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4-5 Gray's Inn Square

What the Directories say

Legal 500 rated 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square as a leading set in Administrative and Public Law, Defamation and Privacy, Education, Environment, Media/Entertainment & Sport and Planning noting that;

"4-5 Gray's Inn Square services local authorities as well as corporate and private clients, as well as Government work. Planning remains the set’s flagship offering, alongside environmental law. Public law is also a plus at the set. On the commercial side there are individuals proficient in education, aviation, media and sports law. Tim Corner QC stands out as offering ‘ pragmatic and sensible advice'".

Chambers & Partners (2008 Edition)
Chambers & Partners 2008 rated 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square as a leading set in six practice areas. Chambers was recognised as the joint leading Local Government set and highly recommended in Administrative & Public Law, Education, Environment, Planning and Professional Discipline. Noting that;

"As one peer admitted, “it’s a given fact that 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square is a leader in its core specialisms.” Its tremendous reputation is founded upon the cornerstones of “faultless organisation and a devotion to practical solutions.” “The set’s ethos seems to demand and deliver 100% commitment from all its members,” the vast majority of whom clearly comprehend the importance of client communication. Our researchers detected an unwavering confidence in a set where “everybody knows exactly what everyone else is doing,” and where ”modernity and professionalism” are the watchwords. Chambers can claim a considerable breadth of expertise, but its colours remain firmly nailed to the twin masts of education and general local government work. Education, in particular, threw up some highlights this year, with members being involved in the widely publicised Playfoot v West Sussex County Council matter. In this case barristers represented the school in question against a challenge by a pupil who wished to wear a Christian “Purity Ring.” On the planning side, individual barrister acted on high court planning appeals such as betterment properties (Weymouth) Ltd v Dorset County Council, and Technoprint & Anor v Leeds City Council & Anor."

ADMINISTRATIVE AND PUBLIC LAW

Barristers recommended in The Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Timothy Straker QC, Timothy Corner QC, Richard McManus QC, Richard Spearman QC, Paul Brown, James Ramsden, James Strachan, Charles Bourne, Philip Coppel, Jonathan Moffett, Andrew Sharland.

"4-5 Gray's Inn Square is ‘ first-class’, remains ‘ good value for money, delivering quickly and to agreed objectives’, and has strong Treasury panel representation. Timothy Straker QC is ‘authoritative and straightforward’. Timothy Corner QC is recommended. Featured juniors are the ‘ committed and diligent’ Paul Brown, James Strachan and James Ramsden (who is a ‘ difficult opponent’)."

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Paul Brown, Philip Coppel, Charles Bourne, James Strachan, Andrew Sharland, Lisa Busch

"According to clients, 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square “has a real bank of expertise right through from the silks to the juniors.” Its broad range of administrative and public law work is generated through its strong links with local authority and government client. A well-clerked and friendly set, it is characterised by “a willingness to assist, promptitude and an ability to get to the core of the issue very quickly.” Paul Brown is recommended for planning matters. “A strong advocate and a pleasant person to work with,” he is applauded for offering clear, solid advice. “He cuts through waffle and gets to the nub of the issue very quickly,” and also earns his spurs in planning and environmental matters. Lisa Busch is a well-respected junior with a varied administrative and public law practice, while Philip Coppel is backed for his “very strong academic background.” Interviewees point to the thoroughness and subtlety of his skeleton arguments, coupled with the “awesome firepower” he unleashes once on his feet. “Bright and imaginative” lawyer Andrew Sharland has a very broad administrative law practice that includes education, community care, planning, coroners, prisons and immigration matters. In the past year, he has represented individuals, NGOs, local authorities, the Parole Board, the Home Secretary and coroners. “He's friendly, approachable and always happy for you to ring him with a question. You can engage with him without his making you feel foolish,” solicitors report. James Strachan comes highly recommended by sources as “an unbelievably smooth advocate.” Also recommended is Charles Bourne, a leading junior in public inquiries who offers specialist expertise relating to the powers and duties of local authorities, transport undertakings and other statutory bodies and regulators."

AVIATION

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
John Steel QC

BANKING & FINANCE

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Hodge Malek QC

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Hodge Malek QC

"Hodge Malek QC of 4-5 Gray's Inn Square is an “engaging, entertaining advocate” who has a deep grounding in regulatory matters. Sources comment that he has “a thorough understanding of the law that is rare indeed"

CIVIL LIBERTIES & HUMAN RIGHTS

Barristers recommended in The Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Charles Bourne, James Strachan

Barristers recommended in The Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
James Strachan

"Finally, James Strachan of 4-5 Gray's Inn Square has been in Strasbourg acting on behalf of the government in the mammoth case of Marper v UK".

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Hodge Malek QC, Paul Marshall

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
James Ramsden

"Peers applaud the 'clever and tactical approach to litigation' of James Ramsden at 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square".

CONSUMER

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition )
Damian Falkowski

"Table newcomer Damian Falkowski, of 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square, wins acclaim from clients and solicitors for his “skilful debunking of legal jargon” and for approaching cases in a manner that is both “streetwise and very commercial.” 2007 saw Falkowski criss-crossing the country, defending mortgage lenders in ‘penalty’ and consumer credit cases, and advising foreign lenders on setting up shop within the UK".

DEFAMATION & PRIVACY

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Richard Spearman QC, Philip Coppel, James Strachan

“Richard Spearman QC of 4-5 Gray's Inn Square enjoys an excellent reputation for breach of confidence and privacy work. Solicitors describe him as ‘ brilliant, amenable, user-friendly’, someone who is ‘ in a tier of his own’ and ‘ a highly skilled and experienced advocate who relishes cut-and-thrust’. He successfully represented David Murray, the infant son of the author J.K. Rowling, in the Court of Appeal against a photographic agency in Murray v Express Newspapers. James Strachan is developing an increasingly high-profile privacy practice, appearing as Spearman’s junior on several major actions. Philip Coppel successfully represented The Times and The Sunday Times before the Information Tribunal in respect of MPs’ expenses.”

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Richard Spearman QC

“Constantly pushing the boundaries,” “privacy king” Richard Spearman QC of 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square received generous praise from the market. A “genius of a silk, who can argue the unarguable with a straight face,” he was involved in two of the key privacy cases of the past year. In Browne v Associated Newspapers, he represented Lord Browne of Madingley on his claim for misuse of private information provided to a newspaper by an ex-partner. In Murray v Express Newspapers & Another, he acted for David Murray, the infant son of the author JK Rowling and her husband Dr Neil Murray, in claims against a photographic agency for misuse of private information".

EDUCATION

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Richard McManus QC, Andrew Sharland, Jonathan Moffett, Jonathan Auburn, Paul Greatorex, Lisa Busch, Sarah-Jane Davies and Robert Palmer.

"4-5 Gray's Inn Square is the ‘ first stop’ set of many public bodies. Richard McManus QC is a good choice for complex litigation; he appeared in the Begum and Marlborough College cases. Juniors ‘ destined for high places’ include the ‘ exceptional’ Jonathan Moffett, who has ‘ confidence-inspiring legal acumen’; the ‘ tenacious advocate’ Jonathan Auburn; the ‘ approachable and very reliable’ Andrew Sharland; and the ‘ fair and thorough’ Paul Greatorex. Lisa Busch, Sarah-Jane Davies and Robert Palmer are other favourites".


Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Richard McManus QC, Sarah Jane Davies, Jonathan Moffett, Andrew Sharland, Jonathan Auburn, Lisa Busch, Paul Greatorex

"Peers and clients were quick to stress the strength of this “extremely practical, informal and proactive” set, which offers the “whole package” and is “a reliable port of call” for local authority clients. They particularly admire the “extraordinarily brainy, utterly trustworthy and incredibly eloquent” Richard McManus QC, who “pulls out all the stops in his cases.” He regularly acts for claimants and respondents in relation to school admissions, reorganisations, selective admissions arrangements and exclusions. Judges and clients alike appreciate the “clear focus, sound arguments and balanced judgement” of Jonathan Moffett. His recent matters have included acting for the University of London on a judicial review of its grading appeals procedures. “Sensitive to the needs of the client,” Andrew Sharland’s “positivity, promptness and intellect” particularly shine through. He routinely counsels individuals, local authorities, SENDIST and universities, proving highly accomplished in all he does. Recently, he represented Wolverhampton College in a five-day contract claim alleging the failure to provide adequate education. The “all-round good egg” that is Jonathan Auburn enjoys an “excellent profile” in the market. His “understanding of the issues facing local authorities is first-rate” and he “perpetually offers sensible, user-friendly advice.” Auburn acted for the school in Begum v Denbigh, a case also involving Cherie Booth and Richard McManus. Market enthusiasm was also in evidence for “slick and smart operator” Sarah-Jane Davies. She is a “simply brilliant junior,” as is Lisa Busch, who is “entirely consistent and dependable in her advice.” With experience of numerous hearings before SENDIST, Paul Greatorex “always sees a sensible way out of a tricky predicament for his clients.” He has been involved for education authorities and parents in cases concerning special educational needs and disability discrimination".

EMPLOYMENT

Barristers recommended in The Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Robert Griffiths QC, Stephen Whale

"Also recommended are Robert Griffiths QC and Stephen Whale at 4-5 Gray's Inn Square for their ‘ first-rate advice’ to umpire Darrell Hair in a high-profile race discrimination claim against the International Cricket Council"

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Andrew Tabachnik

"Andrew Tabachnik of 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square “really owns a case and drives it forward.” Favoured as a good team player who gives pragmatic advice and strategic input,” he acted for JPMorgan in high-value claims relating to unfair dismissal, whistle-blowing and bonus disputes".

ENVIRONMENT

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Timothy Straker QC, W Robert Griffiths QC, John Hobson QC, John Steel QC, Garrett Byrne, Tom Hill, Lisa Busch

“.4-5 Gray's Inn Square offers experts such as John Hobson QC in its ranks. He is representing the Mayor of London in the inquiry into the proposed desalination plant at Beckton. Timothy Straker QC is ‘ rated very highly’ - he acted for the Thurrock Gateway Development Corporation against Buglife. John Steel QC also receives plaudits. ‘ Very impressive environmental specialist’ Garrett Byrne is a leading junior in the field with a particularly broad practice."

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Timothy Straker QC, Garrett Byrne, Tom Hill, Paul Brown, James Strachan, Lisa Busch

"This set has “demonstrated a long-standing commitment to achieving results in the environment field.” Its members are “the definition of reliable” and impress through their “ability to hone in on the strengths and weaknesses of a case.” Prominent in the ranks, Timothy Straker QC is a “bright, able” practitioner with a good understanding of EIA procedures. Of late he has dealt with issues affecting the energy and water sectors, and acted in an environmental judicial review in the case of Kiely v Secretary of State and East Sussex County Council. Sources have the “utmost respect” for Garrett Byrne, a “solid, pragmatic and trustworthy” barrister. He has a successful track record of both bringing and defending prosecutions and appeals for the Environment Agency, and also continues to act for industrial clients. The extent of his expertise is far-reaching, and in recent times he has advised on the interpretation of the Waste and Emissions Trading Act and the Large Combustion Plants Directive. “Urbane, authorative and a strong cross-examiner,” Thomas Hill can be relied upon to put in a “steady performance,” while the “terrific” James Strachan has impressed clients with his “excellent work on sometimes testing issues.” Strachan’s practice focuses on waste, EIA proceedings and habitat concerns. His highlights include advising on an objection to the Surrey Waste plan over the allocating of a waste-to-energy incinerator. Paul Brown is “able to grasp quickly the ins and outs of a case,” and possesses “powerful skills of analysis.” Sources commented upon his “straightforward, helpful advice,” something that was recently on show when he counselled on the environmental impact of expanding London Ashford Airport. Lisa Busch has won fans due to a string of “successful performances” that showcased her “unassuming yet greatly effective advocacy.” She regularly deals with strategic EIAs and issues relating to nuisance and pollution. Recently she acted in Day v East Sussex County Council and Brighton & Hove City Council, a case regarding a challenge to a council’s waste local plan."

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Hodge Malek QC

"Hodge Malek QC at 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square works extensively for regulators both in the UK and abroad in financial services matters. He is highlighted for his “excellent understanding of the meaning behind the rules” and recently acted for the International Petroleum Exchange in hearings involving the manipulation of the gas and oil futures market."

FRAUD

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Richard Spearman QC, Hodge Malek QC

IMMIGRATION

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Robert Palmer

"Described as ‘ extremely good’, 4-5 Gray's Inn Square ’ s Robert Palmer’s practice spans the spectrum of immigration and nationality work"

INSURANCE & REINSURANCE

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Hodge Malek QC

LICENSING

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Stephen Whale

"Stephen Whale of 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square “gives no-nonsense advice, handles difficult clients well and shows a precise and thoughtful approach to problem solving,” according to solicitors. His “tactful and personable manner makes him easy to work with,” and he proves especially popular for matters related to the Licensing Act 2003 or those that overlap with planning law. He made a successful appeal on behalf of a nightclub against London Borough of Bromley Council in a case involving a three-month licence suspension: the decision came in the face of strong resistance from both the licensing authority and the police."


LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Timothy Straker QC, John Hobson QC, Timothy Corner QC, John Steel QC, Philip Coppel, Paul Brown, Jonathan Moffett, Andrew Sharland, Jonathan Auburn, Lisa Busch

"As a leading light in the local government field, Timothy Straker QC's ability to cover a wide variety of matters has earned him the utmost respect. “Enormously experienced and vastly knowledgeable,” his varied practice takes in public procurement, election law, planning, CPOs and local government reorganisation. Meanwhile, planning and CPO work is the order of the day for Timothy Corner QC. Sources that this is an area in which he “reigns supreme,” widely praising him as “a top-class advocate who isn’t one for time wasting. He just cuts to the chase.” “Anything John Hobson QC says on the subject of local government has to be taken seriously,” such is the depth of his knowledge and the level of respect he enjoys. His practice is heavily steeped in the CPO aspects of regeneration schemes and he has been involved in Thames Gateway development, as well as the redevelopment of Birmingham’s Eastside, to name but two. He has also been busy advising on a vast number of highway cases, road schemes and local government powers and duties. Fellow silk John Steel QC provides ongoing advice to a string of local authorities. His advice on planning and environmental law is particularly prized, but he has also built up a specialism in licensing law. “Ever dependable and completely rock-solid,” Paul Brown is heralded as “the strongest junior of them all.” Although Brown is most noted for his planning expertise, his local government practice runs far deeper, and in addition to advising on town and country planning, he also advises local authorities on a range of matters including reorganisations. Lisa Busch is another of the set’s high-calibre junior barristers. “She is just jolly good at what she does” and has “a great head on her shoulders and a measured approach,” interviewees commented. She recently acted for Hertfordshire County Council, Uttlesford District Council and Essex County Council on a public inquiry regarding the proposed expansion of Stansted Airport. Jonathan Auburn has built up a formidable education practice and has been involved in a string of high-profile cases involving freedom of religion and the right to wear religious symbols in schools. He also advises local authorities on planning, freedom of information and anti-social behaviour. “Stunningly bright and never afraid to roll up his sleeves and get in there,” Jonathan Moffett is making a name for himself as an education specialist. His practice is by no means limited to this area, however, and he also handles community care and social services, planning matters and local government powers, finances and reorganisation. His recent matters include representing Devon County Council in challenging the decision to remove Exeter from its administrative area. Andrew Sharland continues to garner praise for the breadth of his knowledge across the local government spectrum. His practice covers education, employment, planning and community care. He has also been engaged in local government reorganisation, most notably in the case of R (Shrewsbury & Atcham BC) v Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government and Shropshire CC and Cheshire CC. Newcomer to the table Philip Coppel has carved out a niche for himself in election law. He successfully defended the returning officer in the 2007 Aston local government election. His practice also covers planning, rating and freedom of information."

MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Richard Spearman QC, James Ramsden

“Richard Spearman QC at 4-5 Gray's Inn Square is ‘ a superb all-round media lawyer’. He is ‘ incredibly generous with his time, and has an excellent sense of humour’. As well as acting for the BPI in litigation concerning the uploading of songs for file-sharing, Spearman handles significant sports-related media work. James Ramsden is recommended for sports work."

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Richard Spearman QC

"Richard Spearman QC of 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square, “he knows the wider media world backwards,” agree clients. He acted for the BPI and a number of record companies in proceedings to enforce settlement terms against an Internet supplier of sound recordings.”

PLANNING

Barristers recommended in the Legal 500 (2008 Edition)
Timothy Straker QC, Timothy Corner QC, Brian Ash QC, John Steel QC, Peter Village QC, John Hobson QC, Robert Griffiths QC, Tom Hill, Paul Brown, Philip Coppel, Andrew Fraser-Urquart, James Strachan, Robert White, Andrew Tabachnik, Robert Palmer and Alex Goodman.

“4-5 Gray's Inn Square boasts a number of extremely talented barristers. These include Timothy Corner QC and Peter Village QC, who has ‘ special expertise in large-scale residential development work’ for clients such as Taylor Wimpey and Martin Grant Homes. Tim Straker QC‘ understands the client’s commercial imperatives’. John Hobson QC is ‘ particularly good with paperwork’ ,‘ lethal in cross examination’ and ‘ has a commanding presence with a manner calculated to secure the trust of inspectors’; in 2007, Hobson represented London Thames Gateway Development Corporation at a public Inquiry relating to redevelopment and regeneration in Bromley-by-Bow. John Steel QC is ‘ good for no-holds-barred planning appeals, especially in the retail sector’. Expertise in administrative and public law often informs and complements the nature of the set’s complex planning work; examples include acting for several local authorities in relation to the proposed expansion of Stansted Airport. Juniors of note include Thomas Hill, Robert Palmer- who is ‘ brilliant, incisive and highly recommended for judicial review cases’ - and Paul Brown, who ‘ self-assuredly expresses himself in clear English’ and ‘ can get to the nub of legal and planning policy issues’. James Strachan, who teams particularly well with Peter Village QC, has ‘ a strong work ethic’ and ‘ a willingness to put his neck on the line for clients’. We also recommend Alex Goodman, who is ‘ enthusiastic, thorough and works well with clients’, and ‘ hard-working, deft and pragmatic’ rising star Robert White. Clients appreciate clerks who are ‘ reliable in their recommendations’ about individual barristers’ expertise for unusual planning cases. Senior clerk Michael Kaplan in particular is described by clients as ‘ more understanding of the difficulties solicitors face than some other clerks’ and ‘ very accommodating when we need to instruct junior counsel at very short notice’."


Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Timothy Corner QC, Brian Ash QC, Timothy Straker QC, John Steel QC, Peter Village QC, John Hobson QC, Tom Hill, Robert White, Paul Brown, Andrew Tabachnik, James Strachan, Philip Coppel and Robert Palmer.

"This “on the ball” set wins repeat instructions as a result of the “clear, accurate advice” its members provide “without pomp and circumstance.” Both solicitors and local government clients brief chambers; all are thoroughly impressed with the “efficient, friendly clerking” and “high success rate.” Tim Corner QC is “outstandingly bright” and, sources report, “one of the most hard-working lawyers at the Planning Bar.” His advocacy skills are universally renowned: one observer asserts that “Corner has given some of the finest performances I have ever seen in the High Court.” He also receives recognition for his ability to retain huge amounts of technical data. In addition to assisting with CPO inquiries into city centre regeneration initiatives in Leeds and Sheffield, he successfully obtained permission for a new out-of-town Tesco superstore. On the residential front, he advised on the Fairview Homes inquiry in Croydon. Timothy Straker QC is known for his intellectual acuity and “commands real respect in the courtroom.” Clients are reassured by his presence, and he provides advice in many of the most complex planning matters. Highlights include leading in a petition related to the Crossrail bid, which helped ensure the rearrangement of Romford Station. Peter Village QC is, quite simply, “a winner -devastating on his fee and absolutely compelling.” He is favoured by clients for his brilliant cross-examination skills and “can absorb rooms full of documentation with ease.” His string of successes includes acting for Neptune Wharf in the only opposition to an Olympic Games-related CPO to be upheld, and he is currently advising Martin Grant in appeal proceedings and assisting with the promotion of Newcastle’s Quayside redevelopment. “Exceptional advocate” Brian Ash QC acts for local authorities, retailers, developers and clients from the industrial sectors. He possesses “fantastic people skills” and attracts instructions as a consequence of his “bright and inspector-friendly” disposition. At present, he is helping to see through the regeneration of Gloucester city centre on behalf of Peel Holdings and British Waterways. John Steel QC, meanwhile, generates acclaim for his “client-friendly attitude” and “nose for the best strategy.” Commentators characterise him as “a terrier” in court, adding that he is “really quick on his feet.” He is in demand for advice on town centre schemes, residential and retail developments,and also has specialist expertise in aviation expansion proposals: his clients include British Airways, Birmingham International Airport and Farnborough Airport. Sources highlight John Hobson QC’s “commanding presence” in court and acknowledge that he is “adept at winning over planning inspectors.” He has acted on behalf of the Mayor of London in connection with the Heron Tower and Shard of Glass tall building proposals, and helped with the promotion of a 3,300-dwelling urban extension in Didcot. Leading junior Tom Hill shines as “a charming, tough and highly effective opponent.” Observers note “his winning style, which chimes well with planning inspectors.” He advises on residential developments and is a favourite of waste sector clients: highlights in this area include advising Biffa on securing permission for a new soils recycling facility. Hill has also forged a name for himself in aviation planning and airport expansion, recently handling an inquiry into proposals relating to Stansted Airport. Paul Brown earns widespread recognition for his impressive advocacy skills and “brilliant rapport with High Court justices.” He works in all areas of the market, including applications for - and disputes relating to - residential, retail and mineral proposals. Notable matters in which he has had a hand include advising the Secretary of State regarding the Thames New Gateway Bridge development and acting for the promoters of a 10,000-dwelling settlement at Northstowe. The “personable and highly intelligent” James Strachan wins over clients, who relish his “measured and calm approach” and add that he provides “excellent value for money.” His broad-ranging practice covers CPOs, residential developments and wind farm inquiries, and highlights include acting in a challenge to a decision related to a listed building and the surrounding grounds. Berkeley Homes are also making use of his expertise in connection with mixed-use proposals for a site next to Tower Bridge. A “hard-working and thorough” barrister with a “deft touch,” Robert White represents clients in the promotion of and objection to residential developments, and also has experience of regeneration schemes and related inquiries. Opponents “take him very seriously,” and he “excels at meeting commercial objectives.” Philip Coppel is known as a tenacious barrister with a strong presence. He has assisted the Ministry of Defence with inquiries concerning wind farms in Northumberland and participated in reviews of refusals to permit developments in the green belt. The “efficient and extremely bright” Andrew Tabachnik is “a dream to deal with.” Inquiries relating to residential development proposals have featured prominently in his caseload recently; highlights include advising a consortium of housebuilders in connection with objections to proposals impacting on a competing development application. Robert Palmer possesses “an outstanding mind” and has fashioned a rapidly expanding docket of instructions on complex planning disputes. Much of his time has been spent on a major application for a development on the site of a Cardiff reservoir: this has seen him deal with appeals arising from the refusal of planning permission, a disputed notification of a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the resistance of an application to register land as a village green."

POLICE LAW

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2008 Edition)
Garrett Byrne

"Garrett Byrne of 4-5 Gray’s Inn Square regularly appears before the police disciplinary tribunal. He frequently advises on cases brought by the Metropolitan Police Service Anti-Corruption Command and was legal assessor in the disciplinary proceedings arising out of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry."

PROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINE

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Hodge Malek QC, Andrew Carnes, Garrett Byrne

"This “commercially aware” set mainly works in financial and Law Society-related areas of professional discipline. Hodge Malek QC acts for bodies such as the FSA, ICE and Law Society; recent highlights include successfully acting for ICE in a case involving the attempted manipulation of the gas oil futures market. He is a “formidable opponent who has a very direct style, proving very engaging with the tribunal,” and observers note that he has a “fine ability to absorb a large amount of facts.” Andrew Carnes is “a hugely practical lawyer” who has carved a niche for himself in financial services regulatory work. He is regularly instructed by the FSA and professional disciplinary bodies for accountants, actuaries and solicitors. According to clients, he has “outstanding commercial perspective and a broad range of expertise.” Also recommended is Garrett Byrne, “a very sound and reliable individual” with excellent knowledge of police disciplinary work. ."

PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2008 Edition)
Lady Hazel Fox QC

"Hazel Fox CMG QC of 4-5 Gray's Inn Square is cited as "outstanding in the field of PIC" and a "clear expert" on issues of state immunity."


SOCIAL HOUSING

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2008 Edition)
Caroline Bolton

"Based at 4-5 Gray's Inn Square, “there are few barristers that have the same command of the court as Caroline Bolton.” Her practice is split between anti-social behaviour and homelessness and one client enthused that “she is my first choice for cases that we can’t afford to lose, she always goes the extra mile.”

SPORT

Barristers recommended in Chambers & Partners (2009 Edition)
Richard Spearman QC, Robert Griffiths QC

"Richard Spearman QC of 4-5 Gray's Inn Square work mainly on football-related matters. Both are seen as men you can trust with cases of the highest importance. Robert Griffiths QC shares a set with Spearman and debuts in the tables this year. He received much backing from interviewees following his involvement in the Darrell Hair case".