Department profile
Terra Firma Chambers

Tax

UK Bar Guide 2026 : Scotland (Bar)

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Terra Firma Chambers

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Tax - Scotland (Bar)

Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Terra Firma Chambers is capable of advising corporations and high net worth individuals on all manner of direct and indirect tax matters. In litigation, the advocates are adept at representing both the individual and the Revenue. Clients praise its barristers' "experience in a niche area where few other chambers can say the same". Members have recently been involved in Moulsdale v HMRC, a matter that questions whether VAT charged land taxation applies under anti-avoidance rules.

Emma Caskie-Potter is practice manager.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • I find all the clerks to be really helpful. I never have any issues. They provide clear timescales.

    Tax respondentUK Bar

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Philip J D Simpson
    Philip J D Simpson

    Philip J D Simpson

    Philip Simpson KC is one of the leaders at the Scottish tax Bar. His expertise covers all areas of Scottish and English taxation, including cases concerning VAT, national insurance contributions and landfill tax. He is also experienced in Supreme Court proceedings.

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  • Derek Francis
    Derek Francis

    Derek Francis

    Derek Francis runs a practice encompassing advisory and litigation work relating to trusts, inheritance tax, executry and fiduciary duties. He is also qualified as a chartered tax adviser.

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  • Gordon Watt
    Gordon Watt

    Gordon Watt

    Gordon Watt is fast rising as a go-to junior in complex taxation matters. His expertise covers both advisory and contentious briefs, supported by his work as a chartered tax adviser.

    • I think he is excellent in terms of all advice in relation to tax. He is very pragmatic and my go-to for a tax opinion on most things.

      Tax respondentUK Bar

    • Gordon has genuine experience in a niche area and is able to communicate his advice in a client-friendly way.

      Tax respondentUK Bar

    • His advice is always quite clear. Gordon keeps things succinct and focused, which is really helpful for presenting things to clients.

      Tax respondentUK Bar
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Ranked Barristers at Terra Firma Chambers (3)

Scotland (Bar)

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