Rachel Spearing KC

Practice Areas

Rachel specialises in complex inquests, inquiries, regulatory and disciplinary matters. She is known for her expertise in handling sensitive cases involving significant media interest, complex disclosure issues, and matters with potential disciplinary, civil or criminal outcomes. In addition to her practice, Rachel sits as an Assistant Coroner and as a Disciplinary and Regulatory Judge in sport. Clients describe her as a ‘seriously smart barrister’ who anticipates client needs, demonstrates impeccable judgement, and excels in both her advocacy and complex case analysis.

Rachel’s practice spans inquests, inquiries, investigations and professional discipline, often in cases involving multiple parties, parallel proceedings, or significant reputational risk. She is regularly instructed by public bodies including police forces, NHS Trusts, and regulators, as well as by statutory and non-statutory inquiries, to advise or act as Counsel to the Inquest or Inquiry. Her cases frequently involve complex questions of evidential handling, legal privilege, and safeguarding, and she is particularly noted for her work involving vulnerable individuals, institutional failings, and sensitive intelligence.

With a professional background in capital markets and extensive postgraduate research into governance and group dynamics, Rachel brings a strategic and forensic approach to her cases. She is frequently called upon to lead or contribute to rapid reviews and fact-finding investigations for public sector clients, offering analysis and recommendations which span legal, regulatory and policy dimensions. Her unique cross-disciplinary insight is underpinned by senior academic, consultancy and judicial appointments in the UK and internationally.