Dame Eleanor ‘Leo’ Veronica Elizabeth Sharpston KC

Dame Eleanor ‘Leo’ Veronica Elizabeth Sharpston KC

Dame Eleanor “Leo” Veronica Elizabeth Sharpston, DCMG KC, is a distinguished British barrister and legal scholar renowned for her contributions to European Union law. Born on 13 July 1955, she pursued studies in economics, languages, and law at King’s College, Cambridge, and later engaged in academic work at Corpus Christi College, Oxford.

Called to the Bar by Middle Temple in 1980, Sharpston built a notable legal career, including serving as a legal secretary (référendaire) to Advocate General Sir Gordon Slynn at the European Court of Justice (1987–1990). She was appointed King’s Counsel in 1999 and became a Bencher of Middle Temple in 2005.

In 2006, Sharpston was appointed Advocate General at the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), a position she held until 2020. During her tenure, she delivered over 450 influential opinions on various aspects of EU law.

Parallel to her legal practice, Sharpston has had a distinguished academic career. She lectured at University College London and the University of Cambridge, where she remains an emeritus fellow of King’s College . She has also held honorary positions at institutions such as the Riga Graduate School of Law .

In recognition of her services to justice and legal education, Sharpston was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George in the 2024 New Year Honours.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sharpston is a polyglot and accomplished musician, with interests in sailing, rowing, motorcycling, and martial arts.

Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to the rule of law and the development of European legal systems.