SierraEye writes.

Courtenay Griffiths KC, Renowned Barrister Who Defended Charles Taylor, Dies at 69

Courtenay Delsmore McVay Griffiths KC (10 October 1955 – 23 June 2025), a Jamaican-born British barrister, passed away on 23 June 2025. Renowned for his high-profile defence of former Liberian President Charles Taylor, Griffiths was a formidable advocate whose career was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Griffiths moved to Coventry, England, in 1961. Inspired by his carpenter father’s stories of Norman Manley QC, Jamaica’s first Prime Minister, he graduated with an LLB (Hons) from the London School of Economics in 1979 and was called to the Bar in 1980. Appointed King’s Counsel in 1998, Griffiths specialised in criminal defence, handling cases involving murder, fraud, and drug offences. He practised from 25 Bedford Row Chambers and served as a part-time Recorder in the Crown Court.

Griffiths’ notable cases included the Brighton and Harrods bombings, the 1996 Docklands bombing, and the Keith Blakelock murder trial. His most prominent role was as lead defence counsel for Charles Taylor during the 2007–2012 war crimes trial, where his cross-examination of witnesses like Naomi Campbell drew global attention. Griffiths staunchly defended the right to fair representation, stating, “Our system of justice cannot operate unless there is equality between prosecution and defence.”

A trailblazer, Griffiths faced racial prejudice early in his career but confronted it with resilience and humour. He held honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from Coventry and Leeds Metropolitan Universities and delivered the 2008 Norman Manley Lecture. As chair of the Bar Council’s Race Relations Committee, he championed diversity in the legal profession.

Courtenay Griffiths leaves a legacy of fearless advocacy and dedication to justice. He is mourned by colleagues, friends and family.