Garden Court Chambers is delighted to announce that Nicola Braganza, Mark Gatley and Liz Davies of Garden Court Chambers will be formally appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2022.
The title of QC is awarded to those who have demonstrated particular skill and expertise in the conduct of advocacy. QCs are appointed by The Queen, on the advice of the Lord Chancellor. He is in turn advised by an independent Selection Panel which receives and considers each application and makes recommendations as to appointment.
Nicola Braganza (Call: 1992)
Nicola specialises in public law, with an emphasis on human rights, in equality and discrimination law and in immigration and asylum. Throughout her practice, she has developed particular expertise in representing highly vulnerable adults and children.
She is described as, in professional directories, "A formidable advocate whose cross-examination skills are second to none... Nicola is personable, thoughtful and excellent to work with... She is approachable and she gives clear and concise advice." Chambers UK Bar Guide.
"Nicola is not only wholly committed to challenging discriminatory practices wherever they arise, but is extremely empathetic and has an ability to instil confidence in those around her. She is fearless and solicitors can always rely on Nicola to find the positive in any situation, and turn around any tricky moments. Instructing solicitors would trust her with any client and any case – she is that good... A go-to barrister for immigration cases. She knows the law and policy inside out and they are excellent with the client. Reassuring and professional." Legal 500.
Nicola is also a Fee-paid Employment Tribunal Judge and a Fee-paid Judge of the First-tier Tribunal assigned to Health, Education and Social Care Chamber (Special Educational Needs and Disability).
Mark Gatley (Call: 1993)
Mark is an accomplished and highly regarded senior junior with a heavyweight criminal defence practice, specialising in serious and organised crime, regularly acting for private clients.
He has a reputation for combining impressive courtroom skills with an easy manner; for tactical acuity and thorough preparation. He has a well-deserved reputation for the quality of his advocacy and his ability to win over juries in the most difficult of cases.
Comments on Mark, in professional directories, include "Hard-working and very direct, he always keeps the client fully aware of the given situation." "An exceptional advocate with a nice courtroom manner. He is well prepared and just a pleasure to deal with." Chambers UK Bar Guide.
"Mark has a calm, yet firm and determined approach to his advocacy which delivers results. His quiet charm can often disguise his formidable strength when challenging the Crown’s case." Legal 500.
Liz Davies (Call: 1994) (Former Solicitor, Admitted: 1989)
Liz is a "star individual" social housing counsel in Chambers and Partners and Tier 1 for social housing in Legal 500. She acts as a consultant to Crisis and has represented Shelter pro bono in interventions.
She specialises in all aspects of housing law, with a particular expertise in homelessness and allocation of social housing. She also practises in areas of community care and Children Act cases, particularly where accommodation might be an issue.
Comments on Liz in professional directories, besides those quoted above, include "She is one of the most outstanding, highly regarded and dedicated barristers in the country...She has an infectious passion for social justice and always goes the extra mile for clients." Chambers UK Bar Guide.
She is committed to acting for the homeless, and for tenants and other occupiers, and has a tenacious and practical approach to conducting her cases. She accepts instructions to appear in the Court of Protection and is also a qualified mediator.
Liz was a finalist for the Legal Aid Barrister of the Year Award 2014.
