Christopher Henley KC

Chris Henley KC is a highly regarded criminal silk; he defends in all areas of serious crime, particularly murder, fraud and terrorism. He brings total commitment to his work, combining a strong strategic sense, with tenacity and empathy. He was previously elected to lead the profession as Chair of the CBA.

His reputation for excellent judgment and intellectual rigour saw him appointed to conduct a fundamental review into the CCRC’s handling of the Andrew Malkinson case. The final report received a great deal of positive comment in the press, from politicians and leading lawyers with an interest in the CCRC’s work. It led to significant changes both in approach and leadership at the CCRC.

In the last 12 months, Chris has acted for the leading figure in one of the principal Manchester OCGs, and about whom Channel 4’s ‘Operation Dark Phone: Murder by Text’ was written, a teenager acquitted of murder, a company director prosecuted for £multi-million fraudulent trading, a company director charged with stalking his ex-partner, and a substantial fraud involving the acquisition of multiple properties. He regularly provides pre-charge advice to a range of professional clients.

Chris is a trustee of the Schools Consent Project charity.

Year of call, 1989

Silk 2015

Chair of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) 2018/19

Head of Mountford Chambers 2020 to present

CBA

Fraud Lawyers Association

Howard League for Penal Reform

Amnesty International