Rebecca Murray: The Relentless Advocate Redefining Tax Law in the UK

In the evolving corridors of international tax law, few voices carry the weight, clarity, and
conviction of Rebecca Murray. A barrister who defied early rejections and systemic biases,
she has emerged not just as a legal powerhouse, but as a bold symbol of what modern
leadership in law looks like—intelligent, resilient, and unapologetically authentic. From
headline-making court victories to fearless public advocacy, Rebecca’s journey reflects a
rare blend of technical mastery and human depth. In this exclusive EN TIMES cover story, we
uncover the making of one of the UK’s most influential law leaders—how she redefined her
role at the Bar, challenged the status quo, and continues to shape the future of tax litigation
and legal integrity in 2025.

From Boardrooms to the Bar: A Relentless Journey to the Top

Before she was known as one of the UK’s most formidable tax barristers, Rebecca Murray
was a Vice President at J.P. Morgan—navigating high-stakes transactions and multi-layered
corporate tax challenges. But in 2008, she made a bold, uncertain leap: she left banking
without a pupillage, driven by a vision to practice law on her own terms.

“I didn’t have a pupillage offer, and I was told I’d never make it at the Bar. But I believed this
was where I belonged,” she recalls. That belief would be challenged, tested—and ultimately
vindicated.

Breaking the Mold in a Traditional World

Rebecca’s entry into the Bar wasn’t just unconventional—it was revolutionary. Joining
Temple Tax Chambers in 2009, she was the only woman in chambers. At Devereux
Chambers today, she is described as “fearless,” “commercially savvy,” and “exceptionally
prepared”—a standout in a field that still struggles with representation and diversity.

Her early critics underestimated her. “I was told I didn’t look like a barrister. People
assumed I was an assistant or client,” she shares. “But I learned to navigate the judgment,
stay resilient, and always let my work speak louder than the noise.”

Turning Trials into Triumphs

Rebecca’s first real opportunity at the Bar came from a case no one expected her to
win: defending a man who was about to lose his home. By meticulously cross-examining HMRC’s witness, she dismantled their credibility and won the case—apivotal moment that secured her tenancy and launched her courtroom reputation.

Since then, her case portfolio reads like a masterclass in modern tax litigation:

• Eclipse Film Partners v HMRC (SC)
• Tower MCashback LLP 2 (SC)
• Donaldson v HMRC (CA), and many more across the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal,
  High Court, and Tribunals.

Her advocacy is admired for its clarity and control. “You don’t need to shout to be
powerful,” she says. “Preparation, precision, and perseverance always prevail.”

Crafting Clarity in Complex Legal Landscapes

In a field dense with technicality, Rebecca has a rare talent: making the complicated simple.

Judges and clients alike praise her for concise, structured argumentation—backed by robust
evidence notes and logical clarity, a skill she attributes in part to her science background.
“Tax is like a language,” she explains. “If you understand its structure, you can teach it,
argue it, and translate it.”

In landmark decisions like Benoit d’Angelin v HMRC, her ability to draw from many different sources of legislation and case law helped reframe the
court’s understanding of “value” in corporate transactions—reinforcing her reputation as a
barrister who not only interprets the law but shapes its application.

An Advocate for Justice—in and Beyond the Courtroom

Rebecca’s influence goes beyond tax. In 2022, she publicly shared her traumatic experience
of sexual assault during a hospital stay—a rare and courageous move in the legal world. Her
decision to speak out wasn’t about personal justice alone—it was about systemic change.

“I felt I had to say something. Because silence helps no one,” she says. Her post went viral,
sparking nationwide discussions about patient safety, NHS accountability, the conduct of the
police, and the duty of care.

Recognition Earned, Not Given

Rebecca’s work has earned her a long list of accolades:

• Tax Litigation Adviser of the Year 2025
• Global Law Experts’ Tax Law Firm of the Year 2025
• Corporate INTL Tax Expert of the Year 2025
• Finance Monthly Women in Law Award 2023
• Pro Bono Junior of the Year 2018
• Taxation’s Rising Star 2013

She is ranked across multiple categories in Chambers UK, Legal 500, and Chambers High Net
Worth Guide, and Lexology (formerly Who’s Who Legal) with consistent praise for her
technical brilliance, courtroom agility, and collaborative approach.

As part of the Attorney General’s B Panel, she is regularly instructed in high-level cases
involving HMRC, complex avoidance schemes, and judicial review.

Mentor, Author, Thought Leader

Beyond the courtroom, Rebecca is a powerful voice for aspiring legal professionals. Her
LinkedIn feed is filled with insight, honesty, and encouragement. She embraces

imperfection, outside her legal advocacy of course (“Leave the typo—it’s art”) and
champions authenticity in a field that often demands conformity.

Her publications—Tax Avoidance (4th Ed) and contributions to legal guides—are widely
referenced, cementing her place as both practitioner and educator.
And there’s more to come. “I’m writing a novel,” she reveals. “It’s inspired by real
experiences—some of which I couldn’t yet tell publicly.”

Looking Ahead: The Silk Decision and What’s Next

In 2023, Rebecca completed the King’s Counsel (KC) selection process—only to opt out
of reapplying thus far, as most others do. Not out of doubt, but out of clarity.
“It felt right to press pause,” she says. “Sometimes, we follow what others define as success.
I chose to listen to my own voice.”
That self-awareness defines Rebecca’s path. For her, success is not titles—it’s impact. On
clients. On the law. On the profession.
A Legacy Still in the Making
Rebecca Murray is not just a tax barrister—she’s a changemaker, a mentor, and a modern
advocate who defies expectations.
Her message to future barristers? “You don’t have to fit in to stand out. Lead with
substance. Let your work speak. And never forget—your difference is your strength.”