Masters of the Bench

Full Title: Mr James O'Keeffe

Category: Ordinary Bencher

Bench Call Date: 01-06-2026

Call Date: 23-07-1987

Bio:

Jim has been a member of Middle Temple since 1985 and was part of the Middle Temple Students Association when studying for the bar. He was Called to the Bar in 1987 and his practice has been in criminal defence ever since.

Jim cross qualified as a solicitor in 1994 but remained a non-practising member of the Bar and continued to be a member of Middle Temple. The firm grew into one of the largest legal aid firms in the country and used its position to support barristers of Middle Temple throughout their careers.

Jim has promoted equality, diversity and inclusion and fostered the careers of underrepresented members of the Bar. In 2005 jos concern for lack of networking opportunities for young lawyers of Irish heritage led him to co-found, along with the late Tony Jennings QC, the London Irish Lawyers Association. That Association has gone from strength to strength. He sits as a Recorder in the Crown Court.