Narita Bahra KC has carved out an extraordinary space in the legal world, reshaping the high-stakes landscape of criminal and financial law. At the helm of Garrick Law, a boutique London legal firm with a remarkable track record of wins for their clients, and as a King’s Counsel, at 33 Chancery Lane Chambers, she’s doing more than just winning cases—she’s revolutionising what it means to be a modern defence advocate, defying expectations and championing diversity along the way.
The Spark that Ignited a Innovative Career
For Narita Bahra, the inspiration to pursue law came from an unlikely source: a childhood obsession with the TV show Crown Court. Watching barristers debate in wigs and gowns captivated her young mind, “I was instantly gripped,” she recalls. That early fascination planted the seed of a future in which she could combine her sharp oratory and analytical skills—a revelation that law could be both respected and powerful.
But something else caught her eye: the glaring absence of representation. Not a single person of colour appeared in the legal dramas that enchanted her. This void would fuel her resolve to not only enter the profession but to challenge its deep-rooted exclusivity.
Confronting Challenges with Determination
The path to the top wasn’t easy. Growing up without access to mentors or social media support, and attending a state school with limited career guidance, she had to rely on her own drive—and a well-timed nudge from her father. “Why don’t you become a barrister?” he asked, sparking a life-altering decision. With no connections to the legal world, Bahra’s journey into law began at 18, fueled by sheer determination.
Her early ambitions were partly drawn to the glamour of the courtroom—the wig, the gown, the drama of live advocacy. After initially considering Chancery Law, she found her true calling in Criminal Law, where her talents as a barrister could fully take flight. From that point on, the courtroom became her arena, and she began thriving in high-stakes jury trials.
Breaking Ground in Financial Crime
Bahra didn’t just break into the legal world—she broke barriers. She became the first woman of colour to be ranked as a Tier 1 Financial Crime Silk in the UK, a defining moment in her career. Her debut case as a King’s Counsel was monumental: representing the lead defendant in a multi-million-pound carbon credits fraud case. Her masterful cross-examination and deep understanding of expert evidence led to the collapse of the trial, setting off a ripple effect across the legal system. That case reshaped how expert testimony is handled in courts across criminal, civil, and family law.
This victory was more than just a professional success; it cemented her as a formidable force in financial crime. Bahra wasn’t just winning cases—she was changing the game.
A New Chapter: Founding Garrick Law
Garrick Law is more than a law firm; it’s an embodiment of Bahra’s vision and values. Based in London’s legal district, the firm is known for its excellence in criminal, financial, regulatory, and family law. What sets Garrick Law apart is its commitment to diversity—80% of its legal team is made up of women, a point of immense pride for Bahra.
In a sector where women, especially women of colour, remain underrepresented, she has built a space where they can not only thrive, but excel. “Women are often dismissed as commercial non-starters,” Bahra notes, “but Garrick Law consistently punches above its weight.” Her approach isn’t about meeting diversity quotas; it’s about ensuring that a range of perspectives delivers stronger, smarter results for clients.
Taking on the Global Stage
While her roots remain in the UK legal system, Bahra’s work increasingly has an international dimension. Cases involving clients from the UAE, China, and India now feature prominently in her portfolio, particularly in financial crime and white-collar cases. One such case involved a client convicted in the UK while living in the UAE. Bahra was brought in to appeal the conviction, navigating the intricate web of cross-border legal issues.
Where others might see financial crime as a dry subject, Bahra finds it fascinating, drawn to the human stories that underpin every case. “Every case is about people,” she explains. “Understanding a client’s story is key to achieving the best outcome for them.”
Changing the Face of Law
Bahra’s influence isn’t confined to the courtroom. As a regular media commentator, she provides insights into high-profile legal cases, demystifying the criminal justice system for the public. Appearances on crime documentaries like Lady Killers and Killer Britain showcase her expertise, offering a rare insight from a defence barrister’s perspective on notorious cases.
One particularly notable appearance involved the case of Lakhvir Singh, dubbed “The Curry Killer” by the tabloids. Bahra’s analysis went beyond the sensational headlines, bringing cultural nuance to the discussion and highlighting the complexities of ‘honour’ and arranged marriages in the case.
The Road Ahead
Despite the accolades—most recently a Political & Public Life Award—Bahra knows there’s still work to be done. The legal profession, particularly in the areas of financial and serious crime, remains stubbornly resistant to change. “The work-life balance is tough,” she admits, “and I’m often the only female KC in a trial or at the negotiation table.”
But if her career is any indication, Bahra is not one to shy away from a challenge. “Success is buried on the other side of rejection,” she reflects, a sentiment that underscores her entire journey. Bahra is not just breaking barriers; she’s leading the charge, redefining success in law on her own terms and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
