30 Mar

St Philips welcomes a new Silk

 

Andrew Smith QC, a leading criminal barrister from St Philips Chambers in Birmingham has been honoured with the highest legal accolade today as he was officially sworn in as Queen's Counsel at the Palace of Westminster.

At only 37 years old and having been called in 1997, Andrew is the youngest barrister to be appointed this year and, more impressively, becomes the youngest ever criminal silk in England and Wales. In an incredibly strong competition only 88 QC's have been appointed this year, which is around 40 less then previous years, which makes the achievement all the more remarkable.

Kevin Hegarty QC, Head of Chambers and fellow criminal Silk, said: "It is a real honour to be appointed to the rank of Queen's Counsel and to achieve this at such a young age is testimony to Andrew's hard work and dedication in delivering a first class legal service to both solicitors and lay clients. This has also been recognised by the local legal community who shortlisted Andrew as a finalist for 'Barrister of the Year' at this year's Birmingham Legal Awards, where he was commended by the Judges."

Andrew prosecutes and defends in cases of gravity and complexity and is regularly instructed in cases involving allegations of homicide, organised crime and serious fraud. Chambers UK Guide describes him as "an impressive top class advocate who prosecutes and defends in serious criminal cases, often involving organised crime and drugs ".

He has significant experience of homicide cases ranging from the deaths of babies and young children through to gang related murders. Andrew has been instructed in many cases involving organised criminal activity at both a national and regional level. Andrew's cases frequently involve international aspects. In fraud cases Andrew has represented company directors and professionals, including those charged under the Companies Act and the Insolvency Act.

Andrew is renowned for his technical excellence and extensive and meticulous preparation. He is said by Chambers UK Guide to be a "fiercely bright and very thorough operator". The Legal 500 describes Andrew as being "punctilious in his thorough preparation" and "his judgment on the approach to be taken and the evidential aspects needed is extremely sound".

Andrew is the Deputy Head of the St Philips Chambers Criminal Group and joint head of advocacy training for the Midland Circuit. Andrew sits as a Recorder of the Crown Court on the Midland Circuit.