Direct Access Barrister
Saara Idelbi
Direct Access Barrister
Saara Idelbi
PLEASE NOTE: Over the Christmas and New Year Period, if your query is urgent, please contact my clerks at 39 Essex Chambers.
Client testimonials include:
‘Her approach to documents is forensic, her advice is technical but straightforward, clients love her robust approach to their cases and her advocacy is a master class in quiet preparation. A truly class act.’
‘She is a fierce advocate for her clients, even in the most difficult of cases.’
‘...a calm, unflappable advocate. She has a well-judged manner in the most sensitive of cases and is always meticulously prepared.’
‘She advances killer submissions with a composed and smiling demeanour.’
‘…calm and adopts a sensitive tone while being on top of the detail and arguing her point when she needs to’
I authored ‘A Practical Guide to Non-Pecuniary Damages in Human Rights Act Claims’ with Paige Jones in November 2024, providing essential guidance to practitioners on compensation for human rights violations.
Bringing together my passion for advocacy, my interest in AI, and my expertise in data and technology, I co-founded the legal start-up Advocatr, an advocacy training platform that provides AI-feedback on lawyers’ courtroom advocacy.
Area of Law
Freedom of Information and Data Protection
I advise on issues concerning data privacy, cybersecurity, AI ethics, and emerging tech regulations, helping organisations and public authorities navigate the evolving digital landscape. I am well versed in the UKGDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. I possess strong expertise in the intersection of data protection and information law, judicial review, and civil claims concerning the processing of personal data, bringing valuable insight into how these processes interact. I am also a Certified International Privacy Professional (CIPP/E), by the IAPP.
Information Technology and Telecommunications
I deal with cases concerning the lawfulness in the implementation of IT systems and monitoring of communications on digital devices, in the public and private sector. My cases have concerned whether there have been systemic problems with using technology in corresponding with customers that live with disabilities, the security of social media, and lawfulness of policies concerning the use of IT.
What sort of work do I do?
I help individuals and organisations solve complex legal challenges in the delivery of public and corporate services, particularly where digital technology intersects with fundamental rights.
I advise individuals, organisations, and public authorities on GDPR compliance, data privacy, cybersecurity, AI ethics and risk assessments, algorithmic decision-making by public bodies, and emerging technology regulation. I have particular knowledge in the procurement and delivery of services in health and social care, justice and financial sectors. I can translate complex technical and legal concepts into clear, relatable concepts which makes me a trusted advisor for businesses, policymakers, and innovators.
I am ranked in Legal 500 as a Leading Junior in the areas of Administrative Law and Human Rights, Court of Protection: health and welfare, and Inquests and inquiries, and a Certified International Privacy Professional (CIPP/E).
I also provide expert advocacy and advisory services on key issues relating to and at the intersections between public law, human rights, equality, privacy, and/or information law.
Who do I work for?
I have a diverse client base. I work for individuals, businesses, organisations, quasi-public authorities and public authorities.