Public International Law
UK Bar Guide 2025 : London (Bar)
Band 2
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(020) 7583 1770Chambers Review
Blackstone Chambers is highly regarded for its prowess in international law, particularly in areas of crossover with other fields including private international law, 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. Blackstone barristers are currently leading the charge on behalf of Ukraine in its ECtHR case against Russia, following the 2022 invasion.
Gary Oliver is the senior clerk.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Blackstone's clerks are the best in the business, providing a Rolls-Royce service."
"The clerks are highly responsive and flexible when needed."
"Blackstone's clerks are the best in the business, providing a Rolls-Royce service."
"The clerks are highly responsive and flexible when needed."
Notable Practitioners
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.
"In the pure international law sphere, Tim is brilliant. There are only a handful of people in London who really know this kind of stuff. He's really listened to as an acknowledged expert."
"Timothy Otty KC is one of the leading silks in the intersection between public law and PIL."
"Tim Otty is the go-to lead counsel for complex issues of sovereign immunity."
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.
"Shaheed Fatima KC is an excellent barrister. She's really, really impressive and clients love her."
"Shaheed is absolutely terrific. She is incredibly hard-working but equally knowledgeable, creative and passionate. She's an excellent guide to judges. You can tell that she earns their confidence."
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.
"Jason Pobjoy is a supreme barrister. His enormous legal brain and his written work blows you away and he's so client-friendly. Nothing is too much trouble."
"Jason Pobjoy is a force of nature. He has a deep understanding of the broader public international law landscape, incredible intellect and a phenomenal work ethic."
"Jason is a really superb tactician. He has a very good sense of court awareness and overview."
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.
"Maurice is stellar in ICSID arbitrations. He is articulate and wildly sharp."
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.
"Naina Patel is a very thoughtful junior who is a good team player and brings helpful insights into a case."
"Naina is fantastic with clients."
"Naina is thorough and easy to deal with, knowing her subject matter extremely well."
"Naina stands out for her calm, thorough and compelling court presence even against silks."
Paul Luckhurst is recognised for his deep expertise in international trade law and matters of state and diplomatic immunity. As a public international law B Panellist, Luckhurst is frequently called upon to represent the UK in international proceedings. Additionally, he is well reputed for his representation of individual state actors, such as diplomats, public body executives and heads of state.
"Paul is an extremely talented junior - thorough, sharp and extremely knowledgeable."
"Paul punches above his weight. His written work is exceptional and he does it faster than you can believe."
"Paul is great to work with. He is all over the detail, but also understands the bigger picture and the client’s broader strategic objectives."
"Paul is utterly sensational. His analysis, judgement and drafting are extraordinary."