Civil Liberties & Human Rights

Tom Cross often appears unled in key civil liberties and human rights cases. His broad practice encompasses prison law, complex judicial reviews and significant claims for damages, with a particular focus on religious expression. He acts for both claimants and defendants, including individuals, regulatory bodies and the UK and Welsh governments.

Christopher Knight is a well-regarded barrister whose broad civil liberties and human rights practice is enhanced by his complementary expertise in administrative and public law, data protection and EU law. He has been involved in important constitutional law cases in addition to challenges to the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jason Coppel KC tackles a broad array of cutting-edge human rights work, both in the British courts and in the ECtHR. Since taking silk, his practice has shifted towards claimant-side instructions; he represents NGOs and individuals in challenges to amendments of the Ministerial Code and in issues of jurisdiction, construction and human rights law relating to NHS contracts.

Philippe Sands KC in an experienced international human rights silk. He is noted for his skill in claims before the European Court of Human Rights and the International Court of Justice.

Joanne Clement KC is highly regarded for her adroit representation of both claimant and defendant clients, often in landmark human rights cases. Her comprehensive offering covers areas such as privacy rights, religious freedoms and deaths in detention. She is increasingly recognised for her work in deprivation of liberty cases.

Aileen McColgan KC has a strong human rights practice, taking in issues of gender identity, equality, privacy and a host of other issues.

Cecilia Ivimy is an experienced civil liberties and human rights barrister whose clients include central government, local authorities and public sector unions. Her recent cases have included matters relating to exit payment regulations, COVID travel restrictions and government guidance in relation to care homes. Cecilia is a member of the Attorney General’s A Panel.

Hannah Slarks is an experienced junior with a broad civil liberties practice. She has a particular specialism in handling discrimination and freedom of expression claims.

Ruth Kennedy has gained in prominence in the human rights sphere and is experienced in a variety of cases, including those touching on environmental and equality law.

Stephen Kosmin has acted in numerous important judicial reviews and other challenges concerning human rights issues, such as privacy and access to welfare.