Lamb Building: A Leading Criminal Set in the South Eastern Circuit
London & Brighton –
Chambers & Partners UK Bar Guide 2026
Lamb Building continues to affirm its standing as one of the South Eastern Circuit’s most respected common law sets, earning a Band 2 ranking for Crime in the UK Bar Guide 2026. Based in the Temple, at the heart of London’s legal community, and with an annexe in Brighton, the set is recognised for its excellence across serious criminal work and its commitment to client service.
An Esteemed Criminal Practice
Lamb Building’s Criminal Team is known for its depth of experience and balanced representation in both prosecution and defence. The set is frequently instructed in serious and high-profile cases involving homicide, grievous bodily harm, sexual offences, and modern slavery.
Described as “an excellent and diligent team that goes the extra mile to help,” Lamb Building has earned praise for its professionalism, responsiveness, and expert handling of complex cases. A recent notable instruction includes R v TC, a case concerning allegations of sexual activity with a minor.
Recognised Advocates of the Highest Calibre
Bernard Richmond KC – Band 1
Bernard Richmond KC is praised as a top-quality counsel with an excellent legal mind and detailed eye over the case. He looks at the wider picture and is recognised as a great jury performer who works tirelessly for his clients. Admirers describe him as “the most talented advocate,” noting his huge compassion and advocacy skill, making him “the full package.” Richmond is further hailed as “an outstanding criminal defence silk,” not hesitant to fight for his clients and a brilliant jury advocate.
Andrew Selby KC – Band 2
Andrew Selby KC maintains a strong defence practice across homicide and sexual offences, frequently involving complex medical and mental health evidence. Described as “a total class act” and “a safe pair of hands,” he combines exceptional advocacy skills with approachability and strategic acumen, earning the trust of both clients and colleagues.
James Hay – Band 2
With significant experience in serious crime and courts martial, James Hay has built a reputation for his composed, client-focused advocacy. His work often attracts media attention, particularly in homicide and sexual offence cases. He is praised for being “an excellent barrister – very approachable” with “infectious positivity and a reassuring presence in the most difficult circumstances.”
Amy Packham – Band 2
A highly regarded junior, Amy Packham is recognised for her expertise in sexual offence cases, including those involving historic allegations. Known for her calm and professional approach, she is described as “a sharp mind and superb advocate” who provides “outstanding advice.” Clients and solicitors alike commend her as approachable, insightful, and exceptionally effective in conference and in court.
Rachel Beckett – Band 3
Rachel Beckett is recognised for her extensive experience across the criminal spectrum, including serious sexual offences and assaults. Drawing on her background as a former CPS lawyer, she brings both prosecutorial insight and defence perspective to her practice. Described as “a fair, prepared and experienced advocate” with “masterful attention to detail,” she is respected for her versatility and precision in complex trials.
Rachel Beckett is recognised for her extensive experience across the criminal spectrum, including serious sexual offences and assaults. Drawing on her background as a former CPS lawyer, she brings both prosecutorial insight and defence perspective to her practice. Described as “a fair, prepared and experienced advocate” with “masterful attention to detail,” she is respected for her versatility and precision in complex trials.
Broader Expertise and Military Representation
Beyond its criminal practice, Lamb Building is home to specialists in Inquests & Public Inquiries, Regulatory and Disciplinary Law, and Sports Law. Its Military Law Group has a proud history of representing service personnel across all three branches of the Armed Forces.
Members, including former military personnel, regularly appear before the Court Martial in the UK and overseas, providing expert representation in cases arising from deployments in locations such as Iraq, Kenya, Germany, Cyprus, and Canada.
Clerking Excellence and Client Service
Lamb Building’s clerking team has received particular acclaim for its dedication and accessibility.
“Lamb Building has clerks that seemingly work 24 hours. The team is approachable, competent and knowledgeable.” — Crime respondent, UK Bar
“Lamb Building has incredibly friendly and helpful criminal clerks.” — Crime respondent, UK Bar
Gary Goodger, the Senior Clerk, is especially recognised for his leadership and commitment:
“Gary Goodger, senior clerk, especially goes the extra mile.” — Crime respondent, UK Bar
Special recognition is also given to Max Goodger, Assistant Criminal Clerk, for his vital role in the Brighton annexe:
“Special mention must be made of Max Goodger, assistant criminal clerk, who steers the Brighton ship exceedingly well.” — Crime respondent, UK Bar
A Set Defined by Dedication and Excellence
Lamb Building stands out for its unwavering commitment to excellence in criminal advocacy, its breadth of experience across specialist areas, and its strong, collaborative ethos. As the 2026 UK Bar Guide recognises, this is a set that “goes the extra mile”—both in the courtroom and in client care—delivering results of the highest calibre.