Riel Karmy-Jones KC announced as New Chair of the Criminal Bar Association

Congratulations to Riel Karmy-Jones KC on her appointment as the new Chair of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA).

Riel succeeds Mary Prior KC as Chair, having served as Vice Chair for the past year and will be joined by Andrew Thomas KC as the new Vice Chair.

Riel becomes the sixth Chair of the CBA to come from Red Lion Chambers. She follows in the footsteps of David Cocks KC, Peter Rook KC, Dame Linda Dobbs DBE, Sir Max Hill KC and HHJ Angela Rafferty KC. Her appointment continues RLC’s strong record of leadership and its longstanding commitment to supporting and strengthening the Criminal Bar.

In addition to her new role, Riel will continue in practice. She is regularly instructed in some of the most high-profile, sensitive and complex criminal cases before the courts, including her role as lead counsel in the upcoming prosecution of comedian and TV Presenter Russell Brand, scheduled for trial in 2026.

Heads of Chambers, Gillian Jones KC and Tom Forster KC, said:
“Riel’s appointment reflects not only her exceptional professional calibre but also her long-standing commitment to strengthening the Criminal Bar and mentoring the next generation of barristers. On behalf of Chambers we offer her the warmest congratulations and look forward to the leadership and vision she will bring to this vital role.”