We are delighted to announce that several members of 30 Park Place have secured appointments to the Welsh Government Panel of Counsel for 2026–2031.
Appointments
Christian Howells – reappointed to the A Panel
Nia Gowman – appointed to the A Panel
Laura Shepherd – appointed to the B Panel
Lewis Harrison – appointed to the B Panel
The Process and Panels
These appointments follow a publicly advertised recruitment process, resulting in a refreshed panel of 36 Counsel. Three panels have been appointed:
• one comprising King’s Counsel
• a second panel of Junior Counsel with more than 10 years’ advocacy experience (A Panel)
• a third panel of Junior Counsel with fewer than 10 years’ experience (B Panel)
The Junior Counsel panels are divided into broad subject categories, with size and composition determined by the Welsh Government’s needs.
Duration of Appointment
Panel appointments will run for five years, effective from 1 February 2026.
Minister’s Statement
“I am very pleased to announce these appointments. The competition attracted interest from more than 85 practitioners, and I have been particularly encouraged by the quality of applications.
I know that the very experienced and talented Counsel appointed will give the Welsh Government access to an independent pool of considerable legal expertise across a wide range of activity.
Having this proven capability to undertake advocacy and advisory work is critical to ensuring that the Welsh Government has the best independent legal advice available at all times.”
Julie James MS, Counsel General and Minister for Delivery
Link
Read the full announcement here:
https://www.gov.wales/advocates-for-the-welsh-government-appointment-of-panel-of-counsel-2026
Authors
