Chambers and Partners 2026 Rankings

Chambers Crime Team has been ranked tier two, known as a reputable set on the Western Circuit noted for its expert handling of complex and high-profile criminal cases.

The set is praised for being able to “offer barristers at all levels to match client need.” Members are regularly instructed to both prosecute and defend cases relating to serious crimes such as drugs conspiracies, high-value frauds and violent assaults. The team is also well regarded for its expertise in murders and terrorism offences. Barristers at Queen Square were instructed in R v Hongchi Xiao, a gross negligence manslaughter matter involving an alternative medicine practice.

Charles Row KC has a strong reputation in criminal matters, focusing his practice on fraud and business crime, sexual abuse matters and murder. His regulatory work involves acting in a range of health and safety and trading standards cases. He is well equipped to deal with young and vulnerable witnesses, as well as defendants with mental illness.

“Charles is very knowledgeable, and clients love his down-to-earth approach.”

Robin Shellard (Band 1) specialises in handling sexual offence claims, particularly those that involve crimes against children and accusations of historic sexual abuse. He is frequently instructed in cases that concern drug conspiracies, fraud and matters involving firearm legislation. He also prosecutes for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

“Robin is knowledgeable, has great client skills and really good cross-examination skills.”

“Robin is consistently instructed in the most serious and high-profile criminal cases. Judges respect his natural authority and juries listen to him carefully.”

David Maunder (Band 2) is sought out for his expertise in handling a range of serious criminal cases involving murder, sexual violence and coercive behaviour. He is a Grade 3 prosecutor and is on the Crown Prosecution RASSO panel.

James Tucker (Band 2) is experienced in the handling of serious criminal cases involving violence and sexual assault. He regularly appears in trials and in appellate proceedings.

“James Tucker is so unflappable and all over the case. He is really refreshing and very humble too.”

In Chambers Employment team, Head of Department James Bromige has seen his ranking increase to Band 2:

‘James Bromige is an employment barrister at Queen Square Chambers who represents claimants and respondents in relation to large-scale claims in discrimination, equal pay and TUPE’

“James has an encyclopaedic knowledge of all things employment law and is formidable on his feet.”

“James has remarkable attention to detail and a good manner with clients.”

The Clerking Team earning the following recognition:
The clerks are very responsive and flexible.