Crime - Midlands (Bar)
Band 3
What the Team is Known For
Castle Gate Chambers is sought after by clients and solicitors for its expertise in the full range of criminal matters, from infant death to sexual crimes. The set is praised for its "excellence at all levels; there is always a barrister on-hand that has the required expertise for the needs of each case." Recent instructions for the set have included R v Singh, concerning a man who was found guilty of killing his mother.
Richard Pell is the senior clerk.
Strengths
Castle Gate Chambers has an exceptional clerking team who are always accessible.
The clerks are absolutely fantastic. They are honest, friendly and candid about any challenges, which makes them a pleasure to deal with.
Castle Gate Chambers clerks are an excellent team, with good communication.
Castle Gate clerks are exceptional. They are always accessible.
Notable practitioners
Andrew Vout KC is a well-respected silk, noted for his expertise in sensitive matters relating to serious and complex crimes. He is regularly instructed in cases related to murder and sexual offences.
Andrew Vout is an all-round excellent silk. He is well equipped to deal with all tribunals and involved in the details of matters, for the best quality advocacy.
Andrew's speeches are his real strong point. He is very easy to get on with.
Andrew is a measured advocate.
James Horne KC regularly acts for the defence on serious criminal matters. He is particularly noted for his expertise in murder and sexual offences.
James Horne is an excellent advocate with meticulous preparation.
James is able to represent clients with such prowess and his preparation is stellar.
James has a remarkable work ethic, always two steps ahead.
Laura Hocknell is a well-regarded junior who is regularly instructed for both the prosecution and the defence. Her recent cases of note have included acting as lead counsel to prosecute a seven-handed drugs conspiracy, and defending a teenager charged with attempted murder.
Laura Hocknell brings a calm and persuasive manner that instils confidence in clients from the first conference.
Laura is an incredibly able and experienced senior junior. She is pragmatic in her approach and collegiate in her working. She is always well prepared and able to cut to the heart of any issues.
Laura is an excellent trial advocate, particularly in relation to sexual cases.
