Paul Williams

“A very able barrister who is knowledgeable about the court procedure.” – Chambers & Partners, 2023 – Inquests & Public Inquiries

Paul specialises in regulatory work, inquests and crime.

In regulatory, Paul regularly presents to the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service and is an active member of chambers’ GMC team. Paul is frequently instructed in lengthy and complex fitness to practice hearings (FTP’s) as well providing a regular Interim Order Tribunal service.

In addition to GMC work Paul is regularly instructed to defend medical professionals before a range of other tribunals. He has an established client base specialising in representing nurses and dentists and will also accept instructions in HCPC matters.

The service provided to health care professionals very regularly extends to those who are interested parties in inquests. He is adept at representing both individuals and bodies that might be exposed to criticism during inquests and inquiries and, whilst the majority of this work focusses on the health care professions, Paul has significant experience in a wider range of areas such as health & safety failings, accidents and situations involving psychiatric issues. Paul is instructed to act in the Manchester Arena Inquiry – an independent public inquiry to investigate the deaths of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena Terror Attack.  He represents “MA” a security officer who was a central eye witness to the action of the bomber.

Paul exclusively defends in serious crime and continues to be instructed in complex crime on a regular basis. Paul has experience accross the full spectrum of criminl offences but is most often retained in sexual offences and dishonesty matters. Paul does not accept legally aided instructions unless the client is a medical professional.

Paul has a keen interest in cases with complex medical and procedural issues and was junior counsel in the case of R v Norris, an allegation of serial murder by a practicing nurse.

Instructed in large operational cases, Paul has extensive experience of cases involving covert surveillance, cell site analysis, telephone record analysis, RIPA applications, and terrorist related matters.

Paul is the Discipline Chairman at York RUFC.  He represents senior players and the club at county disciplinary hearings. He oversees the junior section for their discipline and safeguarding issues.  He is also Captain of the York Cavaliers veterans rugby team.