Public law specialist joins 39 Essex Chambers

Public law and human rights specialist Ian Brownhill has joined 39 Essex Chambers from No. 5 Chambers.

Brownhill’s practice focusses on mental capacity, education law, criminal justice, prison law and community care.

39 Essex Chambers said: “Much of Ian’s regulatory practice complements his public law work and he is often instructed in cases which involve safeguarding, social care or healthcare. In recent times, Ian has increasingly advised on regulatory matters related to sport.

“Ian’s international practice is varied but primarily focusses on matters relating to mental capacity, criminal justice or wider human rights issues. He has been instructed by, or worked on cases with, lawyers from: Canada, the United States, Germany, Cyprus, Greece, the Netherlands, Spain, Thailand, Ireland and the Isle of Mann. In addition, Ian is often instructed by charities, NGOs and companies with an international reach, especially in respect of safeguarding matters.”

Brownhill recently appeared (as junior to Parishil Patel QC) in the Court of Appeal in JB v a Local Authority in respect of issues around capacity to make decisions about sex and in the High Court in EG in respect of prisoners who lack capacity to participate in their parole processes. He continues to act for the mother of Ben Needham and the family of Damien Nettles.

He has joined 39 Essex Chambers with immediate effect.