Barra McGrory QC SC

Based in Ireland, Mr McGrory brings vast experience to the chambers in the areas of criminal law and public inquiry work.

Originally practising as a defence solicitor specialising in terrorism work in Northern Ireland, he became, in 2007, the first solicitor advocate to be appointed silk.

Mr McGrory was called to the Bar of Northern Ireland in 2009 and served as DPP from 2011 to 2017 while still undertaking some advocacy. He was called to the English Bar in 2016 and more recently appointed as senior counsel at the Bar of Ireland in 2021.

He has been an associate tenant at Doughty Street Chambers for the past two years, where he defended in a major SOCPA trial, a murder, and a recent counter-terrorist case involving a former head of neo-Nazi organisation National Action.

Commenting on his move, Mr McGrory: “I am delighted to join Red Lion Chambers, a set that has a formidable reputation for complex criminal work, an established track record in prosecution as well as defence and talent and strength at all levels.”

In a joint statement, heads of chambers Tony Shaw QC and Gillian Jones QC said: “Barry McGrory QC SC has been at the forefront of the criminal justice system for over 35 years and brings with him vast experience in criminal and human rights law.

“One of Northern Ireland’s most prominent and respected lawyers, we are honoured that he is joining Red Lion Chambers and on behalf of all of chambers we are delighted to give him a warm welcome.”