About Us

Head of Chambers: Matthew White

Chief Executive: Simon Rhodes

St John’s Chambers is one of the largest barristers’ sets in the South West, with 7 silks and over 80 barristers attracting high-quality work in all major areas of law. In 2022 we were awarded the Legal 500’s prestigious ‘Set outside London of the Year’. We were then shortlisted for this award in 2023. We have now been shortlisted for it again in 2024. To be shortlisted for the third year in a row demonstrates the expert service we provide, the high-level instructions we are receiving from law firms in England and Wales and the support we give our clients.

Our barristers are praised for their expertise and thought leadership, offering market leading analysis and assessment through regular seminars, webinars, articles and podcast series. As a set, we are relentlessly striving for excellence in the legal services we provide, as part of our three pillar commitment to being inclusive, commercial and excellent.

Highlights of 2023 & Looking ahead in 2024

We demonstrate excellence and innovation in the provision of legal services having been involved in a number of landmark decisions in the High Court and Court of Appeal. As one of the go-to chambers for legal advice outside London, we receive high level complex instructions from law firms across the UK, multi-national businesses, high net-worth individuals and people from all walks of life. The leading directories describe us as a ‘Western Circuit Powerhouse’ (Legal 500) and ‘Like having London-quality barristers on your doorstep.’ (Chambers UK).

The set’s stand-out legal expertise is evidenced by the number of our members who go on to distinguished service in the judiciary. Within the team are five Recorders, one fee-paid Judge of the First-tier Tribunal, two High Court Judges, three Deputy District Judges, an Assistant Deputy Coroner and two members on the Attorney General list.

Our commitment

Whether you are a law firm, a business, a public sector organisation or a private individual, you can be sure you will receive legal expertise and client care of the very highest standards from St John’s. Our barristers are described by peers as easy to work with and committed to delivering quality advice on time. They will prepare the strongest possible case and keep all parties informed at every stage. As part of our commitment to our clients, we make sure all communications are timely, clear and concise.

Our clients

Our client base includes regional and national law firms, representing and advising prominent businesses and private individuals. We also provide advice and representation under the public access scheme to members of the public and individual professionals and executives such as planning consultants, managing directors and doctors.

Seminars and events

We are committed to providing first class CPD courses in all major areas of law. Clients have described our seminars as “an excellent day and one of the best I have ever been on.”

St John’s Chambers provides full, half-day and evening events, short tailored talks, bespoke courses and seminars in conjunction with law firms, charities and insurance companies. We offer outstanding hospitality at venues selected for their comfort, convenience and excellent catering.

History

St John’s Chambers opened in 1978 in Broad Street, Bristol with six members; the life expectancy of the business was six months. Forty six years on, the business is one of the leading sets in the South West, with over 80 members and recognised as top tier in all major areas of law.

Our offices

Our modern purpose-built offices in the centre of Bristol are easily accessible, close to the City’s historic harbour and major road links and just a short walk from Bristol Temple Meads train station. Read more.