Stephen Knafler QC

It was with great sadness that we heard of the untimely death of Stephen Knafler QC this week.

Stephen started hislegal career at Anthony Gold in 1986, rising quickly to become a partner.  He was one of the founders of the housing team at Anthony Gold and responsible for the rapid development of the department’s reputation.

Andrew Brookes, Head of Housing, recalls working with Stephen when he first started at Anthony Gold in 1992.

“I remember his incredible energy, which was combined with a fierce intelligence.  He used that energy and intelligence to great effect when he left Anthony Gold to retrain as a barrister.  He quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with at the bar, initially in housing law but later  in all types of judicial review, social welfare law and immigration.  I instructed him on many occasions over the years and I always felt it a privilege to do so.  Not only was he incredibly efficient but he was also an assured and effective advocate. It was no surprise to me or indeed to anyone that he became a QC. Stephen was charming and engaging and I always looked forward to speaking to him at social events.”

As well as acting in numerous important cases dealing with social welfare and immigration law, Stephen became joint head of Garden Court Chambers between 2013 and 2016, and was also co-author of books on Adult Social Care Law and Children’s Social Care Law.   He became a leading authority on those subjects. He could be extremely passionate and maintained, throughout his incredible career, a commitment to working for the underprivileged and vulnerable in society.

David Marshall, Managing Partner, who was a partner with Stephen at Anthony Gold in the 1990s states:

“Challenging and pushing what the law can achieve exemplified Steve’s approach throughout his career. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”