UK Bar Guide 2026 : South Eastern (Bar)
Ranked Barristers
Provided by Chambers
23 Essex Street Chambers is a well-regarded set with barristers who can "provide expertise in all areas of criminal law and at all levels." Members are instructed on high-profile sexual offences, murder cases and fraud-related matters for both prosecution and defence. Recent matters for the set have included a historic rape and sexual assault case which involved 60 counts of rape and sexual assault.
Wayne King is chambers director.
Provided by Chambers
The clerks at 23ES always go the extra mile.
The Clerks at 23ES are known for their courtesy and effectiveness, ensuring the court, the professional client and the barrister are fully informed.
Provided by Chambers
Alan Gardner KC focuses on prosecuting cases of violent crime, including those that involve sexual and firearms offences. He also has a significant understanding of complex fraud cases.
Alan Gardner is a really impressive jury advocate who is easy to work with.
Alan is an excellent barrister. He is understated but highly effective. His integrity is absolute.
Rhodri James is a very accomplished barrister who is frequently instructed on a variety of cases, including proceedings regarding sexual assault, fraud and violent crime. He has shown particular ability in defence work, achieving several high-profile acquittals in challenging cases.
Rhodri James is very thorough and great for heavyweight work and a silk in waiting.
Stephen Shay is a capable barrister who is regularly instructed to prosecute and defend serious cases such as homicide, complex fraud and sexual offences. He has further experience in the handling of people-smuggling cases and fraud offences. As a Grade 4 CPS prosecutor, he is also on the CPS specialist rape panel.
Stephen Shay is what a prosecutor should be. He is fair and considered.
James Bloomer KC is a highly regarded new silk who has in-depth experience dealing with very complex criminal cases involving such matters as serious sexual offences, money laundering and human trafficking. He is adept at acting in defence of clients and as a prosecutor.
James is a specialist with and excels when dealing with vulnerable clients, information-heavy and complicated cases.
James is thorough and diligent. He is all that you want from a barrister.
Crime
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