Phil is a Level 4 prosecutor and is a member of the RASSO CPS Advocates Panel.

He has been a member of the Midland Circuit for 33 years. He is fully trained and attuned to all issues relating to ‘vulnerable witnesses’. He was part of the prosecution team that successfully prosecuted one of the East Midlands first ‘Honour Based Violence’ trials. 
 

He appears in Crown Courts throughout England and Wales. He specialises in prosecuting and defending serious crime, with a particular specialisation in, and experience of allegations of sexual offences.

Phil vigorously defends those accused of serious crimes throughout England and Wales. He is thorough, well prepared, approachable and tenacious. He was recently described as ‘firm but fair’ by a resident judge in a rape trial in which his client was acquitted after the cross – examination of the complainant.

Whilst appearing at Newcastle Crown Court in September 2019, Phil’s client was again acquitted of rape after his cross – examination of the complainant. The client wrote a review praising Phil for his ‘skill, knowledge and professionalism’, but also thanked him for his ‘care and emotional support’.

Phil has appeared in numerous other serious cases over the last 27 years and is highly experienced in cases relating to homicide, drugs and high – level violence. He was Junior Counsel in the notorious ‘Loughborough Bin Bag Murder’ case. His client was the only one of 4 to be acquitted.

Phil has an interest in Sports Law. He has acted in sporting disciplinary tribunals for the British Swimming Association and he represented Chinese Taipei at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland, against the International Olympic Committee.

Phil was awarded Barrister of the Year 2024 by Nottingham Law Society 

Review from client:

" I had the privilege of being represented by Phil Gibbs, and I can say with complete confidence that he is an outstanding advocate. From the outset, Phil brought a calm, gentle presence that immediately put me at ease. He is soft‑spoken, patient, and exceptionally clear in the way he communicates — a grounding force during an incredibly overwhelming time.

But what truly sets Phil apart is the way he rises when it matters most. In court, he shifted effortlessly into full command. His advocacy was sharp, precise, and absolutely thorough. He left no point untouched, no argument underdeveloped, and no opportunity missed. He didn’t need theatrics or volume — his mastery of the facts and his strategic delivery spoke louder than anything else.

It came as no surprise to me that Phil was named Nottinghamshire’s Lawyer of the Year. After watching him work, it’s clear that this recognition was not a coincidence. It reflects the exceptional skill, dedication, and integrity he brings to every case.

Phil is a rare combination of gentle communicator and formidable courtroom advocate. I am deeply grateful for his guidance, his professionalism, and the dignity with which he handled my case. I would recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone seeking representation of the highest calibre."