Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Crime - Western (Bar)
What the Team is Known For
Queen Square Chambers is a reputable set on the Western Circuit noted for its expert handling of complex and high-profile criminal cases. The set is praised for being able to "offer barristers at all levels to match client need." Members are regularly instructed to both prosecute and defend cases relating to serious crimes such as drugs conspiracies, high-value frauds and violent assaults. The team is also well regarded for its expertise in murders and terrorism offences. Barristers at Queen Square were instructed in R v Hongchi Xiao, a gross negligence manslaughter matter involving an alternative medicine practice.
Colleen Inker is the senior criminal clerk.
Strengths
The clerks are very responsive and flexible.
Notable practitioners
Robin Shellard specialises in handling sexual offence claims, particularly those that involve crimes against children and accusations of historic sexual abuse. He is frequently instructed in cases that concern drug conspiracies, fraud and matters involving firearm legislation. He also prosecutes for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
Robin is knowledgeable, has great client skills and really good cross-examination skills.
Robin is consistently instructed in the most serious and high-profile criminal cases. Judges respect his natural authority and juries listen to him carefully.
Charles Row KC has a strong reputation in criminal matters, focusing his practice on fraud and business crime, sexual abuse matters and murder. His regulatory work involves acting in a range of health and safety and trading standards cases. He is well equipped to deal with young and vulnerable witnesses, as well as defendants with mental illness.
Charles is very knowledgeable, and clients love his down-to-earth approach.
David Maunder is sought out for his expertise in handling a range of serious criminal cases involving murder, sexual violence and coercive behaviour. He is a Grade 3 prosecutor and is on the Crown Prosecution RASSO panel.
James Tucker is experienced in the handling of serious criminal cases involving violence and sexual assault. He regularly appears in trials and in appellate proceedings.
James Tucker is so unflappable and all over the case. He is really refreshing and very humble too.