Rupert
Taylor
"Very experienced accross the spectrum of heavyweight criminal matters " Legal 500 2018 Leading Juniors
Gray's Inn
Criminal Bar Association
Rupert
Taylor
"Very experienced accross the spectrum of heavyweight criminal matters " Legal 500 2018 Leading Juniors
Following his pupillage in London, Rupert joined Devon Chambers in 1990 and has, over the years, developed an extensive practice in heavy-weight criminal defence. He is deputy Head of Chambers.
He is a particular favourite with a large number of defence solicitors in Devon and Cornwall. His practice encompasses all areas of criminal law with a particular emphasis on murder and manslaughter, serious violence, sexual offences, drug importations and fatalities arising from road traffic collisions.
He is a jury advocate in the best traditions of the Bar; his calm, persuasive and charming manner lend him a formidable presence in the court room. He is very popular with clients and has a natural feel for the tactical and strategic approach towards cases.
His heavy workload means that his practice is predominantly focused in Devon and Cornwall but he is always prepared to travel to other areas to suit professional or lay client. Rupert prides himself on being available for conferences, whether by telephone, video-link or in person, to assist solicitors in the full preparation of a case.
He regularly provides seminars to solicitors as part of Chambers' well-respected CPD team; he recently lectured on the implementation of section 28 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, click here to read in full.
Rupert is listed as a recommended Counsel in Legal 500.
Other interests
Rupert enjoys water sports, in particular sea kayaking, and is RYA Coastal Skipper qualified. Rupert holds a current HGV qualification and previously served in the Royal Naval Reserve.
Notable Cases
R v B and others
Representing a man charged with manslaughter arising out of an alleged restraint by doormen of a man in a nightclub.
R v E, Truro Crown Court
Defending a man charged with serious sexual offences against his two step-sons over a period of several years.
R v P, Plymouth Crown Court
Defending a man charged with the rape of a 14 year old girl.
R v M, Truro Crown Court
Defending a man charged with sexual offences against 2 females, the allegations being so extreme that the media could not publish the details.
R v C, Plymouth Crown Court
Defending a man charged as part of a multi-handed conspiracy to inflict grievous bodily harm involving alleged drug-dealers.
R v T, Exeter Crown Court:
Defending a Polish national charged with rape and section 18; the victim subsequently died; the investigation was one of the largest ever undertaken by the Devon and Cornwall Police.
