Overview

• Dominic Charles D’Souza was found guilty of professional misconduct for drinking brandy in his car during a trial recess at Snaresbrook Crown Court in March 2023.
• A Bar Standards Board tribunal on July 2 ruled his actions interfered with the administration of justice and diminished trust in the legal profession.
• He received a £3,000 fine and was ordered to pay £2,670 in tribunal costs.
• Mr D’Souza initially claimed he was drinking Kombucha from a brandy bottle before admitting he had consumed alcohol to calm an upset stomach.
• The veteran barrister, called to the bar in 1993 and head of crime at London’s Goldsmith Chambers, retains the option to appeal the ruling.