Public Law & Human RightsLibertas Chambers is a highly respected public law and human rights barrister chambers, renowned for defending individual rights and challenging public authority decisions.
Our barristers frequently appear in the Administrative Court and Upper Tribunal in judicial review hearings and administrative appeals.
We help our clients pursue public law challenges against all public authorities, including government departments, courts and tribunals, coroners, the police, housing authorities, schools and prisons.
Judicial Review
Judicial Review proceedings enable challenges to decisions made by Courts and Tribunals, by regulators and by bodies whose public functions impact individuals and companies.
This jurisdiction is an essential protection of the individual’s rights against administrative irrationality or excess.
We have specialist experience seeking Judicial Review in cases flowing from our other practice areas, challenging decisions in criminal and quasi-criminal investigations.
Members have acted for claimants seeking to challenge decisions made by the police, the Ministry of Justice, the Home Office, the Crown Prosecution Service, the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), the Information Commissioner, the Asset Recovery Agency, the Legal Services Commission, the Magistracy, Judges and various Tribunals.
These cases have included:
challenges to the lawfulness of pre-charge search warrants
decisions to prosecute children
actions by solicitors resisting Special Procedure search warrants
challenges to the legality of the application of the sending procedure by Magistrates Courts
preserving the anonymity of young offenders in extreme cases
the applicability of the reasonable time requirements in Article 6 to enforcement of Confiscation Proceedings
decisions on appellate referral by the CCRC
treatment of prisoners and the review of Parole Board decisions.
Criminal Trials
Within the criminal trial process, our members have expertise at first instance on:
domestic appeal and applications in the European Court of Human Rights and the OHCHR
challenging a range of human rights violations, as well as the compatibility of primary and secondary legislation with the European Convention for the Protection of Fundamental Human Rights and Freedoms (ECHR) such as the hearsay provisions in CJA 2003,
the reverse burden in s.90 Financial Services Act 2012
the Attorney-General’s exercise of the right of nolle prosequi
We act nationally and internationally for people whose human rights are in issue in other forums, including actions against the police, extradition, international law, prisoners’ rights, and at Coronial Inquests.
Why Choose Our Human Rights Barristers?
As a leading human rights barrister chambers, Libertas Chambers offers unparalleled expertise in public law challenges, international human rights law, and complex judicial reviews.”
Libertas Chambers’ members have advised and acted on behalf of individuals, governmental organisations and major NGOs in providing international human rights expertise.
Our members provide advice and representation in cases concerning Prison Law, including issues relating to prisoners’ welfare, Parole Board hearings, and the release and recall of prisoners.
Coronial Inquests engage the rights of many groups; members have experience representing interested parties, insurers and the families of the deceased. We offer particular expertise where there is a potential engagement of criminal or regulatory proceedings, acting for insurers and their policyholders.
If you’re seeking expert advice from experienced public law and human rights barristers, contact Libertas Chambers today to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Public Law and Human Rights Barristers
What is a public law barrister?
A public law barrister specialises in cases involving the rights and responsibilities of public authorities, government bodies, and individuals. They help challenge unlawful decisions or actions taken by public entities, often through judicial review proceedings.
What does a human rights barrister do?
Human rights barristers advocate for individuals or groups whose fundamental rights have been violated. They handle cases involving unlawful detention, discrimination, freedom of expression, or breaches of international human rights conventions like the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
How can Libertas Chambers help with judicial review?
Our public law barristers are experienced in judicial review proceedings, helping clients challenge decisions made by public authorities, tribunals, and regulators. We provide expert advice, prepare detailed applications, and represent clients in court to protect their rights and ensure accountability.
What types of human rights cases do you handle?
Our human rights barristers handle a wide range of cases, including:
Violations of prisoners’ rights.
Extradition matters.
Actions against the police for misconduct.
Challenges to legislation or government actions that breach human rights laws.
Can you help with international human rights cases?
Yes, members of Libertas Chambers are experienced in representing clients in international human rights matters, including applications to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Do you assist with coronial inquests involving human rights issues?
Yes, our barristers regularly represent clients in coronial inquests, particularly where human rights issues arise. We act for families, insurers, and other interested parties to ensure fair representation and resolution.
Why choose Libertas Chambers for public law and human rights cases?
Libertas is a leading public law and human rights barrister chambers. Our members have extensive experience handling complex cases, from judicial reviews to international law disputes. We offer tailored advice, robust representation, and a proven track record of success in defending individual rights.
How do I instruct a barrister at Libertas Chambers?
You can contact us directly to discuss your case or seek advice on instructing a barrister. If a solicitor represents you, they can also engage one of our members on your behalf.