Andrew Thomas KC was called to the Bar in 1989 and awarded silk in 2008. Andrew has been appointed to sit as a Deputy High Court Judge (Administrative Court) and Recorder (both Criminal & Civil).

Whilst Andrew has a mixed practice, undertaking both serious criminal cases in the Crown Court and common law civil work, the most significant proportions of his work involve either allegations of regulatory breach; including health and safety cases and environmental law or the most serious and complex criminal cases.  Andrew also undertakes Judicial Review proceedings on a regular basis.

Andrew Thomas also undertakes advisory work for both prosecution and defence in respect of Corporate Manslaughter, Gross Negligence Manslaughter and Health and Safety Offences.

Instructions received frequently relate to the following sectors: construction and demolition; haulage industry; NHS hospital trusts; medical professionals; nursing and care homes; and children’s care home.

Andrew Thomas has considerable experience in environmental regulatory proceedings, in particular relating to the waste management industry. He regularly advises and acts for operators in criminal proceedings, in administrative appeals and on judicial review.

Andrew’s talents are recognised by the leading legal directories year after year, recent publications have described Andrew as being:

“He is in high demand nationally both prosecuting and defending, with a specialism in environmental crime and business crime.” – Chambers & Partners, 2025

“An excellent barrister who is great with clients.”

“He is respected by everyone. He has an unassuming demeanour and he can be ferocious – he is a really good trial advocate.”

“He is thoroughly impressive. He is exceptionally sharp.” – Chambers & Partners, 2022

Ranked: Tier 1 – Legal 500, 2022

‘Intelligent, considered and robust.’ – Legal 500, 2020 and 2021

“He Has The Ability To Distil Very Complicated And Rather Terrifying Detail Into Very Simple Propositions.”

“His Performance On Every Level Is Outstanding; He’s Calm, Reassuring And Very Knowledgeable.” – Chambers UK 2020

“He Is Meticulous In His Preparation.” “An Exceptional Intellect.”  – Chambers UK 2020

“He has fantastic attention to detail and great tactical nous.”

“A top-class advocate with a sharp intellect.” – Legal 500, 2018

“He is an outstanding advocate.”

“He is intelligent and thoughtful, with real technical expertise.” – Chambers & Partners, 2018