Chloe Mitchell Murder Trial to Proceed Despite Barrister Strike

The trial of Brandon John Rainey, accused of the murder of Chloe Mitchell, will proceed as scheduled on February 23rd, despite ongoing strike action by criminal barristers in Northern Ireland. The decision follows a meeting between Justice Minister Naomi Long and representatives of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), who agreed to exempt the case from their withdrawal of services.

Background of the Dispute

The trial’s progression comes amid a long-running dispute between the CBA and the government over legal aid fees for defense barristers. The strike has effectively halted almost all crown court cases in Northern Ireland involving individuals who require legal aid.

Agreement Reached

Following a “constructive” meeting on Sunday, February 15th, 2026, Justice Minister Naomi Long committed to an accelerated review of legal aid fees. In response, the CBA agreed to build an exception for the Chloe Mitchell trial. Further meetings between the Department of Justice and the CBA are planned for the following week. Source

The Case of Chloe Mitchell

Chloe Mitchell, 21, from Ballymena, County Antrim, was found dead in June 2023, eight days after being reported missing. Brandon John Rainey, 29, formerly of James Street, Ballymena, and currently held at HMP Maghaberry, has been charged with her murder. Source

Family’s Relief and Concerns

Philip Mitchell, Chloe’s brother, expressed the family’s gratitude for the exemption, stating they “got the news we wanted.” He also acknowledged “mixed emotions” and expressed sympathy for other victims whose cases remain affected by the strike, emphasizing that “every family and every case that’s been put on hold, they all deserve their day in court.” Source

Statements from Officials

Justice Minister Naomi Long stated the meeting with the CBA was constructive and welcomed their commitment to finding solutions. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing victims, stating, “We must never lose sight of the fact that victims are central to everything we do. We must protect them, we must serve them, and we must be prepared to make hard decisions for them.” Source

Michael Chambers KC, vice-chairman of the CBA, also welcomed the Minister’s engagement and expressed hope that the accelerated review would lead to necessary reforms to allow barristers to return to work fully. Source

Previous Derogation

This decision follows a similar derogation granted to allow the trial of a man accused of the 2022 murder of Natalie McNally in Lurgan to proceed despite the industrial action. Source