.' (Chambers & Partners - 2006)
Joint top-ranking Leading Set in Civil liberties & Human Rights: 'Matrix Chambers is equipped to handle complex and groundbreaking human rights issues for both claimants and respondents. Rabinder Singh QC is one of the most impressive younger silks in this area, and appeared in the recent case relating to the application of the Human Rights Act to British forces in Iraq. The highly rated Tim Owen QC is frequently instructed in cases relating to the abuse of powers by public bodies, appearing in the 2004 decision of R v Home Secretary, which dealt with the latter's policy of refusing to refer deportees to the parole board. Immigration 'doyen' Nicholas Blake QC's recent involvement in a case against the Special Adjudicator concerned freedom of religion. Helen Mountfield is a 'first-class' junior, and David Wolfe is considered 'excellent' by prominent solicitors. Karon Monaghan and Matthew Ryder are also strong favourites with clients. Julian Knowles is noted for his extradition-related expertise, and Alex Bailin continues to impress in Caribbean Privy Council appeals.'
(Legal 500 - 2005)
Ranked joint 1st set in Human Rights: 'Of an impressive team of juniors, the "thorough, very bright" Raza Husain stands out. Sources described him as "a real supporter and advancer of human rights." He worked with Ben Emmerson QC on behalf of the Belmarsh detainees. Danny Friedman is a "bright, energetic and committed" advocate, who possesses a "fantastic knowledge" of police actions. Revered for her "absorbent legal brain," Helen Mountfield is in demand both at the Bar and as a panel member of the Equal Opportunities Commission, Disability Rights Commission and Commission for Racial Equality. Solicitors endorsed Julian Knowles as a leading junior on death penalty work, and recognised his useful ability to "talk the talk with both commercial and traditional clients." Matthew Ryder is an "excellent expert" on claims against the police and other public bodies, while Conor Gearty impresses as "leading star" for both his academic mind and advocacy skills. "A source of important advice" to peers and clients alike, he was recently involved in a House of Lords case concerning the introduction of judicial supervision of children's care plans. Peers commended the "tremendous commitment to people, who are disadvantaged" displayed by Karon Monaghan.' (Chambers & Partners - 2005)
'Matrix Chambers' human rights focus is a clear strength. Members tend to act for applicants, though some also act for the Treasury Solicitor.' 'Matrix Chambers' Rabinder Singh QC is singled out for his insight and his intellect. This year he appeared for the MoD in British Army Gurkha Pensions, with Nicholas Blake QC acting for the pensioners, in a discrimination claim on the grounds of nationality. Junior David Wolfe, highly rated for his forensic skills, appeared with Murray Hunt in A&B and X&Y v East Sussex County Council. This established the importance of disabled people's rights under the ECHR. Karon Monaghan mounted a successful challenge to workplace dress codes in Thompson v Department for Work and Pensions. Dynamic junior Danny Friedman is experienced in police cases, while Helen Mountfield, Matthew Ryder and Jessica Simor are all respected by peers and clients alike.' (Legal 500 - 2004)
