Legal 500, 2026 bar guide

Directories

07 October 2025

Becket Chambers is once again delighted to be ranked as a leading set in the Legal 500, 2026 bar guide!

Becket Chambers, ‘offers a broad spectrum of highly skilled counsel’, and private and public law proceedings form areas of expertise for its practitioners, covering allegations of physical and sexual abuse and neglect. Cases cover care, placement, and adoption proceedings on the public law side, and parental orders, relocation applications, and disputes over schools on the private side. The set is home to Adrian Pidduck, who practices in both public and private children law and is praised as ‘a very thorough and reflective practitioner, who is both a formidable but courteous opponent’. Nicole Jennings predominantly focuses on private children law proceedings; she represents parents, guardians, and extended family members, and she is ‘a confident, calm advocate with broad-ranging knowledge and a personable manner’. Sophie Gray is another key member of the set as an ‘insightful advocate’.

  • ‘The clerks will do all they can to provide assistance and cover wherever needed. They work extremely hard to ensure matters runs smoothly. The clerks are always at the end of the phone and their communication turn around is extremely quick. Paul Eaton, Arron Smith, and Ashleigh Tutt are all superb clerks.  ‘
  • ‘Paul Eaton and Arron Smith and the team are always helpful and their communication is great. Ashleigh Tutt has been a good addition to the clerking team.’

In addition, a huge congratulations to the following members who were ranked as ‘Leading Juniors’ in their specialist practice area:

Adrian Pidduck – Family: Children

‘Adrian is a very experienced barrister and his thoroughness is a wonderful strength, but his kindness and understanding of clients shines through everything else. Adrian is always willing to provide support and guidance and is happy to talk cases through.’

Sophie Gray – Family: Children

‘Her general preparation is of a high quality.’

Nicole Jennings – Family: Children & Finance

‘She is very accessible both before and after the hearing for any follow up queries.’

‘Nicole is a quietly assured advocate.’

Melanie M – Family: Children & Finance

 ‘Melanie’s strengths are without doubt her written work and ability to explain complex issues to clients, combined with her exceptionally hard work ethic, where she continually works to obtain the best results for her clients.’

Dan Hooker – Family: Children

‘Daniel brings a practical level of experience, having previously practiced as a solicitor for many years prior to coming to the Bar. This is extremely helpful as he also sees cases from a different view point which ensures they are dealt with smoothly and thoroughly, and he has great knowledge and expertise, his advocacy is robust and he is always well-prepared for cases.’

For help, advice or if you wish to instruct a member of Chambers, please contact our Clerking team