Farringdon Chambers ‘has become a go-to set’ for criminal cases and is noted for its ’real presence in cases at the Old Bailey‘. Head of chambers Ian Henderson KC practises exclusively in criminal defence, with an emphasis on cases involving murder and sexual offences charges. Fellow silk Claire Davies KC has considerable experience in multi-handed gang murder trials, including those heard at the Old Bailey. Martin McCarthy KC, who took silk in April 2024, has been described as a ’stellar performer who was made for silks robes’, impressing particularly for his advocacy style and tactical acumen. Turning to the set’s juniors, Graham Arnold, known for his ‘tactical awareness’ and client care skills, has a varied practice covering matters involving homicide, drugs, and terrorism offences.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The clerks are extremely helpful at all times, in particular Bob Archer who is always on hand to assist.'
  • 'Bob Archer the senior clerk is exceptional.'
  • 'Bob Archer and Lloyd Hawkins are both knowledgeable about how courts operate and they are able to easily assess clients' and counsels' needs when approaching any particular matter.'
  • 'Bob Archer is at the top of his game. He maintains very good relationships with solicitors who are consistently impressed with the service he provides.'
  • 'Lloyd Hawkins is renowned for his ability to assist solicitors by allocating counsel appropriately and efficiently.'
  • 'Farringdon Chambers has become a go-to set . They have a real presence in cases at the Central Criminal Court.'
  • 'Farringdon Chambers is a well-respected set of criminal chambers.'
  • 'Farringdon Chambers is an excellent set for criminal counsel. They have a good range of barristers of varying call.'

Silks

Leading Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
Ian Henderson KC
1
Ian Henderson KC
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Ian is an excellent lawyer and advocate. He is thorough in his preparation and precise in his cross-examination. Ian's affable personality and down-to-earth approach is particularly effective with juries. He is well respected by both the Bar and Bench.'
Claire Davies KC
4
Claire Davies KC
Farringdon Chambers
‘Claire is a clear, focused and tactically astute advocate who has a direct style which cuts to the key issues. She has the ability to strip away irrelevant arguments and facts and set out clear submissions which are persuasive and compelling. She combines a razor-sharp focus with compassionate client-care. She is able to get the best out of those around her and put the best case for the client.’
2024 Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
Martin McCarthy KC
Martin McCarthy KC
Farringdon Chambers
'Martin is a superb barrister. He is a wise and considered practitioner who shows great judgement in which battles to pick. He has a delightful court manner which charms judges and juries alike as well as a steely resolve. Martin is a stellar performer who was made for silk robes.'

Juniors

Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
Ioana Nedelcu
2
Ioana Nedelcu
Farringdon Chambers
‘Ioana is a remarkable junior. She is exceptionally hard-working, articulate, driven and determined. She is fearless but shows excellent judgement and has a kindness and compassion with clients that is hard to match.'
Graham Arnold
2
Graham Arnold
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Graham is an excellent lawyer who produces first-class written work and is very helpful and supportive to work with. He is hard-working and a highly competent advocate.'
Molly Pinkus
2
Molly Pinkus
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Molly is a really passionate and intelligent advocate, who clearly cares for the client and the firm she is instructed by. She is easy to get on with and a great communicator.’
Greg Krieger
3
Greg Krieger
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Greg is the most calming and reassuring barrister around. He is robust and juries love him. It is a real pleasure to work with him. Clients know that Greg is 100% behind them and that having him onside makes an immeasurable difference. He is an iron fist in a velvet glove.'
Chris Whitehouse
3
Chris Whitehouse
Farringdon Chambers
‘Chris has a commendable ability to keep calm under pressure and to present focussed submissions that are attractive and easily digestible to a jury. He has an unruffled approach which stands him out from his peers, and his tactical abilities during the progress of a trial are first-rate. A seasoned and impressive performer.'
Ronnie Bergenthal
3
Ronnie Bergenthal
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Ronnie is the complete package as a barrister. He is very approachable and often on hand to discuss a case. He is excellent with clients and gives them confidence. His advocacy is extremely polished and smooth and it is often the case that his delivery of submissions to a judge are extremely well received and acknowledged.'
4
Karl Volz
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Karl is an expert in skilled cross-examination and a fine orator. He is personable and well-liked by juries.'
4
Jack Jennett
Farringdon Chambers
 ‘Jack has an unbelievable knowledge of criminal law and is a great tactician when it comes to handling both complex criminal cases and clients during very stressful and challenging situations. His advocacy skills are excellent and are often praised by both judges and clients.’