Church Court Chambers Appoints Maria Karaiskos KC as First Female Head of Chambers

Church Court Chambers is delighted to announce the appointment of Maria Karaiskos KC as Head of Chambers, succeeding Michael Mather-Lees KC following his three year tenure as Head of Chambers.

Maria becomes the first female silk and the first home-grown silk in chambers’ history to hold this position.

Appointed as King’s Counsel in 2023, Maria has extensive experience both prosecuting and defending some of the UK’s most serious and complex criminal cases. This includes murder, high-profile sexual offences, and large-scale fraud as well as multi-handed drug conspiracies and international importations.

Her dual role both prosecuting and defending provides her with a uniquely tactical perspective on her cases, and she is renowned for her meticulous preparation, specialist expertise, and fearless advocacy.

In addition to her practice, Maria sits as a Recorder in the Crown Court and as a Deputy District Judge in the Magistrates’ Court. She is consistently recognised by The Legal 500 and is a regular commentator in the national press on issues of criminal law.

Commenting on her appointment, Maria Karaiskos KC said: “This is a significant milestone in my career and a role that I am both honoured and humbled to take on. I have had the privilege of being part of Chambers since 2018, working alongside some of the most talented, principled, and hard-working barristers in the profession. To now be entrusted with leading this exceptional set is both a personal and professional responsibility I take very seriously.

“Church Court Chambers has long been known for its excellence in advocacy, commitment to justice, collaborative culture, and its emphasis on kindness and wellbeing. As Head of Chambers, my aim is to build on that foundation – to support and champion our members, foster the next generation of talent, and ensure that we continue to deliver outstanding service to our clients and instructing solicitors.

“I look forward to this new chapter and to working together with everyone in Chambers – barristers and clerks alike – to shape an ambitious and inclusive future.”

Departing Head of Chambers Michael Mather-Lees KC commented: “Maria is one of the most exceptional silks I have had the pleasure of working with, and a true testament to everything Church Court Chambers stands for. A fierce advocate and natural leader, she is perfectly placed to take Chambers forward. It could not be in safer hands.”

Maria’s appointment marks the latest chapter in this exciting period of growth for chambers, following the addition of Claire Anderson as Chief Executive earlier this year.

News of Maria’s appointment was published in Law360.