Christabel McCooey

Christabel is a talented barrister with a diverse skillset. With a common theme of securing justice in each case, she has acted in criminal cases (both prosecution and defence); family proceedings (children and financial remedy); and employment and civil cases. This variety of experience brings a unique depth and level of expertise that clients find of great value.

Christabel is quick to get to grips with the issues in complex cases and has an instinct for finding effective solutions from the outset.

She fiercely advocates for her clients in Court yet is practical and amenable to negotiation where appropriate, giving helpful advice to clients to best progress their case.

Before the Bar, Christabel enjoyed working on international projects, including in Israel and Palestine; in New Orleans for the Capital Appeals Project; and the Colombian Caravana, focusing on the role of truth and reconciliation in the peace process, for which she jointly authored a report presented to the UN.

Christabel sits as a fee-paid Employment Judge and a fee-paid Mental Health Tribunal Judge.

Christabel’s interests include running – she completed her first ultra-marathon of 100km in 2024; Brazilian ju-jitsu; faith – particularly interfaith dialogue; and writing.

Reviews following cases in 2025/2026:

“I am so happy that for the first time I was heard and that is completely because of you.  Again, Thank you!”, Client, Enforcement proceedings

“Ms McCooey did an excellent job representing our client at the final hearing in a financial remedy matter, achieving a very favourable outcome.

She came to the hearing exceptionally well-briefed, with a comprehensive understanding of the issues, meaning our client did not need to spend time explaining matters in detail. Her preparation was clear from the outset.

Her professionalism throughout was impeccable. Her cross-examination was calm, methodical, and highly effective. It clearly set out the narrative we sought to advance before the judge and strategically deployed the opponent’s oral evidence to reinforce the key points of our case.

Our client was extremely pleased with both the outcome and the manner in which the case was handled, and personally thanked her for the work done.” Financial remedy, Final Hearing

“I had the opportunity to instruct Christabel in a highly contentious financial remedy matter involving intervenor claims, and I would not hesitate to do so again.

From the outset, Christabel approached the case with a calm, pragmatic mindset that proved invaluable in what was an emotionally charged and legally complex dispute. Rather than inflaming the contentious issues, she remained focused on narrowing the matters in dispute and steering the case toward practical resolution where possible, all while keeping the client’s best interests firmly at the centre of her strategy.

Her written work was consistently of a high standard. Her position statements were clear, accurate, and well-structured, enabling the court to quickly grasp the key issues despite the complexity introduced by the parties. Her submissions were measured, legally sound, and delivered with quiet authority, which strengthened my client’s position without unnecessary confrontation.

Equally important was her client-focused approach. She took the time to ensure the client understood the process and the options available, which helped maintain confidence and manage expectations throughout what was a difficult period.” Solicitor, Intervenor proceedings

• Family
• Civil
• Employment