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(020) 7242 2902Chambers Review
5RB's barristers are capable of handling a range of complex cases brought under the Data Protection Act. The team offers substantial expertise in matters arising out of mass data breaches and also has experience advising on freedom of information requests. It is perhaps the strongest set in the market for claims brought against the media under both data protection and defamation or privacy law, as demonstrated by recent instructions in cases such as ZXC v Bloomberg. The barristers' varied client base encompasses media organisations, leading technology companies and high-profile individuals. A commentator highlights: "5RB has a strong selection of juniors and silks who are adept at handling contentious data protection matters."
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Andrew Love is the senior clerk and is both very effective and very responsive."
"The clerks are very responsive. They never keep you waiting."
"The clerks are responsive, easily contactable and a pleasure to work with."
"Their clerking is brilliant. Georgina Gills is excellent."
"Andrew Love is the senior clerk and is both very effective and very responsive."
"The clerks are very responsive. They never keep you waiting."
"The clerks are responsive, easily contactable and a pleasure to work with."
"Their clerking is brilliant. Georgina Gills is excellent."
Notable Practitioners
Jonathan Scherbel-Ball's practice runs the gamut of data protection and information law functions, from representation in disputes to regulatory guidance. He acts for public bodies, broadcasters and others in data processing claims and challenges to the activities of journalists brought under the DPA.
"Jonathan is the full package - his responsiveness and ability to turn work around quickly without compromising on clients' commercial needs is remarkable."
"Jonathan is on top of data protection litigation. He is a technical lawyer and a good draftsman."
"He is outstandingly good, outstandingly clever and treats clients with a great deal of respect. No one comes close to his advocacy and legal abilities."
Clara Hamer cultivates a strong practice across the spectrum of information law, data protection, media and defamation matters, with a client base comprising high-profile publishers and broadcasters, as well as public sector entities. She brings to bear a valuable affinity for transatlantic and US-based media and information law cases.
"Clara is an exceptionally talented young junior. She is very bright and very practical."
"Clara is good at detail and is a joy to work with."
Jacob Dean is highly adept at representing either side in Data Protection Act breach of statutory duty cases involving public authorities, and in multi-jurisdictional litigation. His wider experience encompasses the full suite of data protection claims, as well as associated privacy, harassment and defamation issues.
"He is a solid pair of hands."
Aidan Eardley KC is adept at representing clients ranging from public authorities and government departments to large corporations and data controllers, in information law matters at every level of the courts. He demonstrates a particular flair for cases arising in the media sector, in which he acts for both claimants and defendants.
"Aidan is one of the experts in data protection law. He is incredibly astute, providing clarity of thought and sound advice."
"Aidan is a real asset. His analysis is top-class."
Felicity McMahon Felicity McMahon is regularly called upon by clients to advise on data protection matters in the context of the media and communications sector, alongside parallel defamation, privacy and harassment issues. She is a prolific writer on the topic of data privacy and defamation, and a skilled adviser on data-related regulatory requirements.
Greg Callus is a highly regarded barrister who has prior experience of having acted both in-house and as a judicial assistant. His broad practice encompasses topical data protection and privacy concerns such as the right to be forgotten, and sees him advising at every stage from pre-action advice to claims, defences and counterclaims under the DPA. Callus acts for both claimants and defendants, and he counts a number of media broadcasters and publishing houses among his clients.
"Greg is a charming and creative advocate."
Kate Wilson is a well-known media specialist barrister who acts in a wide range of privacy and data protection cases. She has a strong following among public sector bodies, whom she advises and represents in relation to data retention, use and breaches, and freedom of information matters.
"Kate is very good."
Ben Hamer is noted for his work in GDPR breach and misuse of private information claims, including before the High Court and Court of Appeal.
"Ben provides practical advice and is not afraid to go heavy in cross-examination when needed. He is very considered and thorough in both his oral and written advocacy."
"He is great to work with. Ben always meets deadlines. He is a very bright junior."