Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Social Housing - London (Bar)

3
Band 3

What the Team is Known For

42 Bedford Row is a well-respected set with strong expertise in social housing. The social housing team advises local authorities, housing associations, social landlords and private individuals. The barristers work on a wide range of housing mandates, including disrepair, antisocial behaviour, homelessness and allocation issues, and possession and eviction proceedings. A market source says: "42BR Barristers has a good range of barristers that are very knowledgeable with a good skill set." Another states that the members take an "incredibly analytical, thought-based approach in progressing a case." A particular work highlight for the year is Richmond Housing Partnership v Caleeb Yakub-Hughes, a mandatory possession proceedings.

Stuart Ritchie is the senior practice manager.

Strengths

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Notable Practitioners

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Desmond Kilcoyne
2
Desmond Kilcoyne
2
Band 2

An established junior barrister with considerable expertise in property law, Desmond Kilcoyne focuses his practice on representing local authorities in social housing matters. He is especially commended for his strengths in homelessness appeals and leasehold disputes.

Desmond is experienced, knowledgeable, an excellent advocate,

and works well with clients and witnesses.

Desmond is very reliable; he provides clear and precise advice on how to achieve the best outcome and is approachable, with a quick grasp of the issues.

2
Mathew McDermott
2
Band 2

Mathew McDermott is a respected junior barrister regularly instructed by both social housing tenants and landlords. He is an expert in judicial review proceedings, particularly those relating to homelessness.

Mathew is able to grasp the core issues in a difficult case quickly and offers pragmatic advice.

Mathew has exceptional knowledge in his field and a genuine interest and enthusiasm in the subject area.

Mathew is a phenomenal barrister, an excellent advocate and very knowledgeable in his area of practice.

Mathew's skeleton arguments are incredibly detailed and able to successfully assist matters before even proceeding to trial.

Iris Ferber
3
Iris Ferber
3
Band 3

Iris Ferber is an accomplished barrister who is well versed in acting for both landlords and tenants on a range of housing matters. She is particularly known for her ability to work with clients with mental health issues who are involved in homelessness appeals.

Iris is a force to be reckoned with. The level of detail and her skill in court is second to none.

Iris is an experienced advocate who has provided excellent training and is very approachable.

She is very knowledgeable and was able to understand a complex matter very quickly, getting to grips with key issues and achieving a good outcome for the client.

Niamh O'Brien
3
Niamh O'Brien
3
Band 3

Niamh O'Brien frequently handles housing discrimination and unlawful subletting mandates, as well as evictions and possession claims.

Niamh is a great advocate. Knowledgeable in her area of practice and very helpful, empathetic and professional.

One of my go-to barristers for complex matters.

Angela Piears
4
Angela Piears
4
Band 4

Angela Piears is highly expert at dealing with possession proceedings, particularly those involving antisocial behaviour issues. She has vast experience acting both for and against London councils.

A good advocate that fights for the best outcome for clients.

Angela is immensely intelligent and has the brain the size of a galaxy.

Angela has good oral and written communication skills. She is always prepared for hearings.

Angela is calm and reasoned in her approach and is fully aware of the issues facing social housing landlords today.

Ranked Barristers at
42BR Barristers

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Filter by
Band

Silks (KC)

London (Bar)

Social Housing

Iris Ferber KC
3
Iris Ferber KC
3
Band 3

Juniors

London (Bar)

Social Housing

Desmond Kilcoyne
2
Desmond Kilcoyne
2
Band 2
2
Mathew McDermott
2
Band 2
Niamh O'Brien
3
Niamh O'Brien
3
Band 3
Angela Piears
4
Angela Piears
4
Band 4