Public International Law: The English Bar - Global Market Leaders
Blackstone Chambers is highly regarded for its prowess in international law, particularly in areas of crossover with other fields including domestic public law, human rights, commercial and EU law. Barristers here are often instructed in high-profile and politically sensitive disputes, and are highly sought after by the British and other governments for advice on a range of related issues, often grappling with questions of state or diplomatic immunity.
Client service
"The best in the business - it is on another level."
Gary Oliver is the senior clerk.
Notable Practitioners
Timothy Otty KC
Timothy Otty KC is particularly well suited to PIL cases relating to human rights and international sanctions, and typically acts for claimants. He is regularly instructed in matters arising in areas of conflict, including parts of Africa and the Middle East. He has experience acting in ICSID and ad hoc investor-state disputes. "Timothy is extremely clever and collegiate." "He is a master of public international law and has a fantastic way of engaging the court on complex issues in a charming and simple way."
Shaheed Fatima KC
Shaheed Fatima KC has a formidable reputation for her excellence in handling sensitive PIL matters in domestic courts. She is praised by her clients for her down-to-earth and user-friendly manner. Her clients include states and multinational companies. "Absolutely first class."
Jason Pobjoy
Jason Pobjoy has a strong and wide-ranging PIL practice, and regularly advises state departments and NGOs on matters relating to diplomatic immunity, sanctions and treaty interpretation. "He is really forensic and very careful. Pobjoy is very trustworthy in terms of relying on his opinion and working out the right position. He is very good strategically." "Jason Pobjoy is hugely knowledgeable in the field." "Jason has a phenomenal work ethic and he has exceptional talent in terms of legal and people skills."
Maurice Mendelson KC
Maurice Mendelson KC is a very well-regarded silk who advises governments, commercial entities and private investors on international law and investment arbitration. His areas of expertise include sovereignty disputes, boundary issues, the Law of the Sea and the international protection of human rights. "Professor Mendelson is very experienced and knowledgeable, and able to develop new ideas that other people had not thought of, as well as concisely and very clearly articulate opinions on wide-ranging novel legal issues in international law."
Naina Patel
Naina Patel possesses comprehensive knowledge of PIL matters and regularly advises corporate and government clients on compliance with international human rights norms. She also regularly acts in judicial review proceedings concerning public international law issues. "She's been very useful, easy to work with and works very collaboratively." "She was a joy to work with and got the answers really quickly."
