Pump Court Tax Chambers offers expertise in the full scope of private client tax matters, including succession planning, offshore advisory work, Chancery court work, and, increasingly, tax issues in the sports context. The set has further strength in contentious matters, and acts for both HMRC and private individuals. William Massey KC covers matters related to trusts, land, and landed estates, and is described as ‘the preeminent go-to capital taxes silk.’ Kevin Prosser KC is highly active in litigation, with notable cases including acting for the taxpayer in Euromoney v HMRC, a tax avoidance case before the First Tier Tribunal. James Rivett KC acts for high profile and high net worth individuals both in complex advisory matters and before the courts, including acting on behalf of Gary Lineker in proceedings relating to the tax treatment of his broadcasting roles at the BBC and BT Sport.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
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.
‘He is a very strong advocate - not flamboyant but effective and to the point. Very focused on the points in issue. Closely listened to by judges. Plans ahead for appeals in ensuring facts are brought out at first instance.’
‘William is absolutely at the top of his game. He gives very thoughtful, experienced and realistic advice. He is extremely client friendly.’
‘Kevin is extraordinarily able at grasping all the facts of a matter very quickly and finding the answer which solves the problem and then implementing that solution.’
‘The breadth of his experience and technical knowledge makes his conclusions very reassuring.’
'Giles not only has the clear mind and analytical skills to be expected, he is extremely good at communicating complex matters to clients and others.'
‘Richard has a deep learning in the law, and he is a thoughtful and technically accomplished tax lawyer.’
‘Responsive, technically excellent, respected by clients, solution-driven and very clear in his opinions.’
2023 Silks
'Michael is extremely insightful at complex transactions and nuanced arguments. He is quick to establish the challenges and opportunities with a particular case.'
‘Michael is extremely insightful at complex transactions and nuanced arguments. He is quick to establish the challenges and opportunities with a particular case.’
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.
‘Emma has an unparalleled in-depth knowledge of UK taxation of individuals and HMRC practice. Emma's ability to analyse detailed and complex fact scenarios and provide useful guidance is unparalleled.’
'Tom is great. Written and oral advocacy very good - deals adeptly and eloquently with questions from judge. Also, a real creative thinker.'
‘Incredibly hard-working and intelligent. Has a unique ability to explain extremely complex legal points in a very straightforward way during advocacy. Ben is not afraid to be confrontational and punchy when the situation requires it.’
'Jeremy is both technically excellent and very engaged, meaning he applies himself to the client's facts and really brings together his tax skills to their needs.'
'Barbara is excellent. She combines technical expertise with a very good client manner. She has a confident and punchy advocacy style which judges respond positively to.'
‘Charles has an excellent and thoughtful approach that clients appreciate. He is concise and gets to the point quickly. Matters have always been resolved to the satisfaction of all.’
‘Oliver is a very technical barrister who explores the details of the tax legislation and considers all possibilities. He is also commercial and gives incredibly helpful advice.’
‘Laura’s advice is extremely clear. She takes her clients through the options and potential outcomes of complex tax situations in a clear and comprehensible manner.’
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.
‘Emma has an unparalleled in-depth knowledge of UK taxation of individuals and HMRC practice. Emma's ability to analyse detailed and complex fact scenarios and provide useful guidance is unparalleled.’
'Tom is great. Written and oral advocacy very good - deals adeptly and eloquently with questions from judge. Also, a real creative thinker.'
‘Incredibly hard-working and intelligent. Has a unique ability to explain extremely complex legal points in a very straightforward way during advocacy. Ben is not afraid to be confrontational and punchy when the situation requires it.’
'Jeremy is both technically excellent and very engaged, meaning he applies himself to the client's facts and really brings together his tax skills to their needs.'
'Barbara is excellent. She combines technical expertise with a very good client manner. She has a confident and punchy advocacy style which judges respond positively to.'
‘Charles has an excellent and thoughtful approach that clients appreciate. He is concise and gets to the point quickly. Matters have always been resolved to the satisfaction of all.’
‘Oliver is a very technical barrister who explores the details of the tax legislation and considers all possibilities. He is also commercial and gives incredibly helpful advice.’
‘Laura’s advice is extremely clear. She takes her clients through the options and potential outcomes of complex tax situations in a clear and comprehensible manner.’