Middle Temple | Called to the Bar 2011
BPP University – BVC | USWU – LLB
Richard Main is a barrister with substantial experience in immigration and public law. He completed his pupillage at Rowchester Chambers under the supervision of the then Head of Chambers, Mr Christopher Gibbons.
Richard began his practice representing the Secretary of State for the Home Department, acting as an advocate on behalf of the Government for over 13 years. During this time, he appeared in thousands of appeals across a broad spectrum of immigration matters, including asylum and protection claims, deportation, and human rights cases.
He brings to his practice a detailed understanding of Home Office policy, guidance, and decision-making processes, enabling him to provide clear and strategic advice to clients. Richard has particular expertise in cases involving deportation and detention and regularly advises and represents individuals in complex and high stakes matters.
While immigration law remains a core area of his practice, Richard welcomes instructions across a wider range of legal disciplines.
Richard was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2020 New Year Honours in recognition of his charitable work. Drawing on his own experience as a dyslexic individual, he co-founded a family charity which has supported over 12,500 people with learning disabilities and their families.
He is also a Community Governor at a local secondary school, where he contributes to oversight of the Special Educational Needs and Disability provision. The school has recently been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in this area.
"Richard is an
impressive advocate. He gets to the heart of issues quickly and presents cases
with real authority. Clients feel well supported throughout and outcomes
consistently reflect his careful preparation. Richard stands out for his
responsiveness and commitment to client care. He is always available when
needed, explains complex issues with clarity, and inspires confidence in both
clients and instructing solicitors. He is a dependable and results driven
barrister. His attention to detail, strong advocacy, and pragmatic approach
makes him a trusted choice for complex matters.”
-Solicitor
"I have worked alongside Mr Main Counsel since July 2025 on a number of highly complex cases, many of which initially appeared finely balanced in terms of prospects of success. Throughout this time, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to provide reassurance to both myself and my clients, while also developing clear, effective strategies that have ultimately led to successful outcomes.
We are currently working together on a particularly complex Article 8 deportation matter involving an error in the legal classification of the individual concerned. This issue carries potentially serious consequences for the client if not addressed promptly, and Mr Main has been instrumental in navigating the urgency and complexity of the situation.
I have found Mr Main to be kind, patient, and exceptionally easy to work with. He communicates clearly and thoroughly, leaving little room for misunderstanding. Importantly, he welcomes constructive challenges. As a representative, I do occasionally test legal positions, and this openness fosters productive discussions that lead to stronger outcomes for our clients.
I am extremely pleased to have found both Counsel and Chambers that offer not only excellent legal services, but also genuine collaboration, mentoring, and a strong sense of teamwork.
Thank
you, Mr Main.”
-Professional
Client
"I have always found Richard’s approach to be highly professional, well-prepared, and strategically sound. His ability to analyse complex matters and provide clear, effective legal strategies is particularly valuable.
He
consistently demonstrates strong client care, ensuring that clients feel
supported and properly advised throughout proceedings. Richard is also reliable
and flexible in his availability, including his willingness to travel where
required, which is greatly appreciated from a solicitor’s perspective.”
-Professional
Client
"I would like to sincerely thank you for your exceptional work and support throughout my case. You are a highly skilled and dedicated barrister who carries out your work with precision and excellence, and your support in presenting the evidence was invaluable.
Your ability to highlight the key points and structure everything professionally was truly impressive. You presented the documents and evidence in a clear and creative way, which made a strong and effective impact. It was clear that you were confident, fully familiar with every detail, and had a deep understanding of all aspects of the case.
You were also very easy to communicate with, always clear, and consistently provided reassurance at every stage, which gave me great confidence and peace of mind throughout the process.
Thank you once again for your outstanding effort and
commitment.”
-Lay Client