Capital Chambers was established in 1988 by Sir John McGrath and John Upton QC, who took up tenancies together at Wakefield House on The Terrace. John McGrath left to become Solicitor-General. John Upton remained in Chambers and has overseen its growth into one of the largest in Wellington. It currently has 10 members, with a wide range of practice that takes them all over the country.
Several former members have gone on to obtain judicial office including Sir John McGrath (Supreme Court Judge) and Marian Frater (High Court Judge). Tim Castle is a member of the Waitangi Tribunal and a judge of the international Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne. In addition, seven members or former members of chambers have been appointed as Queen’s Counsel (in alphabetical sequence) Michael Camp QC, Richard Fowler QC, Robert Lithgow QC, John McGrath QC, Peter McKenzie QC, Mary Scholtens QC and John Upton QC.