Stephen Wood KC
Head of Chambers - Call: 1991 | Silk: 2020
Stephen Wood KC
Qualifications: LL.B.(Hons)
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Stephen Wood KC is renowned for his expertise in the prosecution and defence of cases involving homicide and organised crime.
Prior to his appointment to Silk in 2020, Stephen was widely acknowledged as being one of the foremost juniors on Circuit. He excels as a trial advocate and is a formidable cross-examiner.
Stephen possesses excellent judgment married with an acute tactical awareness for all stages of the prosecution process.
Stephen’s encyclopaedic knowledge of criminal law, the sentencing provisions and of the Criminal Procedure Rules is acknowledged by other legal professionals and the judiciary; one Judge remarking that Stephen was a “..walking talking Archbold”. Accordingly, Stephen acts in an advisory capacity pre-charge in cases involving prosecutions where there is a novel issue of law.
Stephen’s practice now encompasses all aspects of serious and organised crime and the most serious cases of sexual offending. Described by a High Court Judge as a “first rate prosecutor”, Stephen is dedicated and hard-working and instils great confidence in those who work with him.
Stephen also works with screenplay writers and directors on television and film productions depicting court scenes. He was with the director on set during filming of the Crown Court scenes in the acclaimed Channel 4 series ‘National Treasure’ and advised the writer and director of the Netflix Drama “I Came By”.
Reputation
"Stephen has a 'hands-on' style and is always willing to advise”.
"Stephen is always well prepared and approachable and has offered a high level of service ”.
"Stephen Wood KC is ‘well-prepared and courageous in court’ and ‘devastating in cross-examination’, with an established track record in prosecuting and defending in a wide range of serious criminal matters”.
"Stephen is a fearless cross-examiner and his jury speeches are perfectly pitched. He is a good operator, tactically astute. Juries love him”.
"Stephen Wood KC is a well-regarded practitioner with experience on both the prosecution and defence sides of criminal proceedings. He has experience handling serious criminal cases including murder and sexual offences. He is a Grade 4 prosecutor who appears in the Crown Court and the Court of Appeal”.
"He is a fluent advocate and has great ability at enabling juries to understand complex issues. A tactically astute silk who is great with clients”.
"He prosecutes serious cases extremely effectively in a calm, understated, and fair-minded way. He is highly organised. His cross examinations are focused, and to the point. He stands his ground with judges and is good at maintaining his case strategy. He is engaging with juries. He obviously commands the respect of those who instruct him and his opponents”.
"Stephen Wood has an extensive criminal defence practice”.
"Highly rated for serious crime defence”.
"Stephen Wood is ‘good with difficult clients’ with experience in fraud and conspiracy”.
"An excellent choice for heavy crime”.
" “Very Good with difficult clients… Well followed as a serious crime defender”.
" Always has an ace up his sleeve when defending heavy crime”.
Expertise
Stephen is instructed in an advisory capacity and for advocacy in all aspects of serious crime and including offences with novel points of law. His experience includes:
• Child sexual exploitation and trafficking;
• Serious drug offences;
• Firearm offences
• Organised crime;
• Murder and manslaughter;
• Terrorism.
Stephen prosecutes and defends at every stage of the criminal process, from pre-charge advice for prosecuting authorities and individuals and companies subject to investigation, to representation at trial and at any appeal.
Stephen is also instructed to advise upon and conduct cases before the Administrative Court and appellate courts concerning judicial review of matters relating to criminal law.
Stephen also acts as an advocacy trainer.
Notable Cases
R v Jason Gowen (2024) - Preston Crown Court
Stephen Wood KC prosecuted Gowen who strangled and smothered a mother-of-two to death after already being on bail for attacking another woman. Gowen received a life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years. News Coverage: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12973425/Abusive-boyfriend-28-strangled-smothered-mother-two-37-death-bail-attacking-woman-killer-faces-life-jail.html
R v Anon (2024) - Leeds Crown Court
Stephen led Abigail Langford prosecuted two teenagers for hacking to death Harley Brown, using machetes. News Coverage: https://news.sky.com/story/harley-browns-killers-sentenced-to-life-for-stabbing-him-to-death-after- chance-meeting-outside-huddersfield-shop-13033725
R v Mark Vaskouski (2024) - Hull Crown Court
Defendant convicted of murder having assaulted victim and left him in a flat which was already on fire causing death. News Coverage: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ced1p527v61o
R v Feve, Wattam and ors (2023) - Hull Crown Court
Led Clare Walsh and successfully prosecuted defendants for Murder, Manslaughter and Perverting the Course of Justice. News coverage: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/news/grimsby-news/kian-feve-guilty-murdering-jack-8960407 and https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2e20rv7g22o
Rex v Moyo, Gill and Rehman (2023)- Sheffield Crown Court
Instructed by Yorkshire and Humberside Complex CPS Complex Casework Unit, this was the first case to be prosecuted in the United Kingdom involving the production of functioning sub-machine guns using a 3D printer. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-64900210
R v X (2023)- Bradford Crown Court
Defending mother for attempted murder of very young child.
R v Selmani & Senia (2023)- Sheffield Crown Court
Instructed to prosecute in the retrial for the manslaughter of Armend Xhika. Selmani was sentenced to 20 years and Senia 13 years and four months. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-67168728
R v Jabari Fanty and Others (2022)
Sheffield Crown Court, Prosecution, Obtained convictions after trial of all Defendants on all counts for murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to possess modified firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, and conspiracy to supply controlled drugs of Class A. One of the most complex cases to be investigated by South Yorkshire Police. Instructed by Yorkshire and Humberside Complex Casework Unit. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-61986797
R v Butt (2021)- Leeds Crown Court
Prosecution: Killing using motor car as weapon
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-56860006
And before the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division)
https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/crime/sadistic-leeds-murderer-loses-appeal-to-have-his-28-year-sentence-reduced-3547729
R v Taylor Meanley and Others (2021)
Prosecution: Execution of rival gang member using ‘slam gun’.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-59085628
R v Jaspal Marwaha (2021) – Leeds Crown Court
Prosecution: Advising on charge and prosecuting first prosecution of its kind involving ‘Airbow’ weapon and verdict establishing weapon was ‘firearm’ withing meaning of Firearms Act 1968
https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/crime/an-utterly-lethal-weapon-how-leeds-jurors-made-landmark-legal-ruling-on-the-deadly-airbow-3445912
R v Mottershead and Others (2021) – Sheffield Crown Court
Prosecution: Gangland shooting
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-55591197
R v X (2020)– Bradford Crown Court
Prosecution: Mother suffocating children.
https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/18800526.bradford-mum-tried-strangle-poison-young-sons-given-indefinite-hospital-order/
R v Lloyd Birkby (2020) – Bradford Crown Court
Defence: Death caused by throwing mobile phone at victim.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-52215975
R v Paul Crowther (2020) – Leeds Crown Court
Defence: Killing by Defendant who heard voices commanding him.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-54077848
R v Stephen Dunford & Others (2020) – Sheffield Crown Court
Prosecution: Series of gangland related shootings, culminating in shooting of 12 year old boy.
https://www.thestar.co.uk/news/crime/live-updates-sheffield-gangster-stephen-dunford-given-life-imprisonment-over-attempted-murder-12-year-old-boy-drive-shooting-2995445
R v Sharples (2020) – Liverpool Crown Court
Defence: Murder by mixed martial artist.
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/boozed-up-nutcase-beat-vulnerable-19104180
R v Ian Watkins (2019)– Leeds Crown Court
Prosecution: Offences committed by former lead singer of The LostProphets in prison.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-49294092
R v Crossland (2019) – York Crown Court
Prosecution: Largest ever haul of IIOC in North Yorkshire and Firearms offences.
https://www.itv.com/news/2019-03-11/pensioner-jailed-over-one-of-largest-hauls-of-indecent-images-found-in-england
R v John Taylor (2018) – Leeds Crown Court
Prosecution: Cold case review of serious sexual offences committed by Defendant already serving life for murder.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-45990773
R v Neil Taggart – Leeds Crown Court
Defence of former Lord Mayor of Leeds
https://www.itv.com/news/calendar/2017-07-04/disgraced-former-lord-mayor-jailed-for-sex-offences
Clerks
Matthew Rudd
Call: 1994
Matthew Rudd
Head of Employment Law Team
ELA
FLBA
Chambers and Partners
Legal 500
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Matthew is Head of the Employment Team with over 27 years experience. He undertakes work in the Employment Tribunal, Employment Appeal Tribunal and Higher Courts. He is also a member of the Family Team undertaking Financial Remedy and TOLATA and Inheritance Act work. Further, Matthew has expertise in sports law and civil claims relating to his Employment and Financial Remedy Practice.
Reputation
Matthew regularly presents at Employment and Family Seminars and undertakes private FDRs.
Matthew is ranked in Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500 for his Employment practice:
Chambers and Partners UK Bar
“Matthew is a very pragmatic advocate who appreciates the difficulties in a case. He was very cool and calm, and the client was very happy. Matthew has good client care skills, readily picked up the issues and provided sound advice. Matthew is a solid go-to barrister who cuts through the case to get to the key issues. Matthew's vast experience leads to wise and measured decisions." (2025)
”Matthew is very calm under fire and builds great rapport with clients, and he's good on his feet." (2024)
"Matthew Rudd is head of the chambers' employment law practice. He is well versed in a range of complex unfair dismissal and discrimination claims" (2023)
"Effective and enormously experienced, he has impressed me. He can really analyse the important merits of a claim." "An experienced employment barrister, he is thorough and pragmatic as well as being a good advocate." "He cuts through legal issues and explains everything with such ease." (2022)
Legal 500
“An unflappable barrister with gravitas and natural authority.” (2025)
“Band 2 Advocate” (2024)
"A tenacious advocate with a calming influence. Practical, thorough and exceptionally dedicated" (2023)
'An exceptionally dedicated barrister. He cuts through complex legal issues with ease. Experienced and unflappable.”(2022)
Expertise
Employment
As Head of the Employment Law Team, Matthew undertakes work for both employees and employers and has extensive experience in Unfair Dismissal, Discrimination, TUPE and Restrictive Covenants. He regularly handles multi-day cases with large bundles.
Family Law
Matthew has considerable experience in Financial Remedy high value asset cases and cases involving family businesses. He regularly undertakes TOLATA work and Inheritance Act Claims.
Civil and Sports Law
Matthew undertakes Civil and Sports Law work connected to his Employment and Family practice.
Notable Cases
F v H: Successful Claim for unfair dismissal and discrimination and successfully defended the appeal to the EAT;
C v SDCC Arguments over whether conditions amounted to a disability with a large number of witnesses and whether dismissal due to disability or SOSR;
F v JCT Claim involving unfair dismissal and disability discrimination. Respondents awarded £10,000 costs despite Claimant claiming to be impecunious;
B v SN Advising the Claimant in ongoing ET proceedings involving claims for harassment, victimisation and sexual orientation discrimination over a number of years;
I v A Represented the Claimant in a complex claim for breach of contract and unlawful deductions from wages with a counterclaim by the Respondent. Successful in all aspects of the claim;
U v L & C Complex case involving a TUPE transfer acting for the transferee who was jointly and severally liable for obligations of the transferor under regulations 13 and 14 of TUPE. Multi handed case involving test Claimants for 25 representative Claimants.
Clerks
Clare Walsh
Call: 2009
Clare Walsh
M.A. (Hons) Classics, University of Cambridge (2007, Upper Second Class)
Graduate Diploma in Law, BPP Law School, Leeds (2008)
Bar Vocational Course, BPP Law School, Leeds (2009, Very Competent)
Legal Aid Supplier Number 245TY
Clare is a member of the Criminal Bar Association.
In 2022, Clare was appointed as Deputy District Judge (Magistrates Courts)
Grade 3 Prosecutor
RASSO Panel
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Clare Walsh (née Benson) first joined Broadway House Chambers in 2009 as a pupil to Sophie Drake, now HHJ Sophie McKone. She accepted tenancy in 2010 and has remained at Broadway House Chambers ever since.
Clare practices predominantly in criminal law and is a regular feature in the Crown Courts of Yorkshire. She also has significant experience in regulatory matters, as well as mental health and prison law.
In addition to her busy practice, Clare now sits as a Deputy District Judge in the Magistrates’ Courts.
Clare is on the RASSO panel and is a Grade 3 prosecutor.
Reputation
In May 2017, Clare wrote an article entitled “The impact of the Ched Evans case on the law surrounding a Complainant’s sexual history” which can be found on the Broadway House website.
In July 2020 Clare gave a presentation on Cross-Admissibility at the Broadway House Annual Prosecution Seminar.
Expertise
Crime
Clare prosecutes and defends in the Crown Court in all areas of crime. She regularly deals with cases involving violence and is often instructed in matters involving young and vulnerable witnesses. Clare’s experience in the Crown Court ranges all the way from cases involving assault occasioning actual bodily harm, robbery, benefit fraud and indecent image offences, to s.18 wounding with intent, aggravated burglary and armed robbery, the supply of drugs, possession of firearms, high value fraud and serious sexual offences.
Clare has recent experience as Led Junior for both the Prosecution and the Defence.
Clare is on the RASSO panel and is a Grade 3 prosecutor.
Clare is also often instructed for the Defence as lone Junior in matters of serious sexual offences.
Sports Law
Clare joined the Sports Law Team as a consequence of her experience in disciplinary and regulatory proceedings in other professional fields. She also has a keen interest in Anti-Doping.
Clare’s experience as a criminal advocate has meant she has developed a particular interest in how the media treat those involved in sport who are accused of crimes and how this affects their careers.
Regulation + Judicial Review
In addition to her busy criminal law practice Clare has experience of representing lay clients and Local Authorities in taxi licensing matters and in environmental law cases. She has significant experience representing clients in Mental Health Act tribunals. Clare also practices in prison law and has appeared in Disciplinary and Parole Board hearings. Clare has also appeared before the Nursing and Midwifery Council on behalf of registrants in both interim and full hearings.
Notable Cases
COURT OF APPEAL (Criminal Division)
R v Iqbal (Rashid) [2022] – Clare represented this Appellant convicted of historical sexual offences. The appeal centred on the way the sentencing Judge had dealt with the issue of totality. The Court of Appeal agreed with her submissions in this regard and reduced the overall sentence from 12 to 10 years.
R v Craggs (Patrick John) [2018] EWCA Crim 1117 - Clare represented this Defendant, charged with Causing Serious Injury by Dangerous Driving and multiple Hanoi burglaries. The case involved issues surrounding fitness to plead, credit for plea and ultimately, when it came to sentence, matters of totality. There were sensitive matters to raise in mitigation. Following sentencing in the Crown Court, Clare took the case to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division), where she successfully persuaded the Court that the sentence imposed was manifestly excessive, resulting in the total period of imprisonment being reduced from 12 years 2 months to 7 years 2 months.
CROWN COURT
R v Feve, Wattam and ors (2023) Led junior and successfully prosecuted defendants for Murder, Manslaughter and Perverting the Course of Justice.News coverage: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/news/grimsby-news/kian-feve-guilty-murdering-jack-8960407 and https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2e20rv7g22o
R v W (2021) Clare was led Junior for the Defence in this trial for Murder.
R v C (2021) Clare represented a young woman who pleaded guilty on the day of trial to a matter of Assisting an Offender, where her co-accused stood convicted of Attempt Murder and ultimately received a sentence exceeding 15 years. Clares client was made subject of a Suspended Sentence Order.
R v C (2021) Clare was led Junior for the Prosecution in this trial involving historical serious sexual offences against multiple victims. There were issues involving loss of historical ABE interviews and accounts, as well as hearsay and cross-admissibility. The case resulted in convictions on all Counts and the Defendant receiving a sentence of over 28 years’ imprisonment.
R v W (2018) Clare represented the Defendant in this complex POCA matter in which the benefit figure exceeded £4,000,000 and in which it was alleged there were hidden assets. Ultimately the available amount was agreed at just over £85,000, which was half what the Prosecution had originally applied for.
R v H & B (2017) Clare prosecuted this case in which a firearm was discharged in a busy nightclub, causing injury to a bystander. One of the Defendants, H, took the matter to trial. The case involved consideration of a large amount of CCTV, all of which had to be presented to a jury. Furthermore, following sentencing, Clare advised the Crown as to the unduly lenient sentencing of H. Based on this advice, the case was taken up by Treasury Counsel who successfully presented the matter before the Court of Appeal.
Clerks
Adam Willoughby
Call: 2011
Adam Willoughby
Head of Sports Law & Deputy Head of the Employment Law Team
LL.B (Hons) Law, University of Hull, First Class Honours (2010)
Bar Professional Training Course, BPP Law School, Leeds (2011)
Inaugural Middle Temple Master Rose Scholarship Award (2010)
Middle Temple
Legal Aid Supplier No. 02DXD
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Adam specialises in:
Employment Law
Sports, Media, and Entertainment Law
Business, Property and Probate Litigation
Matrimonial Finance (with an emphasis on commercial and complex pension interests)
Adam has been described as having “an impressive analytical ability, a reassuring manner and a highly effective cross-examination style” who “always delivers impeccable results” (Chambers and Partners).
Reputation
Adam is head of the Sports, Media and Entertainment Team and Deputy Head of the Employment Law Team. Adam is recognised within Chambers and Partners and has recently been noted as:
"Adam Willoughby is deputy head of the employment law team. He is praised for his work in complex discrimination claims, particularly involving vulnerable claimants. He offers expertise across the whole range of employment law, acting for claimants and respondents.He is a very clever chap with an excellent employment practice."
(Chambers and Partners)
"Adam’s preparation and attention to detail is always first rate. He has an impressive analytical ability, a reassuring manner and a highly effective cross-examination style". "He goes over and above on every case, he has an incredible manner with the clients, and he is such a kind and generous person with his time who always delivers impeccable results". "He is an approachable barrister who is thorough and diligent".
(Chambers and Partners, 2022)
Client feedback has identified Adam as an “impressive and highly effective advocate” with “exceptional analytical ability” and as “tactically very astute”. Adam is a “formidable advocate” with “exceptional intellectual ability”. His written opinions have been described as “clear, concise and thorough” and his pleadings are “consistently very good”.
Adam is also a highly sought after speaker having been invited to speak to delegations in New York, Dallas, Chicago and the UK.
Expertise
Employment
Adam is the Deputy Head of Employment Law and acts for businesses and individual clients both in the Employment Tribunal as well as in High Court commercial disputes arising from the employment relationship. Adam regularly advises and represents parties to appeals before the Employment Appeal Tribunal and Court of Appeal.
Adam is highly sought after across the range of employment disputes, from unfair dismissal and discrimination cases to whistleblowing, equal pay, working time and TUPE issues. Adam also represents individuals the subject of disciplinary and regulatory proceedings.
Adam has established an excellent reputation for advising and representing professional sports clubs and athletes as well as corporate and individual clients operating in the Media and Entertainment industry in relation to disputes arising from contractual relationships and in regulatory and disciplinary matters.
Adam regularly appears in the Queen’s Bench Division and Chancery Division of the High Court in relation to litigation arising from the employment relationship and in relation to claims concerning director and shareholder responsibilities, including:
• Claims for unpaid wages, bonus, commission, and wrongful termination
• Restrictive covenants
• Breach of confidence
• Team moves and springboard relief
• Breach of fiduciary duty
• Shareholder disputes and s. 994 petitions
• Privacy and Defamation
• Intellectual Property
Sports, Media, and Entertainment Law
Adam is the Head of the Sports, Media and Entertainment Group. He acts in a diverse range of high profile and complex cases in the High Court and before tribunals, arbitral panels as well as in disciplinary and appeals panels.
The strength of Adam’s practice lies in his existing expertise in the complimentary fields of employment, corporate and commercial law.
Adam advises and represents sports clients, including athletes, teams, clubs, agents, broadcasters, and international and national sports governing bodies in disputes concerning:
• Commercial and contractual
• Disciplinary and regulatory
• Regulatory governance
• Anti-doping
• Privacy and Defamation
• Intellectual Property
Adam acts for a wide range of artists, performers and media personalities in disputes concerning:
• Privacy and Defamation
• Intellectual property
• Commercial and Contract
• Licensing
• Pre-publication injunctions
• Reputation management
Business, Property and Probate Litigation
Adam acts in a wide range of high value and complex disputes on behalf of claimant’s, defendants, and intervenors. Adam has established a strong reputation in representing and advising clients in the sports, media and entertainment industries as well as individuals and companies in disputes arising from the employment relationship. Adam advises and represents clients in disputes concerning:
• Commercial and employment contracts
• Restrictive covenants
• Team moves and springboard relief
• Breach of confidence
• Defamation and Privacy
• Intellectual Property
• Breach of fiduciary duty
• Claims for unpaid wages, bonus, commission, and wrongful termination
• Shareholder disputes and s. 994 petitions
• Partnership
• Agency
• Equitable Relief
• Professional Negligence
• Trusts, both express and implied, including TOLATA claims
• Family Provision – Inheritance Act 1975 applications
• Wills, Probate & Administration of Estates
Family
Adam has particular expertise in cases which include commercial interests, complex pension arrangements and in cases concerning complex corporate structures and trusts.
Adam advises and represents clients in ancillary relief proceedings from pre-issue to final hearings. Adam is highly sought after in cases featuring overseas assets, offshore accounts, special contributions within the marriage, inherited wealth, insolvency and financial dishonesty, alongside needs-based cases.
In addition to matrimonial finance, Adam advises and represents clients in cases brought under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 and Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
Notable Cases
Fatima v Family Channel Ltd & anor [2020] EWCA Civ 824
Represented appellant in her appeal to the Court of Appeal which considered the interplay between an unsuccessful application to adjourn a trial under CPR 3.1(2)(b) and a subsequent application under CPR 39.3 to set aside judgment against a non-attending party.
Tattu Manchester Ltd v Powell (Employment Appeal Tribunal)
Represented the respondent in her response to an appeal to the EAT which considered whether the Tribunal had wrongly interpreted a bonus scheme to mean pre rather than post EBIDTA figures and whether it had wrong concluded there had been a breach of contract.
Jones v. G4S Secure Solutions (Employment Appeal Tribunal)
Represented the respondent in its appeal to the EAT which considered whether there had been a dismissal of the claimant following reinstatement on a domestic appeal, considering Roberts v. West Coast Trains Ltd [2004] EWCA Civ 900.
Thomas v Ladbrokes Betting and Gaming Ltd (Employment Appeal Tribunal)
Represented the claimant in her appeal brought by the respondent in which the EAT considered whether the Tribunal had substituted its view for that of the employer in finding that the claimant had been unfairly dismissed.
Hunt v. DVSA (Employment Appeal Tribunal)
Represented the appellant in her appeal on the issue of whether the Tribunal erred in its findings that she was not constructively dismissal.
Featherstone Rovers v Griffin
Represented the club concerning breach of contract by a player.
Keith Deller Sports Management Limited v Adrian Jackpot Lewis Limited & Adrian Lewis
Represented Sports Agent concerning claim against a professional darts player for unpaid fees and in its defence of a counterclaim alleging breach of the agency agreement.
Other examples of Adam’s recent work includes:
Representing an RFL club in a dispute with a player who breached his playing contract by having unauthorised dealings with a competing club.
Representing a high-profile professional football player in a claim brought by his former agent in respect of unpaid commissions.
Representing an international rugby player concerning his blocked transfer to another club in Canada.
Representing a professional footballer in a claim against him by a sponsor for breach of the sponsorship agreement.
Representing a multi-national firm in a claim for injunctive relief and damages against a former employee in respect of alleged misuse of commercially sensitive information and breach of restrictive covenants.
Represented a claimant in a petition under s. 994 Companies Act 2006 following her exclusion as a minority shareholder and deprivation of dividend payments. Relief sought was in excess of £19m.
Representing a defendant in a dispute concerning an alleged indemnity to return sales commissions.
Advising and representing an international firm in a claim for injunctive relief and damages against a former employee in respect of alleged misuse of commercially sensitive information and breach of restrictive covenants.
Representing a nationwide motor trading company in its defence of claims of passing off, breach of trademark and copyright.
Advising and representing a high-profile professional footballer in ancillary relief proceedings which included defending the claims of an agent intervening.
Advising and representing an applicant in ancillary relief proceedings in which the key issue concerned a substantial discretionary family trust worth in excess of £30m.
Advising a national publication as to allegations of defamatory statements against a competing publication.
Advising an international food manufacturing company in the wake of public allegations of mislabelling products.
Clerks
Laura McBride
Call: 2012
Laura McBride
Deputy Head of the Criminal Law Team
LL.B (Hons), University of Newcastle (2010)
Bar Professional Training Course (2012)
Middle Temple
Legal Aid Supplier Number 02DNO
Grade 3 RASSO Prosecutor
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Laura is the Deputy Head of the Criminal Team at Broadway House Chambers. Laura accepts instructions in all areas of criminal law as well as cases involving matrimonial assets and private children disputes.
Laura McBride is a Grade 3 prosecutor and a member of the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Assault Panel.
L M McBride LTD trading as Laura McBride
Reputation
- Assistant Legal Advisor BBC National Treasure (2016)
- Disclosure seminars: CPS, South Yorkshire Police, Broadway House Chambers annual conference
Expertise
Crime
Laura is the Deputy Head of the Criminal team at Broadway House Chambers.
Laura is a sought-after trial advocate. Her attention to detail and in-depth understanding of disclosure in criminal cases are second to none. She is a persuasive jury advocate and her reputation means that she is often instructed in serious, complex and high-profile cases, for example, the Rotherham child sexual abuse trials and prosecutions relating to the Hillsborough disaster.
Laura has experience dealing with young and highly vulnerable witnesses and defendants. She has a wide range of experience and has been instructed in cases involving offences of murder, attempt murder, serious sexual offences, human trafficking and fraud.
Her outstanding ability is reflected in her level of experience and success.
L M McBride LTD trading as Laura McBride
Family
Laura accepts instructions to advise and represent clients in matrimonial finance and private family law proceedings from pre-issue to final hearings.
Notable Cases
R v SP (2024): Prosecution junior counsel in an allegation of murder. The case involves complex medical evidence relating to the defendant’s mental health at the time of the incident.
R v SK and Others (2024): Junior counsel involving the prosecution of an OCG involved in Class A and Class B drugs supply in the West Yorkshire area.
R v AA (2024): Defence counsel in a large scale CSE grooming trial in the Bradford area.
R v NK and NK (2024): Prosecution counsel in a case alleging kidnap and serious assault.
R v MR and others (2023): Defence junior counsel in one of the first prosecutions in the UK involving the manufacturing of 3D printed firearms.
R v TS (2023): Defence counsel in a prosecution of an OCG following the high profile infiltration of the Encrochat platform by international law enforcement agencies. This case involved the estimated supply of over 100kg of class A drugs (Estimated valuation £4 million).
R v JW (2023): Defence junior counsel in a high-profile case of fraud involving a politician. The defendant was acquitted of all counts following trial.
R v LT (2023): Defence counsel in a case in which the defendant was charged with attempt murder.
R v K & ors (2022): Laura is currently prosecuting a multi-handed robbery. Defendants accused of partaking in several robberies over the course of a matter of months.
R v Selby (2022): Prosecution counsel - The defendant was convicted of aggravated burglary following trial.
R v K (2022): Laura represented the defendant, an NHS employee, who was acquitted of all charges following trial.
R v Hussain & ors (2021): Junior in a Rotherham historical child grooming case. Led by Jayne Beckett.
R v D (2020): Defendant was charged with Rape and was acquitted following trial. Use of unused material including telephone logs and medical evidence that had been disclosed in order to discredit witness. Use of vulnerable witness protocols including section 28 procedure.
R v H (2020): Prosecuted defendant who was charged with child cruelty against his 2 year old stepson. H was convicted after trial and the case involved use of medical evidence demonstrating causation of injuries.
R v B (2020): Defendant originally charged with attempted murder but was instead charged with Robbery and a Section 18. Defended and led by Rodney Ferm.
Operation Kavaic 1/2 (Sept 2018/July 2019): Part of operation Stovewood. First operation led by Michelle Colborne KC and second operation led by Ann Cotcher KC. Laura was the disclosure Junior. High profile Rotherham CSE grooming Case. https://www.rotherhamadvertiser.co.uk/news/view,breaking-child-abuse-gang-jailed-for-a-total-of-101-years_29495.htm
R v Mohammed Nisar Khan & ors (2019): Disclosure junior in high profile Bradford murder. As a result of the work undertaken, Laura received two awards from the Police. https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/17610266.mohammed-nisar-meggy-khan-tony-grant-salman-ismail-sentenced-bradford-moor-murder-trial/
Operation Thunder (2017): Prosecution Junior led by Sophie Drake (Now HHJ McKone). This case formed part of the investigation into Child Sexual Exploitation in the Rotherham area. https://www.itv.com/news/calendar/2017-01-25/five-rotherham-men-found-guilty-of-historic-sex-abuse.
Operation Clover 2 (2016): Prosecution Disclosure Junior in a high profile multi-handed trial regarding Child Sexual Exploitation in the Rotherham area in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-37873340
R v Hussain and Others (2016): Disclosure junior in the high profile Rotherham abuse trial.
R v Halligan (2016): Prosecuted a sentence in a s18 wounding with intent and possession of an offensive weapon. The defendant was deemed dangerous and received an extended custodial sentence.
R v Baron (2016): Represented a man who pleaded guilty to converting criminal property in a multi-handed fraud trial.
R v Madden (2016): Represented a man who pleaded guilty to possession of a high number of indecent images.
R v Egan (2015): Successfully prosecuted a trial of sexual assault on a female and assault.
R v H (2015): Laura secured a conviction in a racially aggravated public order offence involving the use of an intermediary.
R v P (2015): Laura successfully defended a private ambulance driver charged with driving through a red light. The case was dismissed.
R v D (2015): Laura prosecuted a serving Police Officer who was convicted both at the Magistrates’ Court and following an Appeal, a case reported by the National press.
Clerks
Harry Wiltshire
Call: 2015
Harry Wiltshire
Bath University, BA Hons Business Administration
GDL and BPTC, BPP Leeds
Middle Temple, Harmsworth Scholar
Legal Aid Supplier Number 02GCI
Contact
T: 01274 722 560 or 0113 246 2600
Harry is experienced in representing both Claimants and Respondents in the employment tribunal, he regularly appears in cases dealing with unfair dismissal, wrongful dismissal, unlawful deductions, discrimination, whistle blowing and employment status.
Harry accepts instructions in private law children matters. He regularly deals with contested final hearings and multi day finding of fact hearings, including issues such as domestic violence and relocation.
Harry is developing a growing matrimonial finance practice, he is regularly instructed to undertake Financial Dispute Resolution Appointments and Final Hearings.
Harry is registered with the Bar Council to undertake direct access work.
Harry is a member of Broadway House Chambers Business, Property and Probate Team. Prior to Pupillage Harry ran his own business, he has a strong understanding of the pressures involved in the management of a SME and is comfortable dealing with commercial disputes.
Prior to pupillage Harry competed as a professional athlete. Harry is Deputy Head of Sports, Media and Entertainment Team. He has gained experience of contractual disputes and disciplinary proceedings in the sporting arena. He has also been involved in the representation of athletes in anti-doping and disciplinary proceedings before governing bodies, Sports Resolution UK and the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Reputation
Expertise
Employment
Harry regularly represents both Claimants and Respondents in the Employment Tribunal. He accepts instructions to advise, undertake drafting and attend hearings. Harry deals with a wide range of issues, including: employment status, unfair dismissal, discrimination (including disability and sex), whistleblowing detriment and holiday pay.
Sport
Prior to pupillage Harry spent 15 years competing as a professional athlete regularly representing Great Britain at international level. Harry’s experience as an athlete gives him a huge advantage when approaching sport cases and makes him a very appealing choice for lay clients in the sports arena.
Harry has experience of sports contract disputes and disciplinary proceedings. He has been involved in the representation of athletes in anti-doping and disciplinary proceedings before governing bodies, Sports Resolution UK and the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Harry is on the panel of regional Rugby Football Union prosecutors.
Harry works closely with Adam Willoughby, Head of the Sports Law Team. Harry has assisted him in dealing with contractual matters on behalf of Rugby Football League Teams and the preparation of anti-doping cases on behalf of athletes who have returned adverse analytical findings.
Harry’s Sports Law practice is complimented by his special interest in employment and contractual law.
Family Law
Harry practices in private children law and financial remedy.
Notable Cases
Mr AY Ali v Salix Homes and Michael Page International Recruitment Limited Case No. 2404266/2018
Successfully represented a recruitment agency over a four day hearing securing a finding that they could not have dismissed an agency worker on the grounds of a protected disclosure, when they had no knowledge of the disclosure at the time of dismissal. The case also raised a breach of contract, direct discrimination and worker/ employee status.
Mrs C Tantrum -v- Ashville College and others 180078/2018
Successfully argued at a three day hearing that the Claimant was an employee rather than a self employed sports teacher working at a private school. The finding meant that the matter settled following a judicial mediation. The case raised issues of protected disclosures, an unfair dismissal, holiday pay and unlawful deduction from wages
Smith -v- Bradford District Care NHS
Representing the Claimant at a three day hearing dealing with claims of indirect discrimination on the grounds of disability, as well as harassment and failure to make reasonable adjustments.
Mr J Bassey -v- HMRC
Junior Counsel representing the respondent at a three week tribunal dealing with 88 allegations of harassment and racial discrimination.
Ms KJ Badon -v- The Secretary of Health & Social Care
Junior Counsel representing the Respondent at a two week hearing, where the Claimant alleged she was subjected to a detriment to deter, punish or prevent trade union activity.
Mr A Poznaski -v- Exceed Logistics Limited 2600570/2018
Represented the Claimant who asserted that he had been unfairly dismissed following an allegation of fuel theft. Secured a finding for the Claimant in relation to an unlawful deduction from wages.
Daniel Alden -v- Skinnergate Cycles Stockton Limited 2501655/2018
Successfully represented the Respondent securing the dismissal of the claim as out of time and through failure to comply with Court Orders. Disability also considered.
Clerks
Emily Hughes
Call: 2014
Emily Hughes
Year of Call: 2014
Inner Temple Scholar
BPTC, BPP Leeds 2013-14 (Very Competent)
LLB Law, University of Leeds 2010-13 (2:1)
Contact
T: 0113 246 2600 / 01274 722560
Emily accepted tenancy at Broadway House Chambers in December 2021 after successfully completing her Civil and Family Law Pupillage.
Emily has a busy practice and is available to take instructions in all areas covered by the Business, Property and Probate Team and Family Team.
Reputation
Expertise
Emily is experienced in Family and Civil Law
Business Property and Probate
Prior to commencing pupillage, Emily acquired six years of freelance advocacy experience in a wide range of civil litigation. Her practice encompassed the following areas: commercial and residential property, contract disputes, landlord and tenant, mortgage repossession, personal injury, credit hire, consumer credit, insolvency and debt recovery. She therefore had a working knowledge in these areas from which her practice within the Business, Property and Probate Team is developing.
Emily has considerable experience in a number of areas covered by the Business, Property and Probate Team and frequently appears in the County Court on behalf of both Claimants and Defendants. She is confident in dealing with all levels of contested applications and costs disputes. Emily is able to provide straightforward advice and draft pleadings within these practice areas.
Family
Emily commenced pupillage under the supervision of Kerry Barker in January 2021 and was involved in all aspects of family proceedings. Within public and private law, she has assisted with particularly difficult and complex cases involving preventable death, non-accidental injuries, sexual abuse, domestic violence and mental health aspects along with cross-jurisdictional elements up to High Court level. Emily has quickly established a strong practice of her own in these areas and is confident in dealing with multi-faceted cases.
Emily has also developed a keen interest in financial remedy cases, having accompanied a number of senior specialist practitioners in mid and high value cases during pupillage. She has also gained a valuable insight into needs-based cases requiring creative, practical solutions along with those involving family businesses and intervenors. Emily has established a broad practice within the Family Team and is keen to develop her financial remedy practice further. She is happy to advise in conference and in writing.
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, 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.
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
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 and Immigration 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.
Sport – During her pupillage Camilla has gained invaluable experience by shadowing and assisting Harry Wiltshire in cases involving Sport Law. Camilla continues to develop her experience in this area.
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