About William Hopkin
William was called to the Bar in 2000, and practices from New Square Chambers, Lincoln’s Inn, London.
He specialises in the business of companies, charities and public bodies. His main Chambers profile can be found here. He has recently completed an independent investigation into alleged wrongdoing at a well-known national charity.
William is an expert in the legal and regulatory context for companies and charities, and has advised a range of public sector bodies in relation to law, practice and procedure. He has chaired working parties, for sector bodies, in relation to matter such as the reform of the Companies House register and new regulatory powers for the Charity Commission.
William has been appointed to a number of Boards over the last 20 years, for organisations operating both nationally and internationally.
William is a former chair of the Charity Law Association annual conference, and has sat on its executive committee.
In addition to his specialism in the last 10 years, William has rich experience, as a barrister, which he can draw upon in approaching challenging investigations and reviews:
Reviewing and reporting, for the International Bar Association (which assisted in the arrangements for the Supreme Iraqi Criminal Tribunal), on the trial arrangements for Saddam Hussein
Acting for prisoners subject to life sentences (usually for murder) at Parol Board hearings
Representing the local authority in final hearings in child abuse proceedings, including in relation to fictitious illness and serious injuries
Acting for refugees under the Convention Relating to Refugee Status
Advising in relation to the scope to appeal to the UN Security Council from the Rwandan War Crimes Tribunal
Lecturing and examining on the Bar Professional Training Course
Experience of working with dangerous and vulnerable offenders
Diploma in International Human Rights Practice
William brings a calm, considered and incisive approach to his role as an independent investigator or reviewer.
He is described in the “Legal 500”, in relation to his practice as a barrister, as:
‘Extremely able at assimilating complex information quickly’
‘Able to readily get to the crux of the issue and his well-reasoned and sensible litigation style is well-received by the judge and opposition alike’
‘Exceptionally skilled at identifying the crux of an issue, finding a sensible and pragmatic resolution to cases’
‘[Able] to disarm the most aggressive opponents with his frank, considered and calm approach’
‘In court, he is able to readily get to the crux of the issue and his well-reasoned and sensible litigation style is well-received by the judge and opposition alike. He is exceptionally talented at offering pragmatic and cost-effective advice’