It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our dear friend and colleague, John Hilton KC.

John died on Wednesday 28th May 2025, ‘painlessly, surrounded by his family, with opera blaring’.  

John was called to the Bar in 1964. He took silk in 1990. He was a truly remarkable man, a one-off in every sense.  Chambers has been reminiscing with affection and sorrow about the joy, wit and sheer joie de vivre with which he enriched our lives, as well as the extraordinary talents he brought to the Criminal Bar.

John had been a member of Chambers since the early 1970s. He came to us via Dan Hollis, who arranged a small dinner to see whether John — who, at that stage in his career, had never conducted a criminal case — might have a future in Chambers.  After the first glass of wine, it was clear: John was utterly unlike the usual criminal barrister, and that difference became his strength. He went on to have a brilliant career and left a mark not only on the Bar but on all of us who had the privilege to know him.

His retirement left a gap in Chambers that was never quite filled. John was mischievous, playful, cultured and complex.  He retained a childish glee throughout his life, exemplified by his delight in pricking pomposity and his penchant for (occasionally quite elaborate) practical jokes.  He was loved by many, and we know how dearly he loved others in return.

We will miss him greatly.

The family are currently considering funeral and memorial arrangements, and we will share details when appropriate.

With love and respect,

QEB Hollis Whiteman