Department profile
18 St John Street

Crime

UK Bar Guide 2026 : Northern (Bar)

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18 St John Street

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Crime - Northern (Bar)

Band 3

What the Team is Known For

18 St John Street is well regarded for its expertise in a variety of serious general crime matters, including murder, serious sexual offences and drugs. The set is praised for its "professionalism and ability to assist on short notice and their compassion and empathy with each case." Areas of significant strength for the team include complex fraud work and is regularly called upon to handle matters concerning organised crime. Recent instructions for the set have included R v Paul Green and Others, pertaining to a large Class A drugs importation matter.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The clerking team at 18 St John Street, notably James Hotchin, excel in providing speedy responses and quick resolutions to any issue.

    Crime respondentUK Bar

  • 18 St John Street has very helpful and knowledgeable clerks. They are all brilliant at what they do. James Hotchin has a great working relationship with local firms and goes the extra mile.

    Crime respondentUK Bar

  • 18SJS has very helpful clerks.

    Crime respondentUK Bar

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Richard Vardon
    Richard Vardon

    Richard Vardon

    Richard Vardon is an experienced advocate, accomplished in the prosecution and defence of serious criminal offences. He is regularly instructed in homicide, terrorism and sexual offences cases. He is also recognised for his expertise in drugs trafficking cases.

    • Richard has an amazing breadth of knowledge and experience.

      Crime respondentUK Bar
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  • Rachel Faux
    Rachel Faux

    Rachel Faux

    Rachel Faux is a noted junior who routinely acts in serious criminal cases, including sexual assaults and drugs matters. She has considerable experience of handling cases involving vulnerable or very young witnesses.

    • Rachel is very skilled at dealing with lay clients with complex needs and presenting complex arguments in court.

      Crime respondentUK Bar

    • Rachel is a superb advocate who is able to balance client needs and the issues in the case with ease.

      Crime respondentUK Bar

    • Rachel Faux is a fantastic advocate. She is very good at her job.

      Crime respondentUK Bar
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  • Rachel Shenton
    Rachel Shenton

    Rachel Shenton

    Rachel Shenton is a well-regarded criminal barrister with over 30 years' experience at the Bar, including time spent at the CPS. She has particular expertise in sexual offences as well as a strong homicide practice, acting for both the prosecution and defence.

    • Rachel Shenton is a very good advocate who is thorough in her work.

      Crime respondentUK Bar

    • Rachel Shenton is an exceptional advocate and lights up the courtroom. She genuinely cares about witnesses and clients and presents cases in a creative and intellectual way.

      Crime respondentUK Bar

    • Rachel is a superb advocate, she is able to maintain excellent communication and explains her reasoning for decisions being made: for this clients warm to her immediately.

      Crime respondentUK Bar
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  • Siobhan Grey
    Siobhan Grey

    Siobhan Grey

    Siobhan Grey KC is an accomplished advocate who frequently advises in organised crime and fraud matters. She is particularly adept at cases involving serious sexual offences as well as having notable experience handling homicide and other complex and serious crime.

    • Siobhan Grey KC is sensitive to clients' needs, a driving force in court and always available on the phone. She is a truly amazing KC who never lets you down.

      Crime respondentUK Bar
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Ranked Barristers at 18 St John Street (4)

Northern (Bar)

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