Owen Greenhall

Year of Call: 2010

"Owen is incredibly hard-working and committed."

Chambers UK, 2023

"A rising star of the Bar and a clear silk of the future. He is fearless in court and has an intelligence that is frightening."

Chambers UK, 2022 (Crime)

"He is highly intelligent, has an excellent strategic mind and is well liked by clients. He is also passionate about his cause."

Chambers UK, 2022 (Protest Law, Band 1)

"Owen is simply brilliant. He is a rare beast in that he has a criminal and civil practice – both of which complement – he is a master of both."

Legal 500, 2021 (Crime)

"Top choice for cases raising human rights arguments."

Legal 500, 2020

"He brings together skills in crime, civil liberties and civil law."

Legal 500, 2019

Contact

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Legal 500 2023: Leading Junior
Ranked in Chambers UK 2023

Owen Greenhall is an extremely adaptable advocate whose broad practice encompasses all aspects of the criminal justice system. Equally at home making speeches to juries or arguing points of law before the higher courts, he is an expert in cases involving freedom of expression.

Criminal Defence

Overview

Owen is a committed criminal defence barrister and will always fight hard to protect his client's rights. He appears led and un-led in cases of significant gravity. Owen has particular expertise in public order trials, particularly those concerning protests.

He is also very experienced in cases concerning allegations of police misconduct in which he is able to apply his police law experience to a variety of areas, including abuse of process applications and exclusion of evidence. His expertise in prison law gives him an in-depth knowledge of sentencing matters.

Owen acts in extradition proceedings in first instance and High Court hearings. He has a good record of securing the discharge of European Arrest Warrants (EAWs) in the magistrates' court. Owen often acts in regulatory and POCA matters where his experience of civil and public law are of cross-over benefit.

Notable Cases

Past notable cases can be viewed below. Click here to see a list of recent notable cases.

Crown Court

R v H & Others, Inner London Crown Court (2018)
Conspiracy to cause public nuisance. Scumoween rave. Original trial stayed as abuse of process in charging decision. See coverage in The Evening Standard.

R v E, Oxford Crown Court (2017)
Crown sought to bring charge of s18 GBH based on hearsay evidence from complainant who had died of unrelated causes. Successfully re-argued application to exclude hearsay evidence on first day of trial following disclosure of police material affecting credibility of complainant forcing Crown to offer no evidence.

R v M, Cardiff Crown Court (2017)
Suspended sentence for bomb hoax.

R v M, Woolwich Crown Court (2017)
Assault with intent to resist arrest x 3. Acquittal on basis of unlawful arrest.

R v Hameed and Others, Southwark Crown Court (2016)
Operation 'Kadenza' vishing fraud targeting solicitors firms and property companies. Total losses over £160 million. Largest cyberfraud seen by Met Police. Junior counsel to Dafna Spiro. See coverage in The Guardian.

R v O'K & Others, Southwark Crown Court (2016)
Conspiracy to burgle by gang targeting high-end retailers on Bond Street using mopeds. Successful submission of no case to answer on basis of flaws in mixed-profile DNA results and weaknesses in cell-site evidence.

R v M, Blackfriars Crown Court (2016)
Violent disorder acquittal. Crowd dispersed by police dogs. Defendants acting in self-defence. See coverage in Southwark News and artist's impression of trial.

R v L, Cardiff Crown Court (2016)
Successful defence of young vulnerable man accused of violent disorder. CCTV showed defendant kicking a kneeling police officer in the head. Acquitted on basis of defence of another. See coverage in The Daily Mail and Wales Online.

R v M, Harrow Crown Court (2014)
No case to answer on counts of possession with intent to supply cannabis valued at £4,000 and possession of a stun gun.

R v S, Southwark Crown Court (2013)
Prisoner accused of possession with intent to supply heroin in HMP Thameside.

R v T, Northampton Crown Court (2013):
£25,000 Cash-in-transit robbery, disputed identification by police officer from CCTV.

R v S, Isleworth Crown Court (2013)
Client accused of threatening ex-partner with knife, successful alibi defence where alibi witness not called to give evidence.

R v T, Harrow Crown Court (2013)
Abuse of process: the defendant was a victim of human trafficking.

R v F, Harrow Crown Court (2013)
Suspended sentence for client who lived for 23 years under a false identity. Defendant charged with 13 identity document offences, including several false passports.

Magistrates' and Youth Court

R v L, Brighton Magistrates' Court (2013)
Successful defence of duress and self-defence to charges of careless driving, failing to stop and failing to report an accident.

R v P, Luton Magistrates' Court (2012)
Abuse of process argument on basis of racial discrimination in charging decision of trading standards case against Irish Traveller lead to prosecution discontinuing case.

R v M, Wimbledon Magistrates' Court (2012)
Assault PC. No case to answer on basis that police officer engaged in unlawful car chase.

Extradition, Regulatory and POCA

R v I, Snarebrook Crown Court (2015)
Successful appeal against closure order. One of the first such appeals to be brought.

Lithuania v G (2014)
Successful Art 8 defence to extradition proceedings on basis of five-year delay in certification of EAW and child born in UK.

Germany v S (2014)
Successful defence to accusation EAW on basis of deficient particulars of alleged VAT fraud offence.

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Criminal Appeals

Overview

Owen regularly acts in cases in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division. He also has considerable experience of appeals by way of case stated and judicial review challenges to decisions of magistrates' courts.

A number of appeals have involved complex aspects of sentencing where Owen is able to apply his prison law experience.

Notable Cases

Past notable cases can be viewed below. Click here to see a list of recent notable cases.

Court of Appeal Criminal Division

R v Ras (Joseph) [2017]
Successful appeal against setting of minimum term for contract killing murder. Insufficient credit given for time on remand pending extradition. Extension granted for appeal brought 7 years out of time.

R v Gastall [2017] EWCA Crim 1785
Appeal against conviction on basis of flawed disclosure.

R v DS [2017] EWCA Crim 1430
Acted for defendant in prosecution appeal against stay of multi-handed trial of for abuse of process due to charging decision.

R v Carling [2016] EWCA Crim B1
Appeal against sentence for violent disorder

R v Threadgold (2015)
Successful appeal against conviction on basis of flawed direction on identification from CCTV evidence.

R v Saliuka [2014] EWCA Crim 1907
Appeal against sentence for supplying drugs in prison on basis of disparity.

High Court Case Stated Appeals and Judicial Review

Owen regularly acts in appeals by way of case stated and judicial review challenges to decisions of magistrates' courts. A significant number of his High Court appeal cases have not been opposed by the CPS following the lodging of detailed grounds.

Dougall v CPS [2018] EWHC 1367 (Admin)
Successful challenge to jurisdiction of magistrates' court to try an amended charge of a summary only offence where appellant initially charged with indictable offence outside six-month time limit for summary offences and charge later amended.

R(DPP) v Stratford Magistrates Court [2017] EWHC 1794 (Admin)
Acted for respondent in judicial review brought by DPP against refusal of district judge to state a case for the High Court. A leading case on ambit of defence of prevention of crime under s3 Criminal Law Act 1967.

L v DPP (2014)
Appeal by way of case stated from Crown Court on basis of irrational findings by justices that police officers acting in execution of duty when failing to inform appellant of grounds of arrest. Appeal unopposed by CPS after skeleton argument submitted.

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Protest Rights

Overview

Owen is a specialist in all aspects of the law relating to protest and freedom of expression and has extensive experience of litigation in this area. Owen acts in both criminal trials and civil claims relating to protests, including actions against the police and possession proceedings. He has provided pre-litigation advice to several national NGOs on criminal and civil liability for direct action protests.

Owen is co-author of The Protest Handbook (2nd ed. Bloomsbury 2020) a leading textbook in the field. Owen regularly gives talks and training sessions on protest law to audiences which have ranged from small activist groups to members of the Welsh Assembly.

Owen is co-chair of the Netpol Lawyers Group a group of protest lawyers affiliated to the Network for Police Monitoring.

Notable Cases

Past notable cases can be viewed below. Click here to see a list of recent notable cases.

Owen has represented activists from a large number of different protest groups and campaigns, including: Balcombe Anti-Fracking, CAAT, CAPS, Cardiff Anarchist Network, Coombe Haven Defenders, Greenpeace, Heathrow13, London Palestine Action Group, Occupy Sussex, Occupy Democracy, Plane Stupid, SHAC, Sheffield Tree Action Group, SmashEDO, West Midlands Hunt Sabs, Unite Against Fascism and UKuncut.

Criminal cases

Owen has extensive experience defending activists accused of criminal offences arising from protests and is well versed in articulating issues relating to freedom of expression within the context of criminal trials. He has particular experience in defences of necessity and justification.

High Court

R(DPP) v Stratford Magistrates Court [2017] EWHC 1794 (Admin)
Junior counsel to Edward Fitzgerald QC acting for respondent in judicial review brought by DPP against acquittal by district judge of anti-arms fair protestors on basis they acted in order to prevent crime. A leading case on ambit of defence of prevention of crime under s3 Criminal Law Act 1967 in the protest context.

L v DPP (High Court, 2014)
Appeal by way of case stated from Crown Court on basis of irrational findings by justices that police officers acting in execution of duty when failing to inform appellant of grounds of arrest. Appeal unopposed by CPS after skeleton argument submitted.

R v C & Others (Stafford Crown Court/Birmingham High Court, 2015)
Acted pro bono in High Court proceedings successfully challenging a harassment injunction restraining protest at an arms factory, with the judge finding that there were "serious and manifold" failings in disclosure. Owen also acted in criminal proceedings for 19 defendants facing Crown Court trial for breaching the injunction. Following legal argument, the CPS discontinued all criminal charges. The case was reported in the media including: the International Business Times, the BBC and the Birmingham Mail.

Crown Court

R v M, Cardiff Crown Court (2017)
Suspended sentence for protestor who sought to halt arms fair with bomb hoax. Necessity defence.

R v G, Canterbury Crown Court (2017)
Violent disorder. Anti-fascist protestor on march against Britain First in Dover 2017.

R v M, Blackfriars Crown Court (2016) (East Street 3)
Violent disorder acquittal. Protestors taking direct action against immigration raid. Crowd dispersed by police dogs. Defendants acting in self-defence. See coverage in Southwark News and artist's impression of trial.

R v L, Cardiff Crown Court (2016)
Successful defence of member of Cardiff Anarchist Network on charge of violent disorder. CCTV showed defendant kicking a kneeling police officer in the head. Acquitted on basis of defence of another. See coverage in The Daily Mail and Wales Online.

R v G & B (2015)
Crown Court Appeal against conviction for breach of Section 14 conditions imposed on a protest in Sealife Centre, Blackpool. Successful submission of no case to answer on basis that the imposition of conditions was unlawful.

Magistrates' Court

R v H & Others (2018) (DSEI 2017)
Acted in series of trials for defendants who staged lock-on protests at the DSEI 2017 arms fair. Defendants acquitted on basis that actions reasonable taking into account Articles 10 and 11 ECHR.

R v B & Others (2017)
Represented 10 Greenpeace activists who staged seven-hour lock-on protest at Preston New Road fracking site. Acquitted on basis of reasonableness defence taking into account freedom of expression. See coverage on BBC.

R v B & Others (2016) (DSEI 2015)
Represented anti-arms fair protestors who blocked access to the DSEI 2015 arms fair at the Excel centre. Acquitted on basis that acted in order to prevent crimes relating to unlawful weapons sales.

R v M & Others (2016) (Heathrow13)
Acted for 5 of 13 defendants who took direct action on runway of Heathrow airport stopping flights for several hours. Defence of necessity to prevent deaths through climate change. Links to coverage on the BBC, The Guardian and The Independent.

E-K v CCSP (2015)
Successful submission of no case to answer. No lawful direction given under Section 65 CJPOA 1994 relating to alleged rave.

R v J-L & P (2015):
Acquittal of two men facing charges of assaulting police officers during the Aylesbury Estate eviction. The case was listed for two-days, but all charges were dismissed by lunchtime on the first day. The eviction received national media coverage, including the BBC, The Guardian and The Evening Standard.

R v W & others (Occupy Parliament Square) (2015)
One of two counsel jointly instructed to represent all those charged with offences arising out of the Occupy Democracy protests in Parliament Square in late 2014. Out of 31 defendants facing 61 charges over the course of 11 sets of proceedings, not one person was convicted. The case was widely reported in the media including The Evening Standard, The Guardian and ITV.

R v P (2014)
Successful submission of no case to answer for two defendants facing charges under s144 squatting in residential premises during occupation protest. The case has been reported in Camden New Journal and The Evening Standard.

R v Lucas and others (2014)
Represented two defendants accused alongside Caroline Lucas MP of breaching conditions of a Section 14 notice. Judge found that Section 14 notice was unlawful. The case was widely reported in the media by the BBC, The Guardian and The Independent.

R v I (2014)
Successful submission of no case to answer against student accused of sitting in front of police van as form of protest. Actions did not constitute an obstruction in context of ECHR Articles 10 and 11.

R v L, R v H (2014)
Coombe Haven Defenders represented on charges of aggravated trespass and obstruction of the highway.

R v C (2013)
Successful defence of student accused of disorderly behaviour for calling Conservative MP a coward. The case was reported in The Independent and The Brighton Argus.

R v D (2013)
Successful acquittal at half time. Following the (now repealed) principle in R v Munim Abdul, CPS failed to prove that prosecution of anti-EDL protester on charge under Section 5 Public Order Act was proportionate interference with right to freedom of expression.

Civil cases

During pupillage, Owen worked on several high-profile civil cases relating to protests including Corporation of London v Samede (Occupy St Paul's), Sun Street v Persons Unknown (Occupy UBS) and R v Clarke & Ors (Fortnum and Mason's protest).

E-K v CCSP (2018)
Successful claim for damages for unlawful arrest and under HRA on basis of unlawful directions made under anti-rave legislation. Owen also acted for the claimant in criminal proceedings where the case was dismissed on a submission of no case to answer.

MR & DT v CCWYP (2017)
Claims for false imprisonment and trespass to goods arising out of arrest of alleged environmental protestors.

W v CCGMP (2014):
Successful civil claim for unlawful arrest following the imposition of a Section 14 notice on demonstrators in Manchester.

Injunctions

Owen regularly advises on challenges to injunctions sought by both local authorities and state and private companies seeking to restrict protest activity.

UKOG v Persons Unknown (2018)
Junior to Stephanie Harrison QC in challenge to wide-ranging injunction sought by oil company seeking to prevent protest.

Sheffield City Council v Brooke [2018] EWHC 1540 (QB)
First time High Court acknowledges defence of another as defence to contempt of court. Sheffield tree protestor facing committal proceedings. Link to judgement.

Elbit Systems Ltd v Persons Unknown (High Court, 2015)
Acted pro bono in High Court proceedings successfully challenging a harassment injunction restraining protest at an arms factory, with the judge finding that there were "serious and manifold" failings in disclosure. Owen also acted in criminal proceedings for 19 defendants facing Crown Court trial for breaching the injunction. The case was reported in the media including: The International Business Times, the BBC and the Birmingham Mail.

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Inquests and Inquiries

Overview

Owen regularly appears in inquests on behalf of the families of those who have died in state custody or following contact with the police. His extensive experience of both prison law and police actions are of direct relevance to many of these cases.

Notable Cases

Inquest into death of PP (2017)
Jury held that multiple failings by prison mental health team contributed to death at HMP Bedford.

Inquest into death of AH (2017)
Jury recorded that HMP Thameside failed to conduct adequate medical assessment on arrival into prison,

Inquest into death of James Fox (2016)
Acted as sole-counsel for family in police shooting inquest. First police shooting to be captured on body-worn video cameras worn by firearms officers. Prevention of future death report ordered into adequacy of police equipment to safely deal with firearms situations. See coverage on the BBC.

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Claims Against the Police and Public Authorities

Overview

Owen regularly acts in civil actions against the police in matters ranging from excessive force and unlawful arrest to improperly obtained and executed search warrants.

He combines in-depth knowledge of police powers and civil/public law challenges with the skills of jury advocacy gained through his criminal defence work.

Notable Cases

Past notable cases can be viewed below. Click here to see a list of recent notable cases.

E-K v CCSP (2018)
Successful claim for damages for unlawful arrest and under HRA on basis of unlawful directions made under anti-rave legislation. Owen also acted for the claimant in criminal proceedings where the case was dismissed on a submission of no case to answer.

P v CC Leicestershire Police (2017)
Successful negligence claim against police officers breaking detainees leg during restraint in custody. Single claimant witness and 7 police officers giving evidence for defendant.

F v CC Sussex Police (2017)
Civil claim for damages for damages from improperly obtained search warrant.

MR & DT v CCWYP (2017)
Claims for false imprisonment and trespass to goods arising out of arrest of alleged environmental protestors.

R v CCNWP (2015)
Successful claim for race discrimination for unlawful police stop.

S v CCKP (2015)
Successful negligence claim where detainee's teeth broken when pulled out of police van.

Keelagher v CCMP, Liverpool County Court (2015)
Successful jury trial in claims for false imprisonment and breach of ECHR Article 8 due to unnecessary arrest and improperly conducted search.

D v CCMP (2015)
Series of claims for unlawful strip searches.

Banton v Met Police, High Court (2014)
Jury found that unlawful force was used against client following his arrest at a tube station. Claimant was serving prisoner who lacked corroborating witnesses, but jury found officers had no reasonable belief for their use of force.

Roberts v CCMP, Liverpool County Court (2014)
Seven-day jury trial for false imprisonment, assault and malicious prosecution arising from improperly executed search. Jury found for claimant on all heads of claim resulting in damages of £25,000.

M v UKBA (2013)
Damages in excess of £10,000 for unlawful detention following UKBA raid on restaurant.

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Prisoners’ Rights

Overview

Owen is a prison law specialist. He cut his teeth as an advocate representing prisoners in disciplinary proceedings and is committed to upholding prisoners' rights.

Before coming to Garden Court, Owen worked as a race discrimination caseworker at the Prisoners' Advice Service (Firm of the Year, Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards 2011). He has extensive experience representing prisoners in parole board hearings and has acted for a significant number of IPP prisoners who have been granted release. Owen also has a long history of acting in adjudication hearings.

Owen is regularly instructed in judicial review challenges to decisions of the Parole Board as well as free-standing civil claims for parole board delays. Similarly he acts in judicial review claims arising from prison adjudications. Owen has also acted in matters related to home detention curfew, sentence calculation, categorisation, licence conditions, repatriation and recalls. Owen represents foreign national prisoners serving prison sentences and when held under immigration powers.

Notable Cases

Past notable cases can be viewed below. Click here to see a list of recent notable cases.

Parole Board Hearing of MS (2018)
Parole granted for female life sentenced prisoner who committed murder aged 16.

WL v Parole Board (2017)
Successful civil claim under HRA for breach of Art 5(4) ECHR on basis of delays in holding parole hearing.

R(N) v Independent Adjudicator (2015)
Successful judicial review challenge to Independent Adjudicator's finding of guilt for possession of unauthorised articles in shared cell on basis of knowledge alone and not control.

Parole Board Hearing of SW (2015)
Lifer ineligible for open conditions due to previous absconding re-released direct from closed conditions.

R(S) v HMP B and MOJ (2014)
Successful judicial review challenge to governor's adjudication relating to mental element in offence of administration of controlled drug.

R(S) v Parole Board (2013)
Judicial review of refusal to hold oral hearing to consider transfer to open conditions.

R(A) v Independent Adjudicator (2013)
Judicial review of independent adjudication; finding of guilt quashed on basis of error of law in the elements of the offence.

Parole Board Hearing of MW (2013)
Acted for prisoner serving life sentences for serial rape and murder.

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Romani Gypsy and Traveller Rights

Overview

Owen has a discrete interest in discrimination claims brought by Gypsies and Travellers. He is regularly instructed in claims relating to the provision of goods and services, often involving the refusal of service in pubs and restaurants. Owen is the author of the chapter on Discrimination in the forthcoming edition of Gypsy and Traveller Law (LAG, 2019). During his pupillage at Garden Court, Owen gained significant experience of the law relating to Gypsies and Travellers including assisting with the Dale Farm litigation.

Owen was junior counsel for the claimants in The Traveller Movement & Others v Wetherspoons (2015) where the court held that the refusal to allow those attending a Traveller's rights conference to enter to a pub constituted direct race discrimination on the basis of association with Irish Travellers. The judge also held that a corporation could bring proceedings for discrimination by association. The case received considerable media attention, including: The Guardian, The Daily Mail, The Independent and the BBC.

Notable Cases

Owen has been instructed in a large number of number of discrimination claims, several of which concern well-known nation-wide supermarkets and restaurant chains. In many cases conditions of settlement prevent publication of further details.

The Traveller Movement & Others v Wetherspoons (2015),
Owen was junior counsel for the claimants. The court held that the refusal to allow those attending a Travellers' rights conference to enter to a pub constituted direct race discrimination on the basis of association with Irish Travellers. The judge also held that a corporation could bring proceedings for discrimination by association.

R v P, Luton Magistrates' Court (2012):
Abuse of process argument on basis of racial discrimination in charging decision of trading standards case against Irish Traveller lead to prosecution discontinuing case.

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Administrative and Public Law

Overview

Owen acts in public law proceedings across his areas of expertise. He also accepts instructions in cases that raise public law and human rights grounds more widely.

Notable Cases

Past notable cases can be viewed below. Click here to see a list of recent notable cases.

Sheffield City Council v Brooke [2018] EWHC 1540 (QB)
First time High Court acknowledges defence of another as defence to contempt of court. Sheffield tree protestor facing committal proceedings.

R(DPP) v Stratford Magistrates Court [2017] EWHC 1794 (Admin)
Junior counsel to Edward Fitzgerald QC acting for respondent in judicial review brought by DPP against acquittal by district judge of anti-arms fair protestors on basis they acted in order to prevent crime. A leading case on ambit of defence of prevention of crime under s3 Criminal Law Act 1967 in the protest context.

SMS v The Lord Chancellor (High Court, 2015)
Procurement challenge to Legal Aid Agency duty contracts tender scheme.

Elbit Systems Ltd v Persons Unknown (High Court, 2015)
Acted pro bono in High Court proceedings successfully challenging a harassment injunction restraining protest at an arms factory, with the judge finding that there were "serious and manifold" failings in disclosure. Owen also acted in criminal proceedings for 19 defendants facing Crown Court trial for breaching the injunction. The case was reported in the media including: The International Business Times, the BBC and the Birmingham Mail.

R (Harrow Community Support Ltd) v MOD [2012] (The "Olympic Missiles" case).
Owen was junior counsel for the residents of the Fred Wigg Tower.

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Notable Cases & News

Director of Public Prosecutions abandons application to take Iain Duncan Smith ‘Tory Scum’ case to Supreme Court

Tom Wainwright and Elena Papamichael, both of the Garden Court Protest Rights Team, represented Ruth Wood, instructed by Lydia Dagostino of Kellys Solicitors. Owen Greenhall, of the Garden Court Protest Rights Team, represented Radical Haslam, leading Mir

20 March 2024

Henry Blaxland KC, Owen Greenhall and Tom Wainwright appear in Court of Appeal for acquitted protestor in Attorney General’s Reference on ‘belief in consent’ defence

Henry Blaxland KC, Owen Greenhall and Tom Wainwright, of the Garden Court Chambers Protest Rights and Criminal Defence teams, represented the acquitted person, instructed by Lydia Dagostino of Kellys Solicitors.

18 March 2024

Animal rights activists acquitted of campaign of stalking causing serious alarm or distress

Tom Wainwright and Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Protest Rights Team represented the defendants, instructed by Jane Cleasby of Kellys Solicitors.

14 March 2024

Greenpeace activists acquitted in trial alongside Greta Thunberg

Owen Greenhall, of the Garden Court Protest Team, was instructed be Mike Schwarz of Hodge Jones and Allen solicitors. Raj Chada also of Hodge Jones & Allen represented the co-defendants.

2 February 2024

Supreme Court rules wide injunctions have negative impact on Gypsies and Travellers' ability to pursue traditional nomadic way of life

Marc Willers KC, Tessa Buchanan & Owen Greenhall represented London Gypsies and Travellers (LGT), Friends Families and Travellers (FFT) and the Derbyshire Gypsy Liaison Group (DGLG). Stephanie Harrison KC, Stephen Clark & Fatima Jichi represented FFT.

29 November 2023

High Court Dismisses DPP's Appeal Against Acquittal of Protestors Who Called Iain Duncan Smith “Tory Scum”

Tom Wainwright led Elena Papamichael. Owen Greenhall led Mira Hammad. Tom, Elena and Owen are members of the Garden Court Chambers Protest Rights Team.

21 November 2023

Extinction Rebellion activists cleared of £500,000 damage to HSBC

Owen Greenhall, of the Garden Court Protest Team, acted for an Extinction Rebellion protestor, instructed by Jane Cleasby of Kellys Solicitors.

17 November 2023

Garden Court barristers contribute to Legal Action Magazine's Environmental Law Update (November 2023)

Members of the Garden Court Environmental Law and Climate Justice Team have written for Legal Action Magazine.

6 November 2023

"The end did not justify the means" - Undercover Policing Inquiry Interim Report Released by Inquiry Chair Sir John Mitting

Garden Court Chambers counsel, of the Inquests & Inquiries Team, are instructed in the Undercover Policing Inquiry.

29 June 2023

Owen Greenhall named Times Lawyer of the Week

We're delighted to announce that Owen Greenhall has been named Times Lawyer of the Week.

22 June 2023

Bristol ‘Kill the Bill’ protestor acquitted of violent disorder

Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Protest Team. represented the defendant, instructed by Hollie Collinge of Kelly’s Solicitors.

13 June 2023

Black Lives Matter demonstrator found not guilty of three counts of violent disorder

Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Protest Team acted for the defendant, instructed by Hester Cavaciuti and Lodovica Degan of Bindmans LLP.

28 March 2023

Protestors acquitted of conspiracy to throw paint over charity, political party and trade union headquarters

Tom Wainwright, Owen Greenhall, Susan Wright and Audrey Cherryl Mogan of the Garden Court Protest Team represented six of the defendants, instructed by Lydia Dagostino of Kellys Solicitors.

22 February 2023

Garden Court Chambers and Garden Court North remember Ian Macdonald QC

Garden Court Chambers and Garden Court North were honoured to host a memorial event for Ian Macdonald QC 1939-2019 at Middle Temple Hall on Tuesday 7 February 2023.

17 February 2023

Anti-Apartheid protestors’ convictions quashed after 50 years

Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Protest Team represented three anti-apartheid movement campaigners whose cases were referred to the Criminal Cases Review Commission by the Undercover Policing Enquiry.

19 January 2023

Palestine Action protestors found not guilty of conspiracy to commit criminal damage

The five defendants were represented by Owen Greenhall and Audrey Cherryl Mogan of the Garden Court Protest Team.

25 November 2022

Government’s planning definition of Gypsies and Travellers unlawfully discriminatory

Marc Willers KC and Tessa Buchanan of Garden Court Chambers appeared for the successful appellant.

7 November 2022

Garden Court secures top tier rankings in the Legal 500 2023

Garden Court Chambers is proud to be recognised as a Top Tier set again in the Legal 500.

30 September 2022

Protestor found not guilty of Violent Disorder in ‘Kill the Bill’ trial

Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Protest Team represented the defendant instructed by Hussain Hassan of Commons Solicitors.

26 August 2022

"The Gypsy and Traveller way of life is being legislated out of existence" - Legal opinion commissioned by Good Law Project

Marc Willers QC, Tessa Buchanan, and Owen Greenhall of Garden Court Chambers were commissioned by the Good Law Project to survey the legal landscape for Gypsy and Traveller groups to assess whether it complies with the UK’s legal obligations.

30 June 2022

Members of the Garden Court Chambers Crime Team support escalating proposed CBA action to include days of action

17 June 2022

Stephanie Harrison QC, Chair and Joint Head of Garden Court Chambers, comments on the Nationality and Borders Bill receiving Royal Assent

29 April 2022

Garden Court Crime Team statement on no returns action

30 March 2022

High Court dismisses contempt of court against Insulate Britain activists

Owen Greenhall, joint-convenor of the Garden Court Protest Rights Team, represented three defendants in these committal proceedings.

4 February 2022

XR protestors cleared by jury in DLR trial

Owen Greenhall joint-convenor of the Garden Court Protest Rights Team represented all three of the defendants. He was instructed by Mike Schwarz at Hodge Jones and Allen. Tom Wainwright acted for a fourth defendant whose case was discontinued.

14 January 2022

Garden Court secures number one rankings in Chambers UK Bar Guide 2022

21 October 2021

CPS drop terrorism charges against alleged anarchist

Tom Wainwright leading Owen Greenhall of Garden Court Chambers represented Mr Shone, instructed by Tayab Ali and Patrick Ormerod of Bindmans LLP.

18 October 2021

Garden Court Chambers Crime Team shortlisted for Crime Set of the Year by Chambers Bar Awards 2021

We are delighted to announce that the Garden Court Chambers Crime Team has been shortlisted by the Chambers Bar Awards 2021 for Crime Set of the Year.

27 August 2021

Supreme Court upholds right to disruptive protest on highway

The Appellants were represented by Henry Blaxland QC and Owen Greenhall, both members of the Garden Court Chambers Protest Team, and Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh of Matrix Chambers. They were instructed by Raj Chada of Hodge, Jones and Allen solicitors.

25 June 2021

Undercover Policing Inquiry refers first suspected miscarriages of justice

Owen Greenhall represented three anti-apartheid movement campaigners whose cases were referred to the panel. Owen is led by Matthew Ryder QC of Matrix Chambers. They are instructed by Mike Schwarz of Hodge Jones & Allen.

23 June 2021

Gypsy and Traveller injunctions against 'newcomers’ ruled unlawful

Marc Willers QC, Tessa Buchanan, and Owen Greenhall, of the Garden Court Chambers Romani Gypsy and Traveller Rights Team, acted for the three Interveners, instructed by Chris Johnson of the Community Law Partnership.

12 May 2021

Appeals allowed for Extinction Rebellion Protests

Owen Greenhall and Audrey Cherryl Mogan, members of the Garden Court Chambers Protest Team, represented the appellants. They were instructed by Raj Chada (HJA) and Lydia Dagostino (Kellys).

4 May 2021

Undercover Policing Inquiry - Garden Court counsel instructed

Garden Court Chambers counsel instructed to represent clients at the Undercover Policing Inquiry.

18 February 2021

Lord Chief Justice quashes Stansted 15 convictions

Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Crime and Protest Rights Teams was instructed to represent the appellants.

29 January 2021

Government in court today over planning rules for Travellers

Marc Willers QC and Tessa Buchanan of the Garden Court Chambers Romani Gypsy and Traveller Rights team represent Lisa Smith, instructed by Keith Coughtrie of Deighton Pierce Glynn.

10 December 2020

'The Protest Handbook (2nd Ed.)' co-authored by Tom Wainwright and Owen Greenhall launches today

Tom Wainwright and Owen Greenhall, of the Garden Court Chambers Protest Law Team, are co-authors of The Protest Handbook (2nd Ed.). Order here.

26 November 2020

New edition of 'Gypsy and Traveller Law' published by Legal Action Group

'Gypsy and Traveller Law' is edited by Marc Willers QC of Garden Court Chambers. Garden Court co-authors are Marc Willers QC, David Watkinson, Stephen Cottle, Desmond Rutledge, Owen Greenhall and Tessa Buchanan.

6 January 2020

Death of immigration detainee Bai Bai Ahmed Kabia could have been prevented, inquest concludes

Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Chambers Inquests and Inquiries Team represented the family.

10 September 2019

Inquest jury finds police failings led to death of detained man

The family of Lee Sparks was represented by Owen Greenhall of the Garden Court Crime and Civil Liberties teams. He was instructed by Lochlinn Parker of ITN Solicitors.

3 April 2019

All related news

Background

Owen became a tenant at Garden Court Chambers in October 2012, after completing his pupillage under the supervision of Marc Willers QC and Dafna Spiro.

Owen is actively involved with a number of voluntary organisations including the Netpol Lawyers Group and the Haldane Society. He was previously a member of the Climate Camp Legal Team. He is always keen to use his legal experience to assist those working on behalf of disadvantaged groups through the provision of training and collaborative projects.

Publications

Co-author of Legal Action Magazine - Environmental Law: Update (October 2023)

Gypsy and Traveller Law (3rd edition) (LAG, forthcoming). Co-author of chapter on discrimination.

The Protest Handbook, Wainwright, Morris, Craig and Greenhall, (Bloomsbury, 2012). Author of chapter on occupations.

Travellers Advice Team News, The UK Government's Response to the EU Framework on National Roma Integration Strategies, (March 2012), co-written with Marc Willers.

Garden Court Prison Law Blog (2011+), case reports.

Prisoners' Legal Rights Group Bulletin (2009-2011), information sheets and case reports.

Articles and book reviews in Socialist Lawyer Magazine, (2009-now).

JUSTICE Journal (2009), Book review of Beatson et al: Human Rights: Judicial Protection in the United Kingdom (Sweet & Maxwell, 2008).

Training and Seminars

Owen regularly gives talks, seminars and training sessions on matters relating to his areas of practice.

He has provided training on protest law to audiences ranging from small activist groups to members of the Welsh Assembly.

Awards

Albion Richardson Award (Gray's Inn)

Education

  • MA (Maths and Philosophy) (Edin)
  • DPhil (Philosophy) (Oxon)
  • GDL (City)
  • Albion Richardson Award (Gray's Inn)

Professional Membership

  • Administrative Law Bar Association (ALBA)
  • Criminal Bar Association (CBA)
  • Extradition Lawyers Association (ELA)
  • INQUEST Lawyers Group (ILG)
  • NetPol Lawyers Group (NLG) (Co-Chir)
  • Police Action Lawyers Group (PALG)

We are top ranked by independent legal directories and consistently win awards.

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