Paul Darling, OBE, QC is particularly known as the leader of big teams in heavy cases and pre-eminent on his feet. He is particularly noted for his achievements as a cross-examiner.
Paul Darling was called to the bar in 1983 and took silk in 1999. He led the Technology and Construction Bar through the biggest ever re-organisation of the Court. Paul was head of Keating Chambers between 2010 and 2015. After 34 years at the bar, in August 2017 he joined 39 Essex Chambers.
Paul’s clients have said he, “Works effectively in a team. Very knowledgeable, really knows his stuff and gets right to the point in cross-examinations”. He has been described as, “A very strong advocate who gets to the heart of an issue… He comes up with innovative answers and is very pragmatic and strategic”.
Paul regularly appears in Courts and Tribunals around the world. Recent appearances include London, Dublin, Belfast, Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai.
Notable Cases
Paul has been involved in a number of high-profile cases throughout his career. Some notable highlights include:
- Between 1991 and 2003, representing the Contractor in disputes between McAlpine v Panatown & Unex. The dispute involved all aspects of construction law and professional negligence, culminating in a 14-week TCC trial.
- The 1997 Case concerning the collapse of Holbeck Hall Hotel in Scarborough, which notably collapsed into the sea live on Television news. Paul represented the appellants, Scarborough Borough Council.
- The 2011 case of Flannery & Another -v- Halifax Estate Agencies Limited, where he represented the plaintiffs.
Paul Darling’s non-executive experience of business and public bodies enables him to see his work as a Barrister through a different lens. He has spent time He is also the current chair of the Horserace Betting Levy Board.
