Protest Law | UK Bar

Doughty Street Chambers is regarded as a go-to set with "barristers who can deal with protest cases, whether criminal or civil." The set's barristers are routinely instructed in high-profile judicial reviews concerning the right to protest and challenges to injunctions preventing occupation. The team is also well regarded for its expert representation of protesters in criminal proceedings. Standout cases recently handled by members include acting for Liberty in its judicial review of the "serious disruption" regulations passed by the Home Secretary under Henry VIII powers, as well as in R (Graham Smith) v Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis concerning the lawfulness of the arrest of an anti-monarchist at the coronation of King Charles III.

Garden Court Chambers has a "wide variety of barristers from quite junior to really well established" who are well versed in the representation of protesters in both civil and criminal litigation. The team is regularly called upon to handle complex challenges to injunctions preventing occupations, and offers significant expertise in the criminal defence of protesters charged with trespass and breaches of public orders. The set's members are routinely involved in high-profile cases arising from major protests. Recent work includes acting for protesters in Shell UK v Persons Unknown, a High Court case seeking an injunction against anti-oil protesters.

Landmark Chambers has a strong practice in protest law, with members particularly experienced in injunctions work. Its tenants have notable expertise in "Persons Unknown" cases across a range of contexts including student and environmental protests. The set's expertise in property and public law informs its ability to represent protesters as well as claimant organisations. Recent work has included National Highways Ltd v Persons Unknown, an application before the High Court for an extension to existing injunctions involving the M25.

Matrix Chambers is well regarded for its handling of both civil and criminal matters involving protesters. Areas of expertise for the team include challenges to injunctions to prevent occupations, challenges to police powers and the criminal defence of protesters facing prosecution. The set's barristers are regularly instructed in high-profile and leading cases, including appearing on behalf of Trudi Warner in her high-profile contempt of court proceedings following her presence outside Inner London Crown Court with a banner addressing jurors in a Just Stop Oil trial.