Trailblazing barrister and courtroom giant Courtenay Griffiths KC dies aged 69, tributes pour in
Courtenay Griffiths KC, one of the most iconic and influential defence barristers in British legal history, has died aged 69. Known for his fearless advocacy, courtroom charisma, and unflinching dedication to justice, Griffiths’ death has prompted an outpouring of grief and celebration from across the legal community.
Born in Jamaica, Dr Griffiths was among the first Black barristers in Britain to receive Queen’s Counsel status, which he was awarded in 1998. He was called to the bar in 1980 and spent over four decades at the sharp end of high-profile criminal defence work.
Griffiths’ legal career spanned some of the UK’s most significant trials. He defended clients in the Pc Keith Blakelock murder case, the Brighton bombing trial, and the Damilola Taylor murder trial. His formidable presence was also seen on the international stage when he represented former Liberian president Charles Taylor in his war crimes trial at The Hague in 2007.
Laurie-Anne Power KC, a prominent barrister at 25 Bedford Row, offered a powerful tribute:
“He was the single most influential figure in my legal career. He epitomised brilliance, intellect, and fearlessness… but behind the advocate was a gentle, kind, and selfless man who loved the law.”
Power recalled meeting Griffiths at a law fair in 1998, where he asked if she was Jamaican, instantly bonding over their shared heritage.
“He was my only mentor, in the true sense. He hounded me into applying for silk. He made me believe I could achieve anything.”
Embed from Getty ImagesGriffiths’ courtroom presence was legendary. ITV News correspondent Ronke Phillips said watching him at the Old Bailey was like witnessing a lead actor in his own play.
“He was a skilled advocate. Sharp, clever, often witty. His courtroom exchanges were devastating, but magnetic.”
Phillips remembered him as “charm itself,” a barrister who never failed to give journalists the quote they needed while maintaining his professional gravitas.
Jacqueline McKenzie, partner at Leigh Day, posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Through his practice at Garden Court and 25 Bedford Row, he acted in major criminal and human rights cases and left an indelible mark of greatness.”
Griffiths also served briefly as a part-time judge, expanding his contributions to the profession beyond advocacy. Amina Graham, barrister at 2 Hare Court, remembered working alongside him during the Sierra Leone Special Court.
“He was a formidable advocate and an inspiration to so many.”
Throughout his life, Dr Griffiths received numerous accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the UK Diversity Legal Awards (2018) and an Outstanding Achievement Award at the Legal 500 Awards (2020). He was also awarded an honorary doctorate from Leeds Metropolitan University in 2005.
Having spent much of his career between Garden Court Chambers and 25 Bedford Row, Griffiths was instrumental in diversifying the Bar and championing social justice. He not only represented his clients fiercely but also mentored aspiring barristers from underrepresented backgrounds.
Courtenay Griffiths KC will be remembered not just for his towering intellect and legal brilliance, but for the pathways he opened and the lives he inspired.
