Catherine Richards

Since joining Chambers in 2001 Catherine has built up a strong practice in crime, receiving instructions from a variety of solicitors. She has defended in cases involving serious violence, sexual offences, fraud and drug offences. More recently she was defence junior in a case of ‘Familial Homicide’ under the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004. Catherine is a grade 3 prosecutor.

Following the changes to sentencing involving an increase in those sentences subject to review by the parole board, Catherine has developed an interest in prison law. She recently gave a joint seminar for local practitioners on the law relating to release and recall.

Catherine has developed a significant practice in personal injury, in particular accepting instructions on behalf of Claimants. She regularly represents clients on behalf of trade unions and will accept instructions on a conditional fee basis. Catherine also has an interest in employment law. She has represented both Claimants and Respondents in employment tribunals and has given seminars to local practitioners on developments in employment law.

Originally from the Amman Valley, Catherine went on to study at University College London where she graduated with an LLB (Hons) degree in Law (with French law). During her time at UCL, she spent one year in the University of Aix-Marseille where she obtained a diploma in French Law. She completed her legal training in London, undergoing a pupillage at Thomas More Chambers.

Prior to commencing practice at the Bar, and whilst studying part-time for her Bar Vocational Course, Catherine spent two years working in the legal department of London Transport during which time she advised on matters relating to health and safety, data protection, administrative law and European law. Prior to working at London Transport she worked for one year as a legal research assistant in Simmons & Simmons in the City of London.