Rachel Kelly
Rachel secured tenancy in October 2023, after successfully completing her pupillage with Dere Street Barristers, under the supervision of Richard Herrmann.
CRIME
Rachel appears in the Crown Court daily and is instructed on a wide range of matters including trials, sentences, appeals and POCA proceedings. Her attention to detail and hardworking nature has enabled her to achieve positive results in trials, sentences and appeals in both the Crown Court and at the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division)
Rachel accepts instructions in all criminal matters including prosecution, defence and private prosecutions.
FAMILY
Rachel has a wide range of experience in a range of matters in both private and public law proceeding, representing Local Authorities, parents, and Children’s Guardians.
Rachel has represented vulnerable clients and deals with such matters sensitively. Her calm and approachable demeanour puts clients at ease and enables a strong rapport to be developed immediately.
Notable Cases
R V W
Defended a man accused of S.20 wounding and threats to kill. Following a 4-day jury trial the jury returned unanimous Not Guilty verdicts on all counts. Successfully opposed a restraining order applied for on acquittal following legal arguments.
R v P
Represented the Appellant in the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). Successfully appealed a Crown Court restraining order.
R v M
Junior counsel in a trial for offences of conspiracy to commit fraud and conspiracy to supply Class C drugs.
Memberships
Honourable society of Middle Temple
Education/Qualifications
LLB Law and European Legal studies, Newcastle University and University of Trento – 2:1
Bar Practise Course LLM, Northumbria University – Distinction
Background
Prior to coming to the Bar Rachel worked as a paralegal for Norton Rose Fulbright and a legal assistant on the CEDAW Peoples Tribunal. She later worked at Newcastle Crown Court as a clerk to all members of the judiciary from circuit to recorder level.
Rachel received several awards throughout her academic career, including one for her contribution to inclusivity during her term as President of the Newcastle University Law Society.
In her spare time, Rachel can be found at St James Park watching Newcastle United FC.
