Scarlett Milligan: Rising Legal Star at the UK Bar Driving Justice in Public Law and Inquiries
Exploring the exceptional career, legal impact, and professional recognition of barrister Scarlett Milligan
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Scarlett Milligan |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Barrister |
| Call to Bar | November 2015 |
| Chambers | 39 Essex Chambers, London |
| Specialisations | Public Law, Inquiries, Civil Claims |
| Panel Memberships | Attorney General’s B Panel |
| Notable Inquiries | Grenfell Tower, Infected Blood |
| Recognitions | Chambers UK – Band 4 & Up & Coming |
Scarlett Milligan is a prominent barrister in the UK, known for her work in public law, inquests, and civil liberties. Practising at 39 Essex Chambers in London, she has rapidly gained recognition as one of the most meticulous and dedicated legal minds among her peers.
Her professional trajectory showcases an impressive portfolio of work, including participation in some of the country’s most high-profile public inquiries such as the Grenfell Tower and Infected Blood inquiries. With a sharp legal mind and an unwavering commitment to justice, Scarlett Milligan continues to leave a lasting mark in the legal sector.
Education and Call to the Bar
Scarlett Milligan was officially called to the Bar of England and Wales in November 2015 through the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple. This milestone marked the beginning of her professional journey as a barrister, although her earlier academic background has not been publicly disclosed.
Her admission to the Bar reflects a successful completion of rigorous legal education and training, qualifying her to practise in courts across England and Wales. From the outset, her focus on public service law and civil justice became the cornerstone of her career.
Entry into Legal Practice
After her call to the Bar, Scarlett Milligan joined 39 Essex Chambers—one of the UK’s leading barristers’ chambers. She established herself as a skilled advocate, handling complex legal matters related to public law, negligence, and human rights.
She soon became a trusted representative for both claimants and public bodies. Her early case work demonstrated her ability to break down complex legal issues and advocate effectively in challenging court settings, including inquests and inquiries with wide public impact.
Key Practice Areas and Legal Focus
Public Law and Civil Liberties
Scarlett Milligan’s legal practice is strongly rooted in public law and civil liberties. Her cases often involve scrutiny of public authorities, human rights implications, and accountability under administrative and constitutional law.
She has represented clients across a wide spectrum, including individuals seeking justice, as well as the UK government in matters of judicial review, policy compliance, and civil claims. Her approach is methodical, rights-driven, and grounded in statutory interpretation.
Inquests and Public Inquiries
One of her most impactful areas of work includes major inquests and public inquiries. Notably, Scarlett Milligan served as Junior Counsel in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which investigated one of the UK’s most tragic housing disasters. She also worked on the Infected Blood Inquiry, which addresses historic failures in the UK’s blood transfusion practices.
Her contributions in these forums have helped shape critical recommendations, bringing transparency and systemic accountability to the forefront.
Recognition and Appointments
Chambers UK Rankings
Scarlett Milligan has been featured prominently in Chambers UK for her exceptional legal abilities. She has been ranked:
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Band 4 in Civil Liberties & Human Rights
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Band 4 in Inquests & Public Inquiries
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Recognised as Up and Coming in Personal Injury
These rankings are awarded based on client feedback, professional reputation, and demonstrated excellence in advocacy and case outcomes.
Attorney General’s Panels
Her growing influence in public law earned her a place on the Attorney General’s C Panel in 2020. She was promoted to the B Panel in 2023, which is reserved for experienced barristers handling complex and sensitive litigation on behalf of the UK Government.
Approach to Advocacy
Scarlett Milligan is praised by peers for her intelligence, precision, and composed courtroom style. She is described as “meticulous in preparation,” “excellent with vulnerable witnesses,” and “resilient under pressure.”
Her legal writing is both clear and compelling, and her advocacy reflects a deep understanding of both statutory law and the human context behind legal disputes. This balance of technical knowledge and empathy sets her apart from many in the legal field.
Recent Developments and Public Engagement
In recent years, Scarlett Milligan has taken an active role in legal education and public dialogue. She frequently contributes to legal commentary on topics such as police liability, fatal accident claims, and access to justice.
She also remains involved in training and mentoring within chambers, helping guide the next generation of legal professionals. Her presence in webinars, legal podcasts, and panel discussions demonstrates her commitment to improving the profession and public understanding of complex legal topics.
Future Outlook and Legal Legacy
As Scarlett Milligan continues to build her career, her work in public inquiries and civil justice remains a beacon of principled advocacy. Her elevation through government panels and her consistent recognition in legal directories point to a future filled with higher-profile roles and increased responsibility.
Her contribution to inquiries like Grenfell has already shaped national discourse, and she is poised to be a leading voice in justice reform and legal accountability in the years ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Scarlett Milligan?
Scarlett Milligan is a British barrister at 39 Essex Chambers, specialising in public law, civil liberties, inquests, and public inquiries.
What is Scarlett Milligan known for?
She is widely recognised for her role in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and the Infected Blood Inquiry, as well as for representing the UK government in high-level public law matters.
When was Scarlett Milligan called to the Bar?
She was called to the Bar in November 2015.
What are her key legal rankings?
She holds Band 4 rankings in multiple areas from Chambers UK and is listed as “Up and Coming” in personal injury.
Is Scarlett Milligan on the Attorney General’s Panels?
Yes, she was appointed to the C Panel in 2020 and promoted to the B Panel in 2023
