Capital Chambers was established in 1988 by Sir John McGrath and John Upton KC, 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 14 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 King's Counsel (in alphabetical sequence) Michael Camp KC, Richard Fowler KC, Nicolette Levy KC, Robert Lithgow KC, John McGrath KC, Peter McKenzie KC, Mary Scholtens KC and John Upton KC.
 
After 18 years on Customhouse Quay, Capital Chambers are on The Terrace again as of December 2010; now at number 89.