Jennifer Dempster KC
UK Bar Guide 2025
Band 1 : Crime
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
0207 520 6000Share profile
Band 1
About
Provided by Jennifer Dempster KC
Practice Areas
Jenni Dempster KC has been in full time practice for over 30 years and is a well-known, experienced and extremely able defence advocate specialising in heavyweight crime.
Most of her practice concerns defendants charged with murder, though she also defends in cases involving allegations of serious sexual offending (including historic cases) and deaths related to driving offences, including inquests. She has a particular interest in cases involving complex forensic evidence and in cases involving young defendants and witnesses.
Described as “just superb” with “incredible client skills” and “a real mastermind when it comes to cross-examination”, Jenni is regularly instructed in high profile cases and has built up a loyal following of solicitors. Known for her remarkable tenacity and hard work, she commands considerable respect among her peers for her jury handling, cross-examination technique, assertiveness and tactical acumen. Judges often compliment her on her style of cross-examination and case management in difficult and sensitive cases. She is frequently asked to assist other members of the legal profession in various proceedings.
Since taking silk in 2018, she has been instructed in numerous high profile murder cases, a number of which are currently awaiting trial in 2025. Jenni was appointed a Recorder of the Crown Court in 2018. She is committed to providing representation under public funding, though is now often privately instructed by clients.
Career
Call: 1993; Silk: 2018.
Professional Memberships
South Eastern Circuit; Criminal Bar Association.
Chambers Review
UK Bar
Jennifer Dempster KC can regularly be found defending on behalf of her clients at the Old Bailey against the most serious and complex criminal allegations. She is very experienced in handling homicide proceedings.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Jennifer is a specialist defence silk who is instructed in the highest quality and most demanding work. She is a strong lawyer and advocate."
"She is considered in her approach and responses and her ability to get to grips with issues of the law and argue them is impressive. She is an outstanding silk."
"Jennifer is a very classy advocate who can make effective legal submissions and run a case beautifully."
"Jennifer is a specialist defence silk who is instructed in the highest quality and most demanding work. She is a strong lawyer and advocate."
"She is considered in her approach and responses and her ability to get to grips with issues of the law and argue them is impressive. She is an outstanding silk."
"Jennifer is a very classy advocate who can make effective legal submissions and run a case beautifully."