Crime | UK Bar

No5 Barristers' Chambers retains its reputation as a leading set for criminal work on the Midlands Circuit, with "a team of excellent barristers" who regularly act for both the prosecution and the defence. Members are experienced in the handling of cases involving serious crimes such as homicides, sexual offences and corporate manslaughter. Additional areas of expertise for the team include criminal frauds and terrorism cases. Tenants have recently been instructed in cases including R v Vitalie Tanga, regarding the prosecution of a man charged with a homophobic attack resulting in the victim's death.

Tony McDaid is the director of clerking.

The barristers at St Philips Chambers are regularly instructed in complex criminal cases and have experience of appearing before the courts at all levels, up to and including the Supreme Court and the International Criminal Court. The set is praised as "both the junior and senior set are always willing to assist, provide support and or guidance when needed. They are all well organised and sufficiently experienced for each case they are instructed on". The set houses considerable expertise in serious crimes, including sexual offences, murder, terrorism and large-scale conspiracies, and its barristers are regularly called upon to act for both the prosecution and the defence. Recent case highlights for set members include R v Robert Orrey, concerning a man charged with murder and attempted murder of his parents.

Andrew Rourke is the senior clerk.

36 Crime is a London-based chambers with a strong presence in the Midlands with a "variety of very experienced members." Areas of expertise for the set's tenants include serious and violent crimes, such as sexual offences and murders. The team is also well regarded for its handling of cybercrime, organised crime and drug trafficking cases. Recent cases for the set have included R v Marriott, arising out of the stabbing of a father by son.

Michelle Simpson is the criminal practice manager.

The barristers at Citadel Chambers are regularly instructed to both defend and prosecute serious criminal cases, and have experience of appearing in the Crown Court as well as the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Areas of strength for the team include homicides, terrorism, firearms, sexual offences and human trafficking cases. Recent cases the set have been involved in include Operation Aratio, concerning the youngest murderers since the Jamie Bulger case. One interviewee comments: "Citadel Chambers is a very good set."

Christopher Ward is the senior clerk.