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Amber Athill

Crime


BSB Barristers’ Register

Amber has a strong background in criminal law, having previously maintained a busy Crown Court practice. She has defended in numerous jury trials, securing acquittals and early dismissals through successful no case to answer submissions.

Her criminal work has included acting as a junior in a large-scale regulatory fraud and appearing in cases that have attracted national press coverage, both prosecuting and defending. 

These experiences have contributed to her confident courtroom manner, thoughtful case management and ability to communicate complex evidence clearly and persuasively.

Amber’s background in criminal litigation also informs her wider practice, particularly in cases involving allegations of anti-social behaviour, regulatory breaches and enforcement proceedings. While she now focuses predominantly on regulatory and housing work, she retains an active interest in criminal cases and continues to accept criminal instructions.

Regulatory and Local Government


Amber’s regulatory and local government practice draws upon her criminal expertise and extensive experience acting for public authorities. She advises and represents local authorities, regulators and individuals across a wide spectrum of matters, including licensing, trading standards, environmental enforcement and housing-related prosecutions.

Amber has a substantial licensing practice, regularly appearing in taxi and premises licensing appeals and representing parties in licensing committee hearings. She also frequently acts as a legal advisor to licensing committees during hearings, providing expert guidance on procedural and legal matters. 

Known for her pragmatic and balanced approach, Amber is skilled at negotiating and settling matters effectively, helping clients to achieve practical outcomes without unnecessary litigation.

Property and Social Housing


Amber regularly represents local authorities and housing associations in possession hearings and trials, injunction applications, and committal proceedings. She also regularly drafts court pleadings, ranging from defences to applications for strike-out.

Whilst Amber deals with all areas of housing law, including disrepair and succession, she has a particular interest in cases involving anti-social behaviour, drawing on her criminal law background. Clients frequently commend Amber for her approachable manner and ability to engage constructively with challenging defendants, fostering improved communication between landlord and tenant and helping to achieve practical, long-term solutions.