Drew Mckenzie and Leigh Lawrie of Black Chambers take silk

Mr McKenzie has been a stalwart of the senior junior bar for some years, frequently leading cases involving the most serious of charges. His time at the bar has included periods being employed by the Crown as a full time advocate depute, and sitting as a temporary sheriff. He has vast experience of dealing with cases involving complex procedural issues and has considerable expertise in handling vulnerable accused and witnesses.

Ms Lawrie has developed an impressively diverse practice since calling to the bar in 2010. Her  legal insight, meticulous preparation and ability to distil complex legal arguments to their essence, have led to her being handpicked for a number of high-profile inquiries and prosecutions. Uniquely for those practicing at the Scottish bar, she has also been instructed as part of the defence teams in multiple prosecutions before the International Criminal Court.

Lee-Anne Black, practice manager, said: “We are delighted and immensely proud of Drew and Leigh on this well-deserved recognition. Their appointments are a testament to their exceptional talent and the high standards they have consistently upheld throughout their careers. Both are integral members of Black Chambers – respected not only for their professional excellence but also for the positive social impact they have on chamber’s life and culture.”

The appointments increase Black Chambers complement of senior counsel to 18.