Richard Atkins QC appointed Vice Chair of the Bar Council for 2018

Richard was called to the Bar in 1989 and took silk in 2011. He practises predominantly in crime and regulatory law (Health and Safety and Trading Standards). He has been a Recorder since 2005, a Mental Health Tribunal Judge since 2014 and is a Legal Chair for the Financial Reporting Council Disciplinary Tribunal.

He was Leader of the Midland Circuit from 2014 to 2017. Richard became a member of the Bar Council in 2003, was Chair of the Bar Council’s Member Services Board from 2010 until 2016 and was co-Chair of the Bar Council’s Bar Representation Board until the end of 2017.

Andrew Smith QC, Head of St Philips Chambers said “Richard’s appointment recognises his long term commitment to representing the interests of barristers both on the Midland Circuit and nationally.  Chambers wishes Richard well in his new role and is sure he will have a very successful year as the Vice Chair”.