We are delighted to announce that, having successfully completed their pupillage, Gabriel Neophytou, Katie McLean and Nora Nanayakkara have all accepted offers of tenancy and have joined Chambers. Congratulations to Gabriel, Katie and Nora on this signifi...
Overview
Gabriel became a member of chambers in February 2026, following successful completion of his pupillage.
Crime
Gabriel has a growing practice in crime, with experience across a wide range of matters. He is regularly instructed to prosecute and defend a variety of offences including violent offences, drug offences, and sexual offences in the Crown Court and magistrates’ courts. He combines practical advocacy experience with a strong academic background in criminal justice.
Prior to pupillage, Gabriel worked as a research assistant to Professor David Ormerod KC (Hons), contributing to numerous projects relating to the criminal justice system. Notable work explored the “presumption of reliability” of computer evidence following the Horizon IT scandal, and trial in absentia in the Crown Court since the 2002 House of Lords decision in R v Jones.
Local Authority
Gabriel is developing his practice in matters spanning the breadth of local authority work. In particular, he regularly receives instructions in relation to local authority prosecutions, including planning, environmental protection, trading standards, and private sector housing enforcement (and beyond).
Prior to pupillage, Gabriel spent almost two years as a paralegal at a London-based local authority. In addition to assisting with prosecution matters, he also worked closely with the licensing and anti-social behaviour teams. As such, he accepts instructions in these areas.
Regulatory and Disciplinary
Gabriel has experience in professional regulation, representing the Nursing and Midwifery Council. During pupillage, he assisted with research and advice in relation to proceedings involving the General Medical Council and the Independent Police Complaints Commission.
Other Experience
Gabriel’s other legal experience includes providing pro bono advice and representation to appellants with the Free Representation Unit. Additionally, he has volunteered with Detention Action, supporting individuals detained in immigration detention centres.
Education
- Called October 2023 (Lincoln’s Inn)
- Bar Vocational Studies (Distinction) - The City Law School
- Master of Laws, LLM (Distinction) - UCL
- Graduate Diploma in Law (Commendation) - The City Law School
- BA History (1st) - University of Manchester
Scholarships and Awards
- Sir Thomas More Scholarship, The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn
- City Law School Scholarship for Academic Excellence
- Warren Kinsey Prize, University of Manchester