Public International Law
UK Bar Guide 2025 : London (Bar)
Band 2
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(020) 7404 3447Chambers Review
Matrix Chambers excels across a breadth of PIL issues, wielding an abundance of academic expertise and offering a deep understanding of humanitarian law, international criminal law and international relations. A market source notes that Matrix Chambers is "one of the best sets in the world to handle public international law matters, without a doubt". The barristers demonstrate notable capability in state-versus-state disputes, including those over disputed territory or maritime rights. Members are also highly adept at acting as counsel or arbitrators in investment disputes before the ICC, ICSID or The Hague's Permanent Court of Arbitration. Recently, members played a leading role in South Africa's ICJ case brought against Israel, concerning allegations of genocide in the Gaza Strip.
Paul Venables is the senior practice manager for public international law.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The clerks that we work with at Matrix are very responsive and professional."
"The clerks that we work with at Matrix are very responsive and professional."
Notable Practitioners
Edward Craven is a talented barrister who has considerable experience acting before the ICJ in complex inter-state cases. He is skilled at handling maritime delimitation or land boundary disputes for sovereign states and has strong knowledge of international human rights issues. He is a member of the Attorney General's Public International Law Panel.
"It is truly pleasant to work with Edward. He's smart, dedicated and incredibly kind."
"Edward is an outstanding writer and oral advocate. He made a beautiful argument for Guyana in the ICJ advisory hearings."
"Edward is an absolute standout junior - one of the best at the Bar. He's sought after by the top silks for his ability to build relationships and manage clients."
Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh KC is a highly rated barrister who handles a substantial PIL workload. Experienced in acting before domestic and international courts and tribunals, she represents a range of clients from states to NGOs. She also has impressive academic credentials, and strong knowledge of the rules and procedures of the ICJ, ITLOS and UNCITRAL.
"Blinne is one of the best speakers that the ICJ has ever seen. She is able to give passionate pleadings without compromising her legal understanding. She is very impressive."
"Blinne does a superb job. She is flexible and approachable, and her detailed advice is of the highest quality."
"Blinne is simply superb. She's really calm and authoritative, bringing real feeling and emotion to the recent ICJ proceedings. She truly shined through."
"Her knowledge of Palestinians and international public law is incredibly in-depth. I do not think there's anybody who can reach her level of understanding."
Toby Fisher returned to the bar in late 2022, following a stint as Deputy Director of International Law for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He wields enviable knowledge of environmental law, human rights, Law of the Sea proceedings and both private and public international law.
"Toby Fisher is able to provide really practical and insightful solutions to take our matters forward."
"Toby is a very impressive barrister. He's really on top of things and very good to deal with."