5KBW has long been recognised as a leading set in public prosecution. Our members are trusted prosecutors with a reputation for excellence. They are renowned for their integrity, professionalism, meticulous preparation and outstanding advocacy.
We are regularly instructed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and other prosecuting authorities to appear in the most complex, sensitive, and high-profile criminal cases around the country.
Members of Chambers prosecute at all levels of the criminal courts. Currently, there are three members of the Treasury Counsel team in Chambers and two monitorees. Mark Heywood KC is former First Senior Treasury Counsel. A significant number of our barristers are accredited to the CPS Advocate Panel at Grade 4 level, both on the general panel and also the CPS specialist unit panels including:
Our barristers are also instructed by local CPS borough groups. Members of 5KBW also regularly provide pre-charge advice to the CPS and other prosecuting agencies. This can include disclosure and third-party advice.
Our experienced team includes 10 King’s Counsel and around 40 leading juniors, many of whom are recognised by directories for their skill in prosecuting homicide, serious and organised crime, serious sexual offences, financial and business crime and other complex criminal cases.
While we are regularly instructed by the CPS, our prosecution work extends to a broad range of government departments, local authorities and public bodies. Members of Chambers have prosecuted on behalf of:
Our experience includes prosecutions relating to consumer protection, counterfeit goods, food safety, environmental regulation, and disciplinary matters.
At 5KBW, we understand the importance of clear communication and efficient case handling in public prosecution work. Our barristers work collaboratively with instructing solicitors and investigating teams, maintaining detailed written records of hearings, offering prompt case updates, and delivering written advice within agreed timescales in line with the Farquharson guidelines.
We pride ourselves on being approachable and proactive throughout the lifecycle of a case, supporting our instructing solicitors with advice on disclosure, legal strategy, and trial preparation.
We foster a strong prosecution culture within Chambers. From the earliest stages of their careers our junior members gain exposure to and experience in prosecuting. They are regularly led by our senior members, enabling them to develop their skills in a culture of high standards and high expectations. The result is a deep pool of talented advocates who are well-versed in the complexities of criminal procedure and trial advocacy. This allows us to match the right barrister to every case, regardless of its size or complexity.
Our reputation in public prosecution is built on experience, skill, and a genuine commitment to the traditional values of the bar. Whether prosecuting serious organised crime, leading on sensitive RASSO cases, or bringing complex regulatory prosecutions on behalf of local authorities, 5KBW delivers expert advocacy, smart legal strategy and peerless professionalism.
To discuss how we can assist with public prosecution work, please contact our clerking team.