Haris Simpson (1990 – 2025) - Dere Street Barristers

Everyone in Chambers has been shocked to learn this past weekend of the death of Haris Simpson whilst he was enjoying a holiday abroad.

Haris was a very dear colleague who was held in great affection and respect by all who knew him in the legal profession and through his previous work in Local Authority child protection legal teams in the North East. Over the weekend I have received many messages of sympathy from colleagues in Chambers, other Chambers, the judiciary and court staff.

Haris was called to the Bar in 2015. He joined Chambers in 2022 as a specialist family pupil to Sue Boothroyd and was invited to became a tenant the following year.

From the outset it was clear that Haris had exceptional promise. He was careful, modest, courteous and kind and these qualities made him ideally suited for the difficult and sensitive work in which he excelled. His practise thrived and before his holiday he had thoroughly enjoyed the experience of being led by Penny Howe KC in a complex case before Poole J. at Teesside.

Haris was ever ready to acknowledge the support he had received during his journey to the Bar and in Chambers from Sue, fellow members of Chambers and our staff. However, his success reflected his talents including his strong work ethic and proper sense of his professional responsibilities.

On applying for a tenancy Haris wrote, “I hope I have begun to demonstrate I am capable of being an asset to Chambers … I am clear that it is a privilege to have this career and to that extent owe it to everyone to deliver a service which I can be proud of.”

We are very proud of Haris; he was a great asset and we all looked forward to watching his career blossom; sadly that is not to be.