Matthew Butt KC

Call: 2002 / Silk: 2020

“He has exceptional judgement and is a fantastic leader. He is lethally sharp.”

Chambers UK 2025: Crime

“He is fiercely intelligent and effortlessly balances legal expertise with a sharp commercial acumen. He is the barrister I turn to on my most challenging cases.”

Chambers UK 2025: Licensing

“Matthew is one of the best in the business. He is commercial, tenacious, and has superb advocacy skills.”

Chambers UK 2025: Licensing

“Matthew is phenomenal and an absolute pleasure to work with. He is very helpful in his advice whilst his advocacy is a masterclass. He is a tenacious advocate who never loses sight of the bigger strategic picture.”

Legal 500 2025: Crime

“Matthew’s forensic ability and power to shape the facts of any case is outstanding. He is also a powerful cross-examiner and delivers submissions with real weight, charm and gravity. He is intimidated by nothing and no one. “

Legal 500 2025: Police Law

Matthew Butt KC is an expert in international criminal, police regulation, inquests and public inquiries and public law. He is recommended by Chambers UK 2023 and Legal 500 2023 in five practice areas.

Since taking silk in 2020 Matthew has been instructed in a number of significant cases including the prosecution of NatWest PLC by the Financial Conduct Authority, the Manchester Arena and Grenfell Tower Public Inquiries and the judicial review brought by the Duke of Sussex into his private security arrangements.

Matthew is currently instructed in several murder trials and the inquests into the deaths of Chris Kaba and Police Sergeant Matt Ratana

Matthew sits as a Recorder of the Crown Court and a Deputy High Court Judge (King’s Bench Division). He has been appointed a Bencher of Gray’s Inn.

In 2024 Matthew was appointed the Gray’s Inn Master of Advocacy.

Legal Expertise

Inquests & Inquiries overview

Matthew is ranked as a leading barrister in inquests and inquiries by Legal 500 and Chambers UK. He is frequently instructed on behalf of families and other properly interested parties in coroner’s inquests and public inquiries. Described in the legal directories as ‘A specialist on the finer points of firearms law.’ Matthew has expertise in the command and control of the most dangerous police firearms operations, and has appeared in most of the recent high profile fatal police shooting cases.

Notable Inquests & Inquiries cases

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry (ongoing)

Instructed on behalf of the National House Building Council in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Inquest into the death of Chris Kaba (ongoing)

Instructed by the Metropolitan Police Service in the inquest into the death of Chris Kaba who was shot by an armed officer in 2022.

Inquest into the death of Matt Ratana (ongoing)

Instructed by the Metropolitan Police Service in the Inquest into the shooting of Custody Sergeant Matt Ratana.

The Manchester Arena Inquiry (2019-2023)

Instructed on behalf of Counter Terrorism Policing Headquarters in the public inquiry into the terrorist attack at the Ariana Grande concert in 2017.

The Jermaine Baker Inquiry (2019-2023)

Instructed on behalf of the Metropolitan Police Service in the public inquiry into the fatal shooting of Jermaine Baker.

Inquests into the Fishmongers’ Hall Terrorist Attack (2021))

Instructed on behalf of the Metropolitan Police Service and Counter Terrorism Policing Headquarters in the inquests into the 2019 terrorist attacks.

Inquests into the terrorist attacks on London Bridge (2019)

Instructed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis in relation to the 03.06.17 terrorist attacks on London Bridge and the surrounding area.

Inquests into the terrorist attacks on Westminster Bridge (2018)

Instructed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis in relation to the 22.03.17 terrorist attack on Westminster Bridge and the Palace of Westminster.

The Mark Duggan Inquest (2014)

Representing the Trident tactical firearms commander (previously known as silver commander) in the inquest touching the death of Mark Duggan. Verdict of lawful killing returned.

Crime overview

Recent instructions include allegations of war crimes, murder, kidnap, rape, fatal industrial accidents and serious fraud.

Matthew has appeared in many of the leading cases relating to the issuing and execution of search warrants and production orders and is an expert at challenging such warrants in the High Court and excluding illegally obtained evidence at any subsequent trial.

Matthew is highly experienced in bringing and defending private prosecutions. He successfully defended a number of high profile political figures including then Home Secretary Jacqui Smith and the London Mayor Sadiq Khan in private criminal cases. He has appeared in a number of cases in the High Court and the Court of Appeal concerning the right to bring private prosecutions.

Notable Crime cases

R v Heard [2024]

Defending a Police Sergeant acquitted of rape, voyeurism, perverting the course of justice, coercive control, assault and malicious communications. Following the acquittals, the trial judge stated that she intended to write to the DPP and Chief Constable of Hampshire Police to express her concern about matters which arose during cross examination which revealed an investigation that was “far from impartial or open minded”.

R v Curson [2023]

The prosecution alleged that Mr Curson had killed his then partner by a blow from a weapon and sought to prove this by expert evidence. The jury heard evidence from five pathologists over the course of the trial. Defendant acquitted of murder, manslaughter and possession of an offensive weapon.

R v NatWest, Southwark Crown Court (2021)

Instructed on behalf of the Financial Conduct Authority which prosecuted NatWest for breaches of the Money Laundering Regulations 2007. The bank was sentenced to a fine of over £264m, the largest ever imposed in in the UK upon conviction. The case was extensively reported, and represented the first time that the FCA has prosecuted anyone under Money Laundering Regulations, and the first time it has prosecuted a retail bank. The case has been described by the press as a “milestone for the FCA,” and “sending shockwaves through the City and Canary Wharf”

R v NX1 Southwark Crown Court (2021)

Instructed on behalf of NX1 a Metropolitan Police Service Counter Terrorist Specialist Firearms Officer (CTSFO) who shot a suspect during a pro-active deployment in London. NX1 was cleared of causing grievous bodily harm with intent

R v H Worcester Crown Court (2021)

Instructed on behalf of an armed response vehicle firearms officer H who was accused of causing death by dangerous driving following an on duty fatal road traffic accident.

R v Colonel Kumar Lama [2016]

Leading counsel in war crimes trial relating to the 1996 to 2006 Nepalese civil war. The case was being prosecuted in England on the basis of universal jurisdiction and was the first of its kind. Colonel Lama who was accused of torturing Maoist rebels was cleared of all charges.

Professional Discipline overview

Regularly instructed to represent police officers accused of gross misconduct before discipline boards, the PAT and the High Court on judicial review.

Notable Professional Discipline cases

Bianca Williams (ongoing) [2024]

Instructed on behalf of one of the officers accused cleared of gross misconduct in relation to the stop of the athlete Bianca Williams and her partner during the Covid lockdown.

Project Pitch (2022)

Instructed by Gwent Professional Standards to present this case which saw allegations of serious misconduct proved agaisnt an Assistant Chief Constable, Chief Superintendent and Chief Inspector all of whom were dismissed without notice.

Operation Turing [2022]

Representing the Appropriate Authority in gross misconduct proceedings in relation to Chief Superintendent Paul Martin (former commander of policing in West London), Chief Inspector Davinder (Ricky) Kandohla and others. Mr Martin and Mr Kandohla were both found to have breached professional standards including those of honesty and integrity, orders and instructions and authority courtesy and respect. Both dismissed without notice.

Misconduct Proceedings in relation to the Death of Sean Rigg [2019]

Representing PC Mark Harratt accused of multiple breaches of professional standards in relation the death of Sean Rigg. PC Harratt was cleared of all alleged misconduct.

Misconduct Proceedings In Relation to the Death of Henry Hicks, Metropolitan Police Service [2017]

Representing two police officers who were cleared of all misconduct allegations following the death of Henry Hicks near Caledonian Road.

DCI D City of London Police [2017]

Representing a Detective Chief Inspector at a gross misconduct hearing at City of London Police.

Officers H & D Thames Valley Police Force [2015]

Representing two officers who faced gross misconduct proceedings following a death in police custody. The case was dismissed following a submission of no case to answer at the close of the Appropriate Authority’s case.

Licensing overview

Acting for licensees, applicants, residents’ groups, local councils and police forces, Matthew is one of the country’s leading licensing barristers. He regularly appears in the Magistrates’ Court on statutory appeals and in the High Court and Court of Appeal on judicial review and appeals by way of case stated. Matthew is also experienced in betting, gaming, taxi licensing, sexual entertainment licensing and the regulation of the private security industry. Recent clients include Secret Cinema, the WOMAD festival, Standon Calling Festival, Punch Taverns, the Security Industry Authority and the Metropolitan Police Service.

Notable Licensing cases

Avis/ZipCar v TfL [2017]

Instructed by TfL, successfully resisted an appeal brought by ZipCar against the immediate revocation of a fleet of Private Hire Vehicle licences on the grounds of public safety. The Appellant had sought to hire the vehicles out by the day or hour to "Uber" drivers.

London City Traders Ltd v London Borough of Tower Hamlets [2016]

Instructed on behalf of a sexual entertainment venue on the edge of the City of London in a successful appeal against a refusal to grant a Sexual Entertainment Venue licence.

Mike Wells v Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis 2014

Successful representation of the Commissioner in an appeal brought by the Secretary of the Sportsman's Association. Mr Wells had sought a certificate for a .45 self-loading pistol arguing that this was necessary for the humane despatch of wild boar. The appeal was dismissed.

"Secret Cinema" [2013]

Instructed by Future Shorts Limited in a successful application for a premises licence to allow a run of the Secret Cinema interactive performance of Shawshank Redemption in Hackney. The application which was the first permanent run for Secret Cinema was strongly opposed by the police.

Health & Safety overview

Matthew is a leading health and safety barrister, regularly appearing in cases relating to fatal and near fatal industrial accidents. He has been appointed to the “A” panel of prosecuting HSE advocates.

Notable Health & Safety cases

R v Viridor Limited [2019]

Prosecuting Viridor for multiple breaches which resulted in the death of a recycling operative who was crushed inside a ballistic separator.

R v Keepmoat & Superior Roofing & Building Services [2018]

Acting on behalf of the HSE in a prosecution after a resident and workers fell through a walkway on a residential development in London The resident fell to the floor below suffering serious injuries.

R (HSE) v Kypol & Kapoor [2016]

Prosecuting the company and Director for an industrial accident in which a worker fell into a vat of caustic soda suffering serious burns.

R (HSE) v Chessington World of Adventures [2015]

Prosecuting Chessington World of Adventures Limited on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive following a serious accident in which a four year old girl fell fourteen feet and fractured her skull.

Extradition & Interpol Red Notices overview

Matthew advises and appears for issuing judicial authorities, requesting governments and requested persons in extradition cases. He appears in the Magistrates’ Court and the High Court on appeal. He also advises and represents in mutual legal assistance cases. Matthew has expertise in challenging Interpol Red Notices on behalf of both UK based and international clients.

Notable Extradition & Interpol Red Notices cases

India v R [2018]

Successful defence of a prominent Indian businessman whose extradition was sought for alleged asset stripping by the Republic of India.

Germany v MW [2017]

Representing MW who successfully challenged an extradition request relating to a 60 million Euro fraud. MW was discharged on the grounds of his physical and mental health and as extradition would breach his rights guaranteed under ECHR Article 8.

India v Ashley [2014] EWHC 3505 (Admin)

Representing the requested person in historic allegations of rape and sexual abuse in Goa. The requested person was discharged, as extradition would be unjust and oppressive in view of the fact that he suffered from dementia. Appeal by Republic of India dismissed.

Germany v Lewis, Khan & Din [2014] EWHC 1704 (Admin)

Representing Lewis who successfully challenged an extradition request relating to an alleged €50 million fraud. Appeal by Germany dismissed. Application to certify a question of public importance and leave to appeal to Supreme Court refused.

Search & Seizure overview

Matthew has particular expertise in litigation concerning applications for and challenges to search warrants and production orders. He has successfully challenged many such warrants securing orders for the return of material and damages. Matthew has recently appeared in high profile cases involving applications for production orders, including an application following serious disorder at the Syrian Embassy and investigations into corruption in Premier League football clubs.

Notable Search & Seizure cases

Shamima Begum [2019]

Representing the MPS in an application for production orders against various media organisations relating to the so called "ISIS bride" Shamima Begum.

R (on the application of Brook & Others) v Preston Crown Court & Lancashire Police [2018] ACD 95

Acting for the Claimant in a judicial review of a decision to issue a search warrant. Declaration of unlawfulness granted. Warrants quashed. Order granted for return of all property and destruction of copies. Order prohibiting the police from applying to the Crown Court under Section 59 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 granted.

R (on the application of Anand) v Revenue & Customs Commissioners [2012] EWHC 2989 (Admin); [2013] CP Rep 2; [2013] ACD 8

Search warrants issued on application by HMRC quashed on grounds that the content of the warrants were unclear. Key authority in this developing area of law.

Inquests & Inquiries

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry
(ongoing)
Instructed on behalf of the National House Building Council in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Inquest into the death of Chris Kaba
(ongoing)
Instructed by the Metropolitan Police Service in the inquest into the death of Chris Kaba who was shot by an armed officer in 2022.

Inquest into the death of Matt Ratana
(ongoing)
Instructed by the Metropolitan Police Service  in the Inquest into the shooting of Custody Sergeant Matt Ratana.

The Manchester Arena Inquiry
(2019-2023)
Instructed on behalf of Counter Terrorism Policing Headquarters in the public inquiry into the terrorist attack at the Ariana Grande concert in 2017.

The Jermaine Baker Inquiry
(2019-2023)
Instructed on behalf of the Metropolitan Police Service in the public inquiry into the fatal shooting of Jermaine Baker.

Inquests into the Fishmongers’ Hall Terrorist Attack
(2021)
Instructed on behalf of the Metropolitan Police Service and Counter Terrorism Policing Headquarters in the inquests into the 2019 terrorist attacks.

Inquests into the terrorist attacks on Westminster Bridge
(2018)
Instructed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis in relation to the 22.03.17 terrorist attack on Westminster Bridge and the Palace of Westminster

Inquests into the terrorist attacks on London Bridge
(2019)
Instructed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis in relation to the 03.06.17 terrorist attacks on London Bridge and the surrounding area

The Undercover Police Inquiry
(ongoing)
Instructed to represent former undercover police officer Mark Kennedy in this inquiry chaired by Lord Justice Pitchford

Inquest into the death of Philmore Mills
[2016]
Instructed on behalf of two police officers who restrained Mr Mills on a respiratory ward shortly before he died

Inquest into the death of James Fox
[2016]
Instructed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis in the fatal shooting of Mr Fox by two firearms officers. Verdicts of lawful killing returned

The Mark Duggan Inquest
[2014]
Representing the Trident tactical firearms commander (previously known as silver commander) in the inquest touching the death of Mark Duggan. Verdict of lawful killing returned

The Nunes & Markland Inquest
[2012]
Representing the Flying Squad silver commander in the inquest touching the death of Mark Nunes and Andrew Markland; armed robbers shot dead by CO19 snipers during an armed robbery in Chandlers Ford. Verdicts of lawful killing returned

Crime

R v NatWest
(ongoing)
Instructed on behalf of the Financial Conduct Authority in the prosecution of NatWest for alleged breaches of the Money Laundering Regulations 2007.

R v Colonel Kumar Lama
[2016]
Leading counsel instructed to defend in torture trial relating to the 1996 to 2006 Nepalese civil war. The case was being prosecuted in England on the basis of universal jurisdiction and was the first of its kind. Colonel Lama was cleared of all charges

R v MC
[2014]
Representing a former Detective Chief Inspector from the Ministry of Defence Police. MC was charged with thirty counts of fraud allegedly committed between 2006 and 2011. MC was acquitted of all charges following a four week trial

R v Zinga
[2014] 1 WLR 2228
Instructed by the Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis to represent the police in a challenge to right of private prosecutors to bring confiscation proceedings. The Lord Chief Justice stated in the court’s judgment that a private prosecutor was able to engage and apply the confiscation provisions under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and that the police were entitled to provide assistance where appropriate

R v C, S, H, D & W
[2012] EWCA Crim 1762
Successful defence of H before Southwark Crown Court and the Court of Appeal. Money laundering allegations dismissed following submission of no case to answer, Crown appeal against terminatory ruling dismissed. Police conceded forfeiture proceedings and returned the seized cash

R v Raykanda
[2011] EWCA Crim 1896
Representing the Appellant, £3.7 million confiscation order quashed

R v Good
[2009] 173JP 1
Successful appeal against conviction by G. Leading authority on bad character applications where defendants are alleged to have given a false impression

R v Watts
[2008]
Appointed by the court to cross examine the actress Samantha Morton who alleged that Mr Watts was harassing her. The defendant was acquitted

Health & Safety

R v Keepmoat & Superior Roofing & Building Services
[2018]
Acting on behalf of the HSE in a prosecution after a resident and workers fell through a walkway on a residential development in London The resident fell to the floor below suffering serious injuries.

R (HSE) v Kypol & Kapoor
[2016]
Prosecuting the company and Director for an industrial accident in which a worker fell into a vat of caustic soda suffering serious burns.

R (HSE) v Fui Seal Europe Limited
[2016]
Prosecuting Fuji Seal in a case arising out of an industrial accident in which a worker’s hand was caught in a printing machine.

R (HSE) v Chessington World of Adventures
[2015]
Prosecuting Chessington World of Adventures Limited on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive following a serious accident in which a four year old girl fell fourteen feet and fractured her skull.

Extradition

Germany v MW
[2017]
Representing MW who successfully challenged an extradition request relating to a 60 million Euro fraud. MW was discharged on the grounds of his physical and mental health and as extradition would breach his rights guaranteed under ECHR Article 8

India v Ashley
[2014] EWHC 3505 (Admin)
Representing the requested person in historic allegations of rape and sexual abuse in Goa. The requested person was discharged, as extradition would be unjust and oppressive in view of the fact that he suffered from dementia. Appeal by Republic of India dismissed

Germany v Lewis, Khan and Din
[2014] EWHC 1704 (Admin)
Representing Lewis who successfully challenged an extradition request relating to an alleged €50 million fraud. Appeal by Germany dismissed. Application to certify a question of public importance and leave to appeal to Supreme Court refused

Government of Bermuda v Stamp
[2014]
Representing the requested person in an extradition request relating to an allegation of murder. Successfully argued that there is a lacuna in the law which prevents extradition to any British Overseas Territory or Dependency

Tribunal de Grande Instance Paris, France v Ian Griffin
[2011] All ER (D) 215 (Apr)
Representing G in proceedings following the alleged murder of his girlfriend in the Hotel le Bristol, Paris. Fitness to plead, suicide risk and proceeding in absence

E v Federation of Bosnia & Herzegovina (BiH)
[2011] EWHC 625 (Admin) 2011
Acting for appellant. Successful appeal by E in first extradition request made by BiH

Hoholm v Government of Norway
[2009] EWHC 1513 (Admin) Times 12th October 2009
Acting for the appellant in successful appeal. Leading authority on raising new issues on appeal

Licensing

Avis/ZipCar v TfL
Instructed by TfL, successfully resisted an appeal brought by ZipCar against the immediate revocation of a fleet of Private Hire Vehicle licences on the grounds of public safety. The Appellant had sought to hire the vehicles out by the day or hour to “Uber” drivers

London City Traders Ltd v London Borough of Tower Hamlets
[2016]
Instructed on behalf of a sexual entertainment venue on the edge of the City of London in a successful appeal against a refusal to grant a Sexual Entertainment Venue licence.

Mike Wells v Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis
[2014]
Successful representation of the Commissioner in an appeal brought by the Secretary of the Sportsman’s Association. Mr Wells had sought a certificate for a .45 self-loading pistol arguing that this was necessary for the humane despatch of wild boar. The appeal was dismissed

“Secret Cinema”
[2013]
Instructed by Future Shorts Limited in a successful application for a premises licence to allow a run of the Secret Cinema interactive performance of Shawshank Redemption in Hackney. The application which was the first permanent run for Secret Cinema was strongly opposed by the police

R (Ambassador Cars) v Central Criminal Court
[2009] EWCA Civ 1140
Appearing in the City of London Magistrates’ Court, Central Criminal Court, Administrative Court and Court of Appeal (Civil Division) instructed by Transport for London in a case brought by a large private hire vehicle operator and the subsequent appeal by way of case stated and judicial review claim

R (Betting Shop Services Ltd) v Southend Borough Council & Ors
[2008] EWHC 105 (Admin)
Judicial review of Southend Borough Council on the interpretation of the Gambling Act 2005. The Gambling Commission guidance was held to be wrong in law

Professional Misconduct

Bianca Williams
(Ongoing)
Instructed on behalf of one of the officers accused of gross misconduct in relation to the stop of the athlete Bianca Williams and her partner during the Covid lockdown.

Project Pitch
(2022)
Instructed by Gwent Professional Standards to present this case which saw allegations of serious misconduct proved agaisnt an Assistant Chief Constable, Chief Superintendent and Chief Inspector all of whom were dismissed without notice.

Misconduct Proceedings In Relation to the Death of Henry Hicks, Metropolitan Police Service
[2017]
Representing two police officers who were cleared of all misconduct allegations following the death of Henry Hicks near Caledonian Road

DCI D City of London Police
[2017]
Representing a Detective Chief Inspector at a gross misconduct hearing at City of London Police

Officers H & D Thames Valley Police Force
[2015]
Representing two officers who faced gross misconduct proceedings following a death in police custody. The case was dismissed following a submission of no case to answer at the close of the Appropriate Authority’s case

PAT in relation to PC RP, Staffordshire Police Force
[2015]
Representing RP on appeal following his dismissal after a misconduct hearing. Appeal initially dismissed by the Chair. A claim was brought against the PAT in judicial review and the matter remitted. Leave was then granted and the appeal allowed, PC RP reinstated, back pay awarded and costs ordered against the police authority

Sergeant Chilton, Nottinghamshire Police
[2015]
Representing a custody sergeant accused of using excessive force by restraining a 17 year old detainee in a neck hold. First allegation dismissed following submission of insufficient evidence, second charge dismissed by the panel

PAT in relation to PC MH, Metropolitan Police Service
[2014]
Representing MH on appeal following his dismissal after pleading guilty to a criminal offence. Matthew was instructed after the client had been sacked and his appeal dismissed. A claim was brought against the PAT in judicial review and the matter remitted. Leave was then granted and the appeal allowed, PC MH reinstated, back pay awarded and costs ordered against the police authority

PAT in relation to PC CB
[2013]
Representing CB on appeal following his dismissal after he was found to have dishonestly taken and lost a colleagues bicycle. Appeal allowed, PC CB reinstated with back pay

Judicial Review

R (on the application of Brook & Others) v Preston Crown Court & Lancashire Police
[2018] ACD 95
Acting for the Claimant in a judicial review of a decision to issue a search warrant. Declaration of unlawfulness granted. Warrants quashed. Order granted for return of all property and destruction of copies. Order prohibiting the police from applying to the Crown Court under Section 59 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 granted

Avis v Transport for London
Representing TfL in appeal by way of case stated concerning the test relating to taxi licence appeals and disability discrimination. Appeal dismissed

R (on the application of Anand) v Revenue and Customs Commissioners
[2012] EWHC 2989 (Admin); [2013] CP Rep 2; [2013] ACD 8
Search warrants issued on application by HMRC quashed on grounds that the content of the warrants were unclear. Key authority in this developing area of law

Re Bell
[2012] EWHC 4133 (Admin)
Successful application for certificate of inadequacy in confiscation proceedings

Key contacts

“He has exceptional judgement and is a fantastic leader. He is lethally sharp.”  Chambers UK 2025:  Crime

“Matthew really is a standout. He is incredibly hard-working, super-bright, very easy to get on with, helpful and great value.”  Chambers UK 2025:  Licensing

“He is fiercely intelligent and effortlessly balances legal expertise with a sharp commercial acumen. He is the barrister I turn to on my most challenging cases.”  Chambers UK 2025:  Licensing

“Matthew is one of the best in the business. He is commercial, tenacious, and has superb advocacy skills.” Chambers UK 2025:  Licensing

“Matthew is incredibly bright and capable.”  Chambers UK 2025:  Police Law

“Matthew is phenomenal and an absolute pleasure to work with. He is very helpful in his advice whilst his advocacy is a masterclass. He is a tenacious advocate who never loses sight of the bigger strategic picture.” Legal 500 2025:  Crime

“Matthew’s forensic ability and power to shape the facts of any case is outstanding. He is also a powerful cross-examiner and delivers submissions with real weight, charm and gravity. He is intimidated by nothing and no one. “ Legal 500 2025:  Police Law

“He’s very calm, very collected and someone who engages with the jury well.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Crime

“He was very engaged with the clients and the case and it was a very productive, collaborative relationship.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Crime

“He has great presence in the courtroom and marries it all together with cleverness and practicality.” Chambers UK 2024:  Crime

“Matthew is a measured advocate and he has good judgement.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Inquests & Public Inquiries

“He is very able advocate who is pleasant to listen to.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Inquests & Public Inquiries

“Matthew’s manner before licensing sub-committees is smooth, measured and always pitched perfectly. He impresses in the way he finds workable solutions for clients that keep objectors and licensing authorities on the back foot.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Licensing

“Matthew is an extremely skilful licensing advocate whose commercial awareness and sector-wide knowledge are a real asset. He looks at matters from every angle possible, giving meaningful and practical advice to find solutions to complicated problems.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Licensing

Matthew is a very good specialist in police misconduct.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Professional Discipline

“He has the strongest forensic ability and is outstanding on factual matters.” Chambers UK 2024:  Professional Discipline

“Matthew is very experienced in police misconduct. He understands the nuances of proceedings.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Police Law

“Matthew has an extraordinary forensic ability. He is a strong barrister in terms of handling complex factual information, is very determined and highly authoritative.”  Chambers UK 2024:  Police Law

“Very calm in his approach, he engages brilliantly with the jury and makes excellent speeches.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Crime

“He’s both knowledgeable and caring.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Crime

“An extremely impressive court performer. He is really passionate about his cases yet doesn’t let that cloud his advocacy. Instead, he works to get the judge on his side and he knows how to do it.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Extradition

“He musters up really interesting points that nobody else thinks of.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Extradition

“He has good knowledge of police law and procedure and is a good examiner of witnesses. He makes good strategic judgements on which points to take.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Inquests & Public Inquiries

“He is a supreme advocate, very tenacious, very bright and very sharp.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Licensing

“Matthew is a supreme advocate who is very tenacious and very bright.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Professional Discipline

“Forensically outstanding, one of the most intelligent barristers. Very persuasive, very robust and there are no points he cannot take and argue very well.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Police Law

“He is a really brilliant advocate. He is incredibly hard-working and meticulous. Just fantastic.”  Chambers UK 2023:  Police Law

“A brilliant advocate with excellent judgement and real presence in court.”  Legal 500 2023:  International Crime and Extradition

 “Whether the advice is provided in writing or in conference he is always an absolute master of the brief and often answers pertinent questions in regard to key issues that clients haven’t themselves necessarily even asked.”  Legal 500 2023:  Licensing

“He is capable of dealing with the most difficult and sensitive cases.” Chambers UK 2022:  Crime

“A first-rate cross-examiner.”  Chambers UK 2022:  Crime

“He has the most fantastic analytical brain and is great in court.” Chambers UK 2022:  Extradition

“He’s a very focused questioner and handles the inquest style very well.” Chambers UK 2022:  Inquests & Public Inquiries

“Fantastic in court and a fabulous team player.” Chambers UK 2022:  Licensing

“He’s very diligent, his paperwork is good, he responds quickly and he is very helpful. Advocacy-wise he’s very good as well.” Chambers UK 2022:  Professional Discipline

“For me his forensic abilities are outstanding: every point he delivers is analysed from every different direction and it is very impressive to watch him in action.” Chambers UK 2022: Police Law

“Matthew has a supremely sharp intellect. He is a great choice for any case involving complex areas of law. He is very well respected by judges who consider him to be authoritative beyond his seniority.” Legal 500 2022:  International Crime and Extradition

“Matthew’s manner before licensing sub-committees is smooth, measured and always pitched perfectly.” Legal 500 2022: Licensing

“A top-drawer advocate, careful preparation and very good with clients – committed and bright.” Legal 500 2022: Inquests & Inquiries

“His client management skills are top drawer.” Legal 500 2022: Police Law

“A barrister with a fearsome intellect, who is lethal in court.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Crime

 “A fantastic advocate. He has an exceptional track record for achieving unexpectedly favourable outcomes for clients.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Crime

 “A tough operator who has excellent judgement.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Crime

“An incredibly clever lawyer.”   Chambers UK 2021:  Extradition

“He gets his head round the most complicated and difficult legal situations imaginable and is great with the client.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Extradition

“He is really thorough and forensic in his preparation, and doesn’t take bad points. He’s very straightforward to deal with.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Inquests & Public Inquiries

“He effortlessly demands attention during oral submission and speaks with authority.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Licensing

“He is a giant of an advocate.”  Chambers UK 2021:  Professional Discipline

“A fierce intellect, really energetic and exudes confidence and charisma.”  Chambers 2021:  Professional Discipline

 “Matt is incredibly sharp and a great advocate in person and in writing. He is supremely confident and authoritative in court. I would recommend him highly in relation to any legal argument.”  Legal  500 2021:  International Crime and Extradition

“His client management is out of the top drawer. He achieved a result better than we could have anticipated, and effortlessly demands the respect and attention of a Licensing Sub Committee.”  Legal 500:  Licensing

“Huge ability to absorb information. He was by far the most experienced advocate at the inquest, which shone through in terms of his ability to grasp the issues and ask the right questions.”  Legal 500:  Inquests and Inquiries

“A tenacious advocate who is very intelligent and has a commanding presence.” “Matthew is a man with a serious intellect and a brilliant lawyer, who is a first choice for complex and technical matters. Very proactive and easy to work with, he is also excellent on extradition and public law.” Chambers UK 2020: Crime

“Has a very brilliant style of advocacy and uses his sixth sense to bring judges around.” Chambers UK 2020: Extradition

“He was good and handled witnesses well.” “He played a very big role in the case and served his clients extremely well.” “His strengths undoubtedly are his preparation and his advocacy.” Chambers UK 2020: Inquests & Public Inquiries

“His ability to deliver considered and well thought-out advice is always appreciated. He is personable and clients warm to his approach and presence.” Chambers UK 2020: Licensing

“Gets straight to the point, knows what he’s talking about and is very reliable.” “A charming and pleasant barrister whose persuasive skills are very impressive.” Chambers UK 2020: Professional Discipline

“He is fiercely intelligent and able to unpick the most complex legal issues. “ Legal 500 2020: International Crime & Extradition

“Impressive, authoritative presence in Licensing Sub-Committee hearings and prepared to provide robust advice in challenging cases.” Legal 500 2020: Licensing

“He is steadfast in his approach to ensure that the right outcome for a case is always achieved.” Legal 500 2020: Inquests & Inquiries

“He is phenomenally confident in court.” Legal 500 2020: Police Law

“He is exceptional. Very strategic in his approach, he is an extremely bright and utterly fearless advocate.” Chambers UK 2019: Crime

“He is doing superbly well for someone of his year of call.” Chambers UK 2020: Crime

“The cases he does are excellent. He often wins against the odds and gets the right result for his clients.” Chambers UK 2019: Extradition

“He’s enormously hard-working and has a good eye for detail. He’s tenacious and doesn’t give up on difficult points.” Chambers UK 2019: Inquests

“He is a very good advocate who is very impressive at hearings. Committees like to listen to him.” “He is extremely bright and persuasive, and has a great sense of humour.” Chambers UK 2019: Licensing

“He has good technical skills and he is an engaging advocate.” “He does an excellent job for his clients.” Chambers UK 2019: Professional Discipline

“A serious intellect who can easily navigate his way through the most difficult legal conundrums.” Legal 500 2019: Crime

“A considered advocate with a good feel for the mood of the court.” Legal 500 2019: International Crime & Extradition

“Quickly dissects and expertly addresses the key issues in complex cases.” Legal 500 2019: Licensing

“A fearless advocate who combines tenacity and good judgement.” Legal 500 2019: Inquests & Inquiries

“Extremely bright and a brilliant advocate – one of the best at the junior Bar.” Legal 500 2019: Police Law

“He’s an intelligent, imposing character. He must be about seven feet tall, a good proportion of which seems to be brain.” Chambers UK: Licensing

  • Atkin Scholar, Gray’s Inn (2002)
  • English Speaking Union American Scholar (2001)
  • Lord Justice Holker Scholar, Gray’s Inn (2000)
  • Diploma in Law
  • LLB, University College London
  • Bencher of Gray’s Inn (2017)
  • Recorder of the Crown Court (2015)
  • Attorney General’s B Panel (2012)
  • Attorney General’s C Panel (2008-2012)
  • CPS Grade 3 Prosecutor
  • CPS Rape List
  • Specialist Advocates’ A panellist for Health & Safety and Environmental Law
  • Lead Advocacy Trainer, Gray’s Inn
  • Pupil Supervisor

Matthew has worked in Jamaica, as a member of the Bar Human Rights Committee, on a scheme to assist those being tried for offences that would attract the death penalty.

I, Matthew Butt KC, am a data controller and can be contacted at 3 Raymond Buildings, Gray’s Inn, London WC1R 5BH or by telephone on 020 7400 6400 or by email at matthew.butt@3rblaw.com. My Data Protection Policy can be found below.

All personal data that I process is for the purposes of providing legal services, conducting conflict-checks, marketing, defending potential complaints, legal proceedings or fee disputes, keeping anti-money laundering records, training other barristers and pupils and when providing work-shadowing opportunities, and/or exercising a right to a lien. The types of data I process vary upon the nature of the legal matter in relation to which I am engaged to advise, but can include names, contact details, biographic details and ‘special category personal data’ (such as details of racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, health, sex life and criminal convictions and proceedings).

Depending upon the circumstances of the case, the legal bases upon which I process personal data are (i) the performance of a contract to which the data subject is a party or in order to take steps at the request of the data subject prior to entering into a contract, (ii) the processing is necessary to comply with legal obligations to which I am subject, or (iii) the processing is necessary for the legitimate interests set out above, except where such interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subjects which require protection of personal data, in particular where the data subject is a child. When I rely on (iii) legitimate interests, my ‘Legitimate Interests Assessment’ can be found here. When I process data which has not be obtained directly from the data subject (e.g. personal data contained in evidential materials), it will have been supplied to me as part of my instructions in circumstances covered by legal professional privilege.

Depending upon the circumstances of the case, I may share the personal data with:

  1. my Chambers, which supplies professional and administrative support to my practice;
  2. Courts and other tribunals to whom documents are presented;
  3. my lay and professional clients;
  4. potential witnesses, in particular experts, and friends or family of the data subject;
  5. solicitors, barristers, pupils, mini pupils and other legal representatives;
  6. ombudsmen and regulatory authorities;
  7. current, past or prospective employers;
  8. education and examining bodies;
  9. business associates, professional advisers and trade bodies.

I retain personal data for no longer than 7 years after the case has come to an end or as otherwise required by law.

I do not intend to transfer data to any country which is not either within the European Union, ‘white listed’ by the EU or otherwise permitted by EU law (e.g. to the USA under the provisions of the ‘Privacy Shield’).

Under the GDPR, data subjects whose personal data I process have the right to request from me access to, and rectification or erasure of, their personal data, the right to the restriction of processing concerning them, the right to object to processing as well as the right to data portability. Data subjects also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ico.org.uk).

In cases where there is a contract between me and the data subject, the provision of personal data is a contractual requirement and the data subject is obliged to provide the personal data in order that I can supply legal services. A failure to provide such data may mean that I will not be able to provide the legal services.

Rev 1.1 12.02.2019

Data Protection Policy

Legitimate Interests Assessment

Matthew Butt KC is qualified to accept instructions direct from clients under the Bar Council’s Public Access Scheme. This means that members of the public who seek specialist advice can come direct to him. In addition, he welcomes instructions from solicitors, in-house law departments, qualified foreign lawyers, and clients licensed by the Bar Council to give instructions direct to barristers under the Bar Council’s Licensed Access Scheme.

For further information please contact our Clerks.

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