Jonathan Rich

Jonathan Rich, widely-known as Joe Rich, has practised at the Bar for more than 35 years, specialising in consumer, property, and regulatory law. He is recognised as a leading barrister in these fields, with directories such as Chambers and Partners commending his fairness, effectiveness, and mastery of complex cases, particularly those involving dealerships of cars, boats, and planes, as well as regulatory and commercial disputes. He has also represented hundreds of farmers and others whose livelihoods depend on dealing with animals.

His legal career is distinguished by landmark Court of Appeal decisions, including Clegg v Andersson and Jones v Gallagher, which have significantly influenced the development of consumer rights law. Joe has acted for both consumers and suppliers, landlords and tenants, and played a pivotal role in cases such as Zurich Securities v Potomek Construction, a key authority on sales at an undervalue by mortgagees.

Service to the legal profession has included sitting on every Middle Temple Committee, organising the Bar Conference, as well as contributing to numerous Bar Council and barristers’ committees and organisations. Beyond the law, Joe has served for years as an elected Councillor and stood as a Parliamentary Candidate in both UK and European elections. He has raised very substantial funds for charities and good causes, notably as the founder and long-time Chair of the Inns of Court Ball for Centrepoint.

Renowned for his principled advocacy and meticulous approach, Joe is a frequent media commentator, often addressing the longstanding issue of miscarriages of justice in private prosecutions. His work on behalf of the wrongly accused, including in cases involving the RSPCA and the Post Office, has earned him widespread respect both within, and beyond, the legal profession. He is regularly quoted in the quality press and by specialist legal publications.