Christopher Pocock KC
Call 1984 | Silk 2009
Head of Chambers
CHAMBERS & PARTNERS 2024
Chris Pocock specialises in divorce and matrimonial finance in disputes between high net worth parties. He has a wealth of experience dealing with complexities involving corporate and other businesses and/or complex remuneration packages, as well as with cases involving offshore and onshore trust and other asset-holding structures. Many, if not most, of his cases involve international and cross-border aspects, either substantively or in relation to enforcement.
Chris is ‘a skilled advocate (2020 Legal 500); ‘Very commercial, sensible and pragmatic in his advice”. “He’s excellent in cases where the detail is important.” (Chambers & Partners 2020)’
- UD v DN (Schedule 1, Children Act 1989; Capital Provision) [2021] EWCA Civ 1947
- DN v UD (Sch 1 Children Act: Capital Provision) [2020] EWHC 627 (Fam)
- Thum v Thum [2018] EWCA Civ 624; [2019] 2 W.L.R. 127
- MAP v MFP [2015] EWHC 627 (Fam); [2016] 1 F.L.R. 70
- B v IB [2014] 2 FLR 273 (Order to set aside disposition under Insolvency Act)
- Tchenguiz-Imerman v Imerman (Disclosure) [2014] 2 FLR 939
- Tchenguiz-Imerman v Imerman (Application for Joinder) [2014] 1 FLR 865
- Tchenguiz-Imerman v Imerman [2014] 1 FLR 232
Chris was one of the first silks to qualify as an arbitrator under the IFLA Financial Arbitration scheme. He has sat as arbitrator in number of cases since then, including several full financial remedy arbitrations.
Chris has conducted many private FDRs. He does so both in the UK and offshore.
Chris is qualified to accept direct access instructions.
Reputation & Awards
“A pragmatic, polished performer, who is a class act. His attention to detail is second to none.”
CHAMBERS AND PARTNERS 2024
Chambers & Partners
“Christopher Pocock is one of the most numerate members of the Bar, which is great if you have one of those cases with complicated maths involved.” – 2024
“He is highly numerate, very experienced and and someone who gives proper deliberations.”…“A pragmatic, polished performer, who is a class act. His attention to detail is second to none.” – 2024
“He has a very calm, measured and persuasive approach.” – 2024
“He understands the complexities of the law and he communicates clearly with the client.” – 2024
“Christopher combines excellent judgement with high levels of financial acumen.” – 2023
“Christopher Pocock is razor-sharp, has a great forensic mind and has excellent forensic analytical skills. He’s not afraid to get into the detail and as a result knows the cases he advises on inside and out and is very accessible. He’s very thoughtful, thorough and a force to be reckoned with.” – 2023
“Extremely bright, detailed, and able to get on top of everything at a moment’s notice. He is able to manage difficult clients and give them straightforward advice that they do not want to hear. He gets the judges’ attention through his gravitas.” – 2021
“He is extremely thorough and manages to imbue the FDR process with a proper judicial feel. His preparation is extraordinary.” – 2021
‘A highly experienced financial silk who routinely handles multi-jurisdictional proceedings for high net worth individuals. He is noted for his expertise in complex tax, corporate and asset structures as they relate to family law. He is also frequently sought out to advise on and draft nuptial agreements. – 2020
‘He’s incredibly numerate; he just eats the numbers and gives you these spreadsheets which are user-friendly and easy to understand. He prepares brilliantly and his paperwork is always fantastic. You can almost win it on the papers alone, but he’s actually also a brilliant advocate as well.’
‘Pocock’s wizardry when it comes to figures is legendary, but observers were keen to point out that it is his ‘aura of calm’ and ‘highly pronounced human side’ that really make him the ‘clients’ darling’.
Legal 500
‘Christopher is wonderful with clients. He provides clear and robust advice and is not afraid to ask difficult questions. His advocacy is clear and effective without being pompous. Judges trust and like him.’ – 2024
‘Christopher is extremely well regarded and experienced silk. He has an excellent oral and written advocacy and able to deal with complex financial and trust issues in particular. He is the go-to silk to act as an arbitrator or private FDR judge.’ – 2023
‘A persuasive advocate with an unflappable demeanour. ’ – 2022
‘Incredibly calm under pressure, has very measured advice and is also an extremely efficient paper-free worker, which is impressive with someone of his seniority.’ – 2021
‘He has a razor-sharp intellect, and offers down-to-earth, practical advice.’
‘He knows what judges are thinking and presents arguments in a way that will win most ground.’
Education
Pembroke College, Oxford University (BA Jurisprudence)
St Dunstan’s College, Catford
Professional Memberships
FLBA
MCIArb
SE Circuit