law proceedings involving a complex finding of fact and further final hearing. The case included extensive expert evidence relating to multiple non accidental injuries caused to two children including severe fractures and burns.
Prior to joining the Bar, Mark was a senior partner in at a criminal firm of solicitors in Essex and a Consultant in Newcastle. Mark has been a Higher Court Advocate for 21 years, specialising in cases of murder, supply of drugs, modern slavery, rape and firearms.
Mark undertook one of the largest conspiracy to murder cases involving 27 defendants in Essex. His clients were convicted of affray. He has defended on a number of recent murder cases, having been led by 2 very respected Queens Counsels.
Mark undertakes childcare cases, and there is a cross-pollination between childcare and serious assaults on children, and has represented parents both in the Family and Crown Courts.
Mark was, until his transfer to the Bar, the Honourable secretary for the Criminal Solicitors Law Association, representing views of criminal practitioners, and undertaking many consultations on many aspects of legislation, he continues to act in an advisory role.
Mark undertakes most aspects of criminal and child care litigation, and has extensive experience in defending a variety of cases in all Courts, including having appeared in the Court of Appeal. A fearless advocate who pays the same attention to detail to all manner of cases from burglary, robberies, rapes and murders.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Civil Commercial Landlord and Tenant Divorce Family Family Finance & Property Forced Marriage Housing Landlord & Tenant Licensing Molestation & Occupation Property Property Co-Ownership Regulatory Relocation Internal and Abroad Martin has an established practice in Property, Family and Licencing Law. Martin's career in the law began when he qualified as a solicitor in 2006. His interest in advocacy led him to obtain his Higher Rights of Audience in 2010, which gave him access to complex cases in the County and High Court. The move to be called to the Bar in 2011 was a natural extension of his commitment to advocacy as a speciality. Prior to coming to the Bar, Martin has had the advantage of working in-house as a senior lawyer for a large Local Authority taking on countless cases demanding a comprehensive knowledge of commercial property law, including disrepair (liability and quantum), housing, service charge disputes, possession, tenancy succession, trespass, anti-social behaviour orders and committals. He also advised the Local Authority in all aspects of licensing law. His interests in social housing has found further expression in the area of Family Law and the impact on the breakdown of relationships on individuals, who are often facing a range of issues such as applications for occupation orders, transfers of tenancies, and fact-findings in respect of domestic violence. Martin has acted for parents in all forms of Private and Public Law proceedings, as well as acting for Local Authorities. He is known for his sensitive handling of difficult cases - often for highly vulnerable clients. Martin has vast experience of working along side professional and lay clients to ensure that their needs are met and communicated effectively to the relevant tribunal. Martin always strives to provide clients with thorough, honest and effective representation with a view to obtaining the best results possible. Direct Access Martin is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Martin on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Introduction
Maurice has over 25 years’ advocacy experience, having called to the Bar in Scotland 1995. He has been dual qualified since March 2019 when he also called to the Bar of England and Wales. He is Public Access registered and may accordingly accept instructions directly from members of the public in appropriate cases.
His principal areas of practice are:
- Employment Law
- Town and Country Planning
- Administrative Law
- Regulatory and
- Commercial Law
Maurice is ranked in Chambers and Partners UK Bar Directory 2022 for Planning and Environmental Law, as he was in for 2021 also. He is also ranked as a leading junior counsel for Employment Law in the 2022 edition of the Legal 500.
He has appeared before the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and the SSSC, which is the body regulating social workers in Scotland.
Maurice has been a Legal Associate of the Royal Town Planning Institute since 1998. He has conducted planning inquires for developers, objectors and local authorities in relation to a number of high-profile applications. He has appeared on many occasions in the Scottish equivalent of the High Court and the Scottish Court of Appeal in relation to judicial review actions against planning authorities.
In August 2018, Maurice was admitted as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, having previously been a Member of that professional body, after passing the Fellowship Examination in Arbitral Practice and Procedure and Award Writing.
Maurice is ranked in the current Chambers and Partners UK Bar Directory 2022 for Planning and Environmental Law. It describes him as a 'seasoned junior with a substantial background in planning and environmental law': "He is an able Counsel" (Chambers UK, 2022).
In the previous edition of Chambers and Partners UK Bar Directory, he was described as "very user-friendly" and "very experienced." (Chambers UK, 2021)
He is also ranked as a leading Junior for Employment and Property, Planning & Construction in the latest edition of the Legal 500, where he is described as "Very engaging and a proper team player." (Legal 500, 2022)
Maurice is a door tenant at 33 Bedford Row.
Direct Access
Maurice is accredited to accept work under the Direct Access Scheme, also known as the Public Access Scheme, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Maurice on a Direct Access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or by emailing [email protected]
Melanie commenced practice in common/criminal law but has specialised in Family law since 1991, representing children, parents and local authorities in care and adoption proceedings. AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Divorce Family Forced Marriage Molestation & Occupation Public Inquiries Relocation Internal and Abroad
Michael’s advocacy career began when he obtained his Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal Proceedings) almost immediately after qualification as a solicitor in 2013. He initially practised as a criminal defence and duty solicitor, appearing on a daily basis in the Magistrate’s Court and frequently in the Crown Court. From late 2014 to early 2020, he was a Lawyer and then Senior Lawyer at the Independent Officer for Police Conduct (IOPC), where he advised on a wide range of legal issues in cases of the utmost complexity and seriousness. He continued to practice and develop his advocacy while at the IOPC, obtaining his Higher Rights of Audience (Civil Proceedings) in 2017. His range of expertise and experience is impressive: he has appeared in countless cases in criminal and civil courts and before police disciplinary panels, coroner’s inquests and mental health tribunals. His advocacy has drawn judicial praise in the Adminsitrative Court.
Michael's commitment to advocacy at the highest level led almost inevitably to the Bar where he was called in 2020. He now serves on the Attorney General’s C Panel of experts (North Eastern Region).
Michael’s advocacy career began when he obtained his Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal Proceedings) almost immediately after qualification as a solicitor in 2013. He initially practised as a criminal defence and duty solicitor, appearing on a daily basis in the Magistrate’s Court and frequently in the Crown Court. From late 2014 to early 2020, he was a Lawyer and then Senior Lawyer at the Independent Officer for Police Conduct (IOPC), where he advised on a wide range of legal issues in cases of the utmost complexity and seriousness. He continued to practice and develop his advocacy while at the IOPC, obtaining his Higher Rights of Audience (Civil Proceedings) in 2017.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Bribery and Corruption Confiscation Crime Defence Drugs Family Financial Crime & Fraud Murder & Manslaughter Prosecution Sexual Offences Violent Crime Introduction Misbah has built a strong, multidisciplinary practice and regularly appears in Crown, Magistrates and Youth Courts. She has a recognised profile of success in immigration and family cases. She is known for her attention to detail, cross-examination skills and her ability to advise effectively in the cases she undertakes. Misbah benefits from wide experience prior to coming to the Bar, which includes working in busy solicitors' practices where she had a key role in the preparation of cases, including many noted for their complexity and seriousness (including terroist offences and complex frauds). She had particular responsibility for setting up a unit specialising in contractual disputes, consumer credit and debt collection. Misbah is noted for her background in community work. She helped to form and then served as a director of the Woking Asian Business Forum, which has an established track record of providing a wide range of accessible legal advice and networking opportunities for businesses in the Woking area. She helped to form and then worked in a GP Practice's Patients Rights Group to promote patients' rights and concerns with local councilors and MPs.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Asylum Care & Supervision Child Arrangement Crime Defence Drugs Entry Clearance & LTR Family Immigration & Nationality Molestation & Occupation Nationality & Citizenship Prison & Parole Boards Prosecution Public Relocation Internal and Abroad Removal & Deportation Road Traffic & Motoring Sexual Offences Violent Crime Visas Introduction Mohammed has been a tenant at 33 Bedford Row since July 2019, joining chambers after successfully completing a Third Six pupillage. Mohammed enjoys a varied legal background having worked for city based firms working in the Criminal, Family and Immigration departments. His previous experiences also include having carried out pro-bono work for the National Centre for Domestic Violence. Mohammed has a multidisciplinary practice including crime, civil and family law. He regularly appears in the Crown Courts, Magistrates Courts and Youth Courts covering all aspects of criminal work. His civil practice is varied having successfully represented clients in Personal Injury, RTA, Housing and Local Authority matters in the County Courts. Mohammed’s empathetic approach extends to having a successful family law practice, and he accepts instructions in a wide array of family law areas. He enjoys a strong client following and is particularly known for his exceptional client care skills. Mohammed recently represented a high profile offender in a prison law matter and was successful in a complex and difficult parole board hearing.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Advising Regulators Bribery and Corruption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Confiscation Crime Defence Defending Professionals Divorce Drugs Family Family Finance & Property Financial Crime & Fraud Financial Provision Forced Marriage Health & Safety Inquests Molestation & Occupation Murder & Manslaughter Nationality & Citizenship Personal Injury Planning & Environment Property Co-Ownership Prosecution Public Inquiries Regulatory Relocation Internal and Abroad Road Traffic & Motoring Sexual Offences Trading Standards Violent Crime Wills, Trusts & Estates Neil Mercer has a diverse practice encompassing cvil litigation; including personal injury, clinical negligence, family, health and safety, environment law, inquests and crime. In personal injury he acts for both sides, often in cases involving catastrophic injuries. He is happy to settle pre-action documents, pleadings, and joint settlement conferences. He has been involved in serious head injury cases involving children. He is happy to accept CFA’s in the right cases. Neil often acts in clinical negligence claims, frequently involving serious injuries as a result of negligence and is noted for the detail with which he approaches the medical records. He also sits a LQC at the MPTS and as a LA at the GDC, and so is familiar with the workings of the medical and dental professions. In general civil litigation he is happy to act in a broad range of disputes and including contractual claims, civil fraud, and defamation. He has defended companies in fatal and serious accidents again the HSE. In family law he acts in both public law cases involving children, often in NAI and FII cases, including fatalities. He acts both for parents and local authorities. He has appeared international cases both involving inward and outbound claims in respect of abducted children. He is also happy to advise in financial remedies, including cases involving substantial assets. He appears at inquests for a range of interested parties, including families, local authorities, employers, and statutory bodies. He both defends and prosecutes serious criminal cases, usually for local authorities and is happy to give pre-charge advice. He is a grade 4 CPS prosecutor in serious crime and fraud. Neil is an advocacy and ethics Tutor in Lincoln's Inn, where he is a Master of the Bench. Direct Access Neil is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Neil on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Introduction Nermine has developed an outstanding practice, both prosecuting and defending a wide range of criminal offences. She is regularly instructed in cases involving serious sexual offences including cold cases, historical allegations of rape and sexual abuse. She is recognised for her skill in representing clients who are vulnerable, because of age, learning difficulties or mental health issues. Nermine is a grade 3 CPS prosecutor and is on the CPS rape list. She is recognised as disclosure counsel by the SFO in cases of the utmost seriousness and was appointed a Deputy District Judge in the Magistrates Court in 2017. Nermine has undertaken specialist training in dealing with vulnerable witnesses. She is approachable, clear, persuasive and is known as a particularly talented jury advocate who always has the respect of the Court.
Introduction Nichola is a specialist criminal advocate. She has substantial trial experience working in a team both as Leading and led Junior, and has a well deserved reputation for methodical and meticulous preparation. Nichola is both approachable and dependable, believing that the best results can always be achieved by focusing on working as part of a team. She has an engaging court style, both as an attractive and natural jury advocate, and as a persuasive lawyer. Due to the nature of her practice she is used to dealing with multi jurisdictional issues. She has particular expertise in defending in complex fraud/financial crime and serious organised crime. Nichola also has a strong track record defending in cases concerning allegations of serious sexual assault involving vulnerable witnesses, multiple complainants and cases involving allegations of historical sexual abuse. She has a wealth of experience in conducting cross-examination of young witnesses via video link. Sexual Offences Nichola has a strong track record defending in cases concerning allegations of serious sexual assault involving vulnerable witnesses, multiple complainants and cases involving allegations of historical sexual abuse. Financial Crime & Fraud Nichola has particular expertise in defending in financial crime and serious organised crime. Notable Cases Serious and Organised Crime: R v R and Otrs: Leading Junior, allegations of human trafficking, controlling prostitution and organising sham marriages. R v M and Otrs: Defence of large-scale conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and money laundering. Operation Hudson: Leading Junior acting for the head of international organised crime group facing allegations of human trafficking and rape. Operation Gottzinger: Defence of first defendant in case involving allegations human trafficking, controlling prostitution and rape. Serious Sexual Offences: R v G: Professional man in historic sexual abuse case. R v B: Professional man in multiple-complainant historic sexual abuse case. Financial/Regulatory Crime: Operation Stormgrad: Global pharmaceutical fraud involving international sale of counterfeit Pzifer products; prosecuted by Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Operation Echowood: Evasion of over £5 million of revenue; defendants were extradited from Italy to the United Kingdom; cross-jurisdictional fraud involved the diversion of excise goods. Operation Valgus: Multi-million pound subprime mortgage fraud. Operation Metacarpal: Defending first defendant in international construction/plant fraud. Homicide and Serious Violence: R v W and Otrs: Gang related murder. Central Criminal Court led by Queens Counsel. R v NC: Murder, led by Queens Counsel; issues relating to fitness to plead and insanity. R v B and Otrs: Attempted murder and perverting the course of justice. R v L and Otrs: Multiple complainant section 18 wounding with intent. This serious case was initially charged as double attempted murder; one complainant remained in hospital six months after the incident and was cross examined via a video link from hospital. R v DF: Attempted murder resulting in the victim sustaining permanent brain damage. R v HP and Otrs: Leading Junior in case involving conspiracy to commit arson. Bribery and Corruption: R v H and Otrs (Operation Elveden - the News International case): Conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Civil
Crime
Family
Introduction
Nick came to the Bar as a converting student after reading dual honours Russian and Politics and graduating from the Saint Petersburg State University and Yaroslavl Demidov State University. After successful completion of the GDL and BPTC, he went on to complete his pupillage in Sheffield and qualify fully in 2020.
On the way to the Bar, Nick spent time as both a County Court advocate and a paralegal working in insurance fraud; during his time as the latter, he worked on the landmark private prosecution of a fraudulent litigant after a finding of fundamental dishonesty.
Nick's practice encompasses a broad range of criminal, civil and family matters spanning the Magistrates Court, Crown Court and County Court.
Practice YEAR OF CALL: 1995 YEAR OF QC: 2019 HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL LAW Nigel has a reputation both nationally and internationally for his no nonsense hard fighting but fair and courteous approach to all he does and with all he meets. He is meticulous in his preparation and highly regarded for his attention to detail. Nigel specialises in white collar and serious crime together with regulatory matters. Nigel has a particular interest in the area of confiscation under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002. 'He is a persuasive advocate, who builds a rapport with witnesses, clients and judges' Nigel was sworn in as Queen's Counsel in March 2019. As a junior Nigel specialised in Criminal Fraud, Serious Crime and Regulatory matters, exclusively for the defence. In addition he has undertaken work in the area of Sports and Media Law, and occasional Family work limited to Finance and Care. In 2007 Nigel qualified as a commercial mediator and has run a successful mediation partnership with a number of non-legally qualified mediators.
Nussrat has transferred to the Bar with over 20 years of legal experience. She qualified as a Solicitor in 2004 and has since specialised in proceedings relating to children, working in-house for a Local Authority as a Senior Solicitor and then as a Senior Associate Solicitor in private practice representing parents, Guardians, other relatives and older children directly. She was a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel between 2008 and 2022.
Nussrat was the Principal Legal Advisor to Adoption Panel during her time with the Local Authority advising on national and international adoption matters.
She has extensive experience of dealing with complex children’s proceedings including care proceedings involving serious injuries, sexual and emotional abuse, fabricated illness and neglect. She has also represented Guardians in complex private law proceedings.
In addition to care proceedings, Nussrat has represented the Local Authority, parents and Guardians in applications for Secure Accommodation Orders, Deprivation of Liberty Orders, Forced Marriage Protection Orders, Female Genital Mutilation Protection Orders and International Child Abduction cases under the Hague Convention.
Nussrat has conducted her own advocacy since qualifying as a Solicitor.
Introduction Paul has an extensive leading junior practice with over 20 years' continuous experience at the Bar. He has successfully led in a number of large and complex trials involving organised crime. He regularly appears for the defence in serious fraud, drug conspiracies and murder cases. His ability to present complex financial evidence and issues to a jury in readily understandable terms ensures that he is always in demand. He is skilled in appearing in the Court of Appeal taking on matters relating to both sentence and conviction if it appears a case has gone wrong at trial level. He has experience in representing clients through the intricacies of the Criminal Cases Review Commission. He leaves no stone unturned on behalf of clients. Paul has many years’ experience of confiscation litigation which has evolved over the last two decades through statute and case law into the current Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Paul has extensive experience of "super grass" trials, including being involved in the first acquittal in the long-running series of long trials where the chief prosecution witness was the super grass Michael Michaels at the high security Crown Court at Woolwich. Many of Paul's cases involve an international element and cross-border frauds, for example, R v B, a multi-handed fraud involving organised crime by defendants from Ukraine and involving over £6.9 million in repayments and R v H, a massive international identity fraud involving Eastern European defendants. Paul is a capable advocate with a proven track record of presenting complex evidence to juries in terms that are easily understandable. He is known for commitment to defending those accused of crime and fully understands the impact of allegations on those accused. Paul is noted for his ability to represent clients who have special challenges in the form of learning disabilities or infirmities related to mental or psychological impairment. Notable cases: R v Moran: Central Criminal Court (2010) — A manslaughter case involving complex issues of causation which required extensive and very technical cross examination at trial of the Crown’s Pathologist; R v Brovarsky: Southwark Crown Court (2010) — A multi-handed fraud involving organised crime by defendants from Ukraine. The case concerned the use of HMRC online income tax self assessment system to obtain fraudulent repayments of income tax. The defendant was a principal in the conspiracy. Over £6.9m in repayments were fraudulently claimed by the conspirators. Over £3m was paid into 690 bank accounts linked to and controlled by the conspiracy. The number of fictitious identities used for self assessment purposes was in excess of 1200; R v Azhil Khan: Birmingham Crown Court (2010) — A retrial of a very high profile murder trial which had resulted in the conviction of the defendant in 2006 arising out of the notorious Aston riots in Birmingham. The Court of Appeal had ordered a retrial as a result of fundamental flaws in the prosecution disclosure process which failed to reveal to the Defence at the original trial the existence of exculpatory covertly recorded police cell conversations between the defendant and his cell mate. The jury acquitted the defendant at the re-trial; R v Burns: Basildon Crown Court (2010) — A large multi-handed drugs conspiracy involving the importation and distribution of nearly 4 tons of Cannabis: the case was a SOCA prosecution. Due to the size of the case and number of Defendants the case management required two linked trials; R v Sinniah Pathmanathan: Harrow Crown Court (2010) — A multi-handed housing benefit fraud carried out over a period of 15 years and involving a sophisticated and professionally planned DSS fraud by several generations of the same family. The defendant was the most senior member of the family; R v Sanchez: Southwark Crown Court (2009) — A very sophisticated fraud involving the fraudulent selling of over £1m worth of airline tickets from within a properly licensed travel agency specifically targeted and purchased by the conspirators to avoid the regulatory regime designed to protect the airlines from such frauds;R v Hasko: Woodgreen Crown Court (2009) — A massive international identity fraud involving East European defendants which, according to the Judge, was at least on a scale equivalent to the leading sentencing authority on identity fraud: R v Velev; R v Rookwood: Central Criminal Court (2008) — A high profile murder case. It involved a large scale urban/public disorder where two rival London gangs fought a battle on the streets which resulted in the death of one leading gang member and the near death of a second. It was one of the very first cases to require the practical application of the House of Lords decision in R v Davis (June 2008) involving witness anonymity and the legislation passed in consequence of that landmark case. In Rookwood there were 34 anonymous prosecution witnesses some of whom were potentially of assistance to the defence. Inevitably therefore, the case required complex issues of disclosure and admissibility to be resolved; R v Nabaraja and Others: Southwark Crown Court ( 2008 ) — A large multi-handed trial in which the defendants were alleged to be involved in international organised crime. The defendants were a gang of Sri Lankans with alleged links to the Tamil Tigers who were engaged in a multi-million pound global credit card conspiracy to defraud the clearing banks of the United Kingdom. When a fellow Sri Lankan refused to join the conspiracy he was allegedly kidnapped and held to ransom. Over the course of several days he was allegedly tortured and threatened with death. The hostage was eventually released in a sting operation by armed police who recovered guns from the gang’s stronghold. At trial the Indictment was “Stayed” after a voir dire lasting 6 weeks, and involving live evidence from senior CPS lawyers, when the trial judge ruled that a fair trial was impossible because the prosecution’s disclosure process was flawed; R v Bham and Others: Leeds Crown Court ( 2007 ) — Large scale multi-million pound car insurance fraud involving a long running conspiracy to fabricate car accidents using high value motor vehicles with euro-cloned identities which had been stolen abroad and brought into the UK. In addition to complex issues of disclosure – it was alleged some of the defendants had close personal links with the 'London bombers' and were arrested in a joint operation between the Met and West Yorkshire Police arising out of the investigation into the London bombings (Operation Theseus) - the case also raised very sensitive issues involving religious and community matters and how they could all be successfully addressed and integrated within the normal trial process; R v Grell: ( 2007 ) — Trial involving a high profile politician who was accused under the RPA 1983 of stating falsehoods against a rival electoral candidate whilst out campaigning for re-election; R v Azil Khan: Birmingham Crown Court ( 2006 ) — Very high profile multi-handed racist murder arising out of the Aston riots in Birmingham. (See also 3 above: re-trial, 2010). In addition, Paul Williams has represented defendants in connection with serious and organised crime in the following areas: large scale drugs conspiracies to import and supply drugs, including SOCA prosecutions; people smuggling / trafficking conspiracies; white collar fraud, including SFO prosecutions; large-scale DSS fraud; credit card fraud; conspiracy to rob; blackmail; kidnap; rape and serious sexual assault; teenage gang crime; murder; manslaughter; attempt murder; GBH; death by dangerous driving; perverting the Course of Justice; arson; money laundering.
Philip is a busy leading junior with an extensive civil practice covering distinct practice areas of property, planning, public, commercial, chancery, clinical negligence and personal injury. Philip is often instructed in cross over areas of law which are extremely litigious and require an utterly courageous approach. He is renown for his fearless cross-examination. Philip has a number of niche specialities which assist within his practice areas including injunctive relief, jurisdictional disputes and regulatory challenges within a public law context. Many of Philip’s clients are high net worth individuals or high-profile media celebrities. Philip appears regularly in the Chancery, Technology and Construction Court and Queens Bench Divisions. He is often instructed against Queens Counsel and has acted on numerous occasions as a leading junior in both the High Court and Court of Appeal. He has over thirty reported cases and is presently instructed in a significant number of matters in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal. Philip has several Solicitors who have instructed him since he was a junior tenant at his previous chambers and continue to do so. Philip is attainable to those who instruct him outside of normal office hours; Philip is one of the few barristers that will go above and beyond the call of duty to utilise his skills for the benefit of the team and gain the required result.
Philippa regularly represents a range of Local Authorities and parents in public law children proceedings, in front of both Circuit and District Judges. Philippa acts for clients at various stages of proceedings ranging from; emergency protection orders, contested interim care orders and issues resolution hearings through to fully contested multi-day final hearings, including cases with an international element and contested expert evidence. Philippa has also acted in Wardship proceedings in the High Court.Philippa often appears in various private law and Family Law Act proceedings, in without notice and with notice hearings, case management, fact finding and contested final hearings, including non-molestation, child arrangement and prohibited steps orders. She has advised and represented clients during financial settlement proceedings. She has also has successfully acted for clients with mental health problems and appeared in cases with a range of issues; including mental health, neglect and emotional, physical, financial and sexual abuse. Moreover, Philippa has a client focussed approach, ensuring that clients feel they are being listened to and their views are being accurately represented. She has the ability to put clients from all walks of life quickly at ease with a calm but firm approach. A solicitor who regularly instructs Philippa has commented: “I envisage that she will become an exceptional, well rounded and conscientious barrister, who will have a long successful career in the legal profession”.
Whilst a Second Six pupil, Poppy has enjoyed a mixed Civil, Public and Crime practice.
Poppy is experienced in both applicant and respondent possession claims in the County Courts, and with Public law challenges arising out of housing issues. She has also drafted several judicial review grounds arising out of Immigration and Prison law matters.
Currently, Poppy has a number of ongoing instructions for Claimants in actions against the police and prisons, concerning alleged violations of the Human Rights Act 1998.
Poppy has regularly defended in both Magistrates and Crown Courts, undertaking trials and hearings across a wide variety of criminal matters.
Poppy is continuing to develop her international practice, having previously been part of the Defence team in one of the first cases before the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague, and assisted in the drafting of a training manual for members of the Gambian Criminal Justice system. Poppy spent the third year of her Law degree studying abroad at the National University of Singapore, where she specialised in Public International Law.
As a Second Six pupil, Poppy is not a tenant/member of 33 Bedford Row.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Care & Supervision
Child Arrangement
Crime
Defence
Divorce
Drugs
Family
Family Finance & Property
Financial Crime & Fraud
Financial Provision
Molestation & Occupation
Regulatory
Relocation Internal and Abroad
Road Traffic & Motoring
Sexual Offences
Violent Crime
Personal Injury
Rabia's practice also includes personal injury and she has conducted cases dealing with road traffic accidents and accidents claims concerning serious injuries. Rabia has represented claimants and defendants at both the County and High Court in both fast-track and multi-track claims. Rabia has also been instructed in a range of matters including; Occupiers Liability and Employers' liability claims. She has written various legal problems relating to personal injury claims for her Inns of Court's advocacy and mooting workshops, in which she is also a trainer. Rabia's extensive experience in criminal law has equipped her with the detailed understanding and liabilities relating to accidents where allegations of fraud have been pleaded associated with exaggerated injury and fraudulent damage. This experience allows her to provide legally sound and well-reasoned advice to those instructing her.
Rabia has also adviced in cases involving medical negligence, including wrongful or delayed diagnosis and has attended inquest hearings.
Crime
Rabia is an accomplished and experienced criminal practitioner. she has been instructed in a range of criminal matters, including; serious fraud, bribery, money laundering, confiscation, murder, violence crime, multi handed robbery and sexual offences (including rape). She is also an experienced crown court trial advocate and is a CPS Level 2 prosecutor. Rabia's previous experence as a police station representative equips her with a detailed understanding of police powers of detention and arrest under PACE and further allows her to identify any issues in the police evidence, something which can often be found in the unused material of a prosection case.
Rabia is an exceptionally thorough advocate and receives regular instructions in both prosecution and defence work. she spent over 10 years practicing as in-house counsel at a criminal defence and human rights firm, where she has appeared in both the crown court and the court of appeal in representing clients charged with a plethora of offences.
Rabia is also a member of the CBA,
R v A
Rabia was instructed to act for the Defendant who was facing a serious count of malicious communication at the Crown Court. Rabia was able to successfully oppose an '11th hour' application from the Prosecution to add an additional charge of blackmail on the indictment. She did so based on the prejudicial impact this would have on the Defendant. Rabia's exceptional cross examination and breaking down of the prosecution case led to her client's acquittal.
R v A
Instructed as trial counsel on serious possession with intent to supply class A drugs, the Defendant had over £20,000 worth of drugs in his car when stopped by police. Through her cross examination of the officers and the Defendant, Rabia was able to secure an acquittal. Her closing speech was commended by the Judge as 'powerful' at the conclusion of the trial.
R v B
Rabia secured an acquittal for a Fraud against the Defendant for continuously using a fraudulent travel card. This was a serious and continued case of fraud and having gone through the prosecution exhibits, Rabia made an application (opposed by the Crown) to exclude prejudicial evidence with respect to the Defendant despite it having been previously agreed. This combined with her careful and considered examination of the defendant secured an acquittal for the client.
Family
Rabia has extensive experience and expertise within family law, which includes; care proceedings (both acting for the Local Authority) and Respondents, private children and family law act matters (including non-molestation/occupation orders) and financial remedy and divorce proceedings.
Care work – Rabia is regularly instructed by a number of local authorities in and out of London and she regularly conducts full fact finding and final hearings. She is also regularly instructed to represent the respondents in such proceedings; including the parents as well as the child/children. She undertakes Interim Care Order hearings, case management and Issues resolution hearings and regularly drafts advice, which includes detailed interim and final threshold documents for the Local Authority. Her ability to instil confidence in her clients has led to Rabia being consistently instructed by a number of lay and professional clients.
Private Children/Family Act – Rabia has conducted a number of cases involving individuals and has represented both e applicant and the defendants in a range of private family matters, including; cases involving domestic violence (including Scott Schedules), child arrangements orders and non-molestation orders to name a few. She has developed an expertise in cases where domestic violence is an issue and has conducted a number of fact-finding hearings determining whether domestic violence took place.
Finance hearings and divorce – Rabia has experience in representing parties in divorce proceedings. She regularly advises on out of court settlements in such proceedings as well as seeking disclosures on behalf of her clients, especially in multi-jurisdictional matters.
Notable cases;.
Re S
Rabia represented the Local Authority at a 5-day contested fact finding hearing (North Yorkshire type hearing). The parents contested the Local Authority care plan fto remove the child from their care. This hearing was to determine the narrow issue of whether one of the parents was able to provide the relevant care for the child. Rabia's detailed and thorough cross examination and submissions of the evidence, persuaded the Judge to the Local Authority care plan.
Re C
Rabia represented the applicant at a final hearing Non-Molestation Order (Private). The contested hearing involved a plethora of social media evidence relied on by the respondent, including intimate images of the applicant. during her cross examination of the Respondent, Rabia was able to successfully get the Respondent to accept that he has intentionally caused or attempted to cause the Applicant distress by disclosing intimate messages to members of her family without her consent. This admission enabled Rabia to make a successful argument to dismiss the Respondent's case and for the judge to make the NMO. The judge commended Rabia's skilled and exacting cross examination technique and made an order in favour of the Applicant.
Direct Access
Rabia is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In order to instruct Rabia on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Introduction Rachanda was a court advocate prior to joining 33 Bedford Row and was instructed in over 650 cases prior to accepting tenancy, giving her experience far beyond her year of call. She combines a strong focus on client care with thorough preparation, persuasive advocacy and clear, practical advice. She is instructed repeatedly by solicitors, with outstanding testimonials from both lay and professional clients. Rachanda is building a practice which reflects the range of chambers’ expertise in family law whilst continuing to represent her clients in areas of civil law. Rachanda accepts instructions through Public Access.
Introduction Ram is a senior counsel in India and a barrister in England and Wales. He has more than 33 years of experience in commercial litigation and has appeared before the Supreme Court of India, a large number of High Courts and tribunals in India. He has appeared before the Company Courts and Company Law Tribunals in mergers, amalgamations and de-mergers, reorganisations relating to more than 300 companies. He regularly advises on issues of Indian corporate law and corporate restructuring and insolvency. He has appeared in challenges to the constitutionality of Indian statutes and subordinate legislation. He has appeared in a large number of commercial arbitrations, India seated and international including an international commercial arbitration seated at The Hague. He has also appeared in the superior courts in arbitration related litigation such as challenge to arbitration awards, referral to arbitration and removal of arbitrators. Ram accepts instructions for advice on Indian law, appearance in Indian courts and in international commercial arbitrations especially those seated in South Asia. Ram was called to the Bar of India in 1985 and called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2013. He was appointed senior counsel in India in 2017.
Introduction Ravinder has been involved in the Justice system since 1992 when she began her legal training at a well known firm of solicitors as part of the crime team. Ravinder obtained her higher rights of audience in 2004 and went on to represent clients across the full range of criminal cases for over 16 years as a consultant solicitor advocate to numerous high-profile firms. In 2016 Ravinder cross-qualified to the Bar and began full-time practice taking on cases at all levels from road traffic cases to allegations of murder. Ravinder's long established reputation led to her being approached to take part in a ground-breaking legal documentary titled "The Accused" made by Brinkworth Films and aired on Channel 5 on 31st July 2017. This documentary, made with the full consent of the accused, follows the progress of an individual accused of fraud and stealing the life savings of an elderly woman customer at the bank where he worked. It is still available on the Channel 5 Catch-up MY5. The programme shows Ravinder working together with Greg Stewart, her instructing solicitor at GT Stewart, preparing the defence and undertaking the detailed evidential analysis the case required. The documentary provides an unprecedented opportunity to see the detail of case preparation from behind the scenes and to see the teamwork that goes into ensuring that a client receives the detailed and committed representation that is essential to our system. "An intimate, gripping study of the justice system at work" - The Guardian "Thought-provoking documentary" - The Express "An extraordinary programme" - The Express "This is psychology in the raw" - The Daily Mail "The sobering reality of being charged with a crime" - Legal Cheek "The best law themed show of 2017 so far" - Legal Cheek Ravinder is always in demand and examples of cases she had been instructed in recently are set out in the Notable Cases section of the website. Ravinder is approachable, clear-minded and always goes the extra mile for each client she represents. Although Ravinder is often instructed on behalf of the Defence she does prosecute on occasions and her experience of all sides of an argument informs her approach to each and every case. Since joining Chambers, Ravinder has continued to build on her existing profile and has extended the range of cases she covers to include professional discipline and cases involving children and families.
Rehana is a skilled and robust advocate whose practice encompasses all aspects Public and Civil law with a significant focus on international protection, human rights, community and education law. Rehana has substantial expertise in representing vulnerable clients, whether due to age, lack of capacity, special education needs or serious trauma in complex litigation. Prior to commencing pupillage Rehana gained substantial legal experience, with a particular focus on human rights law. Rehana worked as a paralegal in the International Group Claims department at Leigh Day assisting in civil claims involving alleged human rights abuses at the hands of British forces by claimants in Afghanistan. She also served a 4-year term as a Director for the School Exclusion Project, run jointly by City Law School & Matrix Chambers. During this time she represented clients with Special Educational Needs at Governor Hearings, Independent Review Panels and First-Tier Tribunals. Rehana maintains a strong commitment to pro bono work; as Panel Counsel at Advocate (formerly the Bar Pro Bono Unit). Shr is the first Afghan national to be called to the Bar by Inner Temple and is the first female Afghan Barrister practising in England and Wales. Rehana welcomes instructions that are either privately funded or legally aided and is also happy to assist on a Public Access basis where appropriate. Rehana specialises in asylum and refugee law, representing both in both the First Tier and Upper Tribunals, including those who have been the victims of torture, serious human rights abuses and trafficking. She has particular experience working with clients who have complex mental health problems. In Addidtion, she is highly experienced in refugee claims from Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq. Her knowledge of country information is extensive and she excels in presenting complex factual cases. As well her busy court diary, Rehana is also regularly instructed to advise and draft grounds of appeal as well as grounds seeking permission to bring judicial review proceedings. Rehana regularly drafts fresh claims, grounds seeking permission to bring judicial review proceedings including challenges to fresh claims under §353 of the Immigration Rules, economic migration, unlawful detention and certification.
Rhys has a complementary practice in commercial and company law and regularly advises business clients, often on a direct access basis, in matters relating to partnership disputes, company formation, and leases of business premises.
He regularly deals with consumer contracts, including claims relating to credit hire, often in high value claims. He has extensive knowledge of this area of law and the recent changes in case law.
Rhys is regularly instructed in matters of corporate insolvency and director disqualification proceedings. His practice extends to serious professional negligence in relation to lawyers and other professionals, including appearing before professional regulators as well as high value claims for damages. He is currently instructed in relation to a significant shareholder dispute worth in excess of £10 million and commercial litigation relating to pallet delivery networks involving matters of fraud and substantial loss. Additionally, he is instructed by commercial clients to advise on and draft specialist industry contracts.
Injunctions
Rhys is regularly instructed to appear in the High Court on injunctions, often on an emergency basis, and is prepared to consider instructions at short notice. He is keenly aware of the commercial urgency of such applications.
Wills, Trusts & Estates
Rhys has a substantial and specialist contentious probate practice. He regularly acts on complex estates comprising multiple parcels of land in excess of £5 million.
He advises on and drafts trusts for high net worth individuals, and is always pleased to give a second opinion or a review of such documents.
He is regularly instructed to bring Inheritance Act and dependency claims on behalf of family members and beneficiaries, as well as complex estoppel claims.
He believes that early advice often diffuses the need for litigation, but even when the same is unavoidable early planning can substantially reduce the liability for costs in the long run
Property
Rhys has acted in complex agricultural cases involving recovery of farm payments, complex historic partnership arrangements, boundary disputes, and complex division of assets. He also advises in relation trusts and settlements arising from the breakdown of marriages and other personal partnerships.
He is instructed on high value claims in the High Court in matters as diverse as rights of way issues to claims concerning TOLATA. He is regularly instructed on claims worth in excess of £1 million.
He has recently been instructed, inter alia, in substantial property litigation involving the large scale capitalisation of income, and in associated litigation in other venues.
Emoployment
Rhys has developed a busy and successful employment practice, and acts for both Claimants and Respondents in employment tribunals nationally and both the EAT and High Court.
He is regularly instructed in complex and high value employment tribunal cases, often involving high value future loss calculations with complex pension losses. He is often instructed to appear in appeals on both preliminary points and final hearings.
His recent cases include:
A £600,000 whistleblowing case in Cardiff, over 16 days, involving both an EAT appeal on a preliminary point and raising important issues over the interpretation of legislation and the status of general practitioners
A £250,000 claim for discrimination with complex parallel High Court proceedings for breach of contract in failing to apply an ill health retirement scheme fairly, including substantial and complex pension loss calculations
Defending a high value claim for disability discrimination involving complex matters of the interpretation of the nature of a contract by the employment tribunal. Also instructed in the EAT on the same case.
Instructed to act for 27 equal pay claimants in a claim against their public sector employer in claims exceeding £500,000
Rhys is experienced in representing Claimants and Respondents in mediations.
Rhys accepts appropriate cases on a direct access basis, and is always pleased to talk to clients about their potential claims.
Richard is a practitioner of family law, including private and public law children’s cases. His specialist areas include all aspects of care proceedings and adoption, acting for parents, children (children’s guardians), adopters and other family members as well as local authorities. Richard has undertaken cases involving all areas of child abuse and neglect including Munchausen syndrome by proxy, sudden infant death syndrome (cot death), non-accidental injuries and child sexual abuse. He also has experience in adoptions with a foreign element. He regularly has to deal with expert witnesses from the fields of paediatrics, radiology, orthopaedics, psychiatry and psychology. Reported cases: Re A and D (Children) [2011] EWCA Civ 265; Richmond LBC v B, W, B and CB [2011] 1 FLR 1345; Newham LBC v AG [1993] 1 FLR 281; Croydon LBC v A (No.1-3) [1992] 2 FLR 341, 348 and 350; Re K (A Minor) (Wardship: Adoption) [1991] 1 FLR 57.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Bribery and Corruption Confiscation Crime Defence Drugs Financial Crime & Fraud Licensing Murder & Manslaughter Prosecution Regulatory Road Traffic & Motoring Sexual Offences Trading Standards Violent Crime Introduction Robert is a well regarded criminal practitioner known for the care and attention he gives to every case. He has acted in lengthy and serious cases involving homicide, rape, kidnap and drug trafficking. Robert specialises in large and complex fraud matters, often involving an international dimension. He was recently led by Howard Godfrey QC for the Defence in a case arising from the SFO's largest ever bribery investigation. Whilst defending, Robert has had some notable successes in fraud and tax evasion matters, often convincing judges to dismiss cases on technical grounds. In addition to his extensive Defence work, Robert prosecutes fraud cases on behalf of the CPS, FCA, SIA, Royal Mail and a number of local authorities. Robert has in recent years been leading Counsel in a number of significant multi-handed trials. He is experienced at dealing with cases of conspiracy, bribery and misfeasance in a public office. Robert is adept at presenting complicated evidence to juries in a way that makes the material readily understandable and appear at its most compelling. Robert is well versed in proceeds of crime legislation and handles cases involving substantive offences of money laundering, as well as confiscation proceedings in the Crown Court and High Court. Robert is a Grade 3 CPS prosecutor on the General Crime list. He is also a Grade 3 CPS prosecutor on the specialist Fraud List.
Robin specialises in Crime; specialising in fraud, violent crime, serious road traffic & motoring, and drugs offences.
Introduction Roman is a bilingual barrister admitted to practice both in the UK and Poland. Born in the UK, he graduated from Birmingham University and was called to the UK Bar in 1989 and was admitted to practice in Poland in 2018. He has a deep knowledge of both the English and Polish legal systems. His practice covers various areas of civil litigation, which include matters involving trusts, probate, copyright and land issues. His expertise extends to Polish-related civil litigation, including probate and general procedural advice on comparative law issues including residence, domicile and jurisdiction. Roman undertakes all types of civil procedure hearings including directions hearings, C&CMC hearings, interim applications, applications for summary judgment/strike-out, relief from sanctions and security for costs as well as enforcement hearings. During his more than 25 years of professional practice, Roman spent nine years in Poland working on many privatisation and restructuring projects. He has also translated and annotated the Polish Commercial Code into English. Roman has represented private individuals (Polish and English) as well as large commercial entities both in Poland and the UK. Recently, Roman has been advising large corporates on their commercial and strategic operations at Polish Port terminals in the Gdansk/Gdynia areas. Earlier in his career, Roman was engaged by KPMG in Poland to assist in the restructuring and profiling of its legal practice (KLegal). He also served as Legal Counsel to Wardynski & Partners servicing foreign clients investing in Poland. In 2015 Roman was instructed to obtain charitable trust status for a Polish educational trust that had failed because of the Equality Act 2010. Roman heads the 33 Bedford Row Poland Desk. Expertise: general civil litigation; landlord and tenant; personal injury; probate; comparative aspects of Anglo-Polish litigation. Roman Poplawski has been a barrister for 23 years, during which time he has acquired a vast wealth of civil law experience. Of those 23 years in practice, 9 were spent in Poland, where he was heavily involved in Privatisation work and inward investment projects during Poland’s earlier period of transition. At the time he translated the Polish Civil Code into English and gained a huge insight into the workings of Polish business and legal process. In 2008 he was sourced to assist in the Law Debenture v Elektrim litigation, where the Polish Defendants had agreed to English law jurisdiction in this long running, high value legal saga. Roman is first and foremost a civil advocate with a wealth of experience in all aspects of civil law. He advises regularly on various aspects of English law with a Polish twist and often represents the interests of Polish nationals living here and in Poland. He regularly appears in the County Court in civil and probate related matters. Roman leads chambers’ Polish Client Services Initiative. Direct Access Roman is accredited to accept work under Direct access, also known as Public access, in suitable cases. In addition, Roman is certified by the Bar Standards Board to conduct litigation, which means that he can carry out a wide range of services. In order to instruct Roman on a Direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
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Introduction Introduction Sandip specialises in cross border civil and commercial dispute resolution, fraud, white collar crime, and regulatory proceedings. He represents individuals, businesses and Governments in complex disputes with an overlap between civil and criminal laws especially in the areas of fraud, corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, and asset recovery. In the “Leading silks” list, The Legal 500 United Kingdom guide to outstanding silks nationwide said this about him, “He has a pleasing and reassuring courtroom manner”, “a very good all-round advocate, who is quick on his feet in court”. Described as “a truly exceptional lawyer with a phenomenal eye for detail”. Exclusive IR advisor for White Collar Crime in England since 2020. IR Global is a multi-disciplinary professional services network that provides legal, accountancy, financial advice to companies and individuals around the world.
SanMari enjoys diverse practice with particular focus upon commercial and regulatory disputes.
She is regularly instructed to advise on and represent clients in relation to a range of commercial, property and housing, planning and licencing disputes, and court of protection matters.
SanMari's work includes advice given in relation to matters concerning the interpretation and performance of commercial contracts, building works contracts, the title to and ownership of property, and to both the duties owed by property owners (including private landlords and Local Authorities) property managers, and proceedings for possession of property.
SanMari's growing Court of Protection practice instructions often overlap the use of the High Court's inherent jurisdiction permitting Local Authorities the power to deprive children form their liberty to ensure their protection and proper care.
SanMari has extensive experience of heavy litigation and complex disputes, both domestic and international.
She has a busy court practice, she receives instructions to appear in trials, and has experience of handling both lay and expert witnesses. She also appears in appeals, CMCs and interlocutory hearings.
She is instructed in the High Court and County Court, and has acted in arbitration claims under a range of procedural rules.
Sapna is a family law barrister of 15 years’ experience specialising in aspects of private children law and financial relief. She is Resolution-accredited.
Sapna combines her deep knowledge of the law with a key ability to get to the root of problems. She is able quickly to gain her clients’ confidence by being approachable and sensitive. Clients comment often that Sapna is a good listener and is able to explain complex issues clearly to them.
Sapna is driven to constantly look for innovative ways to secure outcomes in her clients’ best interests, which might involve thinking outside the box. If disputes do reach court hearings, she will fearlessly advance her client’s case. She has been described recently by an opponent as “simply brilliant” in her non-hostile approach to skilfully settling a serious matter without taking it to final hearing and thereby saving both parties thousands of pounds in legal fees.
She has represented both sides in different disputes (complainant and victim; or higher earners in finance cases), which means she can anticipate arguments and see the other side’s perspective to help resolve disputes.
Sapna is a trained mediator. In any dispute, particularly those involving financial relief, she looks to settle matters before advising clients to go the court route, to save time and money and unnecessary stress. She has well-honed skills in negotiating agreements between the parties in dispute, whether it be to do with contact or with finances.
Sapna has a particular interest in assisting vulnerable adult clients to make sure their voices are heard. She has won praise for advising and representing adults with various mental health conditions to secure the best legal outcomes. She is currently signed up to the vulnerable witness training programme to refine her skills when dealing with vulnerable people.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Adoption Care & Supervision Child Abduction Child Arrangement Divorce Family Family Finance & Property Financial Provision Forced Marriage Molestation & Occupation Public Relocation Internal and Abroad Expertise: immigration and asylum law: judicial reviews; EEA Regulations; Ankara Agreement; ECHR; deportation. Public law: licensing; community care; age assessments; care proceedings; wardship and cross border disputes (particularly Indian Sub Continent); child abduction. Housing and landlord and tenant. Family law: forced marriages; Children Act proceedings; financial remedy. Seema is a seasoned human rights and public law practitioner with a particular focus on all aspects of immigration, judicial review, nationality and asylum issues. She regularly challenges the decisions of the Secretary of State at all levels., including appeals. Her client’s include private individuals, colleges, sponsors, businesses and OISC organisations who instruct her either on an individual or consultancy basis. Seema has a solid reputation as a tenacious advocate who leaves no stone unturned in working towards achieving the best result for each and every client. She is regularly in the Upper Tribunal instructed on errror of law and JR hearings. She is known for her eye in spotting the telling point of law and regularly provides updating seminars and training as part of her commitment to her specialist areas of expertise. Her commitment to public law issues embraces the areas of social housing, community care, wardship and care proceedings. Due to her strong multi-disciplinary practice she is able to provide a complete advice to her clients. Once instructed she is often retained by her clients who are always impressed by not just her commitment but also her success. Recent Notable Case: Re: K [2013] Court of Appeal, Lady Justice Black granted permission to appeal against the making of a care and placement order. In the years preceding full time practice at the Bar Seema worked for various charities and NGOs namely the Centre for Social Research, based in Delhi which is solely aimed at female empowerment and tackles a range of human rights abuses within India. She trained the trainers of the police personnel based in Delhi on issues surrounding domestic violence and helped them to recognise the importance of issues relating to enforcement of the Protection Against Domestic Violence Bill, which made domestic violence a crime in 2002; Permission for judicial review granted on 18 March 2015 by HHJ Worster in the case of R (on the application of) Okwara v Secretary of State for the Home Department. Direct Access Seema is accredited to accept work under direct access, also known as public access, in suitable cases. She is a hot favourite for direct access work as she is able to build a rapport and a relationship of trust and confidence very quickly. She also, very often, obtains excellent results. In order to instruct Seema on a direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at [email protected].
Shakeel is a specialist criminal practitioner who has over 18 years experience dealing with all aspects of criminal work. He was called to the Bar in 1999 since which he has defended in a wide range of cases including murder, kidnap, blackmail, armed robbery and terrorism. He has acted as junior counsel in a number of complex and high profile murder cases including R –v- Davis, a case that eventually led to Parliament passing the Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Act 2008. In addition to serious violent crime, Shakeel has successfully defended in multi-handed drugs cases, high-value frauds and sexual offences. Shakeel was part of the Lifer Prisoners Scheme Group providing lectures whose aim was to raise awareness of the criminal justice system. He is a member of the Howard League for Penal Reform and Amnesty International. Recent Cases R –v- Y & Others - Junior Counsel in a multi-handed fraud trial that concerned the setting up of bogus companies as a front for the sale of high-end stolen computer equipment. R –v- C & Others - Successful defence in a multi-handed criminal conspiracy alleging money laundering of the proceeds of international drug dealing. R –v- AA & Others - Successful defence of 17-year old male on trial for concealing a murder weapon. He was charged with 6 other men all of whom were charged with murder. R –v- A Court of Appeal, Criminal Division R –v- W & Others - Large conspiracy involving ten defendants concerned in the supply of class A drugs. Evidence consisted of telephone cell site evidence and under-cover surveillance. R –v- RB & Others - Joint-enterprise gang killing. Acquitted of murder and firearm offences. Found guilty of manslaughter. Evidence largely based on CCTV and cell site. R –v- RM & Others - Conspiracy to Supply Class A and B drugs by prisoners at HMP Pentonville via a prison officer. Evidence based on intercepted telephone conversations and correspondence. R – v – RS & Others - Allegations of kidnap, false imprisonment, robbery and grievous bodily harm. Eight-handed trial where two rival gangs were running cut-throat defence. Shakeel has acted as junior counsel in a number of complex and high profile murder cases including R –v- Davis, a case that eventually led to Parliament passing the Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Act 2008. In addition to serious violent crime, Shakeel has successfully defended in multi-handed drugs cases, high-value frauds and sexual offences. Shakeel was also part of the Lifer Prisoners Scheme Group providing lectures whose aim was to raise awareness of the criminal justice system.
Sharmila was called to the Bar in 1997 having obtained a BSc (Hons) in Cell and Molecular Biology at Kings College, University of London. Initially Sharmila practiced as a solicitor and was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors where she specialised in criminal advocacy defending the full range of criminal offences. She obtained her Higher Rights Qualification in 2010 and since then has practised on a consultancy basis for a number of high-profile specialist criminal firms primarily in the Crown Court. In addition to her Court appearances Sharmila has had a long-standing interest in prisoners' rights including successfully conducting Judicial Review cases to challenge unjust practices. She represented "prisoners in denial" in HMP Frankland where prisoners were denied access to IT resulting in a change of policy so that litigants in person were granted access to IT under Article 6 of the Human Rights Act Sharmila assisted in setting up a prison law department during her period in Olliers Solicitors Manchester follow the landmark case of R v Oyston (challenging the refusal of the Parole Board to grant parole to prisoners who maintain their innocence). Sharmila has published articles in the Guardian and has appeared on programmes such as "Newsnight" to raise awareness of prisoner's rights and to encourage discussion regarding discrimination by the Prison Service to "prisoners in denial" Recent Cases R V WJ Section 18. Successful acquittal where the Defendant who was blind in one eye repeatedly stamped on the complainant’s face causing a fracture to the eye socket. Self defence raised. R v SO Defendant and 4 others charged with kidnap which was fully captured on CCTV. Following robustly challenged hearsay applications under s116(d) and applications to treat the complainant as hostile, the Crown offered an alternative count of affray which resulted in a community order. R v SE Looting Hackney riots case where Defendant was convicted of burglary after trial but given a suspended sentence order. R v MF Successful acquittal of Director of an international marketing company charged with digital penetration with a female alleged to have taken place in the Jacuzzi of a private health club covered by CCTV.
Expertise: property, company, contract, insolvency. personal injury. Simon has an established practice focusing on civil litigation court and advisory work – from complex contract and company claims, to property and landlord and tenant disputes. Simon regularly advises the owners of small to medium sized businesses on supplier and customer disputes, company structure and directors duties. As a business owner himself, he understands the needs and demands on a business at a practical level. Significant cases: Taylor (Liquidator) v Ziya [2012] BPIR 1283; Grosvenor Estates Belgravia v Laidley [2010] BPIR 1090; Martin-Sklan v White [2007] BPIR 76; Ellis (T/A Autospray) v King [2005] CLY 399; Roberts v The State [2003] 5 LRC 1, PC.
Profile Stephen is Professor of Employment Law and Head of School at Coventry University Law School with over 25 years experience in HE. His expertise is in: TUPE; dismissals; discrimination; trade union litigation; and, judicial review. Stephen graduated from UCL in Law in 1993 (LLB (Hons)) and thereafter, gained a PhD (Law) in 1997 on TUPE, and he was called to the Bar of England and Wales by Lincolns Inn in 2005. He practised until 2014, during which time he had been appointed AG Regional Counsel, Preferred Panel Counsel of the EHRC and acted in landmark cases, such as USDAW v. Woolworths [2012]; Greenwood v. NWF Ltd [2011]; Bateman v. ASDA Stores Ltd; [2010]; Remploy Ltd; v. Shaw [2009]; Oakland v. Wellswood (Yorkshire) Ltd; [2009]. Since 2011 he has been a fee-paid Tribunal Judge in the Social Entitlement Chamber and was recently assigned to the Employment Tribunal. He is a former General Editor of Sweet and Maxwell's Encyclopedia on Employment Law. He is currently an Executive Committee Member of the UK's Society of Legal Scholars, a convenor of the Civil Procedure Doctrinal Study Group of the International Association of Law Schools and an academic panel member of the Administrative Justice Council.
Introduction
Stephen’s practice covers public law, professional discipline and civil liberties. Stephen appears regularly in court in trials, application hearings and disposal hearings.
Stephen has a strong commitment to access to justice and regularly represents individuals on a legal aid basis. His commitment extends beyond his work in court. In the aftermath of the Grenfell fire, Stephen volunteered with the Citizens Advice Grenfell Response Team which provided legal advice to the Grenfell survivors on a range of issues, such as housing and welfare benefits. Prior to coming to the Bar, Stephen volunteered with the Lambeth Law Centre and has been involved with various projects which seek to address systemic barriers to access to justice.
Stephen is a member of the Attorney General’s Junior Junior scheme. He drafts statements of case and assists with disclosure exercises for a range of government departments. Stephen worked for a number of years at the Government Legal Department where he managed his own caseload of judicial review claims in the Upper Tribunal and Administrative Court.
Stephen holds an LLM in Human Rights from UCL. He completed his thesis on the lawfulness and effectiveness of ‘suspicion-less’ stop and search (distinction). Stephen has a very strong interest in the relationship between the criminal process and human rights, particularly in relation to policing.
Stephen combines his practice with campaigning on matters relating to equality and systemic discrimination. He recently worked on an oral history project with the Bernie Grant Trust called ‘Marginalised No More’, exploring how the black community in the UK during the 1970s/1980s responded to various forms of inequality.
Susan is an Irish qualified practising barrister specialising in arbitration, regulation and sports law. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and an arbitrator at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Susan was recently appointed by the Irish Government to the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) Panel of Conciliators. Susan has over 20 years’ experience in sports law practice, sports administration and regulation leadership roles, including representing clients and sitting as an independent decision maker in disciplinary, conduct and commercial cases before national and international tribunals. Susan has served as Arbitrator in cases involving sport, commercial and insurance matters, conducting both institutional and ad hoc arbitrations. In England and Wales, Susan is an arbitrator and provides arbitration services.
Dr Mahmood has a broad commercial litigation and arbitration practice covering a wide range of contractual, property and public law disputes. His work includes a particular emphasis on company, insolvency and property matters, as well as complex commercial disputes generally.
Introduction Tom is a seasoned advocate in the criminal and civil courts. He has conducted trials involving serious violence and public disorder, firearms, aggravated arson, aggravated burglary, armed robbery, rape, child cruelty, money laundering, drugs supply, and perverting the course of justice. He both prosecutes and defends. Tom is an experienced Courts Martial advocate. He is fully security vetted and is a popular choice for cases of a particularly sensitive nature. Tom undertakes cases where there is a multidisciplinary element involving both criminal and civil courts such as asset tracing, cash forfeiture and asset recovery, including claims under the Proceeds of Crime 2002. Tom advises and appears in Police Disciplinary Tribunals and is fully aware of the regulatory framework governing police conduct. He is experienced in civil actions against the police and in other areas involving civil injury claims. Tom is known for his approachability. He is in demand for his calm and effective advocacy and his ability to communicate with both clients and juries in a way that ensures the best outcome for each client in all the circumstances of the case.
Prior to joining chambers, Tom was a barrister in New Zealand, practising mainly in divorce, wills & trusts. He gathered extensive experience quickly, frequently appearing in the District Court, Family Court and the High Court of New Zealand. He also drafted written submissions in the New Zealand Court of Appeal.
Tom started practising in England in 2019 and has quickly built himself a Family and Family Property practice. He specialises in financial remedies, co-habitation, wills, trusts (especially in matrimonial settings), Schedule 1 of the Children Act matters, Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act matters and Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act matters.
He also has experience in private child law, having dealt with common parental disputes, all the way to contested hearings involving serious allegations of child sex abuse. Tom also has experience in property and general civil matters, from land and property disputes to insolvency.
In England, Tom has frequently appeared in the Family Court, County Court, High Court and has drafted written submissions in the Civil Division of the Court of Appeal.
Due to completing his Master of Laws (LLM) there in 2019, Tom has a strong relationship with King’s College London. He provides multiple pro bono annual workshops for law students, including workshops for witness handling and mooting skills.
Keen to give back to the next generation, Tom is the proud founder and funder of the Gilchrist Grant. The Grant consists of scholarships awarded annually to students from King’s College London who seek to pursue a career at the Bar.
Tope is an experienced advocate, appearing regularly in various courts and tribunals. She specialises in professional discipline, regulation and international arbitration. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a dual qualified barrister (England and Wales and Nigeria), Tope acts as arbitrator and counsel in disputes. She is a member of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce International Arbitration Centre’s panel of neutrals (LACIAC), the CIArb’s Business Arbitration Scheme and she receives appointments as an adjudicator under CEDR’s RICS and CISAS schemes. Tope has broad expertise in professional disciplinary work, particularly regarding matters before the NMC, ACCA, ICAEW and the BSB. She conducts lengthy substantive hearings in addition to appearing at the interim order and interim order review stage. Her regulatory practice includes financial services. As a former Financial Ombudsman, she has extensive experience of retail banking disputes, Consumer Credit Act matters and financial mis-selling claims.
Victor Leginsky is a Chartered Arbitrator and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. He is certified as a mediator through the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (London) [CEDR] and works frequently in respect of mediation with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (London) [RICS] and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. He holds a JD (Juris Doctor) degree and a B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education), both from Canada. He has served as Arbitrator in about 100 cases, conducting both institutional and ad hoc arbitrations, and has conducted construction-related mediation. He confines his practice to that of a neutral (arbitrator / mediator), largely in construction and energy-related disputes. He is immediate past MENA Chapter Director of the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators (AIPN).
Victor is resident of and has been working in the Middle East for 12 years. He is Regional Pathway Leader for the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) and tutors Award Writing. He lectures frequently on dispute resolution in construction, oil and gas and general dispute resolution matters.
Victoria is a dual qualified Barrister (England & Wales) and Isle of Man Advocate. She commenced her career with a highly respected offshore law firm before moving to H.M. Attorney General’s Chambers in the Isle of Man. There she gained considerable experience in the field of international fraud and money laundering, with a significant proportion of her work involving investigating and prosecuting individuals and corporations accused of financial crime and bribery and corruption by foreign government agencies. Other core duties included negotiating, drafting, and advising on an assortment of commercial contracts for the provision of public services and providing advice to all Departments, Statutory Boards and Offices of the Isle of Man Government in relation to commercial and public law issues. Additional experience includes representing banks and liquidators in winding up proceedings and claims against former company directors for fraud and breaches of fiduciary duty. Since returning to London in 2017, Victoria continues to be instructed by a wide range of commercial and private clients in cases involving insolvency, intellectual property, and financial services litigation. Recent instructions have included disputes relating to the mis-selling of financial products and the enforceability of lending facilities. Victoria also undertakes divorce and ancillary relief work in addition to private law child matters involving contact and residence, and represents local authorities, parents and children in care proceedings.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE Advising Regulators Crime Defence Defending Professionals Drugs Employment Financial Crime & Fraud Health & Safety Inquests International Criminal Law International Human Rights Law International Law Police Discipline Professional Discipline Professional Negligence Regulatory Removal & Deportation Sexual Offences Violent Crime Introduction A specialist in professional discipline, inquests and criminal defence. She appears regularly before the major healthcare regulators defending in serious and high profile regulatory prosecutions. Her Crown Court Criminal defence practice includes a whole spectrum of serious and sensitive criminal cases. She has appeared as leading counsel in a multi-handed conspiracy and is particular adept at defending in criminal cases involving expert witnesses. A persuasive, skilled and tenacious advocate, she has been praised for her compassionate approach with clients and meticulous preparation, both by professional and lay clients. Areas of Specialism Professional Discipline & Regulatory Law Her major area of practice is that of Professional Discipline with particular expertise in the healthcare field. She is instructed on a regular basis to act on behalf of regulated professionals before bodies. Cases she has been instructed on high profile, sensitive and complex cases including cases involving serious allegations of patient abuse, sexual misconduct and factually complex allegations. She has represented regulated professionals in cases which involve dishonesty, patient deaths, data loss. She has a particular expertise in representing registrants with learning disabilities, whistle blowers and registrants who have been the the victims of bullying and harassment. She has extensive experience handling experts in examination and cross-examination. She also has considerable experience in financial regulation and has advised and represented individuals and companies regulated by the FCA in disputes involving permission to conduct regulated activities. Criminal Defence She is a specialist criminal defence practitioner. She has extensive experience defending in cases involving drugs, serious violence, sexual offences and fraud. International Law From 2011-2013 she was part of a team of lawyers involved in ongoing work with Peace Brigades International on Colombia. She was part of a team of barristers who submitted an Amicus brief to the Supreme Court of Colombia on the San Jose de Apartado case. She provided the expertise on the principles of attributing liability in international humanitarian law. Protest Law Wafa has defended in numerous protest law cases. She successful represented a number of individuals facing criminal charges arising out of the DSEI protests. Her clients were protesting against an arms fair being held in the London and Wafa successfully raised a defence based on the right to protest and peaceful assembly under the ECHR. Wafa has also represented protestors when criminal charges have been brought against them for breaching lesser known regulations designed to protect monuments or protected spaces. For example she defended protestors who had been charged with breaching the Stonehenge Regulations. She was successful in having a majority of the offences dismissed and secured conditional discharges in respect of the remaining matters. Other Work Recent publication include: Contributed Chapter on England and Wales to Rechtshilferecht in Strafsachen (2014). Edited byKai Ambos (Hrsg.) / Peter Rackow (Hrsg.). Currently writing the update. Fast Track Extradition at the expense of justice?’, Magistrates’ Magazine, February 2010, p4-5 (co-authored with Catherine Heard, Former Head of Policy at Fair Trials International). ‘The Promise of International Criminal Justice: The key components of the new era of international criminal accountability and the International Criminal Court’, JUSTICE Journal, Vol. 6(1), May 2009, p8-27. Before being called to the Bar, she was a Legal Caseworker at Fair Trials International. She represented individuals facing trial in a country other than their own. As part of her role she worked with legal terms around the world for fair trial rights to be upheld in individual cases and conducted policy and campaigning work to aid systemic change within countries. She drafted interventions, submitted applications to the regional human rights tribunals (including the ECHR) and provided advice and assistance to pro-bono lawyers representing individuals in high court and Supreme Court.
CRIMINAL PRACTICE
Ylenia regularly defends and prosecutes in the Crown Court, Magistrates' Court and Youth Court.
Ylenia is developing a fraud practice. She has defended and prosecuted in fraud cases. She is currently on a part-time secondment at the Serious Fraud Office.
Ylenia has been appointed to the Government Legal Department’s Junior Junior Panel of Counsel and is also a member of the CPS Advocate Panel Scheme (level 1).
HUMAN RIGHTS
Ylenia has advised on human rights aspects of prison law and judicial reviews. She is often instructed to represent clients with mental health concerns. She has experience in cases involving serious crime, extradition, appeals, fraud, youths and driving offences.
CIVIL PRACTICE
Ylenia has advised on matters of jurisdiction in large scale international trade disputes. She is keen on developing a civil fraud practice and has been led on numerous civil fraud cases. Ylenia has also defended and represented claimants in personal injury claims.
BACKGROUND
Ylenia obtained an LLM in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. Accordingly, she advises on points of law relating to Human Rights. Having worked and studied in civil, common law and international jurisdictions, she has a keen interest in cases with an international element.
Ylenia worked for criminal defence solicitors in their appeals and prison law departments, representing prisoners at independent adjudications and advising on points of appeal against conviction and sentence in cases of murder, serious drug and sexual offences, often incorporating Human Rights issues, in particular fair trial rights.
Ylenia spent time working in The Hague at the Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Tribunal of Former Yugoslavia on the case of Prosecutor v. Radovan Karadžić, who was convicted of genocide. She also worked for the University of Essex Human Rights Clinic as a legal researcher investigating international corporate accountability for human rights abuses.
Ylenia also spent time teaching prisoners at HMP Pentonville. This experience developed an interest in prison law matters and gave her a special understanding of the needs of those in custody; and knowledge of prison procedures, rules and bodies.
Zahra has developed a successful practice encompassing regulatory and public law.
In addition to her public and regulatory practice, Zahra has been appointed as a Commissioner of the Criminal Cases Review Commission by Her Majesty the Queen. The Commission is an official independent body that investigates potential miscarriages of justice.
Zahra commenced her legal career at the Criminal Bar after having trained in-house at a criminal defence firm. She has prosecuted and defended a range of offences. She is currently instructed by the Serious Fraud Office in relation to a complex and high value investment fraud. Although her practice has diversified into other areas outside of crime, Zahra’s background has honed her oratory skills, a skillset she continues to utilise with robustness and precision when appearing before a range of tribunals, committees and courts as part of her multidisciplinary practice.
Introduction
Zahra has developed a successful practice encompassing regulatory and public law.
In addition to her public and regulatory practice, Zahra has been appointed as a Commissioner of the Criminal Cases Review Commission by Her Majesty the Queen. The Commission is an official independent body that investigates potential miscarriages of justice.
Zahra commenced her legal career at the Criminal Bar after having trained in-house at a criminal defence firm. She has prosecuted and defended a range of offences. She is currently instructed by the Serious Fraud Office in relation to a complex and high value investment fraud. Although her practice has diversified into other areas outside of crime, Zahra’s background has honed her oratory skills, a skillset she continues to utilise with robustness and precision when appearing before a range of tribunals, committees and courts as part of her multidisciplinary practice.
Regulatory
Zahra has a particular expertise in the regulation of health care professionals. She provides legal advice and recommendations on the disposal of cases, in order to assist regulators in discharging the duty to protect the public. Zahra presents cases before professional disciplinary panels on a range of allegations, including dishonesty, sexual misconduct, clinical failings, and health. She also appears in the High Court on Interim Order matters.
Zahra has delivered Fitness to Practise training to professional clients.
Public Inquiries
Zahra has experience of working on public inquiries. She has been instructed as a junior member of the Counsel team to the Undercover Policing Inquiry.
Immigration
Zahra’s experience covers the full spectrum of immigration law, ranging from business immigration cases under the Points Based System through to human rights and asylum cases. She is also instructed in relation to judicial review matters. She has appeared frequently in the First Tier and Upper Tribunal.