In the latest edition of Public Perspectives, we speak with Samuel Skinner KC, a leading public law barrister with a distinguished practice across England and Wales.
Appointed King’s Counsel in 2025, Samuel is known for his expertise in both civil and criminal law, with a particular focus on representing vulnerable clients in complex and high-profile cases.
Samuel shares some personal and professional insights below.
What’s a common misconception people have about your job or area of expertise?
Most people don’t understand what being a public law KC means. And why should they? But when I tell them that I help people overturn unreasonable decisions taken by local and national government, they get it. Then they generally give me an example of some bonkers public law decision that has affected their life.
Which personality trait or strength do you think is essential for success in your industry?
I think that really good lawyers have the confidence and ability to give the client a straight answer to their two ultimate questions – “Am I going to win?” and “How much is it going to cost?”
Beyond your profession, what are you passionate about?
My family. I also intend to continue playing squash until my knees give way, and chess until I’m too demented to care.
What’s a backhanded compliment or “insult” you’re actually proud of?
Once, an opponent described my advocacy as ‘a bit theatrical’. They were then so boring that the judge fell asleep during their submissions. My client won.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose?
I would be, this afternoon, driving at a steady 150 mph to the Highlands of Scotland.
Who has been your most influential mentor in your career?
I have had many generous mentors dip in and out of my life throughout my career and it would be invidious to choose one above others. I recorded a podcast recently [LINK] where I named names and got told off afterwards!
When are you most productive during the day?
As I get older, I find I get more productive in the early mornings. Very little work that I complete late at night goes unrevised.
If you could try any profession other than your own, what would it be?
I did have serious thoughts about becoming an academic, but thank God I went to the Bar instead, because it has been my vocation. I find forensic pathologists fascinating (and tremendous fun), but I probably wouldn’t want to be one. If lawyers were abolished tomorrow, I’d go and train spaniels then write about how bad I was at it.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
One of my pupil supervisors told me that the very best advocates are the best listeners. People will give much more away than they intend – whether judges or witnesses – if you give them a chance to talk. I just have to listen.
If a movie were made about your career, who would you want to play you, and why?
1962 Gregory Peck. Glasses. Three piece suit. Gravitas. I suspect that Paul Dano might be cast though.
Is there a book, article, or documentary you think everyone in your industry should read or watch?
Tom Bingham’s Rule of Law is the best book written about the law since I have been a barrister.
How do you keep yourself motivated when work becomes challenging?
I’m fortunate that I enjoy work that is challenging. If the case is complicated or difficult in any way, I’m your man. But when work does get a bit tiring, I remind myself that the client needs my help and that there will be a spaniel to fuss at the end of the day.
Further information
For more information from the public-law team, contact clerks@36public.co.uk
Involving Samuel Skinner KC
