Christopher James Bevan
Call: 2019
Christopher James Bevan
Bar Professional Training Course, The University of Law Leeds (2018)
Graduate Diploma Law, University of Plymouth (2016)
BSc (Hons) Psychology, University of Plymouth (2015)
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple; Diana, Princess of Wales Scholarship
The University of Law; Provosts Award for excellence
The Middle Temple, Michael Sherrard QC Access to the Bar Award
Criminal Bar Association
Grade 2 RASSO Panel
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Christopher regularly takes instructions in criminal cases in both the Magistrates Court and Crown Court. Since completing his pupillage in 2022, Christopher has grown a Crown Court practice regularly taking instructions in Grade 2 prosecution matters and a variety of defence cases, including sexual offences for the defence.
Reputation
J. Bevan, ‘‘10-year prison sentences for breaching COVID-19 entry requirements into the United Kingdom’? Governmental Decree is undermining the Rule of Law‘, U.K. Const. L. Blog (24th Feb. 2021) (available at https://ukconstitutionallaw.org/))
J. Bevan, ‘Anti-HRA Rhetoric and the Conservative Party 2019 Manifesto: Are the Proposals for a British Bill of Rights and Repeal of the Human Rights Act “Dead in the Water”?’, U.K. Constitutional Law Association (28th Nov. 2019) (available at https://ukconstitutionallaw.org/)
J. Bevan, ‘Do local authorities have the power to impose a full-scale local lockdown?’, The Local Government Lawyer (18th September 2020) (available at localgovernmentlawyer.co.uk)
(Please note, to avoid academic confusion with another barrister of the same name, Christopher publishes using his middle name).
Expertise
Christopher has taken regular instructions in the Court Martial and is familiar with law and procedure and is indeed experienced in the military courts at both trial and sentence. Christopher has dealt with fitness to plead, automatism, and the wider array of common defences. Christopher has been praised for his attention to detail and his kind and considered approach with victims and witnesses. Christopher has dealt with an array of offences for both the prosecution and defence including up to assault occasioning grievous bodily harm in the Crown Court. Christopher has taken instructions in junior briefs and has been led at the Crown Court in multi-handed defendant trials for both the Crown and defence.
Before coming to the independent Bar, Christopher worked in a large local authority in West Yorkshire and is very experienced in dealing with local authority criminal matters. He cut his teeth prosecuting in the Magistrates Court for local authority matters. Since entering into self-employed practice and completing his pupillage, Christopher has regularly taken instructions for a variety of local authorities across the Northeast in relation to serious fly tipping matters, nuisance, and local authority licencing violations.
Christopher’s primary interest in the criminal law, and an area in which he excels are in prosecuting and defending those accused of sexual offences. He is experienced in that regard in Crown Court matters for both the prosecution and defence. He is working towards his CPS Grade 3 and is hoping to join the RASSO panel in order to take more instructions in those offences.
In his spare time, Christopher is a keen songwriter and pianist and may well be found writing a song or working on his next compositional project.
Notable Cases
R -v- Rowbottom (2025) - Christopher successfully prosecuted a man accused of grooming an 11-year-old girl online before then going to meet her at least four times where he raped her and sexually assaulted her. The defendant was convicted after trial and sentenced to 13 year imprisonment. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14975475/Paedophile-curtains-car-rape-schoolgirl-virginity-jailed.html / https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/crime/predator-fitted-curtains-to-his-car-so-he-could-rape-11-year-old-girl-5255526
R -v- I (2024) – Instructed by the Crown in a trial lasting 3 days at Bradford Crown Court. The defendant was found guilty following 4 allegations of historical sexual abuse perpetrated by a man in his mid 20’s against a 13 year old girl between 2010 and 2012.
R -v- T (2024) – Instructed by the Crown in a 9-day trial at Leeds Crown Court where the defendant was accused on 13 counts of sexual activity with his 9 and 14-year-old daughter when they would go stay with him in his caravan. The trial had to be paused overnight to deal with an urgent and unforeseeable disclosure issue.
R -v- B and Others (2024) – Led by senior counsel in a trial at Teesside Crown Court in a case involving a mob attack against two police officers, leading to multiple convictions for GBH and other offences.
R -v- PS (2024) – Instructed by the Crown, this case involved the defendant been convicted after trial following sexually assaulting two young teenagers (male and female) on their way to a shopping mall on a tram in Sheffield.
R -v- NP (2023) – Instructed by the defence to oppose the extension of a sexual harm prevention order. Whilst the order was extended, the Crown Court were persuaded to remove certain terms.
R -v- FC and Others (2023) – Instructed by the defence to represent the young lead defendant in a multi-handed, multi-count trial at Teesside Crown Court, involving GBH, drugs, and possession of a knife. The case resolved with certain pleas, leading to a suspended sentence for the lead defendant.
R -v- MR (2023) – Defendant acquitted following a trial at Durham Crown Court for one count of possessing a knife and threats of violence.
R -v- SL (2022) – Defendant acquitted of sexual assault following a trial in the Court Martial at Catterick.
R -v- DA (2022) – The male defendant was charged with two counts of sexual assault on a male. Christopher persuaded the Crown to only proceed with one of the charges which was subsequently dealt with without the need for a trial in the Court Martial.
R -v- RW and Others (2022) – In a multi-handed youth defendant trial for murder Christopher assisted junior counsel led by a QC in preparation for trial.
Clerks
Jon Flaherty
Call: 2019
Jon Flaherty
Newcastle University – LLB – 2:1 (2017)
University of Law, Leeds – BPTC – Very Competent (2019)
University of Law, Leeds – LLM – Distinction (2019)
Contact
T: 0113 246 2600 / 01274 722560
Jon commenced pupillage in September 2021 under the supervision of Rachel Mellor and has since gained experience in all aspects of Employment and Family proceedings. Jon started tenancy on 1st September 2022.
Jon studied law at Newcastle University from which he graduated in 2017. Throughout his studies he was heavily engaged in advocacy based competitions, winning both the Senior Mooting Competition and Senior Client Interviewing Competition, as well as representing the University externally. He was also elected as the Master of Moots, a role requiring the training of students and judging of moots. In his final year, Jon was asked by the University to take on a paid role as a seminar leader in the Peer Assisted Student Session scheme, which involved preparing and leading seminars based around the equity module.
Before starting the BPTC, Jon worked as a paralegal in the Commercial Dispute Resolution department of a Leeds based law firm. His work included advising clients, drafting and filing of claims, assisting with litigation and the enforcement of judgments. While on the BPTC Jon volunteered at the Citizens Advice Bureau, advising and assisting clients in the Employment Tribunal and Social Security Tribunal.
Prior to the commencement of pupillage, Jon operated as a freelance advocate on the North and North-Eastern Circuit for two years. This involved representing clients in a wide variety of civil matters including mortgage possessions, landlord & tenant, personal injury, RTAs, consumer credit, insolvency, small claims disputes and procedural applications. Jon also represented clients in the Employment Tribunal during this period in unfair dismissal matters.
Expertise
Family:Jon is instructed in a wide variety of family matters, representing and advising clients in all areas of Family Law.
Matrimonial Finance – Jon has represented clients in a number of matrimonial finance cases since beginning Second Six. Jon takes a robust and practical approach to negotiations and has been successful in applications against uncooperative parties for costs as well as securing penal notices where a party has been uncooperative.
Public Law– Jon represents parties in the public family sphere, regularly being instructed to represent Local Authorities, Children’s Guardians and respondents. His work has covered everything from last-minute urgent removal hearings through to final hearings. Jon has been involved in matters from neglect through to allegations of sexual and physical abuse.
Private Children – in addition, Jon is often instructed in private family matters and is acutely aware of the concerns of parents in such proceedings. Jon has also successfully represented a child in their own application for contact with siblings.
Immigration:
Jon has represented clients in the First Tier Tribunal in their Asylum, Immigration Human Rights, and EEA regulation appeals. Jon takes an all-encompassing approach to such appeals to ensure his clients are in the best position to succeed.
Civil/Business, Property and Probate:
Jon has experience in dealing with civil matters ranging from civil applications to small and fast track claims. This experience has been accumulated prior to joining chambers and has since been developed with instructions to advise and represent clients in a wide-variety of civil matters.
Employment:
Jon has gained invaluable experience during his pupillage under Rachel Mellor and has represented clients in the Employment Tribunal in unfair dismissal claims as well as assisting in preparing advice in respect of appeals to the Employment Appeal Tribunal and Court of Appeal.
Clerks
Lauren Smith
Call: 2019
Lauren Smith
University of York – LLB – First Class Honours [2015]
University of York – LLM in Legal and Political Theory – Distinction [2017]
BPP Leeds – BPTC (Part-time) – Outstanding [2017-2019]
University of York – York Masters Opportunity Scholarship [2017]
Middle Temple – Harmsworth Scholarship [2017]
Blackstone Entrance Exhibition [2017]
Certificate of Honour [2019]
BPP – Criminal Litigation Prize (for highest mark on Criminal Litigation module) [2019]
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 / 0113 246 2600
Lauren is instructed in criminal cases involving serious violence, sexual offences and drug trafficking. She has significant experience in cases involving vulnerable individuals, including children and adults with protected characteristics. She has appeared before criminal courts up to and including the Court of Appeal.
Lauren also has a developing regulatory practice. She has provided written advice to regulatory bodies on fitness to practice proceedings and has represented a Registrant before a professional disciplinary tribunal. She is keen to develop her practice further by undertaking work for regulatory bodies (including public authorities) and Registrants subject to professional disciplinary proceedings.
Lauren completed her pupillage at Broadway House Chambers under the supervision of Peter Hampton (now HHJ Hampton).
Lauren welcomes instructions in inquest work.
Lauren is a Grade 2 Prosecutor.
Expertise
Prior to commencing pupillage, Lauren worked as a paralegal in the regulatory department at Capsticks Solicitors. On behalf of Social Work England, Lauren assisted with drafting applications to the High Court for Interim Order Extensions and investigating fitness to practise concerns by interviewing witnesses. Lauren was also responsible for preparing cases for final and interim hearings, for example by identifying material for disclosure. As such, Lauren has experience and knowledge of professional discipline, and is keen to develop a practice in regulatory law.
Lauren welcomes instructions in inquest work.
Whilst studying for the BPTC, Lauren undertook pro-bono work for the Criminal Appeals Project, AMICUS ALJ and Support Through Court at Leeds Combined Court Centre. Consequently, Lauren has experience of working alongside litigants in person and vulnerable clients, such as those with mental health difficulties or victims of domestic violence.
Lauren is a Grade 2 Prosecutor.
Notable Cases
Defence
R v O [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of O, who was charged with three counts of sexual assault of a child under 13 and one count of witness intimidation. Following a 4-day trial, O was acquitted of all charges.
R v A [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of A, who was charged with sexual assault. Following a 5-day trial, A was acquitted.
R v C [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of C, who was charged with multiple offences including child abduction, supplying a psychoactive substance and sexual assault. Case involved cross-examination of a child. Following a 4-day trial, C was convicted of a single count of child abduction only.
R v K [2025] Preston Crown Court: Defence of K, who was charged with a knifepoint robbery. Following a 3-day trial, K was acquitted.
R v C [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of C, who was charged with controlling and coercive behaviour and intentional strangulation. Following a 3-day trial, C was acquitted.
R v H [2024] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of H, who was charged with ABH and two counts of intentional strangulation. Following a 4-day trial, H was acquitted.
R v M [2024] Newcastle Crown Court: Led Junior for the defence of M, who was charged as a co-conspirator in six offences including conveying prohibited articles into prison. Case resolved with a plea to one lesser alternative offence. M ultimately sentenced to a community order.
R v C [2024] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of C, who pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position (value £110,000+). Lauren secured a suspended sentence order, despite the sentencing guidelines suggesting that a sentence in excess of 2 years was appropriate.
R v X [2023] Bradford Magistrates Court: Lauren secured acquittal for client charged with causing death by careless driving, following a 1-day trial. Case involved prosecution and defence expert evidence on reaction times.
W v R [2023] Court of Appeal: Defence of W, who had pleaded guilty to an offence of stalking causing fear of violence. Lauren advised that the sentence imposed was manifestly excessive. She then successfully appeared before the Court of Appeal, who substituted the sentence of 27 months' imprisonment for one of 16 months. This meant the appellant had served his sentence and was immediately released.
R v P [2023] York Crown Court: Defence of P at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of class A drugs with intent to supply and possession of an offensive weapon. Lauren secured a suspended sentence order.
R v L [2023] Bradford Crown Court: Defending L, who had pleaded guilty on the day of trial to s.20 GBH, having struck V to the back of the head with a hammer. Lauren secured a suspended sentence order.
R v M [2022] Bradford Crown Court: Defending one of the first defendants to be sentenced in Bradford for the new offence of intentional non-fatal strangulation.
Prosecution
R v H [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Currently instructed by the prosecution as Led Junior in a fraud, where the alleged losses total more than £3,000,000.
R v H [2025] Sheffield Crown Court: Prosecution of a defendant charged with multiple breaches of a non-molestation order. Child complainants who were assisted by an intermediary. Defendant convicted of the majority of charges.
R v W [2023] Bradford Crown Court: Prosecution of a defendant charged with numerous domestic violence offences. The case involved two child witnesses who underwent s.28 cross-examination. Defendant pleaded on the day of trial.
R v B [2023] Leeds Crown Court: Lauren's first contested jury trial involved the prosecution of a defendant charged with burglary. The case involved presentation of expert evidence (fingerprint, blood and cell site). The defendant was convicted.
R v B, C and H [2023] Sheffield Crown Court: Prosecution of a multi-handed robbery trial with 3 defendants, all of whom pleaded on the day of trial.
R v C [2022] Leeds Magistrates' Court: Prosecution of a defendant charged with ABH in the domestic context. The complainant had retracted their support for the prosecution and did not attend trial. Lauren made a successful res gestae application to rely on their initial account. The defendant was convicted.
Youth Court
R v X [2025]: Defended a 15-year-old, who was charged with a knifepoint robbery of a 13-year-old. Defendant was assisted by an intermediary. Following a 1-day trial, defendant was acquitted.
R v X [2025]: Instructed to defend a 16-year-old who was charged with s.18 GBH. Following negotiations with the prosecution, case resolved with a plea to the lesser offence of s.20 GBH. Defendant was sentenced to a Referral Order.
R v X [2023]: Defended 14-year-old, who pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery, two counts of possessing an imitation firearm, possession of a bladed article and handling stolen goods. The prosecution asked for defendant to be committed to sentence to the Crown Court. Following mitigation, the Magistrates declined to commit the offences and imposed a Youth Rehabilitation Order.
R v X [2023]: Defence of a 14-year-old, who was convicted of various offences including robbery, ABH and assaulting emergency workers. D was assisted by an intermediary. Following mitigation, the Magistrates sentenced defendant to a Referral Order.
Clerks
Verity Barnes
Call: 2021
Verity Barnes
University of Law (Leeds), BPC, Outstanding (2021)
University of Law (Leeds), Legal Practice LLM, Distinction (2021)
Leeds Beckett University, Law LLB, First Class with Honours (2020)
Inner Temple Exhibition Scholar (2020)
Grade 2 Prosecutor
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 / 0113 246 2600
Verity has a criminal practice and accepts instructions in this area.
Verity prosecutes and defends in the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court. Verity has experience prosecuting and defending a wide variety of trials in the Magistrates’ Court. She also regularly appears in the Crown Court for appeals, sentencing, bail hearings and breach hearings.
Verity commenced pupillage at Broadway House Chambers in October 2022 under the supervision of Abigail Langford. During pupillage, Verity observed a range of cases in the Crown Court involving sexual offences, offences against the person, drug offences and terrorism. Verity assisted in a prosecution case involving historic sexual offences and domestic abuse against multiple complainants. She was responsible for reviewing ABEs, amending indictments, preparing schedules of text messages to be presented to the jury and liaising with the officers in the case.
Reputation
Expertise
Prior to commencing pupillage, Verity worked as a family paralegal. She assisted with drafting applications, statements and legal argument in a wide range of private child disputes, matrimonial finance and divorce proceedings. She also assisted in relation to unmarried couples’ separation and particularly the provisions of TOLATA. In this role, Verity clerked on a number of hearings and also undertook advocacy for clients of the firm in Non-Molestation and Occupation Order applications. As such, she also has experience and knowledge in family and child law.
Whilst studying for her Law LLB and during her Bar Course, Verity undertook pro-bono work for her university’s Legal Advice Clinic. Consequently, she has experience dealing with litigants-in-person, vulnerable clients and particularly victims of domestic violence.
Notable Cases
R v C, Sheffield Crown Court (2025) – Represented client at sentence for s18 GBH with intent and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear. The client pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm outside of a public house, a bullet ricochetted and hit the landlady in the leg. Verity successfully persuaded the Judge not to impose a life sentence. The sentencing remarks were published and the case widely reported.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgk32zr604mo
R v S, Leeds Youth Court (2025) - Defence of S, a 16-year-old who was charged with a robbery occurring when he was 15 years old. He was assisted by an intermediary. Following mitigation from Verity, the District Judge sentenced S to a short Referral Order.
R v L and others, Sheffield Crown Court (2025) – Defence of L who was one of 4 charged with affray arising out of an incident whereby a knife was used to injure. By closely examining the principles of self-defence and presenting alternative CCTV footage, Verity was able to persuade the jury to return a unanimous not guilty verdict after just 28 minutes.
R v Peel, Bradford CC (2024) - Defended a 18 year old at sentence for offences committed when he was 16. The starting point for an adult was 3 years imprisonment. Verity argued, due to his lack of maturity, that he should receive no more than he would have received had he been sentenced as a child and that there were grounds to impose a suspended sentence. The defendant received 12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months as a result of her submissions.
https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/24724846.jayden-peel-allerton-sentenced-thornton-road-crash/
R v Baldwin and Moorby, Bradford CC (2024) – Defended a sentence involving the importation of class C drugs. Through mitigation, Verity Barnes argued the harm could appropriately be categorised into category 4 given the conclusions of the defence expert. The client avoided custody and received a 24 month community order.
https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/24578960.bradford-man-woman-ordered-liquid-ecstasy-netherlands/
https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/24425882.bradford-bound-bottles-liquid-ecstasy-intercepted-airport/
R v B (2024) – Convinced the prosecution to offer no evidence on the day of trial in the Magistrates Court for lay client charged with driving without due care and attention.
R v D (2024) – Defended lay client in the Crown Court for sentence for production of a controlled drug of Class B. The defendant had been discovered growing cannabis at his home address with 40+ plants worth over £25,000 if sold commercially. Achieved a community order by highlighting the unexplained delay prior to charging.
R v Thackray (2024): Defence for client charged with possesion of indecent images. https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/24089951.paedophile-snared-decoys-posing-young-girls/
Clerks
Danny Smith
Call: 2023 (Solicitor 2016)
Danny Smith
University of Leicester, Postgraduate Diploma in Employment Law, Distinction (2023)
Solicitor-Advocate, Higher Rights of Audience (Civil) (2021)
University of Sheffield, Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice (2010)
Cardiff University, LLB Law (2009)
Middle Temple
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 / 0113 246 2600
Danny Smith joined Broadway House Chambers in October 2023 and accepts instructions within all elements of employment law, commercial law, property/landlord and tenant law, professional discipline, licencing, regulatory and sports law.
Having been admitted as a solicitor in 2016, Danny possesses prior experience within these areas before transitioning to the Bar. Consequently, he is well-versed in working with lay clients beyond the confines of the courtroom, prioritising excellent client care.
Danny has extensive experience dealing with all matters of employment law. Before joining Broadway House Chambers, Danny was employed as a solicitor advocate at a litigation firm in Leeds dealing exclusively with employment law litigation matters. He has experience of drafting complicated statements of case and carrying out advocacy at the employment tribunal including at both preliminary hearing and multi-day final hearings.
Danny also has experience of advising and undertaking advocacy for commercial law and property/landlord & tenant matters after being employed as a property litigation solicitor at a large commercial firm in Leeds and a housing law paralegal at a national housing charity. He is well equipped to assist with the full range of commercial law and property law matters.
“Danny is a tenacious advocate with a real attention to detail. He grasps complex matters quickly and with alacrity. His pragmatic and down-to-earth style puts clients at ease. I have no trouble whatsoever in recommending him” - Toby Pochron, Director, Freeths
Reputation
“Danny is a tenacious advocate with a real attention to detail. He grasps complex matters quickly and with alacrity. His pragmatic and down-to-earth style puts clients at ease. I have no trouble whatsoever in recommending him” - Toby Pochron, Director, Freeths.
"Danny is an expert in his field and helped us acheive a settlement in a disability discriminatio case that we thought would be impossible to settle. I would not hesitate to recommend him" Solicitor Feedback, 2024.
With previous experience as a solicitor, Danny has vast experience working within Employment Law, Commercial Law and matters involving Property & Landlord & Tenant.
Expertise
Danny accepts instructions for Claimants and Respondents at all stages in employment tribunal proceedings.
As a Solicitor Advocate, he has dealt with numerous cases involving:
- Discrimination
- Whistleblowing
- Unfair Dismissal
- Wrongful Dismissal
- Working Time Directive
- Unlawful Deductions and Breach of Contract
Danny has experience and is able to represent at all hearings at the employment tribunal. He has appeared at both multi day hearings and at preliminary hearings to determine disability, time limits, employment status, specific disclosure and strike out/deposit orders.
Property & Landlord & Tenant
Danny accepts instructions for both Claimants and Defendants.
As a Solicitor he advised and acted:
- Possession, Disrepair and Deposit Protection
- Trespass & Unlawful Occupation
- Lease Renewals and Break Notices
- Telecoms
- Dilapidations
- Rights of Way and Boundary Disputes
- Service Charge Disputes
- Party Wall Disputes
- Adverse Possession
- Forfeiture
Commercial Law
Danny accepts instructions for both Claimants and Defendants. As a solicitor, Danny advised and acted on breach of contract claims, debt recovery and employment law related disputes such as breach of restrictive covenants.
Professional Discipline & Licensing
Danny has extensive experience of sensitively advising and robustly representing regulated professionals before tribunals. Together with his employment law experience, Danny can be instructed from an early stage to include and ensure clients are easily navigated from the intertwining complexities of regulatory and employment law.
Healthcare Regulatory
Danny is regularly instructed to advise and represent care home clients and has a deep understanding of the unique regulated industry.
September 2025: Successfully presented on behalf of the Health and Care Professions Council in Tribunal for a renewed interim Conditions of Practice Order imposed on a paramedic.
Danny is also interested in inquests.
Notable Cases
Acting for a group company and its remaining associative companies as a result of one of the associated companies being liquidated resulting in all staff being dismissed by way of redundancy. A former director and employee of the liquidated company brought an unfair dismissal claim against the remaining associated companies arguing that they was employed by them.
(2023)
Acting for a Respondent obtaining a strike out due to time limits.
(2022 -2023)
Advising care homes in relation to compulsory Covid 19 vaccination and mask wearing policies and defending claims brought against it as a result of action taken under the policy.
G -v- H Limited, Leeds ET (2022)
2 day disability discrimination and constructive unfair dismissal claim brought by a former employee due to alleged “pressure” by the Respondent. Danny successfully represented the Respondent.
E -v- L Limited, Manchester ET (2021)
Unlawful deduction and breach of contract claim brought by a former employee due to a mistake in the Claimant’s contract of employment. Danny successfully represented the Respondent.
Clerks
Camilla Bonifai
Call: 2019
Camilla Bonifai
LLB (Hons) English Law, University of Dundee (2017)
LLM Human Rights Law, University of Edinburgh (2018)
LLM Bar Practice, The University of Law (2019)
Bar Practice Training Course, The University of Law, Very Competent (2019)
Employment Lawyers Association
Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association
Sport Resolutions Pro Bono Service
Lincoln’s Inn
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600 (Option 2)
Camilla commenced pupillage in September 2023 under the supervision of Paul Smith and has since gained further experience in different areas of Civil, Employment, Immigration and Regulatory Law. Camilla started her tenancy as a Barrister at Broadway House in September 2024.
Camilla is on Panel for the Government Legal Department’s Junior Junior Scheme. Camilla accepts Employment, Immigration and Civil instructions.
Prior to pupillage, Camilla had a civil litigation background, having worked in the civil courts as a County Court advocate (employed by an international firm) and having handled Claimant insurer-funded cases as a paralegal at a national solicitors’ firm.
Reputation
Publication: ‘The Irish Children’s Right Referendum’ (2019), published by Together (Scottish alliance for Children’s Rights)
Expertise
Employment
Camilla has observed a variety of employment matters during the first six months of her pupillage by attending Employment Tribunals across the country and in the EAT. Since the start of her second six months of her pupillage, Camilla has represented clients in preliminary and final hearings in matters involving all aspects of Employment Law. Camilla also has an extensive paper practice and accepts instructions to draft pleadings and provide written opinions.
Immigration
Camilla has represented clients in the First Tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal. She has been involved in factually complex cases regarding the situations in Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Vietnam as well as those involving EU settled status, and children. Camilla has also advised on matters of unlawful detention.
Civil
Camilla is instructed in a wide variety of Civil matters, representing and advising both Claimants and Defendants.Business, Commercial and Property – Camilla is regularly instructed to deal with matters involving commercial and residential property, housing disrepair, landlord and tenant matters, TOLATA, contract disputes, aviation, credit hire and debt recovery. Camilla regularly appears in the civil courts for applications, case management hearings, small and fast track trials.
Personal Injury – Camilla has developed considerable experience in dealing with Personal Injury matters, having worked as a personal injury paralegal and advocate prior to commencing pupillage. Camilla has been instructed to appear in the County Courts for both Claimants and Defendants on several cases. Camilla has also experience in advising on quantum on complex injury and high value matters.
Regulatory
Camilla has experience in disciplinary work and sport regulatory work.
Camilla has an extensive employment practice in which she is regularly instructed on disciplinary cases to represent a number of professionals. Camilla appears in the Tribunal regularly and advises on a number of matters involving healthcare professionals such as nurses, healthcare assistants and care workers. Camilla has also represented professional athletes and has carried out extensive work and attended hearings on historic cases before the Sport Resolutions appointed disciplinary and safeguarding panels. Camilla is also appointed to the Sport Resolutions Pro Bono Service.
Camilla has appeared in the Coroner’s Court, as well as advised and assisted colleagues on a number of inquests both on behalf of bereaved families and other corporate entities. Camilla draws on her civil practice to be well-equipped to advise and represent interested persons in cases that may follow after the inquest.
Camilla has interest in the following areas:
• Professional discipline
• Healthcare Regulatory
• Licensing
• Inquests
Clerks
Safaraz Ahad
Call: 2020
Safaraz Ahad
BPP (Leeds), Legal Practice LLM, Distinction (2019)
Leeds Beckett University, Law LLB (2017)
Middle Temple
Grade 2 prosecutor
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Safaraz has a criminal practice and accepts instructions in both the prosecution and defence.
Safaraz has experience handling cases in the Crown Court involving offences such as, but not limited to, threats to kill, controlling and coercive behaviour, assault and battery, grievous bodily harm (GBH), actual bodily harm (ABH), drug possession and supply, possession of indecent images of children, violent disorder and burglary.
Safaraz is a Grade 2 prosecutor.
Expertise
Safaraz accepts instructions for both defence and prosecution.
Whilst studying for the BPTC, Safaraz undertook pro-bono work for the BPP Legal Advice Clinic, providing legal advice surrounding housing issues. Accordingly, Safaraz had experience working with vulnerable clients, such as those with financial difficulties.
Prior to commencing pupillage, Safaraz worked as a County Court Advocate on the Northern Circuit. He appeared in a number of small claims as well as various interim hearings, such as landlord and tenant, mortgage possessions, infant approval hearings, charging orders, bankruptcy, attachment of earnings, insolvency proceedings, and injunctions. As such, Safaraz has gained extensive experience appearing in trials, and dealing with lay clients. He is keen to use the skills gained to assist him in his criminal practice.
Notable Cases
R v S (2025) Bradford Crown Court: Defence of S, who pleaded guilty before trial to numerous offences including threats to kill, controlling and coercive behaviour, and section 39 battery. The Crown argued a starting point of 4 years. Following mitigation, a total sentence of 20 months was imposed. https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/25010415.dad-of-five-physically-verbally-abused-former-wife/
R v G (2025) Preston Crown Court: Defence of G at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to s.18 GBH, having struck V with a metal pole across the face causing fractured facial bones and loss of teeth. The Crown argued a starting point of 12 years. Following mitigation, an extended sentence was avoided and a total sentence of 5 years, 6 months was imposed.
R v M (2025) Bradford Crown Court: Defence of M at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to possession of class B drugs with intent to supply. Safaraz secured a community order. https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/25004632.bradford-man-caught-cannabis-swords-scythe-home/
R v M (2025) Bradford Crown Court: Defence of M at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to possession of class B drugs with intent to supply. Safaraz secured a community order.
R v C (2025) Bradford Magistrates’ Court: Defence of C, who was charged with ABH. In reference to Safaraz’s cross-examination the Judge acquitted C, following a 2-day trial.
R v H (2024) Bradford Crown Court: Prosecution of a dangerous driving trial.
R v S (2024) Burnley Crown Court: Defence of S at sentence, who pleaded guilty on a basis to a conspiracy of possession with intent to supply Class A. S was told to expect a sentence in the region of 12 years custody. After Safaraz’s careful submissions about apportionment, S received a sentence of 7 years 7 months custody.
R v M (2024) Bradford Magistrates Court: Defence of M, who was charged with section 39 battery. In reference to Safaraz’s cross-examination the bench acquitted M.
R v C (2024) Bradford Crown Court: Defence of C at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to possession of class B drugs with intent to supply. Safaraz secured a suspended sentence order. https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/24791608.keighley-drug-dealers-waqas-ahmed-dwight-sloan-sentenced/
R v S (2024) Teeside Crown Court: Defending S at sentence, who had pleaded guilty on the day of trial to s.20 GBH, having attacked V causing a collapsed lung and shattered ribs. Safaraz secured a suspended sentence order. https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/chef-joined-gang-attack-collapsed-30224082
R v H (2024) Leeds Crown Court: Defence of H at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The sentencing guidelines gave a starting point of 2 years. The defendant had relevant previous convictions. Safaraz secured a suspended sentence order.
R v D (2024) Leeds Crown Court: Defence of D, who had pleaded guilty to burglary of a non-dwelling. On the day of trial, Safaraz managed to persuade the Crown that the hotel room in question was a non-dwelling. As a result, Safaraz secured a suspended sentence order.
R v F (2024) Liverpool Crown Court: Defence of F at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to numerous offences including section 20 assault (inflicting grievous bodily harm), theft, and section 39 battery. The defendant had relevant previous convictions. Following mitigation, a total sentence of 35 months was imposed. https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/gang-locked-man-hotel-room-30113093
Clerks
Josephine Garvey
Call: 2022
Josephine Garvey
University of Law (Leeds) BPTC – Very Competent (2021)
University of Law (Leeds), Legal Practice LLM, Distinction (2021)
University of Sheffield, LLB Law (European and International) 2.1 (2019)
Grays Inn
Member of the Family Law Bar Association.
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600 (Option 2)
Josephine joined Broadway House Chambers as a tenant in September 2024, following successful completion of her pupillage under the supervision of Nick Power.
Josephine accepts instructions across all areas of family law and has been instructed in matrimonial finance, private law children, public law children and injunction matters.
Reputation
Seminars
Josephine recently held a Webinar with Nick Power covering Daniels v Walker Applications. Following the success of the Webinar, Josephine and Nick were asked by Family Law (the Lexis Nexis journal), to write an article on the matter.
Josephine also recently provided a webinar alongside Kerry Barker re updates to post-adoption contact and spoke at the family law conference on PAG1/2 reports.
Background prior to pupillage:
Prior to pupillage, Josephine worked as an assistant legal officer at a West Yorkshire council in their childcare legal department for two years. During this time, she assisted on a wide range of public and private childcare matters, including emergency removal applications, placement order applications and contested adoption matters.
Josephine also worked as a paralegal in a regional solicitors firm in their family department. She assisted on applications for financial relief in matrimonial finance proceedings, injunction applications, private children disputes and international child abduction and child arrangement disputes.
Josephine received a grant from the University of Sheffield with respect to her pro bono work assisting litigants in persons with their court applications and supporting them within court hearings.
Expertise
Matrimonial finance
Josephine has been instructed on a wide range of cases under the Matrimonial Causes Act - at FDR stage, for interim hearings involving intervenors and at final hearing. She is regularly instructed to provide advice prior to FDRs and final hearing on making appropriate offers. She has successfully represented an application for an increase in MPS.
Private children
Josephine regularly accepts instructions in disputes relating to contact, residence and obtaining parental responsibility. She is often instructed for DRA and final hearings.
Her cases recently have involved allegations of domestic abuse, where she has acted on behalf of a respondent, and secured findings against the applicant of fabrication of evidence, misleading the court and demonstrating coercive controlling behaviours. All allegations raised by the applicant against the respondent were found not proven.
Public Law Children
Josephine has been instructed on applications for emergency removal, representing both local authorities and parents. She has undertaken final, contested hearings on behalf of local authorities involving neglect and domestic abuse.
Injunction proceedings
Josephine is often instructed on cases for final hearing, most recently securing findings of physical abuse against the respondent.
Clerks
Thomas Theakston
Call: 2023
Thomas Theakston
University of Law (Leeds), BPC, Outstanding (2023)
University of Law (Leeds), GDL, Distinction (2021)
Middle Temple Certificate of Honour (2023)
Middle Temple Diplock Scholar (2020 and 2021)
University of Law Career Changer Scholar (2021)
King’s College London, BA History, 2.1 (2008)
Criminal Bar Association
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Thomas has a criminal practice and accepts instructions in both prosecution and defence.
Thomas has prosecuted and defenced a wide variety of in the Magistrates’ Court, including driving offences, offences against the person, theft and dishonesty offences, sexual offences, and drug offences. He is frequently instructed in breach proceedings in both the Magistrates’ and Crown Court, and also regularly appears in the Crown Court for sentencing, bail and appeal hearings.
Thomas is a Grade 1 Prosecutor.
Reputation
Expertise
Crime
Thomas has a criminal practice and accepts instructions in both prosecution and defence.
Thomas has prosecuted and defenced a wide variety of in the Magistrates’ Court, including driving offences, offences against the person, theft and dishonesty offences, sexual offences, and drug offences. He is frequently instructed in breach proceedings in both the Magistrates’ and Crown Court, and also regularly appears in the Crown Court for sentencing, bail and appeal hearings.
Background Prior to Pupillage
Prior to pupillage, Thomas worked as Presenting Officer, representing the Home Office in the First-tier Immigration Tribunal. He appeared in a variety of matters including deportation hearings and asylum appeals. As a result, Thomas has experience of preparing cases for court, cross examination, submissions, and working with vulnerable witnesses. Whilst studying at the University of Law, Thomas volunteered with Support Through Court, providing guidance and support for litigants-in-person in civil and family matters, including helping them complete court forms, explaining court proceedings, and accompanying them to court hearings.
Notable Cases
R v H [2025] Leeds Magistrates’ Court: defence of H at trial, who was charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place. Following a successful submission by Thomas of no case to answer, the case was dismissed.
R v D [2025] Leeds Magistrates’ Court: Defence of D at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless or inconsiderate driving. The Crown argued a starting point of one years’ custody. Following mitigation, Thomas secured D a community order.
R v M [2025] Harrogate Magistrates’ Court: Defence of M at trial, who pleaded not guilty to failing to stop and failing to report a road traffic accident. Thomas secured acquittals to both charges.
R v J [2025] Kirklees Magistrates’ Court: Defence of J at sentence, who had been found guilty in her absence of assault by beating and racially aggravated harassment. Thomas secured a community order.
R v J [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Defence of J at his appeal against sentence. Thomas successfully ran an exceptional hardship argument, with J avoiding disqualification following a road traffic offence.
R v S [2025] Bradford Crown Court: Prosecution at sentence of a defendant charged with multiple offences, including harassment and assault emergency worker. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy8dl30w62yo
R v J [2025] Barnsley Magistrates’ Court: Prosecution of a defendant charged with public order and assault offences. Thomas secured guilty verdicts in his very first effective trial.
Clerks
Shebanee Devadasan
Call: 2023
Shebanee Devadasan
Durham University, LLB (Hons) Law, 2:1 (2021)
Geneva Academy, LLM International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, Magna Cum Laude (2022)
Northumbria University, LLM Law, Distinction (2023)
Northumbria University, Bar Course, Distinction (2023)
Middle Temple Jules Thorn Scholar
Criminal Bar Association
Grade 2 Prosecutor
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Shebanee has a criminal practice and accepts instructions in both prosecution and defence. She has experience in handling a variety of cases in the Crown and Magistrates Court, such as intentional strangulation, robbery, threats to kill, stalking, and affray. She has also prosecuted and defended at the Youth Court. She welcomes instructions in cases involving Human Rights.
Shebanee also has a developing regulatory practice. She has previously prosecuted on behalf of Leeds City Council and Bradford City Council. Shebanee is keen to develop her practice in this area. She welcomes instructions in regulatory and inquest work.
Shebanee is a Grade 2 prosecutor.
“Barrister Shebanee Devadasan was amazing. I was full of anxiety, unknown certainty, scared and had no clue what to expect. She broke every step down in such a great way that from that point on until the end, it was just smooth sailing. She was highly professional, sympathising and caring. Explained and answered every question I had” (Feedback from Client)
Reputation
“Barrister Shebanee Devadasan was amazing. I was full of anxiety, unknown certainty, scared and had no clue what to expect. She broke every step down in such a great way that from that point on until the end, it was just smooth sailing. She was highly professional, sympathising and caring. Explained and answered every question I had” (Feedback from Client)
Written work:
No One Will Be Ill On Their Own: Protecting the Right to Health of the Poor During Health-Related Disasters in Southeast Asia (2024) Asia-Pacific Journal on Human Rights and the Law
Environmental Destruction and Armed Conflict: Protecting the Vulnerable Through Islamic Law (2022) Manchester Journal of Transnational Islamic Law and Practice
Disaster Recovery in Indonesia: A Legal and Policy Survey (2022) International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
Malaysia’s Race-Based Policies: Utilitarian or Divisive? (2020) Durham Asian Law Journal
Expertise
Crime
Prior to commencing pupillage in 2024, Shebanee worked as a paralegal in a Personal Injury Firm in the UK. She regularly reviewed medical and engineer reports, extracting the necessary information in order to negotiate settlements in her clients’ favour. In Malaysia, Shebanee worked with asylum seekers who were victims of crimes within detention centres, demonstrating her ability to work with vulnerable individuals.
Shebanee is fluent in Bahasa Malaysia, and has a working knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia. As such, she can sensitively communicate with, and explain complex information in a digestible way to, those whose first language is not English.
Shebanee has a particular interest in Human Rights Law. Her LLM degrees and academic research demonstrate that she would be excellent at dealing with criminal cases involving Human Rights issues and would welcome instructions in such matters.
Shebanee has written research reports for international organisations, acted as an editor for legal journals, and peer-reviewed articles for academic journals. As such, she can confidently carry out legal research in short periods of time and produce written work of a high quality.
Regulatory
In addition to her criminal practice, Shebanee has an interest in military inquests, as well as healthcare and environmental regulatory work. Her Masters provided her with an in-depth understanding of the laws of armed conflict. She has also carried out legal research for, and published articles on environmental protection laws.
Notable Cases
R v M (2025) Bradford Magistrates Court: Representing M who was charged with failing to provide a specimen of blood. M was raising needle-phobia. Following a full day trial involving an expert witness, M was acquitted.
R v R (2025) Leeds Magistrates Court: Representing R who pleaded guilty to controlling and coercive behaviour, breaching a restraining order, and assault by beating. The Crown argued a starting point of 1 year custody. Following mitigation, Shebanee secured a community order.
R v J (2025) Leeds Crown Court: Prosecuting S at sentence, who had pleaded guilty to possession of prohibited images of a child, fraud by false representation, and failing to comply with the notification requirements of the Sex Offenders Register. He was sentenced to 2 years custody, and made subject to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/crime/sick-sex-offender-with-nappy-fetish-tried-to-acquire-baby-items-from-pudsey-nurseries-5068662
R v H (2025) Bradford Magistrates Court: Prosecuting H at trial for s.20 GBH whereby the Defendant, during an altercation, broke the Complainant’s arm. The Complainant had never supported the Prosecution. The Defendant was found guilty after trial.
R v H and Others (2025) Bradford Magistrates Court: Prosecuting an adult (H) and three youth defendants for burglary. The three youth defendants pleaded guilty to all offences, whilst H was found guilty after trial.
National Probation Service v O (2025) Bradford Crown Court: Representing O at sentence, where he pleaded guilty to the fourth breach of his Suspended Sentence Order. Following submissions on mitigation, Shebanee was able to successfully argue against custody being activated, and for his Order to continue.
R v B (2025) Bradford Crown Court: Representing B in an appeal against sentence, as B was facing a 6-month driving disqualification. Shebanee successfully argued exceptional hardship.
Clerks
Thomas Pickles
Call: 2023
Thomas Pickles
University of Hull – BA (Hons) American Studies (First Class)
University of Leeds – MA Race and Resistance (Merit)
Leeds Beckett University – Graduate Diploma in Law (Distinction)
University of Law, Leeds – Bar Practice Course (Very Competent)
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
Family Law Bar Association
Contact
T: 01274 722 560
Tom accepted Tenancy in September 2025 after completing pupillage under the supervision of Guy Swiffen and Christopher Styles. His practice is in Family Law and is accepting instructions on all matters of Public Children Law and Court of Protection.
Reputation
Expertise
Care
Prior to his career at the Bar, Tom worked for a housing charity in West Leeds, advocating for those at risk of imminent homelessness, or facing other issues regarding inadequate or insecure living conditions, and poor mental health. Tom is therefore very experienced in dealing with vulnerable and anxious clients.
Cases
A Local Authority v Anon (2025): Tom successfully represented a Local Authority in seeking multiple findings of fact against parents accused of in utero neglect of their child.
A Local Authority v Anon (2025): Tom represented a non-English speaking Father in a culturally sensitive case involving multiple children of Roma heritage.
A Local Authority v Anon (2025): Tom successfully represented a Local Authority in securing an Interim Care Order with removal of the child.
Clerks
Talia Meer
Call: 2024
Talia Meer
University of Liverpool LLB – 1st Class (Honours)
Nottingham Law School – BTC/LLM
Gray’s Inn
FLBA
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Talia joined Broadway House Chambers as a tenant in September 2025 following the successful completion of a busy pupillage under the supervision of Dornier Whittaker and Kerry Barker.
Talia accepts instructions in all Family Law matters including financial proceedings, private and public children proceedings and injunctions.
Reputation
"Just a short note to give you heartfelt thanks from my family and daughter in relation to your work for us in court this week. The outcome was way more than we could have hoped for and this has provided a clear way forward towards the desired outcome. Your skill and experience enabled the court to see very clearly, the background to this matter, to be able to read court reports with vision and understanding and secure a sensible and practical resolution. I was particularly impressed with your sensitivity, kindness and sympathetic approach towards both my daughter and myself. This really did help us both through what could have been a challenging and very difficult day in court"(Client Feedback, 2025)
Expertise
Private Children
Talia regularly accepts instructions within all aspects of children work representing parents and wider family members. She is often instructed for DRA’s and contested final hearings. Talia has undertaken work involving parental alienation and allegations of domestic abuse having regularly undertaken fact finding and composite FH’s.
She also has been instructed on urgent hearings regarding contact, residence, holidays and schooling.
Public Children
Talia has been instructed on applications for emergency removal representing both local authorities and parents in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse and neglect. She has undertaken work dealing with injunctions pursued against the local authority.
Financial Remedies
Talia is regularly instructed on financial remedy matters, ranging from FDA’s, FDR’s, final hearings and MPS applications. She often is instructed to give advice on making appropriate offers prior to hearings.
Cases
Clerks
Jamie Hill KC
Door Tenant - Call: 1984 | Silk: 2006
Jamie Hill KC (Door Tenant)
Recorder: 2002
Inner Temple
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
With his extensive experience in all aspects of criminal law Jamie is the Silk of choice for many defence solicitors when seeking leading counsel for clients charged with serious offences, including murder, manslaughter, sexual abuse, kidnap, rape and fraud.
Reputation
Jamie Hill KC is noted for his 'ability to hold his nerve and provide strong leadership in distressing cases. He handles high-profile and serious criminal matters, such as manslaughter, rape and drugs cases. He acts for both the defence and the prosecution' (Chambers & Partners, 2022)
Expertise
Crime an Regulatory
He has particular expertise in medical and scientific issues, with recent experience of non-accidental head injuries in babies, and involvement in a leading case in the interpretation of LCN DNA evidence.
He also has considerable experience in employment and regulatory matters, particularly involving issues of Discrimination, Health and Safety issues. He has regularly represented the Police Federation over the last 25 years both as a Q.C. and Junior in relation to Police Disciplinary Hearings and Inquests. He has also advised several high ranking officers in relation to employment matters.
In addition Jamie has also advised a group of BME officers in Cleveland regarding discrimination claims which were settled as well as local hotel chain in relation to a serious fire safety case.
Wide experience of prosecuting and defending. Also has considerable experience of Police Disciplinary work and civil actions against the Police.
Notable Cases
R -v- F (Large scale drug dealing and rape to enforce drug debts, major issues of PII and role of informers)
R -v- Reed (Gangland killing – case based on LCN DNA interpretation)
R -v- Harrobin (Prosecution of historic sexual abuse)
R -v- Curtis & Others (Murder involving teenage knife crime)
R -v- Hodgson (Murder – 6 week missing body case. Appeal pending re prosecution use of forensic linguist to interpret text messages)
R -v- Jewell (Baby shaking murder reduced to manslaughter)
R -v- Vinter (Prosecution of murder – whole life order)
Clerks
Jason Galbraith-Marten KC
Door Tenant - Call: 1991 | Silk: 2014
Jason Galbraith-Marten KC (Door Tenant)
One of The Lawyer’s Hot 100 in 2022
Chambers & Partners finalist for Employment Silk of the Year 2021
Labour and Employment Lawyer of the Year 2014, Lawyer Monthly Magazine
Listed in Chambers 100 published by Chambers & Partners UK as one of the top 100 business lawyers in the UK
Employment Junior of the Year 2009
Pegasus Scholar to New Zealand 1994
Middle Temple Astbury Scholar
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
In a career at the Bar spanning 30 years, Jason Galbraith-Marten KC has established himself as one of the UK’s most-respected practitioners in employment and equality law but whatever the field of law, he is single-mindedly focused on successful dispute resolution and the promotion of his clients’ best interests. Jason joined Broadway House Chambers’ Employment Law Team as a Door Tenant in May 2015.
Other information:
Jason Galbraith-Marten KC is a Door Tenant and continues to practice from Cloisters, London.
Reputation
"He is a smart and confident advocate with a strong profile in the employment status area, and he explains complicated matters in an accessible way." "He's pragmatic and really experienced, and he knows how to negotiate in very difficult situations. His advice is also effective and he can bring real momentum to a negotiation." "He is very good at making even a weak point attractive to the court. He is very bright, he is careful in his preparation, and is a good strategist who knows which points to pick and which to leave alone." Chambers & Partners 2022
"Great for tricky and complex discrimination cases and a real team player." Legal 500 2022
Expertise
Employment
In a career at the Bar spanning 30 years, Jason Galbraith-Marten KC has established himself as one of the UK’s most-respected practitioners in employment and equality law but whatever the field of law, he is single-mindedly focused on successful dispute resolution and the promotion of his clients’ best interests. Jason joined Broadway House Chambers’ Employment Law team as a Door Tenant in May 2015.
Notable Cases
• R. (on the application of United Trade Action Group Ltd) v Transport for London, Uber London Ltd v Transport for London [2021] EWHC 3290 (Admin) acting for Uber drivers to establish that the Private Hire Vehicles Act 1998 requires Uber and other PHV operators to contract with passengers as principal and not as agent.
• Uber BV v Aslam [2021] UKSC 5, successfully defending decision of the EAT [2018] ICR 453 and Court of Appeal [2019] ICR 845 re: the employment status of Uber minicab drivers.
• B v Yodel Delivery Network Ltd (C-692/19) [2020] IRLR 550, CJEU, acting for the successful Respondent in a case concerning the employment status of Yodel delivery drivers.
• Varnish v British Cycling Federation [2020] IRLR 822, EAT, acting for the successful Respondent in a case concerning the employment status of an Olympic athlete.
Clerks
Andrzej Bojarski KC
Door Tenant - Call 1995 | Silk 2024
Andrzej Bojarski KC
Barrister, Arbitrator and Mediator
LLB (Hons) London School of Economics
Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers
Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (MCIArb)
Family Law Bar Association
Chancery Bar Association
Gray’s Inn
Contact
E: clerks@broadwayhouse.co.uk
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Andrzej Bojarski KC is a senior barrister and a leading ADR practitioner (as a family law arbitrator and a mediator), with a practice which has an unrivalled span across family law and chancery law. He is routinely instructed in cases involving complex business and trust structures, difficult issues of commercial law or corporate law, or with claims involving third parties. Much of his case load involves cross-border international elements. As well as his matrimonial work he deals with the chancery aspects of family disputes, including ToLATA claims and Inheritance Act disputes. He has developed particular expertise in crypto assets and FinTech.
Andrzej is also one of the most experienced and frequently chosen arbitrators and private FDR neutral evaluators. He is also a popular and effective mediator, known for bringing calmness to acrimonious disputes and finding creative solutions to apparently intractable problems.
Andrzej writes and lectures widely on English family law. He has been the Consultant Editor of the last two editions of the Matrimonial and Civil Partnership Law volumes of the authoritative legal encyclopaedia Halsbury’s Laws of England and he is also the author of a leading textbook on financial remedies in divorce.
Reputation
"A silent assassin. Pleasant and solutions-focused, he's forward-thinking and amicable with his opposite number, but in court he's ruthless in the way he presents the case and makes submissions to judges."
"A super advocate who is very easy to listen to. He's focused, he doesn't take nonsense points and he makes the most of his good ones. His cross-examination is really good."
"Andrzej Bojarski is excellent - he's very calm and very well-liked by his clients. He gives good advice and his paperwork and preparation are perfect."
(Chambers and Partners, 2023)
‘Andrzej brings his advocacy skills to the private judging sphere. He is thorough, empathetic and kind, hugely intelligent, and probably thinking five steps ahead of the advocates in front of him on every case, hard-working and keen to find/broker settlement. He is fully resolution-focused and will leave no stone unturned in trying to get a couple to that end.’
‘Andrzej gives clear well thought and excellent advice. He is a very good advocate and unfailingly polite to all involved. He is reliable and hugely experienced. He puts clients at their ease.’ He has ‘excellent client care skills’ and is an ‘incredibly easy barrister to work with’.
(Legal 500, 2023)
"Andrzej is fair-minded, technical and able to deal with the most difficult areas of family law."
"He really gets under the skin of the case from an early stage, and is personable, calm and understated. His technical knowledge is excellent."
"He is well prepared, very knowledgeable and has a great eye for detail."
"He's very financially astute, and I rate him very highly"
(Chambers & Partners, 2020)
"Has the ability to untangle the most complicated financial setup and then offer practical advice." (Legal 500, 2020)
"Andrzej is a master for detail and an excellent draftsman."(Chambers & Partners, 2019)
"He wins by being clever, persuasive and rational." (Chambers & Partners, 2019)
"Go-to individual for financial work. I know I can trust him and he will cut to the chase. He is brilliant with the client too." (Chambers & Partners, 2017)
"A very accomplished advocate. Good on paper and in court." (Chambers & Partners, 2017)
"Andrzej is excellent for financial work. His expertise in complicated offshore finances is second to none, and he is a barrister who offers strong advice." (Chambers & Partners, 2017)
"He is just outstanding. He knows the law and procedure like the back of his hand."(Chambers & Partners, 2016)
"Measured, eloquent, sensible" (Chambers & Partners, 2016)
Publications:
Consultant Editor of the Matrimonial and Civil Partnership Law volumes of Halsbury’s Laws of England.
Author of Unlocking Matrimonial Assets on Divorce (Family Law, 3rd edition 2012)
Author of numerous articles and regular presenter of webinars, seminars and lectures on family law.
Ranked as a leading practitioner for financial remedies work and ADR by both the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.
Expertise
Finance: Andrzej is very highly rated as one of the most knowledgeable and skilled lawyers in the field of family finance, dealing with cases where the parties were married and are divorcing, and also in disputes between unmarried couples or resulting from other family relationship breakdowns. He is routinely instructed in the most difficult cases and has particular experience of trusts and complex business structures, usually with a multi-jurisdictional and international dimension. He is also well-known for his experience of and expertise in cases involving crypto-assets and FinTech, business and corporate governance issues in the midst of relationship breakdown, and property disputes involving families, including in relation to the estates of the deceased.
While he was still a junior barrister the influential Chambers & Partners Bar rankings listed Andrzej as one of only four “Star Individuals” in Matrimonial Finance work in London.
ADR: Andrzej has been a family law arbitrator since 2012 and has been acting as a neutral evaluator in private FDRs since 2017. He has conducted in excess of 200 arbitrations and private FDRs with many clients regarding him as the ‘go to’ tribunal in difficult cases. The Legal 500 says “Andrzej brings his advocacy skills to the private judging sphere. He is thorough, empathetic and kind, hugely intelligent, and probably thinking five steps ahead of the advocates in front of him on every case, hard-working and keen to find/broker settlement. He is fully resolution-focused and will leave no stone unturned in trying to get a couple to that end.”
International: Many of Andrzej’s cases involve an international dimension and he has extensive experience of jurisdictional disputes and the tracing or assets and enforcement of orders across international borders. He is also regularly approached to offer advice on English law to lawyers overseas. Andrzej is a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers.
Notable Cases
Unger v Ul Hasan [2023] UKSC 22. Seminal Supreme Court decision on whether unadjudicated matrimonial claims survive the death of a party.
Baker v Baker [2022] EWFC 15 and [2023] EWFC 136. Successful repudiation of a wife’s claim that a husband had undisclosed assets of over $30 million.
Joseph v Grandison [2019] EWHC 977 (Fam). Successful enforcement of a ‘best endeavours’ injunction.
Clerks
Syam Soni
Call: 2015
Syam Soni
Honourable Society of Lincolns Inn
Criminal Bar Association (CBA)
Society of Asian Lawyers
Mentor at Queer Lawyers of Tomorrow
Amicus ALJ
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 / 0113 246 2600
A dedicated criminal defence specialist with a nationwide practice, Syam has developed a reputation for consistently delivering excellence for clients across the spectrum of criminal allegations. From conspiracy to murder to burglary, Syam is fearless in his representation of all clients.
Syam has represented those accused of some of the most serious offences, as well as leading business professionals, CEOs and even nobility.
Syam had a successful career in the banking industry prior to the Bar. He also volunteered on Death Row in Houston, Texas, following which he studied Astronomy and Philosophy in Boston, MA.
Syam is multilingual- fluent in Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi- and authorised to accept instructions from members of the public.
Reputation
Syam is ranked in the Legal 500:
"Legal 500, Tier 3" (2026)
“Syam Soni has exceptional legal acumen” (2025)
Syam has provided training to solicitors, local authorities and universities on a range of legal matters including:
• Advocacy/case presentation
• The rules of evidence (bad character, hearsay etc.)
• The disclosure regime and best practices
Syam is part of the South-Eastern Circuit (SEC) delegation due to visit Gainesville, Florida, in 2022 to assist with the training of US lawyers.
Expertise
Syam is experienced both as a led junior and junior alone and is regularly instructed in complex and heavyweight cases including:
- conspiracy to murder
- serious violence (offences up to and including attempted murder)
- rape and serious sexual offences
- serious firearms allegations
- multi-million pound drugs supply conspiracies
Notable Cases
R v X (Bradford CC, 2025) Syam represented the second defendant of five, all of whom were said to be part of a gang that had kept a Vietnamese man in servitude by compelling him to work in a 'cannabis factory’. It was alleged that Syam’s client, along with others, had subjected the complainant to a 'retribution beating' when some of the drugs were stolen. Syam’s client was the only defendant to be acquitted of the human trafficking/modern slavery offences, instead being convicted of only the cannabis production. https://www.broadwayhouse.co.uk/news/syam-acquittal-in-modern-slavery-exploitation-trial
R v X (Leeds CC, 2025) Syam represented the defendant, who was charged with allegations of intentional suffocation and making threats to kill against his former partner. The defendant had numerous convictions for violence, including for attacks against former partners, which were admitted before the jury. Through careful cross-examination of the complainant, and a thorough review of telephonic material, Syam exposed various defects with the prosecution evidence, resulting in an unanimous acquittal. https://www.broadwayhouse.co.uk/news/acquittal-intentional-suffocation-threats-to-kill-2025
R v X (Bradford CC, 2025) This operation involved a lengthy and complex investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in which over 100KG of heroin were imported from Pakistan. The street value of the drugs was said to be £8.5 million. The case involved complex areas of law, including bad character evidence and careful consideration of the nature of conspiracies. This allowed for the prosecution case to be robustly challenged. Both Syam and Rebecca’s clients were acquitted by the jury after a 4-week trial at Bradford Crown Court. https://www.broadwayhouse.co.uk/news/syam-soni-and-rebecca-young-secure-acquittals-in-multi-million-pound-drugs-conspiracy
Operation Phantom (Bolton CC, 2024): Syam was instructed to defend complex POCA proceedings where the defendant was said to have benefited to the value of approximately £10 million arising from a large-scale conspiracy to supply drugs. Through forensic analysis and careful negotiation, Syam was able to halve both the alleged benefit and available amounts to achieve the most favourable outcome for his client.
Operation M (Birmingham CC,2023): prosecuted by KC in case concerning drugs supply conspiracy worth hundreds of thousands of Pounds.
Operation D (Teesside CC, 2023): representing defendant accused of large-scale fraud targeting vulnerable customers
York CC,2023: represented at retrial a man accused of raping his former partner. Syam succeeded in making targeted and focused submissions as well as robustly challenging the fairness of the prosecution. The jury acquitted within an hour.
Operation S (Central Criminal Court, 2022): led junior in conspiracy to murder, possession of firearms with intent to endanger life, possession of Class A drugs etc. Cross-examined the leading Prosecution EncroChat expert
Operation M (Manchester CC, 2022): defended man charged with multi-million Pound drugs importation conspiracy involving EncroChat
R v C(Basildon CC, 2021): represented defendant charged with possessing indecent and extreme images. Avoided Newton Hearing and secured community order where custody otherwise inevitable
R v B(Kingston CC, 2021): s.18- defended woman with complex mental health difficulties accused of throwing boiling water in the face of a care worker
R v S(Isleworth CC, 2021): acquittal in serious violent disorder (later affray) involving 25 people armed with swords in a residential neighbourhood
Clerks
Emma McIlveen
Door Tenant - Call: 2016
Emma McIlveen (Door Tenant)
Republic of Ireland Year of Call: 2020
England and Wales Year of Call: 2021
Committee member of the NI Medico-Legal society.
Committee member of the Employment Lawyers Group NI
Co-Founder of the Advanced Employment Course at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies at Queens University
Independent Assessor for the Commissioner for Public Appointments (CPANI)
Non-Executive Lay Member of the Northern Ireland Practice and Education Council for Nursing and Midwifery (NIPEC)
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Emma McIlveen is a specialist employment disputes barrister, providing strategic advisory and advocacy services to respondents and claimants. She has represented clients in all types of employment disputes and has a particular interest and experience in:
Pregnancy discrimination
Vulnerable claimants & reasonable adjustments
Serious sexual harassment
In recent months, she has developed a specialty in advising both employers and employees on the enforceability of and/or breaches of post-employment restrictive covenants, applying for and defending applications for injunctive relief. She has experience of bringing High Court personal injury claims for assaults at work and claims involving psychological injury through harassment, bullying and stress at work. Emma has also represented clients charged with disciplinary offences before professional regulators. This area of her practice is informed by her time spent as junior counsel to the Independent Neurology Inquiry.
In addition to the above, Emma has:
Represented registrants before the Nursing and Midwifery Council Panel;
Prosecuted on behalf of Local Government Authorities;
Represented criminal defendants in the Crown Court;
Made representations regarding the unlawfulness of the continued detention under the Terrorism Act;
Secured Orders for Possession for Northern Ireland Housing Executive;
Secured a number of Protection orders;
Handled a number of small claims;
Ran assessment of damages hearings in the County Court;
Represented parents before School Admissions Appeal Panels;
Appeared before the Coroner in relation to a Death in Custody Inquest;
Represented Life Prisoners before the Parole Commissioners.
Reputation
Reputation
Emma is qualified to practise in Northern Ireland, GB and the Republic of Ireland and has experience of disputes with a multi-jurisdiction element. She has appeared in courts and tribunals in all three areas.
Regular speaker at Chambers’ monthly Employment Law Update. She is also the author of McIlveen on Employment, a monthly roundup of employment law matters in Northern Ireland. Sign up here for the next edition: https://mailchi.mp/35e331ccb0d9/emcilveen-employment-news
Outside of the courtroom, Emma is a mother to three young children and was recently nominated for an Inspirational Women in Law awards by Next100Years.
Expertise
EMPLOYMENT
Emma has extensive employment law experience and has appeared in the Employment Tribunal, Court of Appeal and in front of Regulatory Panels. Emma represents both claimants and respondents and has acted as sole counsel in a wide range of matters including complex discrimination matters dealing with disability, age, race, pregnancy and sex discrimination. She also has experience of handling claims for unfair dismissal, discrimination by association, unfair recruitment and selection procedures, TUPE and unlawful deduction of wages. Emma has represented claimants on behalf of the Equality Commission and successfully secured one of the highest awards for injury to feelings for pregnancy discrimination in Northern Ireland. Emma also has experience of representing vulnerable claimants and is well versed on Galo adjustments. Emma also serves on the committee of the Employment Lawyers Group. Emma is also currently completing the Advanced Diploma in Employment Law with King’s Inns in Dublin. She has experience of acting in relation to cross-border employment issues and advising in relation to differences between employment law in Northern Ireland, GB and the Republic of Ireland.
IMMIGRATION
Emma’s passion for immigration work started when she worked in the Harvard Immigration and Refugee Clinic in Boston. During her time at Harvard, Emma also travelled to Jordan to conduct an assessment of the Syrian Refugee Crisis. Emma now regularly appears before the Immigration Tribunal (both Lower & Upper Tier). Emma provides advice and representation across all areas of immigration and asylum law. She has a wide range of experience in this area and undertakes asylum appeals, deportation appeals, EEA appeals, unlawful detention claims and complex bail applications. Emma attends events organised by the Immigration Practitioners’ Group to keep abreast of developments in this area. Emma has also advised employers regarding the impact of Brexit on their business and implications for their employees.
JUDICIAL REVIEW
Emma has been instructed in a number of high profile judicial reviews. Indeed, Emma was instructed by the Department of Justice in relation to the challenge of Northern Ireland’s abortion laws which went to the Supreme Court. Emma was also instructed as Junior Counsel to the Attorney General in JR76 and the Humanist Marriage Case. Emma has also appeared before the High Court as sole junior counsel for leave and substantive hearings. She has particular experience of challenges involving immigration, prison, education, and health issues. Emma has also previously taught public law at Queens’ University, Belfast.
Notable Cases
Notable Cases
Employment
Crowter
https://www.judiciary.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Crowter-v-SSHSC-judgment-230921.pdf
Nevin McEldowney vs Randox Farming Limited trading as Cherryvalley Farms [2021]
Gruzdaite v McGranes Nurseries Ltd [2019] NIIT 17321_18IT
In the matter of an application by the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission for Judicial Review (Northern Ireland) Reference by the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland pursuant to Paragraph 33 of Schedule 10 to the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Abortion) (Northern Ireland)
https://www.supremecourt.uk/cases/docs/uksc-2017-0131-judgment.pdf
Rice v Dignity Funerals Limited | [2017] NIIT 02651_16IT
Clerks