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On the 7th April 2017 after a trial which lasted 5 days during which 2 complainants alleged extremely serious sexual misconduct against the defendant (a man aged 48 and of good character) the jury found the defendant not guilty of all counts on the indictment.
The trial required extremely able and sensitive cross examination of both complainants in a case that was fraught emotion because of the gravity of the case.
Pamela Brain was instructed by Paul Watson of Paul J Watson Solicitors. An award winning solicitor who has recently been honoured for his pro bono work by The Law Society.
“A silk you can trust to leave no stone unturned; no small detail escapes his attention. His advocacy is a work of art.“ - Legal 500 2022 recognises Kerim Fuad as a Leading Silk
Year of Call - 1992
Year of Silk - 2010
“A silk you can trust to leave no stone unturned; no small detail escapes his attention. His advocacy is a work of art.“
Legal 500 2022, Ranked as a Leading Silk
"Everyone who instructs him loves the way he works, the way he presents cases and the way he always gets great results."
Chambers and Partners 2022
‘Commanding advocate and a great tactician. A very strong strategic thinker. A commanding presence, excellent with clients and exceptionally bright. He has the jury eating out of the palm of his hand.’
Legal 500 2021, Ranked as a Leading Silk
Listed in “Who’s Who.”
“First Class, I can say no more”
Martin Harvey, Partner, Angela Porters
“You’re bl**dy excellent at what you do and you do it with swag”
FC, Murder Client.
“Thorough and meticulous in preparation, a charming advocate and a joy to work with…”
Peter Woodley, Partner, St James solicitors.
“Kerim delivered, in defence of his client, one of the most powerful and eloquent closing arguments I have ever seen”
Public Defender, USA
“Kerim Fuad QC’s supreme mastery of the evidence is only surpassed by his ability to charm jurors and judges alike. He combines being the father of the house at the central criminal court with an extremely approachable and down to earth character who leaves clients with an unvarnished understanding of their predicament and a sense of relief that they are represented by the man to get them out of it.”
Sean Longley of GT Stewart Solicitors.
‘Commanding advocate and a great tactician. A very strong strategic thinker. A commanding presence, excellent with clients and exceptionally bright. He has the jury eating out of the palm of his hand.’
Legal 500 – 2021
Kerim Fuad QC is Head of Church Court Chambers and the former Leader of the South Eastern Circuit. He is the first choice highly experienced defence silk for instructing solicitors’ high-profile, sensitive and most difficult cases.
Kerim is a QC who is prepared to roll up his sleeves and fight fearlessly for his clients. His win rate is breathtaking and is second to none. He has been described as an “ingenious” barrister with a unique ability to relate effortlessly with juries. The court trusts him.
Kerim Fuad QC was the elected Leader of the South Eastern Circuit for 2017 and 2018, a reflection of the esteem with which his peers and the senior judiciary view him.
Kerim is regularly instructed in high-profile, complex and sensitive cases, for example the murder of Damilola Taylor, “the Exeter Bomber”, “the Three Cooks Bakery” murder “the Clockwork Orange” murder, the Uber Driver wife murderer, to name but a few. Kerim’s extraordinary energy, humanity and compulsive attention to detail means that he enjoys great success in defending his trials.
Accordingly he has regular success in huge fraud trials, including by way of example the largest fraud against the NHS to date. He recently represented the main defendant in a 3 month fraud alleged against deaf charities, a complex allegation of cheating the revenue matter at the Old Bailey. He was also counsel in of the largest European human trafficking cases ever.
He is also an Environmental law specialist, working for Thames Water.
Since taking silk Kerim has developed a practice of back to back murder, terrorism, serious sexual abuse and fraud trials, nearly exclusively at the Old Bailey, where he has been described by a resident judge as “the father in the house.”
Kerim has a wealth of past experience prosecuting crime (in particular sexual abuse) at all levels. This gives him a huge insight into the need to protect and understand the needs of vulnerable witnesses. The combination of his empathy, determined and sensitive approach led to great success which later formed the template for his highly astute trial tactics.
He was chosen to work on both National and Local “Better Case Management” Committees in a bid to improve the quality of the experience facing all court users. In particular those who are the most disadvantaged and who naturally can find the crown court an oppressive, daunting and scary place to appear. He hopes to help break down those boundaries.
Kerim is specialist vulnerable witness trained. He has a vast deal of experience in dealing with and obtaining the immediate trust of young and challenging clients and prosecution witnesses. His experience of mental health cases, especially unfitness to plead, defences of insanity and diminished responsibility is second to none.
Kerim has built a first class reputation for winning. He thrives on difficult cases and securing acquittals against the odds, in the face of seemingly the strongest of evidence.
This is why he is one of a small group of QCs who are regularly instructed to defend the most serious cases in the country at the Old Bailey.
He is renowned for his ability to cross-examine experts on complex forensic evidence, and is often instructed in murder cases which demand his understanding of forensic pathology and cell site analysis. He is an outstanding jury advocate who has an innate ability to bring warmth and humour to even the most sensitive of cases. He is renowned for his passionate and persuasive opening and closing speeches.
Kerim is highly regarded for his meticulous attention to detail and he values the importance of having Queen’s Counsel on board from the earliest opportunity and regularly insists on seeing clients in conference to reassure them even before a representation order for Silk is granted.
Kerim accepts instructions in all criminal and international matters and has been instructed by leading magic circle firms, to provide his criminal and regulatory expertise.
Kerim has long had an interest in international law and the benefit to be gained in learning from other legal jurisdictions and forging close cultural ties. Kerim was born in Kampala, Uganda and has lived in Hong Kong; he is of Cypriot heritage. Kerim proudly Co- founded and Co- Chairs “the Cypriot Lawyers’ Society.”
In March 2018 he was specifically chosen by the British High Commissioner to teach advocates in Cyprus and harmonise relations between the two communities. He made strong associations with both Chief Justices there and met their respective judiciaries.
Having fled Uganda as a refugee in the 1970s, he understands better than most the difficulties displacement and isolation can bring.
He has provided a detailed paper to assist the Law Commission on its consultation on the law of Insanity and Automatism. Furthermore he has helped in the response to the Law Commission’s consultation on “Misconduct in Public Office.”
In November 2016 he was the only QC in the country to be selected to visit the Scottish High Court and attend the Scottish CBA Conference.
There he was privileged to give a detailed talk on “Registered Intermediaries- The Theory in Practice in England and Wales.” He has developed strong ties with the Dean and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Advocates.
From 2012 to 2016 Kerim Fuad QC was an active member of the Executive of the Criminal Bar Association.
He was the appointed Chair of the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Bar Mess from 2013 to 2016.
In July 2019 Kerim Fuad QC was appointed by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou (of Easyjet) as a specialist adviser for his Philanthropic Foundation, focusing on matters relating to the island of Cyprus.
Kerim is a qualified Advocacy trainer for the Middle Temple.
He has also been a pupil supervisor for 21 years.
Kerim Fuad QC believes that with the right positive mindset anything can be achieved.
“Do the right thing, not the easy thing.”
On 10th October 2019 at 3.19 pm, a boy boarded the 241 bus on the way to Stratford wearing a balaclava and armed with a very large hunting knife. He proceeded to knife two 15-year-old schoolboys a total of 4 times, in front of terrified passengers, before running off the bus after B. A. who later died of his stab injuries.
Mr Fuad QC’s client was also a 15-year-old schoolboy and was carrying an identical hunting knife in his rucksack which he was seen on CCTV to take out on the same bus to inspect. The defendants’ knives had been bought together. He was alleged to have been the look out and the one who “tipped off” his best friend from the top deck via a lengthy phone call, and other phone calls, to know which bus the deceased and his friends were on and pinpointing where the bus was.
There was previous Snapchat talk involving all the boys in which knives were talked about and threats were made, including who was going to “be the first to be on someone’s blade.”
Mr Fuad’s client was acquitted of all 4 counts.
This acquittal adds to Mr Fuad QC’s quite extraordinary record of Murder acquittals, in particular over the last 10 years.
The other defendant was unanimously convicted of the Murder of B. A. He will be sentenced in due course following probationary reports.
This case has been widely reported in the national press, although reporting restrictions apply in respect of child defendants and witnesses.
On a separate note:
Both Mr Fuad QC and Miss Karaiskos are Cypriots who come from each of the island’s communities. The trial was a classic example of the two working as a successful, cohesive and powerful team.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-50427925
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/london-stabbings-baptista-adjei-death-knife-crime-stratford-latest-a9153776.html
Kerim was instructed by Mr Joel Lamptey of Hanson Woods solicitors.
Murder and Conspiracy to rob. His client used a dumbbell to kill a drug user in Acton and steal cash and Rolex watches from him.
Very powerful evidence connected CM to the murder scene, including; ANPR, CCTV, Cell site, three I messages sent to him by the co- defendant at the time of the killing referring to the need to “Hurry up and get the P,” a contemporaneous phone call that was recorded of the killing and Crimewatch searches done on his phone.
He was convicted and received a life sentence with a minimum term of 32 years’ imprisonment.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-53310091
https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/convicted-killing-dumbbell-17787100
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/ealing-paul-tong-murder-manslaughter-rolex-watch-a4367651.html
Kerim was instructed by Shahid Khan of AdviceWise solicitors
Kerim Fuad QC today secured the unanimous acquittal of a young man alleged to have been involved in a “brutal and savage” murder. The trial before HHJ Leonard QC at the Central Criminal Court began on the 2nd December 2019 and lasted four weeks. It was alleged that the victim was stabbed repeatedly to death with a large kitchen knife in front of horrified eye-witnesses in retaliation for being on the “territory” of the three defendants having threatened two of them with a knife. He was instructed on behalf of the first defendant.
It was the defence case that the defendant together with a friend were being robbed by the victim, in an unprovoked incident, when another male emerged from nearby bushes and murdered the victim. It was advanced that there were, in effect, two separate incidents and thus the absence of a joint enterprise. Eye witnesses were skilfully cross-examined to establish a punctuation in time between the initial start of the incident, namely an altercation between the victim and the defendant said to be a robbery, and the end of the incident, when the stabber emerged from a hiding position and brutally attacked the victim.
This was a highly emotive case involving four young males and brought under the spotlight the issue of joint enterprise post Jogee, and the sheer brutality and prevalence of knife crime.
The stabber was duly convicted of Murder. The defendant and his friend were acquitted, however in such sad cases there are never any winners.
This case was another acquittal for Mr Fuad QC marking number eleven of the most recent and sensitive murder cases in which Mr Fuad QC has successfully defended.
It is the third consecutive acquittal for Mr Fuad QC and Mr Witcher when defending together in such cases.
https://courtnewsuk.co.uk/accused-killers-were-in-wrong-place-at-wrong-time/
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7858197/Man-21-guilty-brutal-horrific-murder-18-year-old.html
Kerim was instructed by Mahomed Ismail, Director of MFI Law, London.
In a murder case dubbed “The Midsomer Murder,” Kerim Fuad QC represented a man who broke into a Waterside house in Bosham, West Sussex late at night in December 2013 with a claw hammer. He used the hammer to attack and kill a grandmother who was house sitting. The horrific injuries, in particular to her head were described as “extreme and akin to those seen in a road traffic accident.”
He then fled to Dej, Romania from where he was extradited under a European Arrest Warrant 6 years later.
The case led to the most extensive police investigation in Sussex history. 9,000 people were interviewed and over 3,000 DNA samples were taken in a police hunt for her killer.
The damning evidence was that he confessed to his ex partner and his dna was found on the bloodied hammer discarded at the scene.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7236667/Hammer-killer-suspect-28-Midsomer-murder-case-Sussex-appears-Romanian-court.html
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2019/07/23/romanian-man-accused-midsomer-murders-killing-remanded-custody/
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/suspect-in-bosham-hammer-death-of-valerie-graves-is-arrested-in-romania-px5szmbtl
Kerim was instructed by Sef Mani of Bark and Co Solicitors.
Mr Fuad QC represented Mr T.P who accused of the Murder of his wife and Arson with intent to endanger his family and an alternate count of reckless Arson.
After a 13 day trial before the Common Serjeant of London, the jury found him guilty of murder, not guilty of Arson with intent, but guilty of reckless arson.
The jury had been 2 days in deliberation.
He was sentenced to a life sentence with a minimum term of 25 years’ imprisonment. He received a 7 year concurrent sentence for the reckless arson.
His client was alleged to have strangled his wife and forced a flannel deep down the back of her throat whilst she was alive. The prosecution (and pathology evidence) strongly suggested he then dragged her across the floor, removing clumps of her hair (which were found in the hall way and bedroom), locked her in a bedroom and set her body (her head and private parts) and two rooms in the house on fire. Fire experts gave evidence as to it “having to be a deliberate setting of different fires in rooms.”
His three children were prosecution witnesses against him saying he had dragged their mother across the floor from one room to another in which her body was found.
T.P maintained that he was in fact dragging a suitcase, not his wife, and the killing and lighting of the three separate fires was an accident. He could not explain why he lit fire so close to her private parts, but said “it was spiritual like a séance.”
When a neighbour, the deceased’s 80 year old parents and the refuse men came to the burning house to assist, he claimed many times over (and was captured on body worn footage) that his wife was not in the house but had “gone for a walk.” He verbally and physically pushed people out of the house refusing to let them into the bedrooms.
He told the police that he had lit candles to “lighten the mood” and that the bite injuries which matched her teeth on his hand (a piece of his skin was later found), putting the flannel deep in her mouth, were caused by their pet dog. Other injuries to his face were caused; “when shaving.”
Three weeks before the killing he had set up life insurance for the maximum payable to him upon his wife’s death of £310,000 and was also to benefit from her pension. The jury also heard of two earlier separate but unproven reports of him assaulting her, once by attempting to strangle her.
He said in evidence that it was “a shame” she was dead.
In evidence he said he was in shock and was attacked by his wife first who had kicked him to his knee, having initially given a “no comment” interview.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-47201007
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/controlling-bully-thomas-peter-who-15812151
Kerim was instructed by Chanelle Wray of Dexter Henry Solicitors
Kerim Fuad QC’s extraordinary run of Murder Acquittals continues On 31st October 2018, after a 7 week trial at his home court, the Old Bailey, Kerim Fuad QC’s client, D.B was unanimously acquitted of Murder. D was a 17 year old who was clearly captured on cctv running with a large knife in Logan Place W8 in a chasing pack of 20 young men who were chasing down a man, LB who was then, as the crown put it, “butchered” defenceless on the pavement. His client was also remarkably acquitted of manslaughter and violent disorder.
It was the 9th acquittal Mr Fuad QC has secured in his last 10 trials.
Kerim was leading James Hasslacher and instructed by Deborah Spence of Banks and Partners Solicitors
Kerim Fuad QC maintained his unique and extraordinary run of 10 acquittals in his last 11 homicide trials, at the Old Bailey. He led Edward Boateng-Addo, also of Church Court Chambers, successfully representing Mr I who had allegedly played a key role in planning Mr S’s brutal killing with axe handles. He had followed and passed the deceased’s red car 13 times in a space of a few minutes whilst constantly on the phone for just under half an hour and reporting the movements of the deceased’s car to the driver of another car. The multi handed trial ran from early November culminating with their client’s acquittal today. The first 2 defendants were unanimously convicted of murder, another of manslaughter. Another defendant was also acquitted.
Kerim was instructed by Ebenezer Madeinlo of Hanson Woods Solicitors.
Kerim Fuad QC secures another Murder acquittal. After a fascinating and extraordinary trial at Old Bailey that ran some 6 weeks, the jury unanimously acquitted FK of Murder but convicted her of manslaughter. The case widely reported by the media. The defence case not helped by the client who had taken a video and photo of deceased dying on pavement which she posted with the words “that’s what you get for fxcking with me.” She also fabricated documents in the middle of giving her evidence.
Telegraph
BBC
Kerim Fuad QC led Kevin Molloy of Church Court Chambers. They were instructed by Attiq Malik of Liberty Law.
Kerim Fuad QC wins again Mr Fuad QC’s winning streak continued. The jury at the Old Bailey unanimously acquitted AS on counts of murder and also manslaughter as a lesser alternative. The incident arose over a £20 drug debt in Plashet Park in East Ham on 15th October 2017. AS’s case was that he threw one punch at a man who he thought was an aggressor and then withdrew from the incident. Another stabbed the deceased who died at the scene from a single wound to the heart.
Telegraph
Kerim Fuad QC was leading Robert Newcombe. They were instructed by Mahomed Ismail of MFI Law, Solicitors.
After a hard fought six week trial at the Old Bailey, Kerim Fuad QC and Fiona McAddy’s client, DL was the only one of the 5 defendants to be acquitted of Murder & Manslaughter. DL was unanimously acquitted.
In what was one of his toughest cutthroat defences to date, Mr Fuad QC exposed the first 3 defendants’ lies, that their client DL was in the culprit car that went to the murder and whom was alleged by all to have played a lead part in the brutal and fatal knife attack on young Jermaine Goupall.
This was in spite of DL getting a text shortly before the murder saying;
“Get your nank we going 7.” 7 was a reference to “CR7” another part of Croydon with whom the gang who lived in “CRO” postcode had historical issues of taunting and violence.
Complex issues relating to a co-defendant’s bad character dominated the case, and Mr Fuad QC’s powerful and incisive cross examination based in part around the fruits of the application decimated the accounts of the co-defendants, and critically, augmented the Crown’s case against them.
Mr Fuad QC was the only silk to make a defence opening speech which firmly laid the foundation for their defence and took the sting out of the case against his client.
He was instructed by Tim Edwards of Edwards Vaziraney.
Mr Fuad QC represented the main defendant a Serco detention officer, Mr H, who was accused of very serious counts of rape and sexual assault of a female detainee at Yarlswood detention centre in Clapham, Bedfordshire.
In addition his client faced an allegation of misconduct in a public office.
In this high profile and complex trial Mr Fuad QC managed to thoroughly discredit the complainant’s account over two days by his incisive, sensitive but powerful cross examination.
The allegations had hung over his client who was of impeccable character for over 5 years. His attention to detail and painstaking research into thousands of pages of material, comprising years of Serco and Home Office reports lead to a hugely focused and ultimately compelling cross examination of the complainant.
His trademark opening speech set the tone from which the crown’s case never truly recovered.
Kerim Fuad QC was leading Matthew Kirk instructed by Cartwright King Solicitors.
Kerim Fuad QC succeeded yet again in university rape case.
Mr Fuad QC represented a young man accused of the rape of a fellow University student. After a trademark opening speech by Mr Fuad QC, straight after the crown’s opening, and his meticulous cross examination (which was praised by the Judge for its sensitivity) Mr Fuad QC exposed the complainant’s account.
Mr Fuad QC’s client who was a young man of impeccable good character, had given a complete and consistent account from the moment of his arrest that all sexual contact was consensual. He could not have assisted the investigation more.
Unusually and a first for the very experienced trial Judge, the trial did not even get to half time as the crown in the exceptional circumstances of this case, simply had no choice but to offer no evidence after the cross examination had concluded. The Judge directed the jury who happily found him not guilty.
Mr Fuad QC complimented his opponent in open court for the sensible decision he initiated, making plain how important it is that the independent Bar prosecute these sensitive and complex matters.
Mr Fuad QC was instructed by Steve Halloran of Lawtons Solicitors.
Another successful acquittal in a complex Murder trial, this time before HHJ Bevan QC at the Central Criminal Court. The victim had been stabbed at least 12 times in a senseless act of gratuitous violence; the motive inferred as revenge for the victim having dared “mess with the wrong people”. The defendant, K.M, an accepted road related (gang related) young man, was the owner of the car that carried the killers to the scene; the number plate having been noted down by an off duty police officer. The defendant was later positively identified on an ID procedure by an independent eye witness as being one of the two killers. When arrested the defendant’s face was half burnt – the car carrying the killers had been set on fire. Further, the defendant’s phone had ceased all contact with the co-defendant after the time of the murder.
The jury acquitted K.M after the evidence, although seemingly compelling on its face, had been carefully dissected by the defence.
The co-defendant was convicted of Murder and was sentenced to a life imprisonment with a minimum term of 26 years.
Mr Fuad QC was instructed by Tim Edwards of Edwards Vaziraney and Co.
An unusual case where the victim was stabbed repeatedly following a heated exchange over a trivial parking matter. The allegation was that the defendant, having had a fight with the victim on his doorstep, retreated to his house and retrieved a kitchen knife. After a few moments he was then captured on CCTV running through the cul-de-sac where both parties lived. Whilst the victim was sat in his car, unarmed, trapped by his seatbelt and sitting next to his partner, the defendant stabbed repeatedly through the open window, causing “devastating and life changing injuries.”
The case was unusual in that the defendant’s evidence was that he simply could not remember what had happened – one moment he was at his front door with the victim, the next he was standing with a knife with people screaming at him that he had stabbed someone. The Crown argued that there was a clear intent to kill in that the defendant had said, as he went to get the kitchen knife; “Just watch what is going to happen next.” He then plunged the knife repeatedly into the victim and had told officers soon afterwards that he “had seen red mist”. He also made other unhelpful remarks noted by police officers. By good fortune and the commendable work of paramedics the victim survived, albeit being in a coma and sustaining life changing injuries. He spent many months in hospital. The added complexity to the case was that the defendant’s previous firm of solicitors withdrew having unusually breached legal privilege. As such the entire former legal team withdrew only a few days before the trial was scheduled to commence. The Learned Judge, HHJ Dodgson recognised that this unusual case deserved the attention of Queen’s Counsel – Kerim Fuad QC and Colin Witcher were instructed. The trial had in the first instance to be adjourned in October 2016 and the jury discharged, Counsel rightly not being satisfied that the case had been fully prepared by the original legal team and that critical matters of disclosure remained outstanding. The trial then took place this week and after a five day trial the jury took only an
hour and a half to unanimously find the defendant “not guilty” of Attempted Murder.
Kerim Fuad QC took the decision to make a robust and persuasive opening speech which helped quell much of the fire of prosecution counsel’s speech.
The defendant had earlier pleaded guilty to section 18.
Press: ITV: http://www.itv.com/news/london/2017-03-15/knifeman-jailed-for-frenzied-attack-on-his-neighbour-in-trivial-parking-space-row/ Standard: http://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/jailed-for-five-years-thug-whose-frenzied-knife-attack-left-neighbour-in-coma-a3489841.html
Counsel were instructed by Karmenah Vaziraney, Partner at Edwards Vaziraney
The Uber driver murder.
Mr L googled how to stab his wife in the most painful way hours before he did so, inflicting many stab wounds.
He was instructed by George Kampanella of EBR Attridge and Co
Kerim Fuad QC’s client was acquitted of Murder in triple stabbing incident.
After a two month Murder trial before the Honourable Mr Justice Openshaw, the jury unanimously acquitted Mr Fuad QC’s client, E.S of both Murder and S.18.
E.S was one of the main defendants and was caught on a covert prison van recording, confessing to not only ‘not knowing whether he
had licked the victim’ but also shouting ‘Get the Ting,’ at the time they were alleged by eye witnesses to have gone to the boot of the car to obtain the murder weapons.
Two of the co-defendants were convicted JB of both Murder and S.18, and ND convicted of S.18. The rest were acquitted.
Kerim Fuad QC led Ray Tully of Guildhall Chambers.
He was instructed by Damon Whitlow and Emily Evans of Allen Hoole Solicitors, Bristol
Year of Call - 1972
Year of Silk - 1996
Patrick is a highly experienced practitioner who specialises in defending cases involving murder and manslaughter.
After years prosecuting high-profile cases involving terrorism and serious fraud, Patrick specialises in defending homicides – where he combines a meticulous approach with an ability to put defendants at their ease.
He devotes time and attention to evidential detail – on the long-held principle that time spent in reconnaissance is seldom wasted. He has a good network of expert witnesses and a strong knowledge of firearms and ammunition.
Patrick prides himself on his ability to communicate with defendants, giving them the time they need – and helping them remain calm despite the serious charges they may face.
He believes in taking time to support the family of a defendant – helping them stay aware of what is happening during a period of difficulty and stress.
Patrick is also a recorder with both criminal and civil jurisdiction, and a tribunal judge with the mental health review tribunal.
Interests
Patrick teaches advocacy at the University of Hertfordshire
Recorder (criminal and civil jurisdiction)
Tribunal judge with mental health review tribunal
Master of the Bench, Inner Temple
Attempted murder/Section 18, in which the defendant eviscerated his victim with a machete. Not guilty both counts.
A Royal Marine charged with fraud and theft and possession of 500 rounds of rifle ammunition. Not guilty on all counts Truro Crown Court.
Wood Green Crown Court. Attempted murder/Section 18. A North London street gang stabbing. Not guilty on all counts.
Attempted murder, in which the victim was stabbed 46 times. Snaresbrook Crown Court.
Gross negligence and manslaughter, whereby the victim was killed by mechanical digger – guilty, sentence suspended. Wolverhampton Crown Court.
Murder, the victim shot in care home by husband who was found not guilty of murder and sentenced to a hospital order. Chelmsford Crown Court.
Murder, in which the victim was beaten to death. Client found not guilty of murder, guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to a hospital order. Winchester Crown Court.
Murder, in which the victim was stabbed 8 times by neighbour. Found guilty of manslaughter – 13 years imprisonment. Inner London Crown Court.
The victim, a suspected paedophile, was stabbed. Chelmsford Crown Court.
Victim was beaten to death. Winchester Crown Court.
Historical child sex offences. Guilty and sentenced to 23 years’ imprisonment. Southwark Crown Court.
Victim was driven over 6 times with a large Mercedes. Defendant sentenced to life imprisonment. Chelmsford Crown Court.
Murder of one identical twin by the other. Winchester Crown Court.
Cage fighter acquitted of murder. Maidstone Crown Court.
Substantial fraud involving stolen scrap metal. Acquitted of all charges. Oxford Crown Court.
Attempted contract killing. Victim survived. Acquitted on all charges.
Contract killing. Central Criminal Court.
Billion dollar negotiable instrument fraud. Southwark Crown Court.
Drugs conspiracy involving transport of heroin through British Army bases in Germany. Manchester Crown Court.
Unprovoked attack on a man at night. Acquitted of manslaughter. Central Criminal Court.
Money laundering Columbian drug funds. Southwark Crown Court.
Rape, s.18 and child cruelty. Acquitted of all charges. Blackfriars Crown Court.
Conspiracy to import drugs by the ton from Columbia. Acquitted of all charges. Central Criminal Court.
Known as the Airline Bombers’ Case. The defendant was acquitted of the main charge of conspiracy to destroy aircraft. Woolwich Crown Court.
Known as the Lakeland Terrorist Training camp case. B was acquitted. Woolwich Crown Court.
Corporate manslaughter and health and safety offences. Acquitted of manslaughter.
Multi-million investment fraud. Southwark Crown Court.
Year of Call - 1987
Year of Silk - 2009
Ben is a highly sought-after, stand-out Silk whose career reflects his strengths as an advocate, his analytical ability and meticulous attention to detail. Ben works with each client to achieve the best result obtainable, however challenging the circumstances.
Ben was appointed Queen’s Counsel in March 2009, and to the Serious Fraud Office QC list in 2009 and 2013. Prior to taking Silk, Ben developed a varied practice initially obtaining an LLM in company law, intellectual property law, company law and administrative law. Ben served as standing counsel to Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, an area where he continues to accept instructions in suitable cases.
Ben prosecutes and defends in equal measure and with equal commitment. Before taking silk he was a Grade 4 Prosecutor on the South Eastern and Midland Circuits and a long-standing advocate on the Specialist Prosecution Rape Panel.
Ben continues to accept a wide range of work, including murder, commercial fraud, personal injury, actions against the police, contract and commercial disputes and Judicial Review. He is an experienced hand in the Court of Appeal and has assisted in the development in his list of decided cases.
Ben has served by invitation as special counsel to the Governor of the Cayman Islands to advise on constitutional matters relating to the judiciary and law officers. Ben’s broad knowledge of the law and his in-depth experience as an advocate informs each case he undertakes.
Ben is known for his commitment to the criminal justice system. He is a senior advocacy and ethics tutor for Lincoln’s Inn. He assesses advocates for the CPS Higher Advocates panel a role that includes assessing Queen’s Counsel employed by the CPS. He has been involved in providing training for those who will be involved in the development of the vulnerable witness programme.
Man kills wife due to lesbian affair. Loss of control defence. Defendant convicted.
Man pushes former Eurotunnel boss onto train tracks. Attempted murder. Defendant convicted.
Gangs steal free evening standard newspapers for profit. Instructed to give detailed advice on the law of theft. Both defendants convicted following trial.
Seven-handed murder. Obtaining successful acquittal on charge of murder. Manslaughter alternative verdict.
Four handed gang related murder at the Old Bailey. Successful acquittal.
Two-handed murder. Obtaining successful acquittal on charge of murder of a 15-year-old. Manslaughter alternative verdict.
Acquittal of husband and wife (separately represented) on allegation of shooting and using a knife against family members inside and outside their home on Easter Sunday. Both accused successfully raising pleas of self defence.
Defending in four-handed murder. Victim attacked with various weapons and having been killed attempts had been made to dismember his body with an angle grinder. Accused acquitted of murder convicted of manslaughter but all other defendants convicted of murder.
Four-handed murder charge in context of drug-related offences. Allegations of torture. 16-year-old vulnerable defendant.
27 day three-handed murder and attempted murder, defending vulnerable 16-year-old defendant; victims also 16. Case involved the aftermath of an acid attack. Defences considered were diminished responsibility, legal loss of control, lack of intent and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), alternatively an adjustment disorder. D acquitted of murder but manslaughter by diminished responsibility.
Death caused by driving when under influence of alcohol/drugs. Obtained successful conviction following 7-day trial for manslaughter.
Five-handed murder, attempted murder possession of firearms and section 18 assaults. All parties both accused and victims were members of gangs in the Birmingham area.
Five-handed attempted murder/conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm involving serious allegations that police evidence had been planted and raising issues of when a judge should recuse himself in an ongoing case.
AG Ref. on sentence in Murder/manslaughter case. Sentence was not increased.
The applicable mens rea in indecent images, abuse of process principles; the Tryell principle, preferring indictments on electronic system; jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal in Terminating appeals.
Issues arising relating to abuse of process; missing documents; terminating rules in the context of historic allegations of sexual abuse.
The correct approach to circumstantial evidence in murder cases.
The correct approach to bad character hearsay evidence where cut-throat defences are being run in murder cases.
Ambit and scope of cab rank principle in complex fraud cases.
Application of bad character provisions in circumstantial evidence cases.
Admissibility of new evidence after justices have retired.
Criteria to be applied before lawful intercepts can take place in prison.
Ambit of customs co-operation interviews.
Abuse of process in section 51 transfer cases.
Admissibility of foreign evidence in English Courts.
Applicability of code C.10-12 in customs cases.
“Legal 500, 2019 & 2021 – Leading Silk”
Year of Call - 1987
Year of Silk - 2010
‘He has great client empathy.’
Leading Silk in Crime in Legal 500 - 2021
“ The ‘calm and composed’ Amjad Malik QC is noted for his ability to provide ‘a clear case strategy from the off, and maintain it through the turbulent waters of a trial’.”
Ranked in Chambers & Partners: Crime
“Well–regarded advocate Amjad Malik QC is regularly instructed to prosecute and defend murder and organised crime cases.”
Leading Silk in Crime in Legal 500
“Regularly instructed to prosecute and defend murder and organised crime cases”
Leading Silk in Crime in Legal 500
“Experienced in prosecuting and defending murder cases”
Leading Silk in Crime in Legal 500
“Well regarded for a broad criminal practice focused on complex homicides and drugs conspiracies. He is particularly experienced in the area of white–collar crime.”
Leading Silk in Crime in Legal 500
“He is articulate and surgical in his advocacy, and the way he digests information and gives advice is amazing.” “He prepares his cases fantastically thoroughly.”
A leading Silk in the field of Crime and in Fraud demonstrating a multi disciplinary skill set encompassing civil, commercial and criminal expertise.
Amjad Malik QC is continuously instructed in the most complex and important of cases. He is sought after by solicitors because of his stylish, persuasive advocacy and is known as being at the forefront in the field of fraud, corruption and commercial crime such including confiscation and restraint.
Recently he has been asked to advise clients in a matter with regard to facilitation payments under the Bribery Act. He represented JM in the landmark proceeds of crime case, A, M and others (Operations R and A), the money laundering of £40 million through London Currency Exchange Bureaus tried in 2013.
He has also recently represented KM in R v SB and others (Operation V) a MTIC fraud, causing a loss of approximately £95 million to the taxpayer. R v M and others 2015 defending in a Money laundering enterprise through a Midlands currency exchange.
He also executes a regulatory and civil expertise when appearing before specialist regulatory tribunals: the General Medical Council; the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the Healthcare Professionals Council. He presently represents a Consultant Professor in GMC v B, charged with publishing plagiaristic research articles in a number of international medical journals.
He has wide experience of many aspects of mental health law including mental capacity, healthcare law and human rights. His practice encompasses many areas in which this specialism is important, for example, the Court of Protection, prison law, community care, torts actions, inquests and inquiries.
He possesses an in–depth knowledge of terrorism offences and has long experience of “Honour Killing” crime; defending JD in the Southall murder of Geeta Aulukh at the Central Criminal Court.
Work Undertaken
– Commercial crime (including fraud and money laundering)
– Serious Crimes (including terrorism offences, murder, manslaughter and drugs)
– Professional regulatory and disciplinary
– Mental health and healthcare law
– Human rights
Elected President of the Association of United Kingdom Muslim Lawyers (2011-2016) http://www.aml.org.uk/cms/ The membership consists of some seven hundred solicitors and barristers. He has helped in the development and advancement of understanding in areas of Sharia law with regard to English civil, commercial and family law. See seminars.
Sharia finance Seminar at Bar Council Rooms March 2014
Sharia “Dispelling Myths” with Professor Tariq Ramadan of St Annes Oxford at the Arab British Chamber of Commerce 2013.
He is regularly invited as a keynote speaker in Terrorism legislation, Honour Crime and Hate Speech crime seminars (“Speech Crimes” Published in The Barrister issue 48).
A keynote Speaker on “Wilful Neglect” and protecting vulnerable adults at Safeguarding Conference Islington and Lincolns Inn BIA conference in April 2014.
Fluent in Urdu
Fluent in Hindi
Fluent in Punjabi
Representing KM in R v SB and others (Operation Vex) Kingston Crown Court. Defendant involved in a massive MTIC fraud, causing a loss of approximately £90 million to the taxpayer.
Representing JM in the second trial arising from the landmark proceeds of crime case, Anwoir, Meghrabi and others. Money laundering of £40 million through London Currency Exchange Bureau. Kingston Crown Court.
Defending in a money laundering enterprise through a Midlands currency exchange.
Defending the so called “honour killing” of Geeta Aulukh in a residential street in Southall by defendant and 3 others using machetes.
Prosecuting leading Counsel Homophobic murder of an elderly disabled man by a 17 year old teenager who had lured the victim to a remote area in order to kill him.
Conspiracy to Murder. Leading Prosecuting Counsel in a targeted shooting of a Organised Crime gang rival – The victim survived the attempt on his life and refused to provide evidence to the Crown of who shot him.
Corruption – Leading Prosecution Counsel in a case involving payment to a civilian employee in order to obtain access to Police Computer database and obtaining information on rival organised crime gang members. Computer and telephone evidence issues.
Heroin and Cocaine supply conspiracies– Leading Prosecution Counsel involving surveillance visual and probe material. Sensitive unused material issues.
Murder of a visually impaired and disabled man by the defendant.
Leading Prosecution counsel. Murder of an Asian gang member by a rival Black gang in Slough. Gang member issues and anonymous witnesses.
Conspiracy to Murder and attempted murder. Leading Prosecution Counsel Contract killing paid for by an organised crime gang on 2 rival gang members in Luton.
The torture and murder of a businessman in a targeted robbery at residential premises in Leicester. The murder was carried out by the defendant and two others, forcibly wrapping the head of the deceased with layers of cloth in order to kill by asphyxiation. Cut–throat defences.
A pre–planned murder of the defendant’s female partner, who was taken to a remote area late at night, the defendant using a knife and heavy metal cutters to kill. Loss of control was raised as the defence to murder.
The beating and brutal murder of a 76 year old man during a robbery, carried out in his own home by the defendant and another. Cut–throat defences involving witnesses who were all from the travelling community.
An Albanian drug cartel the subject of surveillance operations conducted by the Serious Crime Agency. Defendant found with 4 kilograms of Heroin (street value 1 million pounds) and acquitted.
19 year old defendant who robbed and killed a stranger in the town centre in the early hours of the morning.
Defendant with three others attacked rival gang members with meat cleavers in Bedford Town centre, murder of one man and the attempted murder of another.
Leading Prosecution Counsel. Two defendant’s, age 15 and 17, charged with murder of a young man at a party by joint enterprise stabbing. Third adult defendant involved in assisting an offender after the murder.
Chelmsford Crown Court - joint enterprise murder.
Oxford Crown Court - Polish gang related murder.
Hull Crown Court - defending murder involving a killing by the cutting of the throat in a residential street.
Luton Crown Court - murder of a man involving GHB/GBL and Mephedrone overdose.
Wolverhampton Crown Court - manslaughter during a robbery.
Exeter Crown Court - Assisted suicide.
Wolverhampton Crown Court - Prosecution of Murder of elderly homeowner during robbery.
Oxford Crown Court defending the Excel Sheet/Wind in the Willows 1st Edition Murderer who was targeting celebrities.
Chelmsford CC – Honey trap murder prosecution.
Nottingham Crown Court - Prosecution of Murder by 19 year old with fitness to plead, diminished responsibility and loss of control issues.
Prosecuting Operation Diesel Birmingham CC. A 13 defendant Conspiracy to supply Cocaine and Money laundering.
Recently advised and obtained leave to appeal the conviction of a mother for the murder of her 7 year old son by beating because of a failure of the boy to recite the Koran properly. Issues raised on appeal as to failure of trial Judge to allow expert evidence on Honour based violence sustained by the defendant at the hands of her husband.
Representing a Solicitor, who faced witness intimidation charges arising out of a criminal trial that he himself conducted. Appeal against original conviction successful but Court of Appeal ordered a re–trial. Appeared for the defendant in the retrial and Defendant was acquitted after submissions made of no case to answer.
“Legal 500, 2020 & 2021 – Leading Silk”
Year of Call - 1990
Year of Silk - 2011
‘Lewis is a force of nature. His amiable charm fills the robing room and the court room alike. He works every character in a case, from the co-defendants’ advocates, to the prosecutor to the judge and, ultimately, the jury, who hang on his every word. His charm underlays a deadly cross examination technique.’
Legal 500 2021, Ranked as a Leading Silk
"Ruthlessly intellectual in preparing his cases with precision."
Legal 500 2020, Ranked as a Leading Silk
Lewis Power QC is a leading Queen’s Counsel both domestically and internationally. He is a formidable advocate who has established a reputation as a leading practitioner in complex jury trials and has been described recently in the media as “being in the Top Ten List of barristers in the UK”.
He specialises in complex and heavyweight criminal cases, including cases concerning murder, criminal fraud, money laundering, bribery and corruption, offshore and international, serious sex crimes, terrorism and war crimes. Notably he successfully defended in the London Bombing trials at the Old Bailey in London and was lead Counsel in the private prosecution of the current UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson.
He has successfully recently appeared for the defence in a number of high profile murder cases achieving a string of acquittals. Lewis has recently acted as leading Counsel in the internationally renowned “Cyprus Teenager Rape case” where he was permitted to act by the Attorney-General of Cyprus. Clients consistently comment on Lewis’ strategic and tactical acumen developed through nearly 30 years of trial advocacy, latterly in international or trans-national cases including Cyprus, India, USA, the Balkans, the United Arab Emirates and in Ireland. Lewis also regularly acts as a guest lecturer and speaker all over the world and regularly appears on National TV and in a variety of documentaries giving his insight into topical legal issues. He is recognised as a leading Queens Counsel by both Chambers UK and the Legal 500 which comment in particular on his renowned strength in cross-examination: “The epitome of a modern silk. He is approachable, naturally charming and engaging, with a work ethic that is second to none. His cross-examination is effortless and even in the most hopeless of cases, he fights tenaciously for the client and leaves no avenue unconsidered.” He is referred to as “an unrivalled cross-examiner” where his style is said to be “nothing short of brilliant”.
Legal 500 2018 : Ranked QC
Lewis Power QC – Church Court Chambers ‘A strong trial tactician, he is devilishly effective in front of a jury.
Chambers Commentary (UK Bar) 2017
Lewis Power QC of Church Court Chambers Prominent criminal barrister known for his handling of complex international cases relating to regulation, fraud, rape and murder. Sources commend his ability to manage and reassure clients in highly sensitive proceedings. Strengths: “The epitome of a modern silk. He is approachable, naturally charming and engaging, with a work ethic that is second to none. His client care skills leave the most apprehensive clients firmly reassured. His cross-examination is effortless and even in the most hopeless of cases, he fights tenaciously for the client and leaves no avenue unconsidered.” Recent work: Appeared in R v Miles Headley, a high-profile attempted murder case linked to gang violence in south London.
Lewis Power QC is part of our experienced and highly acclaimed team advising and representing clients at all stages and at every level of the regulatory process, including advice on compliance with regulation and at all stages of investigation and prosecution of regulatory offences, and advice on enforcement and improvement notices in all areas of regulation.
Corporate Manslaughter has been at the forefront of regulatory lawyers’ minds for several years. Lewis Power QC has regularly been involved in the provision of seminars to both professional and lay clients, providing opinion about the law as it was predicted to be enacted, and subsequently into the effect of the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act once it came into force.
Lewis has regularly defended the full range of Health & Safety offences and has appeared and advised in a number of high profile cases at the Central Criminal Court :R v Yousoff and in Lewes Crown Courts : R v Barnett and R v H ).
He has particular experience and expertise relating to construction cases, R v H becoming involved in cases at an early stage and has often provided advice in relation to compliance issues.
Lewis has advised and represent those involved in all types of construction accidents including:
– Construction, Design and Management issues.
– Falls from height on construction sites.
– Structural collapse during construction or demolition
– Asbestos contamination
– Environmental waste and Landfill sites.
– In terms of Health and Safety at work Lewis has successfully defended prosecutions brought by HSE and local authorities relating to all aspects of workplace safety, both as it affects the employer’s own workforce and as it impacts upon the members of the public served or affected by the employer’s undertaking, and whether the accused is the business as a whole or an individual employee said to be at fault.
Types of accident covered include:
– Falls through and from fragile roofs and elsewhere from a height in the workplace ( Corporate manslaughter defending company Mead Contractors Ltd re death of Stephen Bonner ).
– Slips, trips and falls.
– Workplace transport ( notably an employee fatality Corporate Manslaughter with Eastbourne Buses ).
– Mechanical failure, especially in manufacturing and factory
– Retail, with safety representation and advice offered for and against national retailers ( Next fatality – Bicester Outlet Village ).
Lewis’ work includes complex cases concerning companies, public authorities and individuals in cases involving fatalities in the workplace. He also does a large amount of inquest work and enforcement notice appeals. He is currently advising in a case concerning environmental issues in respect of the large-scale disposal of controlled waste and land-fill tax schemes.
He has considerable experience in representing clients in a range of tribunals especially medical and sports matters ( Osteopathic General Council and UKAD – famous Cyclists; boxers ) where he combines his expertise of robust courtroom advocacy and thorough case preparation to secure favourable results.
Public Law
Lewis is regularly instructed to advise and represent companies, organisations and individuals at inquest His expertise has also recently been sought in one of the largest public enquiries in the UK to date.
Offshore & International
A former lecturer in International law at Birbeck College University of London, Lewis was appointed Officer to War Crimes Committee of International Bar Association from Jan 2015. Lewis is on the International Bar Association’s War Crimes Committee as the Conference Coordinator. He is moderating at the Peace Palace at the Hague in January 2016 at the Conference on Legal Challenges to Modern Warfare chairing the session on “Peacekeepers Responsibilities and Liabilities in Conflict Zones”.
He is regularly instructed in heavyweight criminal proceedings involving fraud and regulatory cases with an international dimension, and for those which are particularly complex requiring prompt judgement. His specialisms also include murder, conspiracy to murder, attempted murder and rape cases. Recent instructions have also included the two major cases witnessing the new slavery crime being charged, the first of their kind in 200 years. Admitted as Defence lead Counsel to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) Counsel List. The STL is said to constitute in effect the World’s First International Terrorism Court.
Sports Law
Lewis acts on a regular basis for high profile sports personalities, specifically in the fields of football, rugby, horse racing and boxing and recently acted for the World Heavyweight Champion, Tyson Fury. Last year due to his high profile International legal work he was honoured with being made an Ambassador to Belfast in Northern Ireland.
He acted in the first ever football fixing trial ( R-v Grobbelaar & others ) ; has advised professional jockeys before the Jockey Club and has acted recently in respect of extant Anti-Doping matters before the National Anti-Doping Panel Tribunal.
“The Changing Face of International Law” – Counsel magazine – England & Wales – February 2015.
“Slavery & Trafficking – An International Criminal Epidemic” – IBA – December 2013 ; “21st Century Slavery: Hidden in Plain Sight” – Lead Article in Counsel Magazine – England & Wales – February 2014.
“Call to Arms”: A Paper on behalf of the North American Forum dealing with issues of International Criminal Justice: 2013 International Bar Association.
Full member of Association of Defence Counsel before ICTY (International Tribunal for Former Yugoslavia)
Northern Irish Bar
Criminal Bar Association
Sussex Bar Mess
International Bar Association
Approved Football Association Lawyer
Member of North American Forum and War Crimes Forums
Southwark Crown Court – Defendant acquitted on all charges in 3 month money laundering trial involving Multi-Million Pound alleged Italian Mafia linked Bureau de Change Fraud and linked tax avoidance case.
Inner London Crown Court – Defendant acquitted on Marital Rape case after submissions on disclosure forced Crown to offer to offer no evidence – ground-breaking case as to disclosure in sex cases.
Lewes Crown Court – Acquitted in University Rape Case.
Lewes Crown Court – Acquitted of Murder in Multi-handed murder trial – after successful submission of no case to answer at close of Prosecution case.
Guildford Crown Court – Defendant acquitted on all charges in Modern Day Slavery Case.
Cardiff Crown Court – Defendant acquitted on Murder Charges – daughter had killed father in house fire and found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Chichester Crown Court : Historical Sex abuse case by carer on children and separate Adult Rape Allegations – acquitted on all charges.
Lewes Crown Court – Paedophile ring familial sex abuse trial- representing vulnerable Defendant.
Belfast Crown Court – Paramilitary case – Attempted Murder/Perverting the Course of Justice.
Instructed on high profile case focused on the rivalry between prolific south london gangs. National newspapers ran features on the prevalence of such gangs which are responsible for some of the worst crimes committed in recent years by organised gangs in the capital. Defendant cleared of two attempted murders.
Instructed on the dexter copy-cat murder case where a teenager fascinated with the hit tv show “dexter” murdered his 17 year old girlfriend in a sadistic fashion. Overview as to applicability of defence of diminished responsibility and brain disorders.
Instructed in “Assassins Creed Baby Murder” case. Huge media coverage across national headlines in extraordinary baby shaking case with medical complications for both baby and Defendant, who required 29 medical experts for assessment.
Conspiracy to murder; hired assassins; defendant acquitted.
Multi-handed murder of homeless man; defendant acquitted of murder.
Complex murder trial at the Old Bailey; new defence of “loss of control”; acquitted of murder.
Trial of one of oldest historic rape cases in UK dating back half a century; Defendant acquitted.
Multi-handed, 6 defendant, Sri-Lankan Gang related murder trial at Old Bailey; representing only defendant to be acquitted.
First judgment of Court of Appeal by Lord Chief Justice on new slavery offences; Lewis Power QC leading 4 Junior counsel.
The first ever prosecution of the new offences of “Slavery” under the Coroners & Justice Act 2009; acquitted all charges at re-trial.
Representing only female defendant in Irish Traveller slavery case.
Church of England Vicar with historic sexual abuse allegations within Church.
Largest money laundering case involving Bureau de Change in UK to date; involving laundering of approximately £200 Million.
Representing defendant in million pound bank factoring fraud & building construction fraud.
Attempted murder by youth in racially motivated campaign.
“The Missing Body Murder Case”; representing only defendant to be acquitted.
Sophisticated fraud on law firm by employee.
Murder of wife case where defendant advanced “morbid delusional jealousy” as partial defence re diminished responsibility.
Baseball bat murder.
National art fraud conspiracy.
Serious Fraud Office (SFO) international prosecution where some 22 Million Euros were dishonestly appropriated by the Defendant.
Multi-million pound international identity fraud.
A complex conspiracy to defraud the O2 Telecommunications Network by way of an International Revenue Share Fraud (IRSF).
Murder – one of the first murder cases under the new legislation re partial defence for murder in diminished responsibility cases;defendant was putting forward “Alcohol Dependency Syndrome “as diminished responsibility defence.
Murder; manslaughter contrary to the common law and one count of administering a poison or noxious substance so as to endanger life, contrary to section 23 of the OAPA 1867; defendant giving a lethal heroin injection.
Manslaughter; cyclist road rage.
London terrorist bombings case where only 1 out of 2 defendants acquitted.
Leading Counsel in the “Adams Family” gangland case “Operation Trinity”; joint Police and MI5 case quoted as the biggest corruption case to come before the UK Courts; acted as leading counsel and secured acquittal for family Accountant.
Acted for the first Defendant in this International Fraud case which involved the infamous Indian Corporate Giant Company Sahara India Pariwar. Secured the acquittal of the Defendant. Highly complex and novel case involving International Corporate Fraud on a huge scale and where the Crown acknowledged that this case involved concepts of “International Capacity Building” on money laundering and cash smuggling with recent foreign deployments and also and most crucially “Alternative Remittance Systems and Informal Value Transfer Systems” such as Hawala.
“Legal 500, 2012 - 2021 – Leading Silk”
Year of Call - 1981
Year of Silk - 2012
‘An eloquent silk with particular expertise in cases involving complex medical evidence. Provides pragmatic advice and adopts excellent strategy in the most complex of cases. He possesses a quiet calmness and confidence indicative of a Counsel that is aware of his expertise and skill, with no need to shout about it, incredibly effective in his style of advocacy and yet calm and reassuring manner with clients and their families.’
Legal 500 2021, Ranked as a Leading Silk
"A confident and strong advocate who has great presence in the court room."
Legal 500 2020, Ranked as a Leading Silk
"A brilliant advocate"
Legal 500, 2018 Tier 1 Silk
"A strong presence in court and has a good rapport with his clients."
Legal 500, 2019
"Regularly handles murder and manslaughter cases on behalf of both the prosecution and defence as part of a busy general crime practice. Recent work: Successfully defended a professional man charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The case involved complex scientific evidence and detailed cross-examination of expert witnesses."
Chambers UK, 2017
"He has expertise in public interest immunity, complex fraud and medico-legal cases."
Legal 500, 2016
Ranked in Legal 500 2016 as a leading Silk on the Wales & Chester Circuit
"Known for his expertise in medico legal cases."
Legal 500, 2015
"A ‘Leading Silk’ on the Wales and Chester Circuit: ‘Noted for his ability to evaluate complex evidence, particularly in medico-legal cases."
Legal 500, 2014
"Primarily prosecutes complex criminal law cases. He is recommended in matters where there is significant medical evidence, such as murder and violent crimes." (Chambers UK Guide 2015)
Chambers UK Guide, 2015
"Michael Mather-Lees QC is recommended for medico-legal cases, as well as fraud and confiscation work."
Legal 500, 2013
"Michael Mather-Lees QC receives praise for his ‘exceptional intellect.’ He runs a broad practice but is particularly renowned for his work on fraud cases."
Chambers UK 2013
"Michael Mather-Lees is recommended for VAT, fraud and medico-legal cases."
Legal 500, 2012
"Michael Mather-Lees really shines as a barrister who specialises in medico-legal cases and serious and complex fraud matters."
Chambers UK 2011
Michael Mather-Lees is "intellectually exceptional but also down to earth."
Chambers UK 2009
The Legal 500 2019 describes him as “A confident and strong advocate, who has great presence in the court room”; the 2018 edition describes him as a leading silk and “a brilliant advocate” and in both 2017 and 2016 he was ranked him as a leading silk, stating that “he is noted for his ability to evaluate complex evidence, particularly in medico-legal cases”
Chambers Legal Directory states: “He primarily undertakes complex criminal law cases. He is recommended in matters where there is significant medical evidence, such as murder and violent crimes.”
His practice covers the most serious criminal cases, having prosecuted and defended many homicide cases, complex sexual cases, including internet-based offences and serious fraud (including internet fraud) together with cases involving vast volume and very intricate issues of disclosure, up to and including the most sensitive levels. The majority of these cases now involve the ability to both understand and be conversant with detailed computerised technology and the use of web-based information.
He is noted for his extensive experience in medico-legal litigation, both criminal and civil, and has recently successfully defended a Police Detention Officer charged with unlawful act manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter. That case involved very detailed and specialised medical evidence and the cross-examination of eminent medical specialists, and has extensive experience in cases of “baby shaking” murders, both prosecuting and defending.
In addition, he also undertakes a substantial amount of regulatory work, including Health and Safety, Police Discipline, Motor Vehicle Licencing and Regulatory, Medical Defence, Inquests, Public Enquiries and Environmental Law, Disciplinary Tribunal work and Courts Martial.
Having practiced for many years as a junior in complex cases of Clinical Negligence and personal injury, he has, since being in Silk, re-engaged in this area. He has a particular and specialised interest in forensic medicine.
Affiliated International Member of the American Bar Association
Member of Inner Temple
South Eastern Circuit
Wales and Chester Circuit
Western Circuit
Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers
Criminal Bar Association
European Bar Group
Queen’s Counsel
CPS Advocates Panel – Fraud
CPS Advocates Panel – Serious Crime
CPS Advocates Panel – Proceeds of Crime
CPS Advocates Panel – Rape and Sexual Offences
Duress -involvement in drugs operation following threats of physical violence arising out of debt.
Inadmissibility of medical evidence – infant death x 2 (Munchausen/apnoea), substitution of verdict by virtue of additional evidence.
Driving without due care and attention – diabetic in hypoglycaemic state – defence of automatism.
Mixed statements of partial confession.
Confiscation.
Successful appeal of minimum term for murder.
Baby shaking S 18.
Infant genital mutilation.
Defence of “baby shaking” murder.
Appellate counsel – “baby shaking” murder.
Defence of gang murder by stabbing.
Defence of “baby shaking” murder.
Re Appeal multi-count sexual offences.
Defence of “baby shaking murder.”
Appellate counsel – “baby shaking” murder.
Successful defence of police detention officer charged with manslaughter (death in custody).
Successful prosecution of international conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
Defence of complex attempt murder.
Successful resolution of case involving multi-handed defendants charged with murder, public disorder, and firearms.
This was a multi handed, evidentially complex, modern slavery prosecution, tried over a period of three months, all defendants convicted. It involved the use of Czech Nationals, many of whom were either under a disability of vulnerable, and required a very high level of witness care. Most of the witnesses spoke little or no English. Much of the evidence was presented as a result of multi-agency international co-operation, together with live link evidence for extra territorial locations.
Successful defence to murder, involving complex medical evidence and issues of causation.
Baby shaking case which involved complex issues of causation and cross examination of expert medical witnesses. The case was partially successful, as acquittals, were secured in respect of historic injuries.
Defence in multi handed drugs related murder.
Defending in murder involving the victim being burned to death, detailed submissions in respect of aggravating issues.
Successful prosecution of drugs related murder with complex evidential issues.
Successfully defended a professional man, charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The case involved complex scientific evidence and detailed cross-examination of expert witnesses.
Successful prosecution of murder/manslaughter.
Successful prosecution of defendant denying homicide of baby, involving very complex medical evidence.
Defence of person under very serious intellectual disability, charged with serious sexual offences.
R v A (2014) Defence of serious sexual offences.
Defence – Murder.
Successful defence of Company Director, avoiding director’s disqualification.
Year of Call - 1971
Alun is a criminal practitioner for 39 years, undertaking prosecution and defence work in the Crown, Magistrates and Youth Courts and in the Court of Appeal.
Experience: Alun’s caseload has been wide-ranging and has included:
Of late he has predominantly prosecuted for the CPS and other agencies such as the Probation Service and the Department of Work and Pensions.
Skills and Personal Qualities
As a seasoned advocate, Alun feels confident in his ability to take the daily twists and turns of the court process in his stride. But there are always surprises, which keep him sharp and interested.
Blessed with a good memory for detail, he can assimilate complex casework quickly. His many years at the Bar help him identify and focus on the issues that require attention and which go the heart of a case.
He aims to promote confidence in the prosecution service in others, particularly those who are giving evidence in court, seeking their continued participation in the event of delays and adjournments. Whether civilian witnesses, defendants, experts or police, He listens to what they say, explains what will happen, and provides reassurance to secure their trust and co-operation.
He has built a sound, flexible working relationships with prosecution professionals, caseworkers, and police officers, placing emphasis on effective communication.
He is tenacious when pursuing important issues, taking the initiative to problem solve. Equally, he is realistic when there is little prospect of success, and will speak his mind.
Calm, self-assured, and with an articulate, distinctive speaking voice, he is a persuasive advocate with a good track record of success for whosoever instructs him.
B.Sc (Econ) International Relations, London School of Economics, 1975
Criminal Bar Association
Grays Inn
Inner Temple
CPS External Advocate Grade 3
Child Abduction Act, compatibility with Human Rights Act, 2015
DNA challenge to robbery identification, 2015
Affray and self defence, 2015
Non-insane automatism, 2014
Computer Sales Fraud, 2014
Using noxious substance with intent to do GBH, 2014
Blackmail, 2014
Dangerous Driving and identification, 2014 Court.
Year of Call - 1979
Breakdown Britain (state of nation)
Breakthrough Britain (reform proposals)
Couldn’t Care Less (children in care law reform)
Completing the Revolution (Mental Health Law reform)
Bar Human Rights since 1990
Bar Free Representation Unit since 1979
Centre for Social Justice since 2007
Advisor to Home Office on International child Abduction and
Forced Marriages
Parliamentary Group for Children in Care since 2000
Parliamentary Group Care Leavers Voice established in 2013
Every Child Leaving Care Matters
Trustee of Frank Buttle Trust 2005-2010
Trustee of Rees Foundation 2013
Holland Park School
University College London (LLB 1978)
Inns of Court School of Law (1978-9)
Called to the Bar at Gray’s Inn (July 1979)
Georgetown U. Washington DC (LLM 1981)
Vocational training 1979-80
(a) Criminal Law : chambers of Attorney-General Geoffrey Thomas Q.C
(b) Civil Law : chambers of Solicitor General Sir Ian Percival Q.C.
Internationally experienced litigator, legislative and commercial policy advisor
Of Counsel to US Attorneys Sidley & Austen advising on US antitrust and EEC competition law 1981-2
Professional private practice as a Barrister based in London England 1982-2013
Insurance coverage litigation and arbitration
Antitrust/competition issues.
on Appointment of Special Attorney General for Antitrust.
Human rights litigation.
Human rights conflict resolutions.
Presenting US Insurance industry in litigation against Lloyds of London –”LMX Spiral.”
£100m “share ramping” allegation.
Multi million pound Anton Pillar fraud.
Alleged multi-million pound excess fare frauds successfully defended.
Multi-million pound advance fee fraud successfully defended.
Alleged perverting course of justice in civil proceedings-successfully defended.
£100M drugs importation.
Murder by poisoning –successfully defended.
Multiple murders by stabbing –successfully defended.
Counsel for Scotland Yard, Civil Aviation Authority, Port of London Authority, Serco
Year of Call - 1982
Justin’s main area of Practice is in all areas of Family Law. He is particularly experienced in Ancillary Relief particularly cases involving substantial assets, pensions and private companies. He has considerable experience in Co-habitee disputes and applications under S15 and Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989. He handles all areas of private and public law cases. He has handled a number of cases involving International Child Abduction.
He is experienced in all forms of Civil Litigation. In particular personal injury. He has vast experience handling the following types of cases: Accidents at Work, Occupiers Liability, Product Liability, Highway Accidents, RTA, Repetitive Strain, and Fatal Accidents. He is prepared to undertake Conditional Fee work in appropriate cases.
He is regularly instructed in Clinical Negligence, professional negligence, actions against the police, Landlord and Tenant both private and public sector and business tenancies. Construction disputes, Property claims, (including sale of land, trusts, mortgages, trespass, nuisance, boundaries and easements and dilapidation claims as well as employment cases.
He has substantial Criminal experience involving Serious Fraud, murder, rape, child abuse, death by dangerous driving and serious drug offences.
Licensing Act 2003 applications, reviews, variations and enforcement.
Direct Access
Justin regularly takes instructions from professional bodies and persons other than solicitors as well in appropriate cases direct from the public.
Justin’s area of practice is in and around London and the South Coast. He is a Founder member of Kings Bench Chambers Bournemouth.
Scott v R 1989 AC 1242 Privy Council Jones v Trollope Colls Cementation Overseas Times 26/1/90 Re Capita Expansion and Development Corporation v Brackland Times 30/11/92 Fozal v Gofur Times 9/7/93 Re R (a minor) 1994 2 FCR 629 CA DPP v G 1997 (whether a head teacher investigating an alleged assault by a teacher is subject to PACE
Year of Call - 1983
Lesley Manley is a highly experienced barrister. She has well deserved reputation for dealing with challenging cases and clients.
She has defended in a number of serious fraud matters.
The case of R V G concerned an alleged cheat on the Revenue of £1.2 million by a two defendants. Having inspected original files held by the Revenue the court ruled Lesley and co-defending counsel, a commercial specialist and using a multi disciplinary approached successfully argued that the prosecution was an abuse of process. Both defendants were acquitted. Thereafter Lesley was instructed in a complex conspiracy to defraud in Gibraltar.
She became known internationally for her role as defence counsel in R v Marrache. The trial lasted for 9 months and was the longest running fraud trial in the history of Gibraltar and concerned the loss of £40 million pounds. This case was tried at The Supreme Court of Gibraltar. This was a complex case that necessitated reviewing of the bankruptcy files from various civil actions brought by those who had suffered financial loss, reviewing volumes of other unused material including trust agreements.
In addition to factual issues in the trial the case gave rise to numerous legal complications and arguments which included recusal of Judge, abuse of process, applications to exclude evidence and a possible appeal to the Privy Council in relation to Judge only trial.
This case was complex not only in terms of the financial and Tusts aspects of the case but in terms of its international aspects. Evidence was received by live link by agreement with the government of the Czech Republic. There was evidence relating to a number of EU countries in particular Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and the Republic of Ireland and also to Israel, Canada and the United States.
This case was the subject of international media attention and reports can be found on www.chronicle.gi and www.gbc.gi/ . This matter is the subject of an appeal to the Privy Council.
In addition to acting as junior in respect of the criminal matter Lesley researched legal issues in respect of constitutional matters and appeared in court to assist Charles Gomez, Gibraltar Counsel, who brought a Constitutional Motion against the Attorney General’s Office and The Governor of Gibraltar on behalf of Behalf of Benjamin Marrache. The trial concluded in 2014.
On her return to the UK and upon joining Churchcourt Chambers Lesley was instructed as leading counsel in OPERATION AGULLIAR R v N in £1 million pound fraud at Southwark Crown Court. The defendant was deaf and accused of conspiracy to defraud the DWP of ATW payments and also charity funds. Conferences and the giving of evidence were facilitated by the services of a sign language interpreter
Sexual Offending
Lesley Manley is very experienced in defending in cases alleging sexual offending including cases where other offences such as violence, cruelty or robbery are connected. She has acted as leading and junior counsel.
Lesley is often instructed to represented defendants accused of serious sexual offending including multi-handed cases involving human trafficking and grooming. Recent examples are set out.
In particular she has special expertise in representing defendants with mental illness, mental impairment and autism. She has written published articles on this point. She is also experienced in representing deaf defendants
She has been asked to provide written advises for convicted persons in connection with references to the Criminal Appeals Review Commission.
Lesley is a trained vulnerable witness facilitator and has provided training on several occasions to other members of the bar.
She is also a pupil supervisor and trained advocacy trainer at Middle Temple where she has taught for over 15 years.
This year she attended the Advocacy Trainers Symposium at the ICCA. She also was selected to attend the Florida Advocacy Course in Gainesville in 2018. She has experience of the most up to date teaching methods used nationally and internationally.
The diverse nature of her practice has led to her being instructed in a wide range of offences. Examples are armed robbery, kidnap, attempted murder, murder, child cruelty, cases where rape has been accompanied by section 18 and robbery, aggravated burglary and copyright theft.
“Are you fit for fitness to plead” published in Crimeline Mental Impairment Identifying The Signs
”I’ll prove I’m innocent. I’ll take a lie detector test” . The admissibility of Polygraph Evidence by Colin Witcher and Lesley Manley
Podcasts:
False Allegations of Rape
Fitness to Plead
Mercy killing-An act of Compassion or Self Interest.
Murder-Sexual Infidelity as a defence
Lectures:
She has provided lectures in the fields of the development in the law of sexual offences, vulnerable and intimidated witnesses, fraud and the development of the law in relation to firearms.
Criminal Bar Association
In 1994 she was chair of Education Appeals in Tower Hamlets
She is also an approved pupil supervisor and an advocacy trainer at Middle Temple
Lesley Manley is appreciated for her sensitive approach at the Coroner’s Court.
She has acted in numerous fatal road traffic collisions.
2015 Acted on behalf of parents who tragically lost 3 year old child in fatal traffic accident.
2013 Acted on behalf of family whose relative had died as a result of fall from Beachy Head. Verdict. misadventure.
She has also acted in a variety of difficult cases. They include
An inquest into the death of a baby when suffocated by a family member
Represented a Custody Sergeant ( Newcastle Coroner’s Court) following the death of a man who had swallowed a drug package.
An inquest into the death of a wife whose husband had been originally charged with her murder. Verdict. Suicide.
Instructed as leading counsel in multi-handed million pound fraud trial at Southwark Crown Court to commence in 2016.
The defendants were accused of cheating the Revenue of £1.2 million pounds. An abuse of process argument advanced by previous counsel had been dismissed. The defendants continued to maintain they had immunity from prosecution. Isaac Jacob of 9 Stone Buildings co-defended in the matter using a multi-disciplinary approach with their respective knowledge of tax law and criminal law. In due course the Revenue found a file which lead to the re-opening of the abuse argument and the case against the defendants was stayed.
In R v W (and others) at Maidstone Crown Court the defendant was charged with a conspiracy to defraud the NHS by way of dishonesty in respect of procurement of contracts. The trial was estimated to last 6 weeks but collapsed after 4 days as a consequence of the defence raising issues in connection with disclosure and failure of the Crown to properly investigate matters which may have pointed to the defendants’ innocence.
Croydon Crown Court. Defendant charged with substantial benefit fraud but no evidence offered after DWP accepted the level of domestic violence she had suffered was so severe that she was psychiatrically incapacitated by post traumatic stress syndrome.
Drugs Importation / Class A Drugs at Croydon Crown Court.
Case involving serious Harassment of Officials with issues of Fitness to Plead to be determined at Aylesbury Crown Court.
Case involving the arranging of Sham marriages. Newcastle Crown Court.
Sham marriage case at Isleworth Crown Court.
Undercover police operation in respect on online attempts to be provided with 3 year old child.
Supply of class A drugs. Defence of duress advanced.
Sexual Activity with child. Female offender.
Acting for the lead defendant in multi-handed trial accused of blackmail, threats to kill and witness intimidation.
Drug importation. Multi-handed case concerning the importation of £1 million pounds of heroin.
[Serial rape case with defendant attacking victims at knifepoint]
[Internet date rape case followed by serious physical assault on victim]
[Rape of 13 year old girl by mentally impaired defendant]
[Sexual Assault upon stepdaughter]
[Multi-handed rape by school boys upon fellow pupils]
[Historic sexual abuse by stepfather upon stepdaughters from different families. Abuse spanning 1960’s -1980’s]
[Historical case. Rape by father of his biological daughter when she was 11-14. Complaint made when accused aged 76]
[Historic sexual touching of granddaughter. Successful application to exclude lie detector evidence the Crown wished to place before the jury]
Child Cruelty. Croydon Crown Court. Mother aged 17. Accused of fracturing bones of new born baby.
Aggravated Burglary Luton Crown Court. Brain injured defendant accused of breaking into his sister’s house and attempting to kill her.
Year of Call - 1983
Called in 1983 Chris has been in continuous practice at the Bar since 1983 and has a broad breadth of knowledge and experience with skills honed from thousands of cases. He is known to work extremely hard on case preparation and ensures he’s fully briefed before setting foot in court. Chris provides excellent client care and ensures all concerned are kept abreast of case issues. He is a specialist criminal barrister who predominantly defends but also prosecutes. He is a Level 4 CPS advocate for the South Eastern [London/Non London] and Midland circuits. Chris has frequently been instructed in a number of leading criminal cases including; murder & manslaughter, kidnap with torture & blackmail, allegations of violent assaults, sexual offences & rape, , large scale organised drugs conspiracies, firearms offences and serious fraud. He has acted as leading defence counsel in a large number of cases including murder. Chris’s abilities and successes have secured the backing of a large body of solicitors who regularly instruct him. He has worked extensively in sexual assault cases, involving historic allegations of familial sex, which have involved detailed forensic examination of social services files, educational and psychiatric reports. He has also undertaken the role of leading counsel in large-scale car-ringing cases, local authority internal frauds, sophisticated retail frauds and armed bank robberies. He’s regularly instructed in criminal appeals from referrals and appears for appellants in the Court of Appeal. Chris has enjoyed a thriving practice in the Military Courts and is often abroad conducting court martial trials. In 2010, he was instructed by one of the “Magic Circle” firms to advise a multi-national company on an internal employee fraud. Chris has been a pupil supervisor since 1996.
R v Pommel (1995) 2 Cr. App. R R v. Jason Graham [2007] EWCA Crim 1499
Criminal Bar Association South Eastern Circuit
Snaresbrook CC. Successfully defended a warehouseman in £8m value drugs importation from Holland investigated by The Serious and Organised Crime Command. Operations Ultra, Bush
Successfully defended a man at The Central Criminal Court accused of wounding his brother with intent to cause GBH when he drove his truck onto the pavement at the victim.
Operation Cave, Wood Green CC, defended in a £1m tobacco and alcohol duty evasion organised crime case.
Operation Pileated, Cambridge CC Represented a defendant in a courier fraud conspiracy involving multiple elderly victims.
Operation Limit, Leicester CC. defended in an allegation of the supply of “Skorpion” machine gun and ammunition as part of organised crime group.
Nottingham CC, Operation Feast & Zephyr. Lead defence counsel in industrial scale cocaine supply from London to Northampton.
Leicester CC. Represented a man accused of serial rape and sexual offences on young boys in 1980s.
Leicester CC. Represented a male accused of serious sexual assault by penetration of a resident in a special needs care home.
Snaresbrook CC. Prosecuted a teenage male for rape of 10 year-old sister.
Represented the alleged leader of gang of five men responsible for the kidnap, false imprisonment and torture of two separate victims and subsequent blackmail of the families.
Defended one of five men accused of largest haul of ram -raid burglaries of rural banks in East Anglia.
Successfully defended man accused of multiple rape counts.
Prosecuted a case of familial sexual allegations dating back to 1965.
Represented the man known as the “night stalker” in his appeal against conviction for several rapes of elderly people in their homes.
Represented man accused revenge slashing of former police officer investigating licensed taxi offences.
Successfully prosecuted a leader of a gang of men who had embarked upon a campaign of rape and sexual offences towards a 12-16 year old girl in Bucks in 2004-13.
£1.5 m VAT Evasion Prosecution Central CC for HMRC.
Leading defence counsel in the largest ever Flying Squad Bank Robbery Operation involving over 12 armed bank robberies spanning 10 years.
Successfully defended one of the three acquitted defendants out of ten Charlton FC fans accused of racist violence.
Defended man in multi handed trial in which he was accused of firearm possession in large Trident case.
Defence counsel in successful defence of man accused of domestic violence featuring all the accused’s children supporting his “battered wife”.
Successfully represented woman accused of stabbing her former boyfriend in the street.
Defence counsel in multi handed car ringing/burglary case in Maidstone CC.
Central CC. Successfully defended when led by QC man accused of murdering drugs rival with shotgun.
Conducted an appeal against conviction before full Court of Appeal in the case of an appellant who had been convicted of throwing acid over barristers appearing against him in a High Court action he was bringing. High Court barrister burned in courtroom acid attack.
Defended an alleged gang member accused of having a sawn off shotgun which was alleged to have been used to threaten others.
Represented a defendant who was acquitted of his part in a murder and further stabbing of another victim in an alleged racist gang attack in the Isle of Sheppey.
Familial historic sexual assault.
Leading defence counsel for one member of a cash-in-transit robbery gang. K.B., the leader of said gang, was a notorious criminal. The trial lasted three months and was conducted under the tightest security ever witnessed in an English court.
Representing as leading counsel one female member of a gang said to have committed the largest alleged fraud of its time on a health authority: NHS fraudsters jailed (From News Shopper).
Sexual assaults on children within a church congregation.
Random slashing of stranger giving rise to IPP sentence.
An internal fraud of a national bread manufacturer by managers worth £300k.
Instructed for the Finance Officer of a business who along with others is accused of a £1.5m fraud on State/ local authority agencies in a trial listed for 2016.
Year of Call - 1983
“Excellent barrister my clients recommend him to their friends”
HSR London (2017)
“A man that instils confidence in clients”
MN LAW (2017)
Elroy is a highly experienced defence specialist and is an established criminal practitioner.
He specialises in defending in serious criminal cases and also undertakes police tribunal work.
Elroy is regularly instructed in cases of fraud, murder, rape, drug offences, serious violence, proceeds of crime, kidnapping, firearm offences, armed robbery fraud and serious historical sex cases, financial crime and regulatory matters.
Throughout his career, Elroy has built a reputation on his analytical and thorough approach to the preparation of his cases. During his career he is consistently recognised for his communication with lay clients.
His court craft and advocacy are built upon a clear working knowledge of the issues and tactics to be deployed in a particular case.
As a Leading Junior he is able to marshal complex paper heavy cases and liaise effectively with both Junior council and Solicitors to ensure that the case is prepared thoroughly and efficiently. Having conducted many ‘two counsel’ cases,’ he is well respected and trusted by solicitors to deliver the best for their clients.
Elroy is always calm under pressure, which enables him to develop positive relationships with lay and professional clients as part of a legal team.
Elroy is sensitive to issues and matters that arise. These qualities has allowed him to establish trustworthy relationships between himself and clients.
Elroy has been a Recorder since 1998.
Regularly instructed to defend on a direct access basis.
Criminal Bar Association
South Eastern Circuit
People trafficking, young women from Nigeria to Prague and then on to Heathrow, case required an understanding of the Nigerian culture and traditions of Nigerian village traditions.
Defendant charged with rape allegation that the victim was drugged. Defendant acquitted.
International sex trafficking gang, trial at the Central Criminal Court.
Representing serving prisoner in sexual activity with a child. Defendant had substantial links with the Manchester underworld.
Illegal immigrant fraud exposed by BBC Panorama programme.
Representing man charged with historical rape offences whilst serving a long sentence for rape.
Multi handed fraud case in the North of England.
Perverting course of justice in a multi handed Murder case
Multi-handed mortgage fraud heard in Manchester Crown court.
Leading counsel in £1 million fraud. Five men charged with setting up fraudulent firm with the aim of providing fraudulent HGV licence. Representing only defendant to be acquitted.
Banking fraud, money laundering.
Year of Call - 1984
“Andrew Taylor wins praise due to the zeal and determination that he exhibits.”
Chambers 2008
“Andrew Taylor has a broad criminal practice with a specialism is gaining compensation for wrongful convictions. He provides advice to the BBC and is well known in the legal community for this role. He worked on R v Mattan, the last man in Wales to hang.”
Chambers 2010
“Andrew Taylor is recommended for his extensive criminal practice and his efforts in seeking compensation for wrongful conviction/execution.”
Chambers 2011
“The experienced Andrew Taylor’s recent work has included fraud and murder cases. He is noted for the strength of his appellate practice.”
Chambers UK 2012
Andrew is a highly respected criminal advocate who for over 25 years has specialised in criminal defence. Having been a Grade 4 CPS Counsel, for the last 4 years has only undertaken defence briefs. Andrew has been in continuous practice since being called to the Bar. He has appeared with and been led by some of the leading advocates in England & Wales over the last 30 years. He is known for his thorough preparation and meticulous attention to detail. He is considered to be a formidable cross examiner and is a consummate jury advocate. He is also very approachable and is very good with clients.
Andrew has led many juniors over the years, and in the last year has conducted two murder cases without a Leading Counsel. He has experience of multiple murder cases, conspiracy to murder, large scale drug importation cases, sex cases involving allegations at multiple children’s homes, MTIC or Missing trader frauds, HMRC frauds, mortgage frauds involving numerous professional clients, international drug conspiracies, international money laundering, contempt proceedings, perverting or attempting to pervert the course of justice in criminal, civil and family jurisdictions, conspiracy to defraud insurance companies, people trafficking, DWP fraud.
Andrew has been instructed in numerous VHCC cases as a Junior and Leading Junior. He is also regularly instructed in private defence cases. Due to his extensive experience, reputation and fascinating commentary, he has been an advisor to the BBC for over 20 years and takes part in numerous legal discussions and debates. He regularly appears on television programmes, Radio 4, Radio 5, Radio 2 and regional BBC stations providing advice, commentary and opinion. He additionally advises the BBC and independent production companies on legal affairs/current affairs programmes.
Andrew is the Wales & Chester Circuit Representative on the Gray’s Inn Barrister’s Committee. He is also a representative on the Bar Council Committee that is looking into GFS reform. He believes passionately in the provision of legal aid and has played leading roles in opposition to Legal Aid cuts.
Leading Counsel in R v R where the Crown and co-defendant, (a practicing solicitor) were represented by Silk and Juniors. Secured an acquittal following a successful dismissal argument in an international money laundering case that had taken 6 years to come to trial.
Led a junior in a large scale conspiracy in Plymouth Crown Court where it was alleged that huge quantities of Class A drugs were being brought into ports from Holland.
Led a junior in a heroin conspiracy where a huge network of defendants were charged and the trial process in total took almost 6 months.
Represented a client charged with conspiracy to pervert justice in civil proceedings where her two co accused were practicing solicitors. It was alleged by the Crown that his client had falsified documents and altered civil pleadings. The client was eventually acquitted after a trial lasting 6 weeks.
Andrew is currently appearing in a long running case in Inner London Crown Court where his client is facing two allegations of MTIC fraud along with money laundering
Later this year Andrew is instructed on behalf of a defendant who is facing an allegation of murder where it is suggested that he used a sawn off shotgun to kill a man over a dispute they were having. The case is listed to last 6 weeks.
Andrew is representing a Defendant who along with two others is accused of conspiracy to defraud a local authority out of hundreds of thousands of pounds.
In September Andrew is due to represent a client facing multiple Human Trafficking allegations.
Andrew achieved the first acquittal in “Operation Dino” which involved 89 Defendants who were charged in a well-publicised case known as “Cash for Crash” and involved conspiracies to defraud. The Crown ultimately convicted 87 of the Defendants.
Andrew’s client in a double handed murder ran cut throat. He was acquitted of murder but convicted of Manslaughter. The co accused was convicted of murder.
Andrew’s client in a long case at Southwark Crown Court was acquitted of conspiracy to defraud the DWP of almost £1 million.
Year of Call - 1985
Pamela Brain is one of the most respected barristers practicing at the criminal bar and has nearly 30 years’ experience in defending in complex and difficult cases. She has defended virtually every kind of criminal offence and is renowned as a brilliant jury advocate. She has successfully defended in murder and attempted murder cases, in particular in those involving ‘battered woman syndrome’. She has been instructed in cases involving allegations of Armed Robbery, Kidnapping, Blackmail, Riot, Conspiracy to Import and Supply large quantities of Class A drugs, large scale Fraud and Money Laundering cases and Child Cruelty.
Pamela has a particular expertise in defending these very difficult types of cases. She has represented defendants who have been charged with every type of sexual allegation including those accused of Serial Rapes , Gang Rapes, Rapes involving the Administering of Date Rape Drugs, Male Rape, Paedophile Offences , Indecent Images and Historical Allegations with some dating back 30 or 40 years. Naturally she has gained considerable experience in cross examining vulnerable complainant’s. Some have been as young as 4 years of age and others have needed the assistance of intermediaries because of their severe learning difficulties or mental health problems. She is particularly skilled in cross examining the complainant’s in a way that does not alienate the jury from the defence case. This ability sets her apart from many others at the criminal bar. She also has very good client skills, which is especially appreciated by those who instruct her in these uniquely difficult cases. She often represents young defendant’s as well as those who are vulnerable because of learning difficulties or mental health issues and she has a reputation as being someone who can engage with some of the most challenging of clients.
Pamela has extensive experience in the Court of Appeal. In 3 separate cases of Rape she has managed to successfully persuade the Court to overturn the convictions and allow the appeals. They were cases involving allegations of Gang Rape, a Rape by a Youth and an Historic allegation dating back over 30 years.
Pamela is direct access qualified.
The Practical Challenges of Representing Defendant’s Accused of Sexual Offences
This was a case where it was alleged that the defendant was a serial rapist who had raped 3 women who were unknown to each other. Following a day of legal argument, the Crown offered no evidence.
This was a case which was widely reported in the National Press ( http://www.dailymail.co.uk/ news/article-2063439) It was an historic allegation of Rape involving 2 young complainants.
This was a case involving allegations of Sexual Activity with multiple complainants who were suffering from dementia by an employee of a Care Home.
This was a case involving an allegation of Rape where both the complainant and defendant suffered from very severe learning difficulties and mental health problems. Both required intermediaries. The defendant was acquitted of the charge.
This was a case concerning an allegation of Rape where it was alleged that a date rape drug had been administered. The defendant was acquitted.
This was an allegation of Rape where the complainant had learning difficulties. A defence application for disclosure was made and this resulted in the CPS obtaining third party material. In light of this material the Crown offered no evidence.
This case involved an allegation that the defendant was part of a long running international advanced fee fraud which involved the defrauding of millions of pounds from vulnerable victims.
In this case it was alleged that the defendant had fired a shot gun at a 12 year old girl, causing injury.
This was a case involving a conspiracy to supply large quantities of Cocaine that originated from Colombia.
This was a case involving 2 separate conspiracies to supply large quantities of Cocaine.
This case involved an employee of the DWP who was alleged to have made a fraudulent claim re invalidity benefit. There was extensive surveillance evidence and expert medical evidence. The proceedings were stayed as a result of a successful abuse of process application being made.
Year of Call - 1988
Michelle is a criminal barrister with over 30 years’ experience, she has recently spent 5 years as an in house barrister at cartwright king which has added to her understanding of both sides of the profession. Due to her breadth and depth of experience she is highly regarded for her advocacy and skills in all types of trials dealing with a wide range of offences including serious sexual offences; fraud; murder; manslaughter; child cruelty; drug trafficking and has been instructed in such cases as both a junior and lead counsel.
She has a reputation for first class advocacy and instilling confidence in her clients. She has particular expertise in cases involving vulnerable people, either as defendants or complainants.
Member of the Western Circuit
Member of the CBA
Defending as junior counsel the main 18-year-old defendant in a revenge murder.
Defending Yarlswood detention officer charged with sexually molesting a detainee.
Historic allegation of molesting boys in the woods (high profile case).
Attempted murder with a knife in a revenge attack between drug dealers.
Sham marriages conspiracy with brides being flown in and out of the UK.
Housing benefit fraud defending the lead applicants partner.
Defending in False Trademark prosecution.
Violent disorderly involving two rival gangs.
Year of Call - 1989
Paula Bignall is a London based barrister specialising in serious crime and complex cases of family law. She is recognised as a skilled, highly experienced and resourceful advocate with well honed and sympathetic client care skills.
Criminal Law
Paula is regularly instructed to defend in cases involving serious violence, rape, and all types of sexual offences, large-scale fraud and dishonesty and drugs case including trafficking and production.
Cases more recently defended include large-scale importation of class A drugs, conspiracy to commit fraud and robbery involving 19 defendants and hundreds of pages of cell site analysis, historic rape cases,rape cases involving victims and defendants under the age of 13, kidnapping and false imprisonment involving torture, Child neglect and also attempted murder.
Family Law
Paula undertakes all forms of private and public law work involving children. She has practised at all levels including the high court.
Year of Call - 1990
Called in 1990, Colin McCarraher was the founding Head of Chambers at Church Court and has been in independent practice for 25 years. During that time he has established a reputation for determined, fluent advocacy with a proven track record for winning cases both large and small all over the country.
He is qualified as an International Commercial Arbitrator and is fluent in Russian.
He is registered as a Direct Access Barrister.
Colin McCarraher has advised government departments on Human Rights with regards to the Iraq war and the Republic of Yugoslavia conflict.
He is regularly instructed as leading junior counsel and in that role, recently defended in a 9 million pound drug supply case, murder, major drugs supply and contract killing case.
He represented the Balcombe anti-fracking protesters and frequently advises those engaged in civil disobedience campaigns.
He has been instructed in all aspects of criminal law, prosecuting and defending, particularly serious crime involving banking fraud, organised crime, corruption, money laundering and proceeds of crime. He also appears in human trafficking, child abduction and serious sexual offences.
He served for 25 years in the Royal Naval Reserve and Intelligence Corps (V) so he has a sound knowledge of maritime matters and the Armed forces in general.
Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
Lincoln’s Inn (Hardwicke Scholar). Call 1990
King’s Inns Dublin. Bachelor of Law
University of Cambridge. MA Law
Civil Service Commission Interpreter : Russian
This is the leading authority on voice identification and the first case in England and Wales to rely solely on voice identification using sophisticated auditory techniques without any further supporting evidence. It broke new ground at the time and resulted in a new area of forensic expertise.
This case resulted in the CA deciding that for the purposes of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 Common Assault was to be construed as including Battery. It involved tracing the entire history of the law relating to violence and is used today for statutory construction.
Year of Call - 1990
Michael Fullerton was admitted to the Victorian Supreme Court as a Barrister and Solicitor in 1981. He practised as a solicitor until 1986 when he signed the Bar Roll of Victoria and was admitted to the Inner Temple as a Barrister in 1990.
Able and versatile Australian barrister with 35 years’ experience as defence jury advocate and civil practitioner covering an extensive range of both criminal and civil law including a variety of appellate cases in crime, civil and judicial review.
His civil practice includes advising and litigating on behalf of an array of international clients. His case authorities cover personal injury, common law procedure, commercial law and criminal law.
Regulatory work includes licensing offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals)(England) Regulations 2018, Pet Shop licensing, breeding and selling of animals.
He is registered and conducted many cases on Direct Access and is also a Qualified Mediator.
Personal Injury Quantum Reports
Inner Temple
SE Circuit
Sussex Bar Mess
CBA
PIBA
1982: Admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria.
1990: Called to the Bar of England and Wales.
PRACTICE; Established practitioner of both crime defence and civil law.
Direct Access: Registered and accepted both criminal and civil cases.
Mediator: Qualified August 2008.
Attempted murder – Complex case involving multiple experts on injuries, weapon, glass, CCTV identifying vehicle, cell site and mobile phone evidence.
Historic rapes and ABH. Acquitted on rapes.
Leading Ms. Chiara Maddocks. 8-week carbon credit fraud. Six hander, conspiracy to defraud and conspiracy to convert criminal property. Voluminous commercial, financial and digital evidence, expert evidence and over 50 lay witnesses. Acquitted on both charges.
s.8 Animal Welfare Act offences re organised dog fighting.
Conspiracy to produce cannabis – Cut-throat three-hander. DNA, fingerprint and satellite navigation evidence.
s18 GBH. Suspended sentence and compensation order.
Benefit Fraud, Suspended sentence.
Sexual assaults – Acquitted on both charges.
Possessing criminal property. Acquitted.
Aggravated burglary, false imprisonment and robbery. Firearms, knives. Acquitted on all charges.
Theft of BMW removed beyond EU. Trial 1 – hung jury. Trial 2 – Acquitted.
Affray, Offensive Weapon, Damaging Property. Absent witness, Hearsay evidence successfully excluded. Three hander. Acquitted.
Acting in breach of Restraining Order – Acquitted.
PWIT – 5 counts of class A and having article with blade – Secured agreement for reduced indictment and sentence.
s.18 and s.20 GBH. Secured agreement for ABH & suspended sentence.
Arson – Fitness to plead enquiry – capacity to form intent.
Burglary & Theft – secured agreement to Theft only – penalty of fine.
Burglary, Damaging Ppty and Theft – Secured agreement to amended indictment re damaging ppty only. Community Order and Restraining Order.
PWIT –Various Class A & B – Community Order and suspension of curfew.
Making indecent photos of child – Cats A, B & C. Possessing extreme photographs. Expert report obtained and at trial prosecution offer no evidence.
S.18 GBH and ABH. Secured agreement for Affray.
Affray – suspended sentence.
POCA hearing.
Two separate counts of Dangerous Driving – hung jury on one count.
ABH and having offensive weapon – Acquitted on both counts.
Putting person in fear of violence by harassment, breach of Non-Molestation Order, ABH, Dangerous Driving. Secure agreement to harassment count only.
PWIT – Class A. Secure agreement to possession only.
ABH – Exclusion of hearsay evidence and BWV – Acquitted.
Kemp & Kemp, The Quantum of Damages Vol. 3 F2-001 (Leading case on whiplash injury);
EWCA Civ 361; [2001] PIQR Q13 (loss of chance)
EWCA Civ 361; [2001] PIQR Q13 (loss of chance)
EWCA Civ 1261 (toboggan accident)
EWCA Civ 546 (Costs of company awarded against Director)
EWHC 500 (Admin) (Animal Welfare)
EWCA Crim 348 (Industrial scale production of cannabis)
EWHC 1418 (Admin) (unlawful use of warrant)
Companies Court. Part 7 and Part 8 claims. International Share purchase agreement & cross-application. Application to re-open previous High Court judgment and various costs orders successfully defended against Leading Counsel.
FPM – Central London County Court – Appeal under s.214 Housing Act 2004 for failing to protect deposit. Secured massive reduction of claimed costs.
Upper limb work related claim – settled for Claimant.
Resulting and Constructive property claim against family member. Claim succeeds.
Setting aside default judgment.
Defending Dogbite claim.
Appeal under s.214 Housing Act 2004 for failing to protect deposit. Secured massive reduction of claimed costs.
Infant settlement including substantial award for gratuitous care by friend of family.
Family Division – Opposing Local Authority Application for Contempt of Court. Application dismissed with costs.
Opposing Appeal against Order dismissing claim for defamation. Appeal dismissed.
Fraud involving summary judgment against fraudulent accountant, Freezing Orders and Injunction involving firms of solicitors, fraud and restitution concerning national company, Insolvency and bankruptcy.
Litigation regarding contractual disputes, building and construction, shareholding and directorships, international drilling contracts.
Litigation against multi-national oil companies in Niger delta.
Year of Call - 1991
At a recent murder trial, a senior Old Bailey Judge, specifically commended Stephen
Bailey, for the “Excellent representation of his client during the trial” See the case of A (2010.)
The Director of Liberty Law, Attiq Malik, describes Stephen as “a true master of advocacy” and Church Court Chambers should be “proud” to have him.
• Instructed on a regular basis in two counsel cases, as leading counsel.
• Instructed in serious, complex and difficult cases but always available to represent clients at all levels of criminal cases to ensure that the client has the best available representation.
• A first – class and very successful trial barrister. A go-to lawyer.
• A hard working and dedicated defence brief, who always presents to the court, fearlessly and without regard to his personal interests, the defence of his client.
• Excellent client care skills.
• A likeable and very approachable lawyer.
Extensive experience in cases involving:
• Serious fraud, murder and sex cases, as leading and junior counsel.
• Organised criminal gangs
• Defendants’ turning “Queen’s Evidence” See the cases of R -V- B Maidstone C.C., and R -V- H Nottingham C.C.
• Mental health, fitness to plead and fitness to stand trial issues.
• The representation of young or vulnerable clients.
• The difficult and sensitive area of the cross examination of child witnesses.
• The cross examination of expert witnesses, in relation to such diverse matters as pathology, blood
spatter evidence, D.N.A, ballistics, fire arms residue, cell site analysis and forensic accountants.
• The vital area in case preparation, of disclosure, P.I.I. and third party disclosure
C.B.A. & South Eastern Circuit.
V.H.C.C: V.H.C.C. accredited.
A 3 handed conspiracy to defraud / commit forgery (production of counterfeit / forged immigration documents). The issues included a cut throat defence by a partially sighted co-defendant, alleged by the Crown to have held himself out as an immigration lawyer and therefore able to assist his clients in obtaining false do.
Murder (led junior). A 12 handed gangland shooting case. Cut throat defences abound. Cell site analysis played a key part in this case. 8 week trial. Reported in the media.
Rape. Complainant had psychological difficulties.
Kidnap and false imprisonment in the context of an attempted rape.
Murder (leading counsel). Drug gang execution. Cut throat defence. Cell site analysis and CCTV analysis played significant roles in the trial.
Murder (leading counsel). The multiple and frenzied stabbing of the defendant’s drug dealer who attempted to rob and attack the defendant with a baseball bat and knife. Unlawful burial of the corpse. Detailed cross examination of the pathologist and blood spatter expert. Bad character played a significant role in the trial. Reported in the media.
Murder (led junior). The execution (shooting) of two hit men who had attended the defendant’s small holding with a view to committing arson and to attack the defendant. Mobile phone evidence, D.N.A, ballistics and bad character played significant roles in this trial. Reported in the media.
Sexual assaults in relation to 3 of the defendant’s step children and computer downloading of voluminous quantities of child pornography. A forensic computer expert was instructed to analyse this case and to give evidence as to the likely user of the computer at the relevant times of the downloads, based upon the actual internet activity on the computer over a 6 month period.
A two handed, historic sexual abuse case. Stephen defended the first defendant, who had been accused of sexually assaulting an 11 year old pupil, when he was a senior lay teacher at St Benedict’s Roman Catholic School. It is noteworthy, that the defence adduced at trial the defendant’s previous convictions (guilty pleas) to similar allegations against former pupils, in three previous prosecutions, as part of the defence case.
This case, and several other cases in relation to this school, have been reported in The Times newspaper. Lord Carlile of Berriew, recently lead an inquiry into sexual abuse at St Benedict’s in the 1970’s and also into the efficacy of the past and current child protection provisions at the school.
A nightclub doorman was accused of raping a customer jn the toilets of the club. Reported in the media.
A very unpleasant child cruelty case.
An historic case, of systemic rape and sexual assaults by the defendant of 3 of his grand children and two of their young friends over a period of 4 years.
Murder (junior alone). The successful defence of a Polish man, accused of murdering a fellow compatriot. As a result of defence submissions, the Crown were persuaded to offer ” no evidence” prior to the P.C.M.H.
A 4 handed witness intimidation case with threats to kill a key witness if he gave evidence the following day in a murder trial. Reported in the media.
A case of the utmost sensitivity involving P.I.I. and informant information. A very successful result.
Murder (led junior counsel). The issue in this case was whether the strangulation / death of the defendant’s partner, occurred during a consensual sex game and was manslaughter, or did not and was murder. Reported in the media.
A major 5 handed conspiracy to steal railway equipment.
Murder (leading counsel). The preliminary issue here, was whether the defendant was fit to plead and or stand trial. The issue at trial, was whether the defendant “did the act”. The case had a heavy forensic scientific content, notably pathology, blood spatter and psychiatric evidence. The representation of Ali, was described by the trial judge, as “excellent” (See above). The case included a relatively novel aspect, as the defendant who was “unfit” to travel south, watched and participated in the proceedings, via video link from Sheffield Crown Court.
Manslaughter (junior alone). The Issue was self defence. A one punch manslaughter case. Reported in the media.
Representing the first defendant, in a multi million pound,
12 handed cannabis cultivation case, using dozens of house in the wider Newcastle area.
Representing one of the main defendants’ in a 16 handed
conspiracy to supply Class “A “drugs between Birmingham and South Wales. The case included a significant amounts of probe and surveillance evidence.
The stabbing of the defendant’s drug dealer. The defence raised diminished responsibility and intoxication.
(Led junior counsel) Stephen conducted the majority of the cross examination of the co-defendants’ in a 6 handed cut throat murder case. The case flowed from a nationwide cannabis cultivation conspiracy. The deceased was punished / attacked for stealing a crop from one of the factories.
An 8 handed, major nationwide D.S.S. fraud.
A 16 handed, conspiracy to supply Class “A” drugs. The case
involved 150 hours of undercover surveillance evidence and test purchasing audio / video tapes. The defendant relied upon the defence of duress.
A 5 handed conspiracy to supply Class “A” drugs. The issues
were duress and entrapment.
A 4 handed conspiracy to import / supply Class “A” drugs with an actual supply to two undercover officers. The issues included entrapment and duress and the admissibility and relevance of an intelligence gathering interview ( the officers were in the witness box for 3 ½ days). The defendant was in the witness box, giving evidence in chief for 3 days. The defendant admitted to being a retired drugs dealer / police informant in Nairobi, Kenya.
A 7 handed attempted murder and violent disorder, at the
Vaisakhi festival, emanating from political differences between worshipers at a Sikh Temple in Birmingham. Reported in the media.
A 3 handed murder case. The Crown successfully applied for multiple anonymity of witness orders.
Representing a 12 year old boy charged along with 5 other boys under the age of 15, with the manslaughter of a 65 year old man. The issues were joint enterprise, causation, and the legal requirements of unlawful act manslaughter. The conviction was overturned on appeal. Reported in the media.
Murder. The Issue was the identity of the killer.
Murder. The issues included the conflict of expert evidence as to whether the stab wound was consistent with the claim of self defence, whether the client was fit to plead and stand trial and whether “he did the act.” Mental Health Act disposal.
A 7 handed Murder case. The case involved a 16 year old contract killer who turned Queen’s Evidence.
An 8 handed conspiracy to import Class “A” drugs from several islands in the West Indies and South America, with a further conspiracy to supply the drugs within the U.K. – Birmingham. The issues included a cut throat defence, cell site analysis, mobile phone evidence and significant disclosure matters. As a result of a section 8 C.P.I.A. 1996, disclosure request, on behalf of this defendant, the Crown offered no evidence against her.
A 16 handed conspiracy to import and supply Class “A” drugs within the UK – London to Birmingham, and Yorkshire. The issues included probe evidence, mobile phone and observation evidence.
The possession with intent to supply “Class A” drugs between
Leeds and London . The issues included entrapment and or fit up.
A 6 handed conspiracy to supply Class “A” drugs. The issues
included a detailed cross examination of 16 surveillance officers and disclosure.
A 7 handed conspiracy to import Class “B” drugs. The issues
included one defendant turning Queen’s Evidence. The client’s co-defendant brother, was a serving
National Crime Squad officer. The case was stayed for an abuse of process, three months after the trial
started.
a 14 handed rape case. The one co-defendant at trial, had committed the offence whilst on the run for the murder of W.P.C. Beshenivsky.
An historic 4 handed gang rape and false imprisonment of two 13 year old girls, over a 3 day period, in 1995. The client was arrested in 2004, on the basis of advances in D.N.A. technology. Stephen led the submissions re: abuse of process (investigative failings). The conviction was overturned in the Court of Appeal, on the basis of the claim of an abuse of process.
A 6 handed conspiracy to commit kidnap, false imprisonment, blackmail, rape, indecent assault and possession of firearms with intent re: 3 complainants. The issues included similar fact evidence and the admissibility of the statement of an unavailable complainant. The defendants were described by the Crown as “dangerous members of a mafia style, Eastern European protection racket”.
A 6 handed conspiracy to commit armed robbery / burglary of
circa 75 supermarkets and warehouses in the South East, over a 12 month period. The issues included a
cut throat defence, the extent of the clients involvement and cell site analysis.
Wine investment / boiler room conspiracy to defraud investors of over £4 million (leading counsel.) 10 week trial. Reported in the media.
Representing (leading counsel) the first defendant, in a 5 handed conspiracy to steal over £1 million, from a bank account. The funds were laundered by a practising solicitor – one of the co-defendants’ at trial. The client had a cut throat defence with 3 of the 5 defendants. Reported in the media.
Represented the first defendant on the Indictment, in a 5 handed conspiracy to defraud / steal 30 high value cars from national dealerships, by making fraudulent applications for loans / hire purchase.
Represented the director of a company, in a 3 handed conspiracy to defraud people who had paid for time share accommodation and cheap flights. Reported in the media.
A 5 handed conspiracy re a large scale and complex car cloning case. The issues included the admissibility of bad character evidence, a cut throat defence and fit up.
A V.A.T. fraud over 8 years by a West London chain of
restaurants
Year of Call - 1992
Alex Specialises in Criminal Law and has a particular interest in Human Rights Law and regulatory Law.
His Practice has included high profile and/or complex cases for which he has represented the Defence or Prosecution.
Alex is regularly instructed to represent the Defence or Prosecution in DWP, VOSA, Serco, Trading standards and HM Custom’s fraud cases.
Alex is an approved prosecutor on the CPS panel of advocates and has been regularly instructed by the CPS since called. In addition Alex has acted on behalf of insurance companies and Local Authorities.
For 18 years Alex was the Deputy Managing Director of a group of French companies with branches across Europe which Alex assisted to set up and develop. He was the Director of Sales and marketing for the companies’ overseas operations.
Alex was also the Marketing Executive for EW Facts Plc’s (now Nord Anglia Plc) School of Finance and Management Division. He was responsible for the marketing and development of the company’s overseas operations in the Far East, Africa, Indian Ocean and Caribbean.
Worked as a freelance lecturer in Business Law to undergraduates undertaking the University of Hull BA degree at the School of Finance and Management in London. Alex was also a part time lecturer to undergraduates undertaking the University of London LLB degrees and to post graduates taking the Inns of Courts, Bar Final Examinations at the London School of Law. Alex was involved in the training of trading standard officers on enforcement laws in Northern Ireland. Speaks fluent French and Italian
Practice Detail
Crime: Serious Fraud, Murder, attempted murder, manslaughter, rape, kidnapping, torture, armed robbery, blackmail, child abduction, false imprisonment, serious drug offences, organised crime and serious motor prosecutions
Health & Safety: Represented individuals and companies prosecuted under the Health & Safety Act, Food Trading standards and other regulatory legislation including fatal accidents. Represented families, local authorities, individuals and companies at Inquests.
Immigration: Asylum applications, entry clearance appeals on behalf of visitors, students and businesses following refusals of their applications and judicial reviews. Alex is especially interested in the link between immigration issues and Human Rights Law.
Alex works as a freelance lecturer in Business Law to undergraduates undertaking the University of Hull BA degree at the School of Finance and Management in London. Alex was also a part time lecturer to undergraduates undertaking the University of London LLB degrees and to post graduates taking the Inns of Courts, Bar Final Examinations at the London School of Law. Alex was involved in the training of trading standard officers on enforcement laws in Northern Ireland.
French
Italian
Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB Hons)
Masters of Business Administration (MBA)
Conspiracy, £ 28 Million VAT fraud.
£38 million, confiscation hearing. Resulted in one of the highest confiscation orders in the UK.
Bad character in the Court of Appeal.
Causing Death by Dangerous Driving, allegedly hit a cyclist like a golf ball at 99mph. Found not guilty.
Organised crime involving black on black killings in North London and Indian/Pakistani gang war crime.
False imprisonment involving the torture of a vulnerable witness with disabilities found gagged with his arms and legs tied up by the police. Found not guilty.
Successfully represented a major European airline against customs and Excise.
Year of Call - 1994
Glenn is a specialist criminal defence advocate. He has a significant practice as both leading and junior counsel in very serious cases such as murder, robbery, serious sexual offences, drugs and fraud. In addition Glenn advices on criminal and regulatory matters evolving from maritime offences.
His reputation as a fearless advocate, coupled with excellent client care has meant that he has been instructed in some of the most high-profile and serious cases in recent times.
Glenn Harris has lectured on various aspects of criminal investigations into potential maritime offences and regulatory breaches. He regularly advises one of the most respected city firm of solicitors who specialise in maritime law.
He has previously been instructed as counsel to advise following a ‘fatality at sea’ and as a result of his assistance and representation this has had the effect of preventing a significant criminal prosecution against the ship owners and controllers.
Glenn was recently instructed under the direct access provisions to represent a skipper of a vessel charged with various regulatory offences arising out of an incident in Poole Harbour. He was able to successfully negotiate a much-reduced liability and considerably mitigate the sentence at court.
Historically, he has been instructed in the largest legal-aid fraud of its time (R. v. Pritchard and others) and in R v Twomey and others which was a large scale armed robbery at Heathrow Airport using an inside man. This case took several years to go through the courts, having several aborted trials at significant public expense and which later made legal history and gained notoriety by becoming the first trial without a jury for over 300 years.
Glenn was also instructed as junior counsel to represent one of those accused of the axe murder of Daniel Morgan in 1987, an investigation dogged by police corruption and which yet again resulted in no convictions after lengthy and successful legal arguments on abuse of process. This case is still in the public eye with the Home Secretary announcing an independent review of the case.
Glenn continues with his criminal practice but has broadened his practice to include International Crime, Regulatory work such as Health and Safety and Trading Standards Prosecutions.
As well as his demanding case load, Glenn is currently in the process of embarking on a series of lectures on International Criminal Law to Judges from foreign states and on the Bribery Act.
Recent Years
In 2014 one of Glenn many successes, was his defence of a young man charged with murder and firearms offences following a lengthy retrial at the Old Bailey.
Success continued in 2015 when again he secured the acquittal of a young man accused of murder. In fact, Glenn’s client was the only defendant in the case to be acquitted of all charges he faced. Glenn also successfully defended a father accused of murdering his own daughter and he successfully argued that there was no case to answer for a mother accused of being involved in a large-scale sex trafficking conspiracy.
When not in court Glenn has spent considerable time advising clients and solicitors in connection with alleged war crimes involving a variety of legal and human rights issues arising out of the Syrian crisis. This included complex jurisdictional issues and the procedure and jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.
Glenn’s practice goes from strength to strength and 2016 looks to be a very busy year for him. Having already secured an acquittal of a man accused of a serious assault with a sword, he has been instructed to defend in two murder trials, a terrorist trial, three lengthy fraud trials and a trading standards trial.
Glenn can also be instructed directly having completed the Public Access Course.
Year of Call - 1996
Shaun Esprit is known for having an extremely meticulous approach and an engaging and highly persuasive court presence. He specialises in general crime, corporate crime and regulatory work. He also undertakes work in selected specialised areas of civil law. Shaun both defends and prosecutes, including as a Leading Junior. He is a well-respected barrister, who has an ability to engage with people from all walks of life.
Shaun has appeared a number of times on TV as an expert criminal barrister, including offering detailed commentary and analysis on the Oscar Pistorius’ Trial. All media enquiries for interviews, case comments or analysis on legal news, should be addressed to Chambers’ senior clerk Daniel Bartlett.
Areas of expertise
Crime: including serious violent offences (including murder/manslaughter); sexual offences (rape, child abuse); drugs; regulatory work; fraud
Civil: personal injury; clinical negligence; Court of Protection
Shaun also has a specialist expertise in relation to Proceeds of Crime and the interplay between confiscation proceedings and ancillary relief/financial remedies.
“For Richer, For Poorer”: article on the interplay between confiscation and matrimonial proceedings: The Proceeds of Crime Review (No.2 2008)
“A Fair Share”: article on property rights of cohabitees in context of confiscation/restraint proceedings: The Proceeds of Crime Review (No.4 2009)
“Abuse of Process in Confiscation Proceedings”: The Proceeds of Crime Review (2011)
“Criminal or Casualty: Marine A”: article in Counsel Magazine (2017)
BA (Hons) Oxford University
Common Professional Examination (City University)
Bar Vocational Course
CPS Panel General Crime (Grade 4) and Proceeds of Crime
Specialist Panel (Grade 4)
Fluent French
Fluent Spanish
Defending in large scale conspiracy to supply over 50kg of ketamine (£1.25 million street value).
Prosecuting manslaughter.
Successful appeal to the Court of Appeal for interested third party (wife) in multi-million pound confiscation proceedings.
Attempted murder.
defending historical sexual offences case: defendant acquitted of all 33 offences arsing from alleged incident in 1970s [Stafford Crown Court].
Murder: Central Criminal Court, led by QC
Successful appeal against conviction representing senior consultant physician re possession of indecent images of children (Court of Appeal).
Successful appeal against conviction and subsequent acquittal representing defendant charged with causing death by careless driving.
Murder: Central Criminal Court, led by QC
Defending attempted murder (Blackfriars Crown Court).
Defending attempted murder with gangland background (Inner London).
Cardiff: prison riot; attempted murder/section 18 Cardiff Crown Court.
Lewes Crown Court: representing lead defendant in trial arising from large scale drug importation of Class A drugs in excess of £10,000,000
Defending in prison violent disorder/attempted murder trial (Worcester Crown Court)
Represented Defendant in high-profile multi-handed racially aggravated public disorder case.
Represented Defendant at trial for importation of over 10kg of high purity cocaine.
Prosecution on behalf of RCPO re the importation of 90kg of heroin into UK.
Defended in relation to a conspiracy to commit burglaries and steal high performance motor vehicles for onward sale; value £450,000.
Represented Father in care proceedings arising from his alleged involvement in an extensive paedophile ring
Represented the Sandwell Borough Council in care proceedings arising from alleged anal rape of infant.
Inner London Crown Court: defended firearms case (as led junior) arising from Operation Trident investigation into gun crime.
Represented Appellant before the Employment Appeal Tribunal; setting aside of finding of dishonesty made against senior health care official in his claim for unfair dismissal.
Represented Claimant in successful clinical negligence proceedings arising from obstetrician’s negligence; award of over £500,000 achieved
Defending owner of money exchange business in trial of multi million pound money laundering conspiracy Reading Crown Court.
Prosecuted as led junior a large scale money laundering conspiracy arising from the proceeds of an MTIC fraud.
Prosecuted re-trial of Barclays Bank manager alleged to have stolen from employers as part of a conspiracy with participants in organised crime.
Prosecution on behalf of RCPO re importation of 40kg of herbal cannabis.
Prosecuted on behalf of RCPO case involving just under £1,000,000 evaded duty on imported cigarettes.
EWCA Crim 1368: led junior defending banker allegedly engaged in largest “arrangement fee” fraud ($80,000,000) ever prosecuted by the Serious Fraud Office. Leading authority on issue of accidentally disclosed PII material and its effect on fairness of criminal trial.
McClean McNally, International Attorneys, Turks & Caicos in relation to the first copyright case brought in that jurisdiction (re application and extension of the Copyright Acts 1911 and 1956 and the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1989 to the Turks and Caicos Islands).
Year of Call - 1996
Barrister Robert Newcombe has secured numerous acquittals for clients. For example:
Mortgage Fraud
Murder
Mortgage Fraud
Appeal Against Conviction (Reporting Restrictions apply)
Rape
1. Fraud Act: Mortgage Fraud – Title Fraud: 2 month trial (and two week re-trial) at the Crown Court at Preston. Mr Newcombe’s FCA approved mortgage broker client (of good character) was charged with making false representations on behalf of clients in order to induce mortgage lenders to believe that a number of residential conveyancing transactions were genuine, when they were not. Properties were “sold” without the real owners knowing.The defence case that the broker was not a knowing participant was accepted by the jury. Detailed cross-examination of the Crown expert on a large number of conveyancing files assisted the defendant’s case.
2. Murder: Central Criminal Court: 2 month trial at the Central Criminal Court. Mr Newcombe was led by Mr Kerim Fuad QC, head of Church Court Chambers. A man was stabbed to death outside Stockwell Underground Station during a public order incident. Two young men were tried for murder and several others were charged with conspiracy to commit violent disorder and GBH with intent.The evidence against Mr Newcombe’s client was: (a) he was seen on CCTV running into the fracas; (b) the deceased’s blood was found on his hoody and (c) he was seen on CCTV re-enacting what appeared to be the fatal blow, afterwards.The jury accepted his case that he was neither a principal or secondary party to murder, and he was acquitted of all charges. He had assisted the police with their inquiries at all stages. The forensic evidence of the blood staining was in fact consistent with that which any bystander at the scene may have been expected to have received, according to the prosecution forensic expert, in cross-examination.
3. Conspiracy to Defraud: Mortgage Fraud, tried at the Central Criminal Court. The prosecution case against the defendant (bank employee of good character) collapsed after 4 weeks of financial expert evidence against this defendant and several others. The allegations included use of false documents to obtain many millions of pounds of mortgage advances.Dogged pursuit of disclosure requests, combined with a written submission of “No Case” at the end of the prosecution evidence lead to no evidence being offered at that late stage, against Mr Newcombe’s client.
4. Offence not Disclosable: Appeal against Conviction: Court of Appeal (Criminal Division): Mr Newcombe acted for an Appellant before the Full Court, with leave to appeal, and bail for the Appellant. The nature of the Appeal concerned “Fresh Evidence”. The conviction was quashed. A reporting restriction is in place relating to the Judgment of the Court.
5. Rape: Crown Court at Bradford. The defendant was acquitted of raping his own son, several years earlier. The jury heard about the defendant’s previous conviction for unlawful sexual intercourse with his step-daughter (aged 15 ½ at the time). This conviction’s use by the jury was limited to background only and not propensity, after submissions before the learned judge.
In 2015 Mr Newcombe represented a Bishop (of previous good character) who was convicted of rapes which occurred many years ago (two week trial, at Inner London Crown Court before HHJ Madge). Four other females also made allegations of indecent and sexual assault, of which he was also convicted. The defendant received a sentence of 25 years imprisonment. In sentencing, the learned judge agreed that a determinate sentence was appropriate notwithstanding that he had made a finding that the defendant was a “Dangerous Offender”.
This was due to the defendant’s age (66) and the length of the determinate sentence to be passed. The learned judge referred the case to the Hon. Lowell Goddard’s Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, for consideration, given his concerns regarding the previous investigation by the Local Authority where some of the females lived and concerns relating to regulation of Churches.
Cyber Fraud and Financial Crime
Robert Newcombe has wide experience in financial crime cases, as well as in multi-million pound cyber frauds – conspiracy to defraud and money laundering. He acts as leading junior counsel or as junior alone in these fraud trials. He has lectured on cyber fraud to solicitors and barristers for CPD: for example with a former Head of Operations of the British Army’s Cyber Warfare branch, as part of the Church Court Chambers lecture series: “Cyber Fraud and Cyber Security: Trojan Botnets, Web-Injects and Mules – Law and Practical Case Management”.
Wide Ranging Experience
Robert Newcombe has a breadth and depth of criminal law experience and is often engaged by clients (often of good character and high standing in the community) specifically because of his ability to master technically complex facts and legal areas.
A recent case involved a CHIS (Covert Human Intelligence Source). The abuse of process hearing relating to prosecution disclosure lasted for four weeks. RIPA Authorizations; Search Warrants; Open Justice; potential Waiver of Privilege by the Crown and the Burden and Standard of Proof were issues on which Robert submitted written documents, and made submissions.
Robert has acted as trial counsel in over a dozen homicide cases at the Central Criminal Court and elsewhere. In a Newton Hearing in 2016 at the Central Criminal Court involving 2 days of evidence, acting as junior alone, Robert succeeded in persuading the learned judge that the killing had not been done for financial gain as the Crown alleged – which reduced the Life sentence by 20 years. In other murder cases Robert has been instructed as junior counsel to QCs, and has conducted attempted murder trials as junior counsel alone.
He acted as leading junior counsel in a nine handed conspiracy to defraud for two months at Southwark Crown Court, where the client was first on the indictment. Issues involved the scope of the conspiracy and guilty pleas of two co-defendants, and whether their bases of plea were admissible.
Robert Newcombe also led another barrister in chambers, Oliver Grimwood, in a successful two month money laundering trial where video-links to witnesses in Jamaica were set up.
Firearms
Mr Newcombe has acted as junior alone, representing clients for attempted murder and is very familiar with firearms and their legitimate and illegal uses. Antique hammer guns or concealed key-ring guns or fully automatic machine pistols – Robert has a wide array of experience with their deployment. He has lectured to barristers and solicitors on this technical area.
Environment and Planning Law
Robert Newcombe is also a specialist in cases prosecuted by the Environment Agency, including all waste and pollution matters and the Environmental regulatory offences. He often acts for businesses and landowners. After a nine week trial in 2013 his landowning client was acquitted of s.33 Environmental Protection Act matters. A strong challenge was made to the use of covert surveillance by the Environment Agency, the use of which is not authorised under the Police Act 1997.
In addition to his Environmental Law expertise, Robert Newcombe also is instructed to defend and prosecute in Planning Enforcement cases under the provisions of section 179 et sec of the Town and Country Planning Acts. These have included Appeals to the Inspector and Statutory Appeals to the High Court and injunctions, as well as jury trials.
His Regulatory work also includes cases prosecuted by the Health & Safety Executive. In 2014 he represented a business owner at Southwark Crown Court who was tried for breaches of the Work at Height Regulations, which resulted in the fatality of an employee.
Expert Evidence
Robert Newcombe has a real flair for dealing with contentious expert evidence, whether it be financial, FCA related evidence; or medical evidence including brain injuries; or blood spatter, glass shards, ballistics and DNA evidence; or surveyors’ reports regarding baselines on land levels; or cell site and telecoms evidence; or engineering or waste management industry expert evidence.
Reported Cases
R v Mitchell [2004] EWCA Crim 3206 – Rape conviction, appeal dismissed. (S.41 YJCEA 1999 – temporal provisions).
R v Kuosmanen [2005] 1 Cr. App. R. (S.) 354 – ID documents sentencing.
R v C [2015] CA(CD) – Reporting Restrictions Apply.
Cyber fraud and Cyber Security: Trojan Botnets, Web Injects and Mules (at the University of Northumbria’s Centre for Evidence and Criminal Justice Studies) and as part of the Church Court Chambers’ CPD Lecture series.
Firearms: Law and Case Management (CPD for practitioners)
Defending Environmental Prosecutions (CPD for practitioners)
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn
Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers
Criminal Bar Association
UK Environmental Law Association
Royal Forestry Society
Leading Dejan Mladenovic of chambers. Defendant denied conspiracy to manufacture and distribute identity documents on an industrial scale. He was convicted and sentenced to 4 years imprisonment after a two month trial.
Leading counsel in two day Proceeds of Crime and sentencing hearing involving multi-million pound drugs conspiracy. Negative equity in residential property portfolio.
Leading Oliver Grimwood of chambers. Defendant was acquitted of laundering cash to Jamaica using money transfer companies after a two month trial.
Leading counsel, where defendant was convicted of being in possession of a Skorpion sub-machine pistol, key-ring gun and handgun, and more than a kilo of heroin, with intent to supply. Defendant granted bail between conviction and sentence.
Multi-handed fatal stabbing and perverting the course of justice. To be tried in 2017. Led by Kerim Fuad QC.
Defendant acquitted of Murder after being present at the scene of a fatal stabbing, led by Kerim Fuad QC.
Defendant acquitted of Murder after a man was bludgeoned to death on the back seat of the car he was driving, led by Tim Barnes QC.
Defendant acquitted of Murder after three-way cut-throat defences, led by Nigel Baker QC.
Defendant stabbed father and pleaded guilty to Manslaughter on day of trial (provocation); not guilty of Murder, lead by Paul Sloan QC.
Defendant convicted of Murder in the course of robbery on elderly victim. Identity and causation in issue, with numerous similar fact robberies. Medical evidence challenged from neuropathologist; pathologist; neurosurgeon; A&E registrar; ambulance crew and GP, led by Tim Barnes QC.
Defendant pleaded guilty to Manslaughter after injecting friend with heroin, led by Nigel Rumfitt QC.
Murder. Newton Hearing against QC. 2 days of evidence to determine whether Crown could prove whether killing was for financial gain. Finding in favour of defendant which meant Life sentence was some 20 years lower than might otherwise have been the case. Aggravating factors were concealment of body.
Defendant acquitted of Attempted Murder after injured party was shot in the head with a .22 shot cartridge fired from a pre-1880 hammer pistol. Both defendants were successful with their defence of accident.
Defendant acquitted of joint enterprise Attempted Murder, but convicted of aggravated burglary and possessing (and discharging) a firearm during a Schedule 1 offence. Co-accused was convicted of attempted murder.
Defendant acquitted of Attempted Murder after stabbing his brother 9 times. The jury accepted the defence of self-defence. The assailant brother was unarmed.
Defendant was acquitted of Conspiracy to Supply Class A drugs. 25kg of drugs in the boot of his car as he entered the UK from a ferry. The two co-accused in the vehicle when it was stopped by Customs were convicted.
Joint enterprise Murder allegation.
Defendant acquitted of Murder after man bludgeoned to death on back seat of the car he was driving.
Defendant acquitted of Murder after three-way cut-throat defences.
Defendant stabbed father and pleaded guilty to manslaughter on day of trial (provocation); not guilty of Murder.
Defendant convicted of murder in the course of robbery on elderly victim. Identity and causation in issue, with similar fact robberies. Medical evidence challenged from neuropathologist; pathologist; neurosurgeon; A&E registrar; ambulance crew and GP.
Defendant pleaded guilty to Manslaughter after injecting friend with heroin.
Defendant acquitted of Attempted Murder after injured party was shot in the head with a .22 shot cartridge fired from a pre-1880 hammer pistol. Both defendants were successful with their defence of accident.
Defendant acquitted of Attempted Murder, but convicted of aggravated burglary and possessing (and discharging) a firearm during a Schedule 1 offence.
Defendant acquitted of Conspiracy to Supply Class A drugs. 25kg of drugs in the boot of his car as he entered the UK from a ferry.
Mortgage fraud and money laundering involving fraud on the title of residential properties (re-trial 2015).
Mortgage fraud relating to over 170 residential properties. Conspiracy to Defraud and Obtaining money transfers by deception (for trial 2015).
Leading Dejan Mladenovic of chambers. Defendant denied conspiracy to manufacture and distribute identity documents on an industrial scale. He was convicted and sentenced to 4 years imprisonment after a two month trial.
Leading Oliver Grimwood of chambers. Defendant was acquitted of laundering cash to Jamaica using money transfer companies after a two month trial.
Defendant deputy manager of nursing home convicted of similar fact ill-treatment of multiple residents under s. 44 Mental Capacity Act.
Defendant found unfit to stand trial due to progressive brain tumour – fraud in breach of trust alleged to be £½ million.
Operation Lath: investigation commenced by FBI in USA and involved a conspiracy to defraud UK banks of tens of millions of pounds. The Zeus Trojan virus had been utilised by a sophisticated criminal syndicate to assist in withdrawing funds from internet accessible bank accounts.
This case involved the use of Trojan botnets (to acquire compromised sensitive data), web-injects (to phish) and money laundering mules (to cash-out from drop accounts).
Operation Mandrill: investigation into conspiracy to defraud the Student Loans Company of millions of pounds together with a further conspiracy to defraud UK banks.
This case involved the use of Trojan botnets (to acquire compromised sensitive data), web-injects (to phish) and money laundering mules (to cash-out from drop accounts).
Mortgage fraud and money laundering involving fraud on the title of residential properties: Acquittal.
Mortgage fraud relating to over 170 residential properties. Conspiracy to Defraud and Obtaining money transfers by deception: Acquittal.
Defendant deputy manager of nursing home convicted of similar fact ill-treatment of multiple residents under s. 44 Mental Capacity Act. Expert opinion taken from one of the country’s leading professor’s of psychology to establish whether a base-line existed beyond which the nominal complainants lacked capacity.
Defendant found unfit to stand trial due to progressive brain tumour – fraud in breach of trust alleged to be £½ million. Crown Offered No Evidence.
Defendant convicted of sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder impeding choice, where 27 year old complainant had a mental age of 4-5.
Abuse of Process involving CHIS, lasting 4 weeks. Reporting Restrictions apply.
Defendant acquitted after 9 week trial of Permitting the Deposit of Controlled Waste, offence under s. 33 Environmental Protection Act. Defence consisted of suitability of deposited material and the de minimis principle and statutory defence. Challenge to the policy of permitting trespass by EA officers even though no Police Act 1997 authorisation is possible.
Defendant pleaded guilty very early in proceedings to numerous charges contrary to the Transfrontier Shipment of Waste Regulations and was sentenced to a non-custodial sentence.
Defendant sentenced to a non-custodial sentence after permitting the deposit of hundreds of tons of controlled waste at a swan sanctuary.
Defendant convicted of breaches of the Work at Height Regulations, resulting in a fatal fall from scaffolding, after failing to attend for his trial (whilst serving a life sentence for murder).
Robert Newcombe has been involved with many cases where lack of mental capacity has been in issue and is interested to explore further cases in this area.
Lancashire Mortgage Corporation v Ikoku and Onabrakpeya – the signatory to a false mortgage application was advised to submit to questions on his affidavit of means. He was then not charged with any offence.
Article 2 Right to Life Application for emergency injunction (on behalf of alleged murderer while awaiting trial) to prevent footage of murder victim being broadcast. BBC submitted that the Human Rights Act did not apply to its broadcast function, but this was rejected by Collins J: it was arguable that it did for the purposes of the application.
Statutory appeals to High Court and injunctions specifically in relation to the Town & Country Planning Act.
Year of Call - 1997
Alkan acts in a broad range of commercial litigation, arbitration and transaction matters. His focus includes high value commercial transactions, cross-border banking and finance, banking regulation, commodities trade disputes.
Prior to the Bar, Alkan worked for Clifford Chance and has developed hands-on experience in financial services regulation and banking and finance products such as derivatives and offshore investment funds. At Clifford Chance, he advised a number of pension funds, hedge funds, private equity funds, insurance companies and institutional investors.
Alkan has also advised major banks including The Royal Bank of Scotland, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs and Bank of America Merrill Lynch on a range of complex disputes involving both institutional and private investors.
At the height of the banking crisis in 2009, Alkan counseled banks on disputes relating to International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) contracts, structured investment transactions, off-shore investment trusts, bank insolvency, FSA/FCA regulatory breaches and anti-money laundering.
Alkan is also a regular commentator on a range of international legal issues and geo-political risks in emerging markets having provided commentary for publications such as Africa Asset Management and MENA Insurance Review.
More recently, Alkan has also advised on legal issues affecting fine arts and antiquities. He has also written extensively on the Elgin Marbles, the Hague Convention and the looting of antiquities in Iraq and Syria.
Called to the Bar, Lincoln’s Inn 1997
University College, London, LL.M. (International Business Law) 1996
Acting for a major US bank in a dispute with a Luxembourg hedge fund.
Defending a UK bank in a claim by a private high net worth client involving financial promotions rules.
Mediating a dispute between East European high net worth clients involving the sale/purchase of oil.
Acting for a Middle East sovereign fund investor in a claim against US and Swiss banks.
Advising a private client in respect of financial mis-selling by a UK bank.
Advising on cross-border civil fraud/breach of trust proceedings in the Caribbean.
Advising shareholders on breach of director’s duties and asset tracing.
Year of Call - 1999
Kevin is a hugely experienced and talented criminal defence barrister and his practice caters mainly for private clients and those who are publicly funded.
Kevin was called to the Bar in 1999 and has been in continual practice in London ever since.
He is highly regarded by both the solicitors who instruct him and the barristers who appear with or against him in court. Judges who know him have described him as an “assured and highly skilled advocate”. He is regularly instructed in the most serious and complex cases both in the Crown Court and in the Court of Appeal. He recently secured an appeal against conviction for a victim of trafficking who was wrongly prosecuted and convicted in the Crown Court. R v HHD [2018] EWCA Crim 2995 a case which now appears in the CPS guidance on issues surrounding Human Trafficking, Smuggling and Slavery.
Queens Counsel who have led him in complex trials value his tactical awareness, tenacity and attention to detail.
As a cross-examiner he is known as a barrister who can undermine the most confident of witnesses and expose weaknesses in evidence others have missed. Due to the reputation he has earned over the years other counsel regularly seek his advice. Kevin is known to have excellent judgement which, combined with a sharp legal brain make him a hugely popular choice with both lay and professional clients.
His vast experience and well-earned reputation has meant he has been instructed in high profile cases in courts both inside and outside London.
He has successfully defended in the most serious cases including those alleging murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, large scale drugs conspiracies, fraud conspiracies, gun crime, bomb making and sex offences. He was also instructed in the first case of its kind brought to court in relation to coercive and controlling behaviour under s.76 Serious Crime Act 2015.
Kevin regularly acts as leading counsel in complex trials and secured the only acquittal as leading counsel in the very first “slave” case brought to trial in the UK in nearly 200 years. The trial lasted three months and was described by the trial judge as one of the “most complex any jury would ever have to deal with”.
Despite a very heavy work load Kevin plays an active part in the management of his chambers and is an active member of various legal, professional bodies. He sits on the South Eastern Circuit committee and is Chair of his local Bar Mess. Kevin is heavily committed to diversity within the profession and takes part in initiatives both inside and outside his Chambers to ensure the profession fully represents those it serves.
Contributed to SEC committee response to government paper entitled “Breaking the Cycle of Offending”. Contributed to Circuiteer quarterly magazine.
Committee member South Eastern Circuit
Chair of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Bar Mess
Member of Middle Temple Inn
Chambers representative for Middle Temple Inn
Member of the Northern Ireland Bar
Member of the CBA
Kevin acted as leading counsel in a murder trial at the Bailey. The defendant decided to plead guilty after day three and faced an almost certain “whole life order” as the defendant already had a conviction for murder and attempted murder. Kevin, after lengthy submissions successfully persuaded the court not to impose such a sentence.
Attempted murder trial at the Old Bailey. Defendant accused with attempting to kill the victim in order to enforce a drugs debt. The victim had been put in a bath and doused from head to toe with petrol before being set alight, suffering 40% burns to his body. The defendant accepted presence but denied being responsible. The victim had studied law and maintained that the defendant was a drug dealer and was the man responsible for his horrific injuries. Following a three week trial the jury unanimously acquitted the defendant.
Court of Appeal, Kevin won an appeal against conviction in relation to a victim of human trafficking, debt bondage and slavery under s.45 Modern Slavery Act 2015. The case was of such importance it was referred to the Senior Presiding Judge of England and Wales.
People smuggling trial in Portsmouth. Kevin represented a female defendant who had been charged with two others with conspiring to smuggle into the UK vulnerable migrants. The defendant was stopped in Portsmouth and in her van the authorities found 8 migrants. The co-defendants who were in a car behind tried desperately to blame the female driver of the van. Following a lengthy trial, the jury acquitted the female van driver and convicted both the male co-defendants.
Three month fraud conspiracy at Southwark Crown Court. The case involved benefit assessors who agreed to falsify numerous false benefit applications. These benefits paid out over a period of years and were in excess of a million pounds. Kevin led counsel from chambers in this long and very complex case.
Three month murder trial at the Old Bailey successfully defending the “Snapchat Queen” against an allegation of murder. The defendant was prosecuted as a secondary party who was alleged to have wanted to have a man, who wanted to be her boyfriend murdered. She recorded footage of the victim dying on the street and uploaded it onto Snapchat.
Prosecution alleged defendant had smuggled firearms into a property in Luton. Following two days of legal argument Kevin secured the dismissal of the case.
Unusual and novel gross negligence manslaughter trial which involved experts giving evidence from the USA with regard to a drug called Ibogaine. Following lengthy legal argument at the close of the Crowns case the defendant was found not guilty.
The only trial to be conducted with the defendant appearing in court via video-link and not in person in the dock. The trial Judge described the defendant as the “most dangerous man currently in prison in the UK.”
Secured the acquittal of a “faith healer” accused of serious sexual misconduct at Luton Crown Court.
Secured the acquittal of defendant accused of Murder and familial homicide under s. 5 of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 relating to the murder by family members of his sister. The trial lasted 10 weeks and involved the defendants wife trying to blame the defendant. The wife was convicted of the murder.
Represented a defendant at the Old Bailey accused of the double-murder of members of a rival drug gang. The trial lasted 4 months.
Secured the acquittal of a retired professional who was accused of serious sexual assaults which dated back 40 years.
Contract killing trial which lasted 4 weeks and involved six defendant’s. One co-defendant tried to say Kevin’s defendant was heavily involved. Following lengthy cross-examination of this co-defendant by Kevin, the jury convicted the co-defendant and acquitted Kevin’s client.
Serious s.18 GBH trial involving a victim who was a trainee lawyer. Following a detailed attack on the accuracy of the identification evidence by Kevin, the prosecution conceded their case was no longer one they could put before a jury and a not guilty verdict was entered.
Kevin led counsel in first “slave” case of its kind in Wales and led counsel from chambers. Another acquittal was secured whilst the co-defendant was convicted.
Notorious “slave” case, the first of its kind in the UK in 200 years. Mr Molloy led counsel from chambers and secured the only acquittal in the trial. It was described by the trial Judge as “one of the most complex cases any jury would ever have to deal with.”
Represented a client accused of making a bomb and leaving a device outside the address of a love-rival.
Represented a client who was accused of murdering his own mother in the first case of matricide to be heard in Exeter crown court.
Year of Call - 1999
“A force of nature. George has a very quick mind and an electric personality, and is great fun to work with”
Giles Bark-Jones, Principal, Bark & Co, a 'Top Tier' Legal 500 Firm
George is a well-established barrister with an excellent reputation for his specialist knowledge of extradition law and human rights, advocacy and drafting. His background is in serious crime; in this context George has acted in cases of terrorism, murder, drug conspiracies, serious sexual offences and other serious crime. As can be seen below, George has a particular expertise in extradition appeals and securing bail in extradition proceedings.
George is highly experienced at conducting extradition proceedings under Part 1 and Part 2 of the Extradition Act 2003. He has represented numerous individuals before the Westminster Magistrates’ Court and the High Court. George can provide informed advice and effective advocacy at each stage of proceedings.
George relishes advocacy in all its forms, whether addressing a jury, the Court of Appeal, High Court or a District Judge and believes that practising across a number of different fields and forums is a positive advantage in keeping advocacy skills sharp and legal thinking flexible.
George also has considerable experience in civil claims and frequently advises on quantum and liability in tort and contract claims including (i) claims arising from undisclosed commission and (ii) claims arising from negligent / unlawful cavity wall installation.
George has published and lectured extensively on extradition.
George is accredited as a Barrister Pupil Supervisor.
George is authorised to conduct litigation.
George is Public Access qualified.
Recent extradition cases:
On 22 March 2021, George’s client, P.T. was discharged by a District Judge at Westminster Magistrates’ Court following a contested extradition hearing earlier in the month. At the hearing, the defence team led by George had raised issues under the Extradition Act 2003 as follows: s.2 (was Poland to still be considered a judicial authority, s.14 (passage of time), s.20 (trial in absence), and Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights. Ultimately, the District Judge discharged R.T. purely on Article 8 grounds on the basis on the nature of the offending, the age of the offending (18 years old) and the impact of extradition upon P.T. and his wife.
On 18 March 2021, George Hepburne Scott’s client, B.F, an Antiguan national, was sensationally discharged from his part 2 extradition proceedings at Westminster Magistrates Court following a contested case.
B.F. had been arrested at Gatwick airport on 20th January 2020. He was arrested on provisional warrant issued by the National Crime Agency under s.74(B) of the Extradition Act 2003 pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice issued by the USA.
The allegation was that B.F. had committed an offence of possession of a firearm (.32 calibre revolver loaded with two .32 calibre rounds), had been bailed in New York and then, 24 January 1991, failed to appear at his hearing.
The extradition proceedings had then commenced at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Upon further examination by the defence team led by George Hepburne Scott, it transpired that the Red Notice was not applied for until 4 February 2015, some 24 years after the US domestic warrant was issued.
This gave rise to powerful arguments that the passage of time and culpable delay had fundamentally undermined the extradition request: B.K.’s life had profoundly changed in the period; He had led a blameless life including having been employed as a police officer in Antigua.
The defence therefore made repeated and powerful representations to the relevant US District Attorney in New York through the Crown Prosecution Service International Justice and Organised Crime Division. This persistence finally paid off when the US confirmed on 17 March 2021 that it was no longer pursuing the case against B.F. and he was sensationally discharged and released on 18 March 2021.
On 26 February 2021, in the case of Poland v R.G. George’s client was triumphantly discharged on the European Arrest Warrant that he faced for a historical conviction in Poland.
Following a fully contested hearing and complex legal argument, the District Judge ruled in favour of George’s client and rejected Poland’s claim for extradition on Article 8 grounds. The client was naturally overjoyed
On 24 August 2020, in the case of Hungary v TK, George secured a discharge of his client at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on a Hungarian EAW relating to multiple thefts from employer. George’s client was a Hungarian national. The District Judge discharged George’s client on this occasion.
On 25 August 2020, in the case of Greece v AS, George secured the discharge of his client at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on a Greek EAW alleging cannabis cultivation. George’s client was an Albanian national. The District Judge discharged George’s client on this occasion.
On 4 September 2020, in the case of Greece v RK, George secured the discharge of his client at Westminster Magistrates’ Court again on a Greek EAW this one alleging large scale drug trafficking. The client was an Irish National. On this occasion the Deputy Chief Magistrate of England and Wales discharged George’s client.
On 11 September 2020, in the case of Belgium v SH, George’s client, an Albanian national, was sensationally discharged on a Belgian EAW alleging triple-murder. The client was discharged following complex legal argument regarding reopening the identity issue after the initial hearing. On this occasion the client was discharged by the District Judge.
Member of the Criminal Bar Association
Member of the Extradition Lawyers Association
Appeal Against Crown Court Sentence bailii
Appeal Against Crown Court Conviction bailii
Appeal Against Crown Court Conviction bailii
Appeal Against Crown Court Conviction bailii
Successful appeal against a Crown Court sentence where the sentence of 16 months’ immediate custody was quashed and replaced with a Suspended Sentence securing the defendants’ immediate release.
Appeal against Crown Court Sentence where the structure of the Extended Sentence was reduced on appeal.
Appeal against a Crown Court sentence.
Successful appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
Appeal against Crown Court Conviction and Sentence. George was described by Leveson LJ as ‘a powerful advocate’. Bailii
Successful appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
Successful appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
Successful appeal against Crown Court Conviction and Sentence.
Times April 22, 2011 – Successful appeal against Crown Court Conviction. This case involved serious sexual offences and the defendant’s convictions and sentence were all quashed and the defendant was unanimously acquitted by the jury at his retrial.
Successful appeal against Crown Court Sentence. This case involved over 70 TIC’s for Burglary.
Successful appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
Successful prosecution appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
Appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
Successful appeal against Crown Court Sentence.
This was one of the first major cases involving the Extradition Act 2003. This case served to limit the scope of ‘no-evidence’ extraditions involving category 1 territories.
George acted for the Crown in this case which is now the leading authority on stranger kidnapping sentences.
This case involved the concept of the mercy where a terminally ill man was given a sentence that would involve his inevitable death in custody. The appeal was successful.
This case involved the successful appeal of a sentence of 9 years for conspiracy to supply cocaine. Following extensive courtroom exchanges with Mr Justice Calvert-Smith (former DPP) the sentence was reduced from 9 to 7 years.
Successful appeal of Crown Court sentence.
The Halloween Nunchaku murder involved the murder of a 15 year old boy at a Halloween party. George was led by David Fisher QC in this notorious murder trial. BBC
Murder case involving a dealer murdering his best-friend in a frenzied knife attack. George was led by Sascha Wass QC in this trial. BBC
‘Caterham Bus Bomber’: this was an allegation of a ‘home-grown’ terrorist who was found to have a cache of chemical weapons at his home. George successfully defended this man and he was acquitted of all charges. BBC
Successful prosecution of multi-defendant football hooligan case involving widespread public disorder. BBC
Successful prosecution of a serious stranger kidnapping case involving an armed stranger kidnap of young children. George was subsequently instructed by the Crown to appear in the Court of Appeal and this case is now a leading authority of Sentences for Kidnapping. BBC
This case involved an Albanian/Chechen criminal gang selling highly sophisticated cash-point scamming kits to other criminal gangs in Wales. It attracted nationwide publicity including the front page of the Times. BBC
George was initially instructed in this extradition of this notorious Holocaust denier. The extradition was successfully opposed. BBC
George was instructed in this case involving the ‘Gatwick shooter’ who was apprehended and Tasered by police as he wandered around Gatwick Airport brandishing a firearm. BBC
George was instructed to defend a member of this notorious tie-up robbery gang that committed more than 12 robberies involving serious violence. BBC
Serious historical sexual assaults in children’s home. Defendant received 20 years’ custody. BBC
Successful Extradition Appeal (A8) bailii
Very High Profile First Instance Extradition Decision bailii
Extradition case involving Judicial Review of the Home Secretary bailii
Successful Extradition Appeal (s.2) bailii
High Court appeal involving s.2 and Article 8.
High Court appeal involving Article 8.
High Court appeal involving kidnapping allegation.
High Court appeal involving multi-million VAT fraud.
High Court appeal involving multi-million fraud allegation.
High Court appeal involving human trafficking.
Part 2 case involving Murder conviction and Articles 2, 3, & 6.
Complex Part 2 case involving Articles 3, 6, & 8.
High Court appeal involving multi-£ fraud accusation.
High Court appeal involving murder conviction.
High Court appeal involving attempted murder.
High Court appeal involving Article 8.
High Court appeal involving Articles 3, 6, & 8.
High Court appeal involving Article 3.
High Court appeal involving ss. 2, 14, 20 & Article 8.
High Court appeal involving s.2 & Articles 3, 6 & 8.
High Court appeal involving s.14 & Articles 3 & 8.
High Court appeal involving Articles 3 & 8.
High Court appeal involving Article 8.
High Court appeal involving double jeopardy & A8.
High Court appeal involving s.14 & Article 8.
High Court appeal involving s.2 & Article 8.
High Court appeal involving Article 8.
High Court appeal involving ss.2, 14 & Article 8.
High Court appeal involving right to re-trial s.20
High Court appeal involving Articles 6 & 8.
Extradition case involving Judicial Review of the Home Secretary.
Year of Call - 2000
“Reliable with a character that can charm a jury.”
“An excellent advocate who cuts to the heart of the issue. He has a presence in court and superb client care skills.”
Edward’s practice in the UK is predominately Criminal defence. He is regularly instructed to defend clients charged with serious offences including, armed robbery, murder, rape, large scale importation of drugs, fraud and serious violent offences. Edward is an accomplished advocate with a wealth of experience representing clients involved in complicated and serious cases.
He adopts a practical approach to case analyses and problem solving which makes him a “go to lawyer” and a formidable opponent in the court room.
Researched and drafted legal argument in a case that involved EU law and is cited as the leading authority on EU nationals and recommendations for deportation.
Researched and drafted successful grounds of appeal against conviction. Case involved identification evidence and the applicability of the Codes of PACE to civilians.
Researched and drafted grounds of appeal which resulted in the Court of Appeal giving guidance on sentences for offences where knives used to cause serious and fatal injuries.
Represented one of two brothers charged with murder.
Represented a 13 year old charged with attempted murder.
Case involved a high profile murder of a teenager in South London.
Defendant charged with causing grievous bodily harm to a child.
Represented a defendant charged with the fraudulent evasion of VAT payable on importation of pharmaceutical goods. The fraud spanned the UK and Nigeria.
Represented a defendant charged with defrauding HMRC and the DWP. The value of the fraud was estimated to be in excess of one million pounds. Instructed as junior counsel.
High profile multi-handed conspiracy to evade import duty on tobacco. The value of the evasion was estimated to be approximately two million pounds.
Large scale conspiracy involving forged passports and Home Office travel documents. At the time considered to be the largest find of counterfeit passports in the UK.
Representing an international digital media company, in an action against the Government of Ghana in connection with a dispute over termination for convenience clauses in a contract.
Representing a major processor and exporter of tuna products, in a dispute over a distributorship agreement.
Represented a major oil and gas exploration company, in a dispute concerning unlawful interference with contracts and inducing third parties to breach a contract.
Representing a multi-national automotive corporation, in a dispute regarding product liability.
Regularly advising a major soft drinks manufacturer, on issues of employment law.
Year of Call - 2000
Maria is a highly regarded barrister who is well known for her meticulous preparation, fearless approach to each case and persuasive style in Court. She has strong legal skills, intelligent case planning and full commitment to each case she undertakes. She is an excellent communicator who holds the confidence of each client and the Court.
Maria prosecutes and defends all cases of serious crime. She is an accredited grade 4 serious crime prosecutor for the CPS. Maria’s practice includes cases of homicide, manslaughter in the workplace, substantial violence, rape and other serious sexual offences (including historic sexual abuse), multi-handed drug conspiracies, international human trafficking rings, money laundering and multi-million-pound frauds. Maria also has experience prosecuting and defending regulatory crime, health and safety breaches by corporations, noise abatement notices by the local authority, breaches of High Court injunctions and a wide range of environmental offences.
Recorder, Crown Court (2018, North-East Circuit)
Deputy District Judge, Magistrates Court (2017, London and South-East Circuit)
External Advocacy Assessor to the CPS (since 2014)
Accredited advocacy trainer for pupils and in-house advocates (since 2008)
South-East Circuit
Criminal Bar Association
Herts and Beds Bar Mess
Greek
Sentencing youths; appropriate discount to be applied on sentencing guidelines; manslaughter in Finsbury Park, London.
(Led junior) successful prosecution of a murder trial, where the defendant shot his wife and mother in law multiple times with a stolen rifle, before Mrs Justice McGowan; widely reported in the press.
(Led junior) successful prosecution of a murder trial, where the defendant stabbed his partner multiple times following a drug overdose. Successful advice to Treasury Counsel as unduly lenient sentence: [2018] 11 WLUK 19.
(Leading a junior) defending a 17 handed large-scale drugs conspiracy.
Successful defence of historic rapes and sexual offences against a child; specialist cross examination of a vulnerable witness.
Sexual images on social media where the distributor was the maker and appeared in the indecent image; mens rea and strict liability.
Abuse of process in sexual allegations from the 1950s; use of preparatory hearing; severance.
(Led junior) ground-breaking prosecution of the (then) oldest man in the country for prolific sexual offences; unique use of special measures to accommodate the physical needs of the defendant.
Defending a high-profile personal injury claim brought by a rape victim against a defendant outside the statutory limitation period and triggered by the defendant winning substantial sums in the National Lottery.
(Led junior) Prosecuting gross negligence manslaughter and substantial breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act before Mr Justice Popplewell.
Successful defence of contempt of court trial, breaches of environmental regulations and injunctions before Mr Justice Eady, widely reported in the press.
Year of Call - 2001
“I would just like to say thank you for your help and assistance with regard the hearing on Monday. It has been an incredible strain for me over the past months being a LIP and your understanding of my position has helped me tremendously; the outcome of which I could not have asked any more.”
2017
Sumita was called to the Bar in 2001. She practices in the areas of crime and family law. Her practice in the area of family law encompasses the following: Child arrangements (contact and residence); specific issue orders (name change, religion and schooling); adoption and special guardianship applications; domestic violence injunctions; financial matters and disputes and leave to remove from the jurisdiction.
She is able to use her own experiences in understanding that clients in this arena are at their most vulnerable and therefore require counsel who is empathetic to their situation and can provide reassurance; her client care is exceptional and she has an ability to communicate the technical legal process to vulnerable clients. Sumita recognises that at whichever court or stage of the proceedings, the outcome for the client is significant. In addition to this her aim is to achieve the best outcome for the client in the most timeliest manner. She represents parties in all children proceedings, both care and private children law and also undertakes cases in financial remedy proceedings. She also has experience of acting on behalf of parents in care proceedings and recently represented the child in care proceedings, who had separate representation.
As a result of Sumita’s criminal practice, she has particular experience in inter disciplinary cases, where there is a cross over between family law and crime, which provides for tough and effective advocacy.
She has also provided a webinar lecture for the Lexis Nexis website on an update in family law 2017- a yearly roundup.
Sumita’s criminal practice encompasses all areas of serious crime, including murder (arguments on new law of joint enterprise) serious violent and sexual crimes and rape.
The case of R v RH 2017, was an appeal from Oxford Crown Court where LJ Treacy gave sentencing guidance on cases of child abduction. In the reported case of R v Darlow, the Court of Appeal gave guidance on sentencing for cases of indecent exposure, where the Court commented upon ‘Miss Mahtab’s earnest and excellent submissions’. In her serious sexual offences practice, she has represented a serial rapist who was operating in East London, rapes and sexual assaults against minors, grooming cases, historical rapes and relationship rapes. She also has experience in proceedings involving young and vulnerable witnesses and has been involved in many s.28 hearings, and so has the necessary and vital experience in cross examining vulnerable witness. She has had involvement in Operation Bullfinch (Oxford sexual grooming case).
Sumita has been instructed on many multi hander drugs and fraud trials and has experience of dealing with the forensic analysis of scientific evidence and cell site analysis data which is always present in that arena. Due to her exceptional client care skills and ability to put clients at ease, whilst at the same time instilling confidence, she is particularly effective in dealing with vulnerable clients and has conducted finding of fact hearings upon a finding of unfitness to plead and has also represented defendants requiring an intermediary. She takes great care to ensure that each case is fully prepared and all legal arguments made in a timely manner, in fact in a recent rape case, following a section 8 disclosure application being aggressively pursued, the Crown subsequently offered no evidence.
She has also appeared at the Court of Appeal, including cases which have been reported in the law reports.
Current instructions include:
R v X: Led by Amjad Malik QC in a multi hander defence trial involving an organised crime network ‘Encrochat’ prosecution.
R v K: Sole counsel on behalf of a mentally vulnerable defendant in a historic sex case.
R v. B: Sole counsel on behalf of the defence in a sex case involving a vulnerable and young complainant (s.28 case).
R v. W: Sole counsel on behalf of the defence in a historic sex case, which has included legal arguments on the admissibility of ABE.
R v. S: Sole counsel on behalf of the defence in a historic sex case when the defendant was a youth.
Recently concluded instructions include:
August 2021, R v. A- Led junior in a 4 week trial at Southwark crown court prosecuted by Trading Standards. The trial included legal arguments of duplicity of the indictment, s.8 disclosure arguments and legal arguments, including the definition of a ‘trader’ within the Business Protection from Misleading Marketing Regulations 2008.
R v. J: Sole counsel in rape case involving young defendant and complainant involving analysis of DNA evidence.
R v. F: Leading junior in a 9 -hander, 5 month perverting the course of justice trial where 5 of the co-defendants were being tried for murder.
Direct public access
Member of the Criminal Bar Association
Member of the Family Bar Association
Pupil supervisor in Chambers
School Governor in Barnet
Former volunteer in National Bar Mock Competitions
Former school advisor to schools in the London Borough of Newham
LLB (Hons) University of Northumbria at Newcastle
Called to the Bar in July 2001 by the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn
Fluent Sylheti Bengali
Conversational Hindi and Urdu
Sumita undertakes all forms of private and public law children work and also accepts instructions in ancillary relief matters, having practised at all levels including the High Court.
Led junior on Murder at Oxford Crown Court. Issues as to the new law on joint enterprise, including lengthy and detailed arguments on hearsay and bad character.
Section 18 GBH on pregnant partner with multiple stabbings.
Section 18 GBH attack with hammer on the street. Not guilty to section 18 GBH.
Threats to kill made by wife against husband during a prolonged incident with a knife. Not guilty.
Court of Appeal reported case law on sentencing for offences of exposure, where the Court commented upon ‘Miss Mahtab’s earnest and excellent submissions’.
Led junior at Snaresbrook Crown Court where the defendant faced trial for a series of stranger rapes in the East End of London.
Rape and sexual activity with a child. Alleged grooming over a considerable period of time. Not guilty.
Rape and sexual activity with a child. Not guilty.
Woolwich Crown Court, Rape of girlfriend. Not guilty.
Marital rape, involving issues of immigration, complainant’s capacity to consent and intermediaries.
Marital rape of 4 counts, involving issues of immigration. Upon section 8 disclosure applications being vigorously pursued, Crown reviewed the case and offered no evidence.
Led junior at Reading Crown Court in a multi-hander case involving conspiracy to supply large consignments of cannabis.
Multi hander conspiracy to supply class A drugs and money laundering.
Multi hander conspiracy to import class A drugs, involved PII legal arguments.
Possession of firearm. Expert evidence on the issue of antique firearm.
Child abduction by a parent. Legal argument regarding interpretation of defence available.
This was the reported case at Oxford Crown Court of the bogus MI5 agent who was jailed for conning his ex-girlfriend!
Led junior at Birmingham Crown Court, involving a family alleged to have conspired together to launder the proceeds of the two brothers’ drug dealing.
Sumita also practices in the areas of housing and landlord and tenant (both residential and commercial). She has extensive experience in possession hearings and also has experience in defending actions brought by social landlords.
Her practice also comprises conducting county court trials from the small claims track to the multi track in areas ranging from RTA’ s to contractual disputes.
Year of Call - 2002
Rajesh is an experienced practitioner who is regularly instructed to advise on and appear in a broad range of civil, criminal and immigration cases. Recognised as a resourceful negotiator and advocate. He has significant experience and success in the presentation of cases to juries and tribunals.
He regularly appears on behalf of the major prosecuting authorities and on behalf of leading defence solicitors in the crown court and appellate courts. He advises and prosecutes on behalf of Trading Standards departments, DVSA, SERCO and the DWP throughout the United Kingdom. In regulatory work he has a wide range of experience in the civil courts and tribunals, and in judicial review.
Rajesh has become a specialist in matters concerning paper heavy fraud, road transport law and financial regulation. He has been instructed by the SFO on a number of high profile cases concerning fraud, bribery and corruption. He has been instructed by the FCA to review evidence and advise on cases concerning money laundering regulations and financial regulations governing financial promotions.
Rajesh is regularly instructed by the DVSA to advise on and prosecute MOT, tachograph and driving theory/practical test frauds. He has represented the DVSA in the high court and at public inquiries.
Corporate and Financial Crime
Rajesh represents professional and corporate clients facing high-profile allegations of corporate and financial crime including: rate manipulation; all types of fraud including tax fraud; tax evasion; bribery and corruption; and corporate health and safety breaches. He is instructed by firms who demand impeccable tactical planning and precise advocacy. He has been instructed in some of the SFO’s and FCA’s most significant prosecutions and investigations.
Rajesh brings tactical insight, intellectual ability and expert advocacy to bear in cases frequently involving complex and voluminous evidence and legal issues. He defends corporate clients and professionals who require impeccable preparation and case presentation in respect of financial crime and regulatory allegations; he also prosecutes in complex fraud and has experience as Independent Counsel dealing with matters of LPP. He is often engaged from the earliest stage of an investigation, throughout, until conclusion.
Rajesh has acted for HMRC in forfeiture proceedings against a MSB hiding £100,000 in cash.
Rajesh has defended in one the country’s largest VAT frauds.
Road Transport Law
Rajesh has been representing companies, individuals and prosecuting authorities in all aspects of road transport law for 17 years. He has a acquired an excellent knowledge base and is an ideal position to represent anyone facing a criminal prosecution by the DVSA or a public inquiry.
Rajesh has dealt with matters concerning Tachograph Fraud, Driving Licence Fraud and MOT Fraud. Recently he has prosecuted a defendant on 9 counts of fraud. The matter concerned the sale of recalled motorcycle parts.
Rajesh has dealt with issues concerning recovery vehicles; vehicles carrying waste; vehicles carrying a dangerous load and with overloading offences. He has dealt other offences that concern the state of a transport vehicle.
Rajesh has represented VOSA/DVSA and individuals at public inquiries and appeals from those inquiries. He has dealt with issues concerning the seizing of limousines and the suspension of operating/HGV/PSV licences.
Rajesh has argued issues concerning road transport law in the High Court.
General Crime
Rajesh prosecutes and defends serious general crime cases. He is forensically astute, dealing with the most complex evidence and he is adept at dealing with extremely difficult legal issues. Rajesh is well placed to defend professionals as investigations by regulating agencies move into the criminal sphere. He also has experience of defending and prosecuting private prosecutions.
Prosecution
Rajesh has prosecuted on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service. He has
secured convictions against defendants committing fraud, serious violence and drugs
offences.
Rajesh is noted as a leading Counsel in prosecutions of Trading Standards offences for Breach of
Copyright, Counterfeit goods and Trademark infringements.
Rajesh has prosecuted on behalf of the National Probation Service and Prison Security Services for breaches of Community and Curfew Orders imposed by the Criminal Courts.
Rajesh has prosecuted benefit fraud cases on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.
Rajesh has conducted complicated confiscation proceeding for Kent County Council.
Rajesh has been instructed by HMRC to conduct forfeiture proceedings and to review a court of appeal corruption case.
Defence
Rajesh has developed a substantial practice representing clients in all courts in the United Kingdom.
Rajesh’s trial experience includes Attempted Murder, Kidnap, Prison Riots, large scale Violent Disorder, serious Sexual Offences, Fraud, Robbery and Conspiracy to supply class A drugs.
He has an impressive record of appeals against conviction and sentence in the Criminal Court of Appeal
Family law
Rajesh has represented parent and grandparents in public law matters which have involved fact finding hearing relating to significant harm caused to children.
He has represented husbands and wives in financial relief cases.
He has represented parents in private law contact cases and cases involving applying for non-molestation orders and occupation orders.
Immigration
Rajesh has resolved applications for political asylum, spouse and family visas and permanent settlement.
Significant experience in cases involving Civil Rights and Human Rights abuses.
Represented clients from an expansive list of countries in Immigration Appeals hearings.
Civil
Rajesh is regularly instructed on behalf of Trading Standards departments throughout the United Kingdom.
Advised on civil complaints, breaches of consumer protection legislation and breach of contract.
Successfully obtained enforcement orders against traders for infringements of domestic and European Community legislation.
Advised and appeared on behalf of HMRC in forfeiture proceedings involving substantial sums.
Advised and appeared on behalf of DVSA at public inquiries and on appeal from those inquiries with great success.
Outstanding record of favourable verdicts and settlements.
Member of the Honorable Society of Lincoln’s Inn, London
Former Co-ordinator of the Lecture Programme at 7 Bell Yard [CPD accredited] (2002 to date). Providing lectures on specialist topics including the Enforcement of LGV PSC license infringements, Human Rights and Criminal Sentencing.
Rajesh is currently instructed as disclosure counsel on a case concerning an multi-jurisdictional oil industry fraud.
Rajesh has been instructed to review and advise on evidence relating to misleading financial promotions made by a financial institution, which has caused thousands of investors to lose money.
Rajesh was instructed to advise on the extradition of an individual who is suspected of being in charge of a financial firm making millions of pounds by breaching money laundering regulations. Rajesh also worked with a team to advise on whether to pursue criminal offences or regulatory sanction.
Instructed by the SFO as disclosure counsel on a case concerning the 2008 capital raising from Qatar.
Instructed as disclosure counsel in an SFO investigation concerning allegations of bribery and corruption in relation to contracts secured by Sarclad Ltd. The case resulted in a Deferred Prosecution Agreement between the SFO and the company and the prosecution of three individuals.
Rajesh was instructed by the SFO on a case focusing on alleged corrupt contracts in South Korea. The case resulted in a Deferred Prosecution Agreement and the prosecution of 3 defendants.
Advised on and then successfully prosecuted the owner of a Haulage Company who conspired to create false records with his Transport Manager.
Successfully prosecuted a company for permitting its drivers to create false records.
Successfully prosecuted a company for permitting its drivers to create false records.
Rajesh represented the DVSA at the High Court where was listed to determine the definition of a recovery vehicle.
Rajesh successfully appealed the sentence of a defendant who was convicted after trial of a benefit fraud that cost the taxpayer tens of thousands of pounds.
Rajesh successfully defended a defendant who was accused of stealing over a £100,000 worth of IPADs from his employer.
Successfully prosecuted a company for operating a vehicle with a dangerous load, namely scaffolding.
Successfully prosecuted 15 defendants for a conspiracy to create false records. Advised from the outset on the buildings of a case, drafted charges and advised on the evidence. All 15 defendants were convicted.
Rajesh successfully represented a defendant accused of a half a million pound credit card fraud.
Prosecuted a company for the creation of false MOT certificates.
Rajesh successfully prosecuted a company for operating a HGV without an operator licence and without using a tachograph. The issue concerned the definition of a showman's vehicle. The defendant was found guilty after trial.
Rajesh advised on and then prosecuted a defendant for Conspiracy to commit Fraud. The defendant was convicted of conspiring with another to cheat the driving theory test.
Rajesh successfully prosecuted the defendant for instructing another to take her practical driving test.
Rajesh successfully prosecuted the first ever case of fraud concerning the sale of recalled motorcycle parts.
Successfully prosecuted several defendants for tachograph fraud.
Rajesh successfully represented a respondent who was called before the traffic commissioner to review his operator licence because of repute issues.
Rajesh successfully prosecuted a person operating a company that removed vehicles from airports. The case concerned the definition of a recovery vehicle. It was successfully argued by the prosecution that the defendant was not removing a disabled vehicle and as such was required to have an operator licence for his business.
Rajesh successfully represented VOSA before the Traffic Commissioner. They were defending an application by United Limos to recover their Limousines. The Limousines were retained.
Rajesh ably represented the defendant who faced an indictment alleging that she Conspired to Supply class A drugs. The case involved the analysis of thousands of pages of telephone evidence. The Crown were forced not to proceed with the case.
The defendant received a non custodial sentence for her part on a money laundering offence involving thousands of pounds.
Successfully appealed the sentence of a defendant convicted of Child Cruelty.
Successfully represented a young defendant facing an indictment charging Conspiracy to Rob with 10 others. The defendant was acquitted of conspiracy to rob and was convicted of violent disorder after a 2 month trial.
Successfully represented a defendant charged with stranger Rape. The defendant was found not guilty.
Successfully applied to vacate the plea of a defendant charged with the unauthorised provision of immigration services.
Represented a defendant charged with 3 others for a Conspiracy to Produce class B drugs. They were running several cannabis farms.
Represented a defendant facing an indictment charging him and several others for Conspiring to Produce class C drugs. They were running a multi - million pound steroid factory.
Represented a defendant charged with Importing class A drugs.
Represented a defendant charged with Arson with Intent to Endanger Life. He was said to have set fire to a flat where two elderly residents were living. The defendant was found unfit to enter a plea. There was a trial of issue after which the defendant was found not guilty.
Legal 500 2020 & 2021, Ranked as a Leading Junior
Year of Call - 2002
‘Yasin is an extremely hard worker and thorough with his work. Has the ability to develop great rapport with all types of clients regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, cultural backgrounds. A key strength is his ability to handle all types of complex cases.’
Legal 500 2021, Ranked as a Leading Junior
"Extremely effective – he maintains a concise, measured approach."
Legal 500 2020, Ranked as a Leading Junior
Yasin conducts all aspects of Criminal defence, White collar and fraud, International Appellate work, Regulatory and Sports Law both nationally and International, Commercial Law and many other areas.
In fraud and financial regulation, there is an abundance of expertise in national and International complex fraud, money laundering, commercial fraud and business crime.
In addition, the criminal defence work encompasses a CV full of work that includes murder and grave offences, sexual offences, human trafficking and human rights cases.
Experienced in all aspects of Sports Law with a wide range of clients. This ranges from Sports Professionals, governing bodies (national and international), professional teams and clubs, agents, journalists and broadcasters. Appeared regularly before national and international courts and tribunals.
Advisor and counsel to clients abroad in International Cases of MTIC, Carbon, Ponzi and other fraud cases including clients in Dubai and the Middle East, the US (‘million-dollar man’) and in Europe (‘Deutsche Bank’ fraud and other cases).
Has been advising and dealing with regulatory work including representation of Dentists, Pharmacists and other Medical Professionals.
Highly experienced in Inquests, Public Enquiries and Judicial Reviews as well as Civil Actions against the Police, highlight a practice that is multi-disciplinary and covering many aspects of Civil Work. Appears regularly before the Parole Board representing terrorists and those convicted of grave crimes.
Reported Cases include, R v Salman Butt (the former Pakistan Test Cricket Team Captain in the spot-fixing case), R v Yasir Ali (human trafficking, rape and grooming), R v Patel (multi-million pound Bosch fraud), R v Hassan (double-murder), R v Uddin (honour-killing case) and R v Yousaf (Metropolitan Police Officer involved in human trafficking).
For further information on Yasins Sport Law work please visit www.slam.global.
Interests
– Pro Bono work for Newham Monitoring Project
– Trustee and Volunteer at Frenford Clubs for Young People
– Adviser to Gujarati Metropolitan Cricket League (GMCL) and Essex Association of Boys Clubs
Unexplained Wealth Orders: The ‘What, Where, When and How’ of the new Legislative Provisions
“Image Rights” Exploitation, Investment or Protection for ‘Good Looks’?
“Shamima Begum: UK Citizen, Terrorist, Isis Wife, ‘Groomed Schoolgirl’ Or None Of The Above?”
“Tax Avoidance and Evasion? Legal or Illegal?”
“Drones – The Good, The Bad And The Ugly”
“The Crime (Overseas Production Order) Bill (‘The Bill’)”
“Drugs, Slavery, Trafficking, Exploitation and Links to County Lines. What Can and Is Being Done By The Law?”
Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers (ARDL)
Young Fraud Lawyers Association
Extradition Lawyers Association
Criminal Bar Association
CiArb
Marylebone Cricket Club
British Association of Sport and Law
Accredited Pupil Supervisor
Florida Advanced Advocacy Course
South Eastern Circuit Keble College Course
Gujarati
Hindi
Urdu
Punjabi
Turkish
Operation Patos – Led Junior in a murder committed in Enfield linked with the DA and the GMG. A ‘cut-throat’ between all of the defendants.
Operation Nunton – Led Junior in trial at Central Criminal Court following a murder in Romford linked with drugs and ‘County lines’. In the cut-throat proceedings, Mr Charles was acquitted of the grave charges.
Operation Dynasty – Leading Junior in a tragic death in Leicester that was broadcast nationally where the defendant was charged with conspiracy to murder but found guilty of lesser offences resulting in a sentence of just over 8 years.
A brutal double-murder gang-killing in Leytonstone that was tried at the Central Criminal Court and involved a ‘cut-throat’ between two factions of defendants from the one gang.
Junior counsel in a nationally broadcast and publicised honour killing case at St. Albans Crown Court where the defendants were charged with murder and the new Section 5 DVCDA.
Junior counsel in a nationally broadcast trial of numerous counts of rape, human trafficking and grooming in Peterborough and surrounding areas.
Murder of a young medical graduate battered to death with a cricket bat in an alleged gang related fight in South London.
Representation of the defendant tried and convicted in the Rachel Manning murder.
Representation of a Metropolitan Police officer charged with multiple rapes, human trafficking, sexual assaults and perverting the course of justice.
Young defendant charged and tried of grooming and rape of a teenage girl in the north of England: a hung jury resulted in this politically sensitive case.
An 86-year old charged with a number of historical sexual offences of rape and sexual assault of children.
Cleric charged with multiple counts of rape and indecent assault upon young students.
Man accused of raping a prostitute and causing serious injuries to her body.
Man with serious mental health deficiencies accused of raping young children.
Junior counsel in multi-million pound drugs conspiracy trial and confiscation proceedings at Kingston Crown Court.
Junior counsel in a conspiracy involving theft of machinery involving BOSCH UK at Reading Crown Court.
Charged with several other defendants with a conspiracy to steal spanning 18 months and across the South East of England involving 100’s of offences.
Representation before the Recorder of Southwark where an old lady was killed via the act of death by careless driving.
Representation of a man charged in conspiracies involving kidnapping, blackmail, Section 18 offences and drugs supply at the Central Criminal Court.
Air-rage case, where the accused was arrested and charged following efforts to force open the plane doors and storm the flight deck.
A drugs conspiracy to supply Class A drugs in the Watford and surrounding areas from a gang alleged to have made millions of pounds from their actions.
Tried for conspiracy to supply Class A at the Central Criminal Court, the defendants were alleged to be part of a gang who had conspired to Supply Class A across London.
Successful representation of a man charged with section 18 offences and on a life licence.
Armed Robbery conspiracy on an armoured vehicle by a prominent gang in the Midlands.
Representation of a man charged with armed robbery and featured on the BBC’s ‘Crimewatch’ programme.
Operation Osmoregulation – Led Junior in terrorism trial as the Old Bailey where the defendant was acquitted of all terrorism charges. The trial involving young children, schools and prayer classes was publicised nationally
Arrested on Terrorism matters and subsequently tried on possession of explosive substances and improvised explosive devices, the Attorney General ordered for the matter to be dropped following lengthy legal arguments and submissions by the defence.
Representation of leading client charged with terrorism and drug related offences in the United Kingdom and the United States.
Parole Board Hearing, representing client convicted of terrorism offences.
Representation of prisoner before Parole Board hearing convicted of terrorism offences and recalled to prison.
Terrorism matter charged under new legislation.
Operation Ensete and Operation Amaryllis – Leading Counsel in an International multi-million pound fraud and money-laundering case where Mr. Gidde was deemed to be the leading criminal but received a lesser sentence then all other defendants.
Operation Tarlac – Leading counsel for the main defendant in this multi-million pound International fraud to be tried in October 2016 in a conspiracy that resulted in world-wide money-laundering
Representation of the ‘second in command’ in the £130 million fraud reported throughout the Press.
Operation Cave II – A fraud involving the smuggling and importation of tobacco, cigarettes and alcohol worth millions of pounds. Hamdi walked free from the court of the conspiracy charges.
Operation Fardel – An International Fraud where the accusation was was that the defendant defrauded many victims and laundered the proceeds worldwide.
Operation Susomo – Junior Counsel in a fraud conspiracy involving Forex Exchanges in and around London with International organistaions in the Middle East, Asia and Far East.
Operation Perhaps – Representing one of the lead defendants in a mortgage conspiracy and money laundering case at Birmingham Crown Court involving millions of pounds.
Operation Jibe – Tried at the Central Criminal Court and accused of assisting the main defendant in a mortgage fraud involving numerous financial institutions and banks amounting to millions of pounds
Operation Enderby – Junior counsel in a multi-million pound fraud and money-laundering case at the Central Criminal Court where the SFO offered No Evidence after 19 days of a trial.
In this ‘spot-fixing case’ which was broadcast all over the world, was representing the Pakistan Cricket Team Captain in charges of conspiring to cheat and obtain financial advantage at Southwark Crown Court
‘Bollywood Film Fraud’: a conspiracy to cheat HMRC by claiming rebates and VAT on Bollywood films that were never produced; one of the first film frauds to be tried in the UK, where HMRC lost millions of pounds.
Charged with conspiracies regarding Money-laundering, VAT and phone frauds following multi-national investigations and charged with a number of International defendants.
Held at Southwark Crown Court, the first trial under the Bribery Act 2010, in conspiracies linked to bribes taken by an employee of HMCTS.
Representation of defendant charged with a multi-million pound mortgage fraud.
Client charged with various fraud and copyright offences and linked to £63 million HMRC Fraud.
Conspiracies linked to Immigration fraud offences, false passports and documentation, tax evasion and benefit fraud on an International scale
Heard at Southwark Crown Court, a conspiracy where the banking fraud involved employees of the bank being accused of withdrawing savings of clients who were deceased and transferring the money to international accounts abroad.
Benefit fraud involving hundreds of thousands of pounds and multiple fraud identities around Maternity Benefits, Child Tax Credits, Child benefits and other benefits by the defendant on behalf of persons residing abroad.
Charged with several other defendants on a variety of fraud conspiracies associated with letting businesses and the letting of properties and money laundering offences.
A fraud committed against TFL totalling hundreds of thousands of pounds by using the refund scheme on Oyster cards and electronic refunds.
Representation of one of the UK’s leading Aston-Martin dealers accused of defrauding Williams (F1) and causing them huge financial losses.
Fraud case involving laundering of money and proceeds through the ‘Havalla’ method.
Multi-handed social security fraud involving 6 defendants and housing, council, social security and mortgage fraud.
A Judicial Review of the Parole Board and Prison Service regarding the recall and lack of education and training to a recalled prisoner.
A Judicial Review of detention of a foreign national held in custody despite the expiry of his custodial term.
Judicial Review of a prisoner incarcerated beyond his minimum time tariff due to the lack of courses in the Prison Establishment.
Various Human Rights arguments for a defendant prosecuted under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2003, for protesting outside Parliament and other protesting activities.
Judicial Review of the rights to privacy and family life of a defendant whose personal and family details were being broadcasted and reported daily through the national press.
Representation of Sri Lankan Tamils, protesting about the selling of arms to the Sri Lankan government and the subsequent killing of Tamils.
Defendants charged with violent disorder offences and riot in Burnley and Oldham in 2001 and whose defence was defence of the community from Far Right racists.
Parole Board hearing, representing client convicted of terrorism offences.
Representing a prisoner before the Parole Board, convicted of terrorism offences and who was recalled for breaching licence conditions.
Representation of foreign nationals in parole proceedings who were sentenced to extended sentences.
Reported Inquest of a prisoner whose suicide was partially blamed on the Prison authorities who removed his suicide watch to facilitate his transfer from one prison to another.
Death of a prisoner and Rule 39 order in relation to the availability of defibrillator’s in prison establishment.
Inquest that ordered the updating and minimal requirements of first aid equipment in prison establishment.
Tried in Frankfurt, advised and represented the client charged as one of the leaders of a conspiracy involving a number of defendants and forming a multi-million Euros MTIC and VAT Fraud.
Carbon Credit Fraud and Phone Fraud charges and allegation against a defendant in Munich involving tax evasion of over 12 million Euros.
Dubbed the ‘Million dollar man’, representation included the fighting of his extradition from the USA to Europe and then the defence in various charges of VAT Fraud, Carbon Credit Fraud, Money Laundering and other offences totalling over 100 million Euros and many companies.
Charges varying from MTIC and Carbon Credit Fraud and also tax evasion and linked to one of the biggest Carbon Credit Frauds in Frankfurt.
MTIC Fraud matters covering a whole European Network and specifically linked with emissions fraud in Poland
Worked for Reprieve 2003/2004 to today in representing inmates on Death Row and facing the Death penalty in Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Florida.
Advising clients in Caribbean Death Row cases.
Advising clients in Pakistan who are sentenced to the Death Penalty.
Extradition Proceedings sought by GDR: defence of Extradition on Article 8 Human Rights Grounds and also Legal Submissions on Article 2 Grounds.
Involving a warrant issued by the GDR and arguments against extradition of client accused of being the ‘mastermind’ behind a multi-million-pound VAT Fraud. Defence based upon Article 8 of the ECHR and the validity of the arrest warrant.
Extradition proceedings relating to various Category 2 states demanding extradition of a defendant charged with grave crimes.
Extradition was requested by the GDR following the issuing of an EAW in relation to fraud allegations. Human Rights defences were submitted and argued all the way to the High Court.
Application by Turkish state to have Kurdish refugees extradited: Human Rights based opposition led to the application being refused.
Application to have a Chinese political dissident extradited to China.
Representation of the Former Pakistan Cricket Captain at the International Cricket Council Tribunal Hearing in Doha, Qatar, and at the Appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), in Lausanne.
Representation in proceedings before CAS and in hearings before an Independent Tribunal in Bangladesh on offences of match-fixing in the BCB with evidence of fixing in test matches and One-Day Internationals.
Part of Tribunal Team that heard the cases and Hearings of Cao Yupeng and Yu Delu before the WPBSA Board.
Representation of International cricketers in defamation matters arising out of match-fixing allegations and Al-Jazeera Documentary.
Representation of International Tennis Star in Appeal Proceedings before CAS.
English cricketer represented in proceedings of numerous individuals of various fixing offences in the Bangladesh Premier League.
Successful Appeal of a young English cricketer before the EWCB Independent Tribunal Appeal and representation in other hearings and cases.
Successful Appeal of a young English cricketer before the EWCB Independent Tribunal Appeal.
Advising of International Cricketer charged with match-fixing offences.
Representation of an International cricketer investigated by the ICC for Breaching the Code on corruption.
Representation of an International cricketer investigated by the ICC for match-fixing.
Successful representation of wrestler charged with offences linked to steroids and enhancement drugs.
Dispute between the Lawn Tennis Association and a young black tennis player: instructed by the CAS to represent Mr Stoute.
Disciplinary Hearings Tribunal Member for various offences committed by members of the MCC.
County cricketer represented in front of County Tribunal Hearing.
Representation of Football Club and individual players charged by the FA.
Contractual negotiations on behalf of International cricketers.
Advising the Franchise Team, its owners and management body in relation to a ban imposed by the BPL and the ICC.
Advising Players and Franchise sides on player contracts, Image Rights and terms and conditions of League and Franchise.
Contractual Negotiations and Agreements on behalf of International Sportsmen with Worldwide Sporting Broadcaster.
Contractual Negotiations with National Sporting Teams for player contracts, Image Rights, Endorsements, bonuses and more.
Advising International Sportsmen and Women on Image Rights companies, contracts, clauses, structures and benefits in a variety of sports
Committee Member and Advisor to Membership and General Purposes Committee
Speaking at Premier League clubs to players and officials on contracts, terms, conditions, wages and various legal duties and rights within contracts
As well as representation, advice has been provided to Sports Leagues Committees, teams and individuals in relation to a plethora of subjects including drugs and misconduct issues
Speaker at International Sports law conferences involving topics such as corruption, drugs use, betting and corporate governance
Adviser and trainer at Professional sports clubs and bodies including rugby, cricket, football and martial arts.
Yasin Patel has also been involved in various aspects of Sports Law in advising, negotiating and drafting contracts for professional sportsmen with media companies for commentary, commercials and advertising and media work
He has been instructed to represent International Sportsmen in their contractual negotiations as well as drafting of their professional playing contracts
He is advising International Sports franchises on a variety of legal matters including good governance, contracts, image rights and media contracts
Furthermore he is advising and representing International Sports personnel in governing body disciplinary issues and allegations
Representation of a dentist alleged to have caused permanent damage to a patient in relation to treatment of sporting injuries.
Representation of professional students excluded from the institution and excluded from legal societies due to cheating.
A pharmacist accused of breaching GPC rules in relation to ethics, standards and professional code for prescriptions.
Year of Call - 2002
Guy has a commanding presence in the courtroom which he uses to good effect. His imposing figure stems from former careers as a senior police officer and super heavyweight amateur boxing champion.
Guy has significant experience in the successful defence of trials for robbery, offences against the person and public order, sexual offences, drug trafficking and POCA applications, fraud, and immigration related cases. In addition he has undertaken police disciplinary hearings and courts martial. Guy appears in courts and tribunals at every level.
He has a keen interest in sports law, the regulation and governance of sport, and the interaction between sport and the criminal law.
Achievements
Guy was decorated with the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service in 2004.
During his 28 years of police service, he was the holder of a Chief Constable’s Commendation.
Boxing:
He was formerly European Amateur Super Heavyweight Champion, Chief Coach to the British Amateur Boxing Federation Team at the Police Amateur Boxing World Championships in Calgary.
1997 World Championship Gold Medal winner for the Super Heavyweight division at San Jose
1985 and a Gold Medal Winner in the same category at the Arizona, 1984 and Sydney, 1988 P.E.S. Olympiads.
Year of Call - 2002
“Simply the best; a barrister with depth of knowledge, sharp intellect, and able to think outside the box. Fearless and presents every argument with confidence, reassuring, and clients could not ask for more.”
Cosmas Dikeocha, Solicitor
Mohammed has mixed criminal and personal injury practice. He regularly appears as a specialist defence advocate in the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court, and on personal injury matters in the County Court and High Court.
Mohammed is hard-working, analytical, thorough and fearless in court. On a practical level, Mohammed has an approach which is empathetic to the clients’ needs, and he is conscious that often it is the defendant’s family who suffer along with the defendant. Mohammed prepares thoroughly for cases, whether they are Magistrates trials or lengthy Crown Court trials.
Mohammed has a broad defence practice, encompassing the breadth of criminal and regulatory offences. He is known for his representation of clients organised accused of crimes involving drugs and organised crime networks facilitating the importation and onward distribution of drugs and firearms.
Mohammed understands that defendants’ needs can be wider than just representation in court whilst trials are in progress; he is able to give advice relevant to these issues.
Mohammed also specialises in representing defendants involved in satellite crimes associated with drug supply, such as burglary, thefts, credit card fraud and money laundering.
Outside of court, clients may find Mohammed relaxed and approachable, willing to travel to conferences across the country. He is good-humoured and patient when dealing with clients, both professional and lay outside of court.
In the BBC documentary ‘Hell in a Bottle‘, Mohammed provided some insight as to the rise, cause and judicial approach to acid attacks across the United Kingdom.
LLB Law
BVC Inns of Court School of Law
Junior Counsel representing a Defendant allegedly involved in Perverting the Course of Justice after an alleged 'gangland' murder.
Operation Deghvard. Junior Counsel during a trial involving 11 Defendants charged with a Conspiracy to Commit Grievous Bodily Harm. The case centred around historical and ongoing gang rivalries and involved the analysis of complex GPS vehicle data and phone data.
Operation Hipsometer, Leading Counsel in a complex multi layered trial involving the specialised theft and dismantling of over 200 vehicles valued in total at over £1 million. The Defendant was alleged to have been a significant and central element to the ringing and concealment of vehicle identities and parts along with their onward sale and concealment as well as arranging for the vehicles to be moved to and from across the United Kingdom.
Leading Andrew Kerr in a lengthy multi-handed trial involved in the organised theft of vehicles valued in the region of £1.2 million. Defendants used cloned car keys, false number plates, forged vehicle documentation, surveillance of targets and hi-tech computer technology to steal luxury vehicles. The case was reported in the Daily Mail.
Multi-handed violent fight between gangs of boys resulting in a stabbing. Client was acquitted after a successful submission of no case to answer surrounding issues of identification and participation.
Successful reduction in sentence involving submissions on the correct approach to written bases of pleas, offender mitigation and credit by crown court judges.
Successful appeal against the sentence of Truro Crown Court's incorrect imposition of an indeterminate life sentence when the correct sentence should have been a determinate sentence. As reported on ITV.
Selling of fake Viagra and associated confiscation proceedings, reported in The Sun.
Murder of Olu Olagbaju in Shadans nightclub December 2006, reported in the Evening Standard.
Prosecuted Importation of Class A drugs in luggage.
Student loan fraud valued at £175,000 and ongoing confiscation proceedings.
Dealing of drugs to undercover officers and test purchase officers in Lewes over a two-year period.
Benefit fraud by a young mother over a two-year period totaling £3,000
Council tax and housing benefit fraud by an elderly lady over a 20-year period.
Largest ever conspiracy to produce cannabis.
High-profile acquittal in a wilful neglect case involving an Alzheimer’s patient left overnight in a Council bus, reported in The Mirror.
£1 million mortgage fraud.
Acquittal of delivery driver allegedly involved in the importation of heroin in rice sacks from India.
Acquittal after a seven-week trial of a clearing agent alleged to have been the central figure in a network of importations of drugs into the West and South East of England.
Personal injury claim arising out a road traffic accident valued at £1 million approx, as reported in The Guardian.
Contempt of court case, where the court imposed a custodial sentence on both a wife and husband for outrageously exaggerating the wife's personal injury claims. The case attracted wide media attention, including in the Evening Standard, and it remains one of the few cases of its kind.
Year of Call - 2003
“He is a seriously good jury advocate who is always in demand and his friendly but no nonsense approach makes him extremely popular with clients. His attention to detail and meticulous preparation serve him extremely well in complex cases.”
Paul is a London based barrister specialising in serious crime with a particular interest in cases involving firearms, ballistic evidence and scientific analysis and also fraud cases involving ‘real’ property. He is also frequently requested in complex cases of family law, especially in cases with a mental health dimension. His knowledge of mobile phone data and cell site analysis has proved invaluable in a number of cases.
Areas of Work
Murder & attempted murder; rape & sexual offences; drugs; firearms; serious violence; vulnerable witness cases & psychiatric issues; fraud; complex family law. Accredited by the Bar Council to undertake ‘Direct Access’ work.
Criminal Bar Association; South Eastern Circuit.
Inn of Court & Degree: Middle Temple; LLB (Hons)
Central Criminal Court – Murder.
14 year old – possession of ‘Mach 10’ machine gun and a large quantity of ammunition.
Isleworth Crown Court – Large scale cocaine importation.
Harrow Crown Court – Child cruelty.
Harrow Crown Court – Aggravated Burglary, Possession of Firearms.
Southwark Crown Court – Fraud – Large scale Internet & credit card fraud.
Southwark Crown Court – Kidnapping & People Trafficking.
Kingston Crown Court – Robbery.
Central Criminal Court – Rape of a child.
Snaresbrook Crown Court – in excess of one hundred dwelling burglaries.
St Albans Crown Court – Fraud.
Kingston Crown Court – Arson with intent to endanger life.
Year of Call - 2007
Mizan enjoys a broad practice at the Bar which includes Family, Sharia (Islamic Law), Crime and Commercial litigation. He is a CEDR Accredited Mediator.
Mizan has expertise in all areas of family law including Islamic Law (Sharia Law); matrimonial finance and related proceedings; public law children work; private law, contested contact and residence disputes; and non-molestation injunction proceedings involving domestic violence. Mizan has experience of obtaining mirror orders in the Middle East, and has knowledge of family rights within Islamic law, as well as rights conferred via Islamic Nikkah (marriage) contracts.
Between 2011 and 2014, Mizan was Legal Assistant to [then] commercial barrister Robin Knowles CBE QC, as of October 2014 the Hon Mr Justice Knowles CBE. This role has allowed Mizan to gain a wealth of experience within the environment of contract law, bankruptcy and corporate insolvency and reconstruction, mediation, arbitration, commercial litigation and company law.
Mizan assisted with legal research on various aspects of counsel’s practice and with the encouragement and development of Pro Bono work nationally and internationally.
Mizan gained commercial trial experience, equivalent to that of a second junior in major cases. Examples include: (a) He assisted counsel in the case of New Cap RE v AE Grant, which went to the Supreme Court of England and Wales. A landmark case of 2012, the question for the Supreme Court was when enforcement of a foreign judgment may be effected at common law, or under the Foreign Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcement) Act 1933 or through the Insolvency Act 1986, s 426. (b) Mizan also assisted on a contract and partnership trial in the Chancery Division of the High Court; and (c) He assisted with a Commercial Court trial (with experts) concerning the validity of a multinational restructuring.
Mizan also assisted with two Civil Justice Council initiatives: A Response on behalf of the Civil Justice Council to the “Draft Defamation Bill” Consultation; and the Civil Justice Council Report (and following work) on “Access to Justice for Litigants in Person”.
A recent client quoted:
“Mizan was an invaluable asset to my case. He discussed with me very difficult matters in a friendly and approachable way with great explanation to ensure I fully understood the situation. Above all else his manner is natural and likeable and he has integrity, so whilst it is never a great day in court he carries you through it smoothly and keeps your spirits high. On the day Mizan delivered a better result than I could have expected”
Mizan has a strong commitment to pro bono and has been involved in the development of projects at local and international level.
Jan 2006- date: Pro Bono in the LMC (PBLMC). (Founder and Director)
London Muslim Centre (LMC), Whitechapel Road, London E1 1JX
At PBLMC, Mizan had led the arrangement of a number of seminal speeches and seminars:
– Organised the trip to London and keynote speech of the Chief Justice of Rwanda entitled “Rwanda, Past Present and Future” (2013)
– A conference co-organised with Oxfam on the “United World” (2012)
– “Evolving World: international law” speech by ICJ President H.E Hisashi Owada (2012)
– “Forced Marriage, Law, Religion and Practice” with Sir Mark Potter, then President of the Family Division of the High Court ) and Sir James Munby, current President of the Family Division (2010)
– Lord Chief Justice (Lord Phillips) unique keynote speech on “Equality in Justice” (2008)
– 2013 to date, Advisor to the Pro Bono Project in the British Virgin Islands
Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre, (DOHA)
Mizan has a detailed understanding of the QICDRC and is able to both represent clients in the QICDRC and advise on the procedure applicable.
Qatar Law Forum, Junior Lawyers session, (Joint Chair) 2012
Australian Biennial Access to Justice Conference 2009
Risk Advisory Council 2009
Bar Conference (England & Wales) 2008
The Pro Bono Conference 2008
2013 CEDR Scholarship for CEDR Mediation Course
2006 Middle Temple Scholarship (Major award), Diplock Scholarship
2012 to date, Vice Chair, UK Board of Sharia Councils
2012, Qatar Law Forum, Member of the International Organising Committee
2011 to date, Trustee of Richard House Children’s Hospice
2010 to date, Trustee, East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre (LMC)
2013 CEDR Accredited Mediator
2007 Called to the Bar of England & Wales by the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple.
2007 Bar Vocational Course, The College of Law, London.
2006 LLB (Hons) Law, The School of Oriental & African Studies, University of London.
In addition to the ‘black letter subjects’ Mizan studied Islamic Law. He also undertook an independent study project on the Recognition of Muslim Family Law within the Scope of the English Divorce Law.
The project required an interview with Dame Elizabeth Butler-Sloss GBE the former President of the Family Division.
1994 Financial Services and their Regulations parts 1/2/ and 3. SFA Securities Representative.
COURSES
2013 Advanced International Advocacy Course at Keble College (August 2013), 1994 Government Debt
Bengali (Sylheti)
Hindi (spoken)
Urdu (basic)
Arabic (basic)
Year of Call - 2007
Patrick hails from Gibraltar. He was called to the bar in England and Wales and in Gibraltar 2007 and is a member of the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple. His workload is predominately criminal defence. Patrick accepts instructions in all areas of criminal law and has also acted on behalf of construction companies in health and safety matters. Patrick is the Honorary Consul for Italy in Gibraltar, a member of the Royal Gibraltar Yacht Club and Honourable Artillery Company.
The Open University – LLB (Hons) 2:1
The College of Law – London BVC
Spanish (Fluent)
Italian (Intermediate)
Attempted Murder. It took a 7 to 2 majority to convict.
Rape, two counts. One count withdrawn following half-time submission. Second count unanimous not guilty verdict.
Defendant was 14 at the time of the offence. Secured not guilty verdict in an allegation of robbery involving an imitation gun.
Sexual assault of a child under the age of 13. The defendant was 17 years old at the time of the offence the defendant suffers from a complex disorder involving autism spectrum condition and ADHD. Sentence of 2 years’ imprisonment quashed and substituted with a 3 year Community Order.
Fraud. Ponzi scheme. Not guilty verdicts following half time submissions.
Year of Call - 2007
Simon is a criminal law specialist with a busy practice in London and the South East. Simon prosecutes and defends in the Crown Court. He is currently a Level 2 CPS Advocate. Simon also undertakes regulatory and other work. He maintains a strong commitment to being friendly, down-to-earth and realistic in his advice. Prior to coming to the Bar, Simon taught law for two years at a private university in Hamburg, as well as working for a firm of solicitors in a regulatory capacity, on instructions from the SRA.
Recent cases have involved conspiracy to blackmail, armed robbery, breaches of ancillary orders, affray, possession of Class A and B drugs with intent to supply, fraud with a value in excess of £120k, witness intimidation, threats to kill, burglary and GBH.
Simon has extensive experience of conducting confiscation proceedings.
Simon often acts for vulnerable people with behavioral problems, learning difficulties and mental health issues. He prides himself on being able to make proceedings intelligible, straightforward and as painless as possible for his lay clients.
Simon has defended clients in serious Youth Court matters and has experience of large-scale joint enterprise violence, sexual assaults, robberies and Operation Withern cases involving burglaries committed during the London Riots. Simon has defended young people in cases across the full spectrum of Youth Court work, although now primarily focuses on Certificate for Counsel cases.
Simon regularly undertakes appellate work, including appeals against conviction and sentence. Simon has successfully appealed to the Court of Appeal.
Simon has extensive fraud experience, both prosecuting and defending. He has dealt with offences well in excess of £100k.
Simon has been extensively instructed by the Serious Fraud Office and the DWP to deal with the prosecution of large-scale fraud, some of which has been valued in excess of £100 Million.
Simon undertakes cases involving the full range of road traffic, dangerous dog and health regulations matters.
Simon has accepted instructions from the Department of Health for civil drafting.
BVC (VC), Nottingham Law School.
Law, LL.B (Hons) (2:1), The University of Nottingham
Member of the CBA.
Member of the Cypriot Lawyers’ Association.
Year of Call - 2008
Mazharul is a specialist in immigration, nationality and asylum law. His practice encompasses the full spectrum of appeal and judicial review work.
Immigration Law
Mazharul has an extensive immigration law practice, having appeared in hundreds of immigration appeals. His immigration law work includes appeals/litigation arising from decisions concerning family and private life cases, EEA law, visit visas, points-based system, detention, removal and deportation.
Nationality Law
Mazharul has a strong nationality law practice. He appears in the Administrative Court and his nationality law work often includes litigation arising from complex right of abode claims.
Asylum Law
Mazharul has a broad asylum law practice which sees him acting for clients from a range of countries. He has particular experience of acting for clients who fear persecution on account of their political opinion
Prior to joining Chambers, Mazharul was a solicitor-advocate specialising in immigration, nationality and asylum law with an extensive advocacy and drafting practice.
Sir Thomas More Bursary, Lincoln’s Inn
Lincoln’s Inn Denning Society
UCL Bentham Association
Professional Ethics Marker - Bar Standards Board
Constitutional and Administrative Law Bar Association
LLB (Hons), Brunel University
LLM, UCL
BVC, BPP Law School
LPC, BPP Law School
Higher Rights of Audience (Civil & Criminal), City Law School
English
Bengali
Judicial review of a decision to refuse a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode.
Upper Tribunal considered the scope of para S-LTR.1.6. of Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, and construction of para S-LTR.4.2. of Appendix FM, including the Home Office’s duty to plead and reason decisions under one or both clauses of para S-LTR.4.2.
Year of Call - 2008
“...He has great courtroom style & is aware of the scrupulous attention he gives to preparation, in addition to the effort he commits to the actual hearing.” The SSHD commented “The commendation received was also highly complementary about his advocacy style. I have personally observed him on a number of occasions & would describe his advocacy as calm, professional, proportionate & measured. He is very well aware of ethical standards & he demonstrated his awareness of disclosure by challenging me on that very issue.”
The Secretary of State for Home Department on Asylum and Immigration Judge
“It is the first time I have worked with Islam Khan, he was very helpful, thorough, and professional given the last minute instructions. He was able to get the result we wanted, and for that I am hugely appreciative. I look forward to working with him again.”
Ainsley Harris Solicitors - Solicitors and Commissioners for Oaths & Higher Court Advocates
Islam Khan started working from a very young age in various respective fields to hold and support his family together; he came to the Bar with life experience with a varied career background from becoming a chef to owning my own catering businesses and working as a host at the Millennium Dome.
Islam Studied law as a mature student whilst working full time as a civil servant in various departments of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. This included the Human Rights Policy Department, UK-visas, Consular and heading the Benefits, Pay and Policy section of HR. He also served overseas as an Entry Clearance Officer in Lagos, Nigeria.
Islams main practice is defending in serious crime. In particular, Conspiracy related crime, all Proceeds of Crime, Fraud, Drugs and Immigration related criminal fraud. He is also often instructed on serious violence including murder and manslaughter and gang violence. Islam is instructed on appeals against sentence and conviction regularly.
Islam is also instructed by individuals who often find themselves in disputes with the GMC, NMC, SRA, BSB and the UK Charities commission. He is instructed by a number or organisations across the country in relation to HR policy and regulatory matters including charity commission and constitutional disputes in charitable institutions.
Islam is an expert in appeals on Asylum, Trafficking, Deportation and Urgent removal hearings (including out of hours injunction) and bail hearings with many years of experience. He was involved in the Court of Appeal case of Quila researching on points of law for Bibi and others challenging the UK government’s age bar policy on overseas marriages that lead to striking down legislation.
Whilst sitting on a number of panels in Tower Hamlets he advises a number of charitable organisations across the country and has developed an array of knowledge in the area of charitable organisations and the legal implications. Notably, he was involved in engaging various stakeholders to diffuse the Shajalal mosque fiasco in Tower Hamlets that was widely reported. He has been legal advisor to the Council of Mosques, the Stifford Centre in Tower Hamlets and has worked at Bail for Immigration Detainees, Fair Trials International, Hackney Law Centre and was an active mediator for Tower Hamlets Mediation Services.
Islam has a keen developing interest in probate/administrative of estates law. He obtained above and beyond a first class in this topic during his Academic studies leading my personal tutor commenting “I am professionally pleased and delighted to give these marks for this topic”. He often draft Islamic Wills for members of the community free of charge, subject to a donation to a charitable cause and have been advising and instructed on probate matters.
LL.M Public Law & Human Rights (King’s College, London - Merit)
Bar Vocational Course, ICSL (Outstanding in Legal Research)
LLB Hons. (Upper Second Class) at London Guildhall University
British Computer Society (Cybercrime panel)
Criminal Bar Association
International Law Association
Chadwell Heath Bowling Club
Canary Wharf Legal Training Award
Tower Hamlets Bar Vocational Award
Fight for injustice Scholarships
Tower Hamlets Mentor of the Year 2009
Lady Oliver Cup Mooting Competition (Quarter Finalists)
Judge at BPP annual moot competition
Presented on Visa and Human Rights training courses at Foreign Office
1st year LLB Moot assessments (1st class)
The Notary of England and Wales, American Bar Association’s Section of International Law, Europe Committee - Europe Update (Newsletter), Issue 3, February 2013
Comparative Judicial Supremacy, issue 6, October 2012 – www.dictumlawmagazine.com
International Law and The legality of the Flotilla raid by Israel, Islamic Digest;
Indirect discrimination by raising the marriage age rule to 21, New Law Journal;
Religious implications for Hindu pyres in the UK (Ghai and Others);
FGM: “an Islamic practice or modern fashion;
Mediation in practice;
Bengali (fluently)
Sylheti (fluently)
Urdu (conversational)
Hindi (conversational)
Multi-handed conspiracy fraud in Tower Hamlets revenue
Junior in a Multimillion pound fraud across many years
Conspiracy Aggravated burglary and handling stolen goods
Conspiracy Drugs county lines
Conspiracy to supply with intent
£34 million fraud collapses at Snaresbrook Crown Court due to “catastrophic disclosure” failures by CPS
Challenging the UK age bar to overseas marriage.
Challenging that it is contrary to fair trial rights to allow the SSHD to adduce evidence on its own volition without challenge.
Challenging the SSHD that the rule on intention to live together and subsisting marriage should apply at the same time and not separately.
Challenging the MOJ’s inefficient and incompetent new interpreting services that denies access to justice and develop a case law guidance given the severe civil war in Bangladesh.
Year of Call - 2008
Liam’s practice encompasses a broad range of the most serious criminal offences. He has worked domestically and internationally, at the Hague and in Africa. He represents the most vulnerable on legal aid as well as a significant private client base.
Liam is known for his thorough preparation of cases and excellence in advocacy. Liam also has expertise in regulatory law and conducts cases in relation to health and safety, food hygiene, licensing, The Nursing and Midwifery Council and The Pensions Regulator.
Liam regularly appears in the Court of Appeal, in relation to both sentence and conviction. He is also instructed in relation to cash forfeiture and the proceeds of crime as well as complex fraud cases.
Liam has experience in judicial review and is a co-author and contributor to Criminal Judicial Review (Hart Publishing).
Current instructions
R v MS Led by Jonathan Higgs QC, murder (March 2022)
TPR v X High value alleged pension fraud brought by The Pensions Regulator
R v MM Importation of Class A drugs
R v AA Large scale drugs conspiracy to supply crack and heroin
R v DM Conspiracy to supply Class A and trafficking / county lines
R v SL Multi-defendant, multi-million pound fraud
R v R Multi-defendant, multi-million pound bank fraud
R v HR Complex death by dangerous driving involving multiple experts
R v SR Armed robbery
Recent Cases / Cases of note
R v DEW Junior alone. Section 18 / Possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life in alleged gang feud
R v DG Junior alone for lead defendant in a five-handed six week aggravated burglary involving the discharge of a firearm
R v AG Led by Jonathan Higgs QC, multi-handed murder
R v MM Large scale importation of Class A drugs
R v AA Large scale drugs conspiracy to supply crack and heroin
R v IL Importation of firearms (converted Glock machine pistols)
R v CM Lead junior at the Old Bailey in a case involving allegations of murder and conspiracy to grievous bodily harm
R v MS Junior alone in conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm in relation to a gang murder at the Old Bailey
R v AI Junior alone, attempted murder
R v SK Junior alone in a large-scale conspiracy to supply Class A drugs relation to a least 25 kilos of heroin
R v AG Successful defence of duress – AG caught supplying 10 kilos of cocaine
Reported cases
R v Alam [2019] EWCA Crim 1510 Conviction quashed on appeal
R v Goldfinch [2019] EWCA Crim 878 Sentence reduced: six years to three
Criminal Judicial Review (Hart Publishing), co-author and contributor to the practitioner handbook
CCPS Guides to Ugandan Law on Hearsay, Disclosure and Identification evidence, published online and free to access to all Ugandan Lawyers through the Ugandan Law Society and UNAFRI websites
Plea Bargaining in the UK report presented to a delegation from the Bar of Singapore
Reforming the Law Concerning Physician Assisted Suicide (2009) Law Reform Committee Essay Competition, Prize Winner
Bar Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year – shortlisted 2013
Law Reform Committee Essay Competition, prize winner
Gray’s Inn Internship Scholarship (Charles Taylor trial in the Hague)
Ede & Ravenscroft Legal Prize
Gray’s Inn Student of the Year 2008
Gray’s Inn Debating Competition winner
APEX Debating Competition winner
ICSL Law School, BVC
University of Cambridge BA/ LLB (Law), M.A
Joyce Frankland Academy
Junior alone at the Old Bailey in 6 week case involving allegations or murder and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm related to gang violence in North London.
Case involving an allegation of attempted murder.
Junior alone in a large-scale conspiracy to supply Class A drugs relation to a least 25 kilos of heroin
£65 million cocaine conspiracy.
Lead junior at the Old Bailey in a case involving allegations of murder and conspiracy to grievous bodily harm.
Violent disorder relating to gang violence in South East London involving various weapons, including a firearm.
Large scale conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm and violent disorder involving alleged ongoing gang turf war involving samurai swords and other assorted weapons resulting a stabbing.
Allegation of Possession of a Firearm with intent to endanger life in relation to serious gang violence resulting in a police shooting.
Series of aggravated burglaries in the Hackney area where the defendants were alleged to have carried out home invasions & held householders at knife point.
Instructed in relation to an aggravated burglary involving the use of a firearm.
A large multi-handed conspiracy to burgle, including aggravated burglary.
Alleged gang related violent disorder involving a street stabbing.
GBH with intent in relation to street stabbing.
Violent Robbery resulting in the death of the victim. Complexities included assessment of mentally-ill client, including issues of fitness to plead and consideration of whether Hospital Order or imprisonment was the most appropriate sentence (a Hospital Order was imposed).
GBH involving glassing and facial scarring.
Currently instructed to be lead by Queen’s Counsel at the Old Bailey in 6 week case involving allegations or murder and conspiracy to commit Grievous Bodily Harm related to gang violence in North London.
Instructed in a case involving an allegation of attempted murder, the defendant was acquitted.
Instructed in a murder and conspiracy to cause section 18 GBH currently listed for six weeks at the Old Bailey.
Instructed in case involving allegations of murder and conspiracy to cause s.18 GBH. Defendant acquitted of the most serious charges.
Alleged violent disorder relating to gang violence in South East London involving various weapons, including a firearm.
Alleged gang related violent disorder involving a street stabbing.
GBH with intent in relation to street stabbing.
Violent Robbery resulting in the death of the victim. Complexities included assessment of mentally-ill client, including issues of fitness to plead and consideration of whether Hospital Order or imprisonment was the most appropriate sentence (a Hospital Order was imposed).
GBH involving glassing and facial scarring.
Series of aggravated burglaries in the Hackney area where the defendants were alleged to have carried out home invasions & held householders at knife point.
Instructed in relation to an aggravated burglary involving the use of a firearm.
A large multi-handed conspiracy to burgle, including aggravated burglary.
Possession with Intent to Supply in excess of five kilos of cocaine.
Importation of six kilos of liquid cocaine from Jamaica.
Large, multi-handed Possession with Intent to Supply Class A drugs case involving the alleged supply of drugs in the Surrey area by gangs from South East London.
A complex case involving analysis of the conflicting areas of the law of the Philippines and English law, including areas of family, chancery and criminal law. Liam succeeded on legal argument on the application of Philippine law and the case was dismissed after a judgment in favour of the defendant.
Currently instructed in a case involving three allegations of Sexual Assault.
Case involving the making of indecent images of children and the possession of extreme pornography.
Instructed in a case of indecent assault on a minor and possession of over 100,000 indecent images, at all levels.
Instructed in Parole Board hearing in relation to prisoner serving life sentence for the murder of a 62 year-old neighbour.
Successfully obtained release on license in the case of X, convicted of fratricide.
Case involving threats by a foreign national to blow up a bus in South East London.
Trial on the actus reus alone of a defendant found unfit to plead, accused of sending a number of packages to the Israeli Embassy and the White House, resulting in the US Secret Service placing the White House on a heightened state of security alert.
Currently instructed in a complex fraud case at Southwark Crown Court listed for three months.
Instructed in relation to a number of complex frauds perpetrated against elderly and vulnerable victims.
Retained as LPP Counsel in relation to an international multi-million pound fraud. Further details restricted due to confidentiality agreement.
Albanian blood feud asylum case involving a successful appeal heard at the Upper Tribunal.
Successful application for permission for Judicial Review of the Home Office.
Asylum case involving a member of Jamaat e Islami in Bangladesh.
Trafficking case, involving the trafficking of women from the Balkans for use in the sex industry.
Represented client in relation to EEC national case and Ghanaian Customary marriage.
Year of Call - 2009
Richard appears on behalf of the Defence in a wide range of criminal matters in all courts.
He receives regular private and public instruction in cases of violence, sexual offences, drugs, theft, identity documents, public order, fraud, confiscation and driving offences.
Richard is known for and prides himself on his client care, ensuring they are fully informed and advised at all times. His court manner lends itself to being well received by Judges and juries alike. He is skilled at dealing with vulnerable witnesses and experienced in dealing with issues relating to mental health and proceeds of crime.
He accepts instructions on various private civil matters.
Before practice Richard worked in the criminal department of a busy High Street Solicitors firm. He garnered expansive experience of criminal litigation having conduct of cases from the Youth Court to Court of Appeal.
Richard is currently instructed on a multi-handed GBH and possession with intent to supply class A case.
Criminal Bar Association
Middle Temple
LLB Law (Hons) – Nottingham Trent University
Bar Vocational Course – Nottingham Law School
Inner London Crown Court – successful unanimous acquittal of three rape counts after a 5 day trial. Included threats to kill with knives and prolonged detention.
Croydon Crown Court – Two counts of sexual assault (acquittal) and two counts of sexual activity of a child under 16. Involved the cross-examination of a child witness.
Southwark Crown Court – ABH and common assault (acquittals) of security guards in KFC, Leicester Square. Successful submission of no case to answer and not guilty pleas entered.
Oxford Crown Court – Six benefit fraud (totalling over £100,000) and two identity document counts. Involved a mentally ill Defendant.
Kingston Crown Court (privately funded) – Threats to kill (acquittal) wife with a knife in the presence of their children.
Basildon Crown Court – Mortgage fraud of over £200,000. Persuaded the Prosecution to offer no evidence.
Woolwich Crown Court – Possession of an offensive weapon (acquittal) to scare children aged between 10 – 15. Involved the cross-examination of an 11 and 13 year old.
Central Criminal Court – Possession with intent to supply cannabis. Involved a strong application of the R v Twist rules relating to mobile telephone evidence.
Croydon County Court – Infant settlement hearing in relation to payment for injuries in a road traffic accident.
Westminster Magistrates Court – Cash forfeiture of over £50,000.
Westminster Magistrates Court – Article 8 right to a family life argument.
Year of Call - 2009
Nazmeen has a unique background having a gained a number of years’ experience practising in an oversea common law jurisdiction. Her practice was predominately in criminal law and she appeared for both the prosecution and defence in both litigation and advisory work. At the English Bar, her practice is in criminal and regulatory work
Nazmeen uses her extensive experience to represent clients at the Magistrates and Crown Court as well as before parole boards. She is well known for being able to build rapport with clients and solicitors whilst always being thoroughly prepared. Solicitors therefore regularly instruct her in a range of cases such as driving matters, domestic offences and theft offences. The diversity of her practice does not solely extend to defence work. She also appears frequently on behalf of prosecutorial bodies. Being a CPS Panel Advocate, she appears for the CPS in the Magistrates and Crown Court. Her Crown Court work also comprises of breach proceedings where she has appeared on behalf of Probation Services.
Having carried out a secondment with the Nursing and Midwifery Council, Nazmeen has appeared as a case presenter in many substantive hearings including those brought against managers of care home and high-profile midwifery cases involving a death of a baby. She therefore has an interest in developing her practice in regulatory law, another area of Chamber’s expertise.
London Metropolitan University, LLB
Inns Court School of Law, BVC
Dual qualified barrister: England and Wales (Call 2009) and Mauritius (Call 2011)
English
French
Creole
“Legal 500, 2019, 2020, 2021 & 2022 – Leading Individual”
Year of Call - 2010
"Colin is extremely bright, with a very calm and engaging manner. He is a fearless court advocate. Clients know they are in safe hands with him"
Legal 500 2022, Ranked as a Leading Junior
"Colin Witcher is incredibly calm and well organised, safe and reassuring with clients, with a superb legal brain which gives great attention to the detail in the most complex of cases"
Legal 500 2021, Ranked as a Leading Junior
"Juries warm to him; he approaches the cross-examination of vulnerable witnesses with care and skill."
Legal 500 2020, Ranked as a Leading Junior
“A very fine Advocate”, “an impressive knowledge of law and procedure”
Legal 500 2019, Ranked as a Leading Junior
“Incredibly bright. Superb in cross-examining difficult witnesses”
Bellamy Forde, Partner, McMillan Williams, London
“Corporate clients appreciate his focused practical advice on insider trading and his ability to always hit time sensitive deadlines”
Shamina Chowdury, Solicitor, 3HR Corporate Team, Paris
Full Profile
Colin Witcher has cemented his position as Counsel of choice for instructing solicitors and Queen’s Counsel in complex and paper-heavy cases. Colin is currently (January 2022) acting as Leading Counsel in a high-value fraud trial at Southwark Crown Court, acting for the first defendant. That trial is to be followed by an unrelated fraud trial where Colin also acts as Leading Counsel defending in the high-profile collapse of an investment company. Alongside a busy court practice, Colin is presently retained by the Bank of England assisting in a complex investigation.
In 2020 and 2021, despite the pandemic, Colin defended in three murder trials, appeared in two new authorities before the Court of Appeal, and defended in the high-profile Vietnamese lorry death case over a ten-week trial at the Central Criminal Court where the defendant faced 39 counts of manslaughter
Current instructions include:
R v E: Leading Counsel (Leading Michael Polak of Chambers) on behalf of the first defendant in a large-scale sporting event fraud; Trial fixed Jan 2022;
R v L: Sole Counsel on behalf of defendant charged with kidnap with intent to commit rape; Trial fixed for February 2022;
R v D: Leading Counsel (Leading Fiona McAddy of Chambers) in high profile fraud concerning £2m mismanaged investment fund; Trial fixed March 2022;
R v T: Led by Kate Bex QC in unusual and sensitive historic sex case concerning deception as to gender; trial fixed May 2022;
R v E: Sole counsel defending mother in allegation of baby-shaking; trial August 2022;
R v E: Led by Michael Mather-Lees QC in allegation of baby-shaking; trial fixed October 2022
Recently concluded instructions of note:
R v D: Sole Counsel successfully defending in historic sexual abuse case (2021)
R v W: Led by Alisdair Williamson QC in high profile perverting the course of justice concerning a missing body murder trial (2021)
R v H: Led by Alisdair Williamson QC in high profile manslaughter case in which 39 people died (2020)
R v O: Leading Counsel before the Court of Appeal (VP) in appeal against conviction and subsequent application for leave to the Supreme Court (2020).
R v E: Led by Michael Mather-Lees QC in unusual murder trial prosecuted with the consent of the AG (2020)
R v S: Led by Kerim Fuad QC in sensitive cut-throat Murder Trial (2020)
Recent International Matters Include:
Re MW: Nigeria (freezing injunctions arising in cross-border fraud)
Re BW: Japan (insider trading arising from employee conduct)
Re DN: Hong Kong (injunction arising from share mismanagement)
Re: DB: Dubai (extradition and HMRC settlement)
Profile Overview
Colin routinely acts on behalf of companies and directors in the full spectrum of regulatory and criminal offending including health and safety, food hygiene and licensing. He has extensive experience of asset forfeiture, restraint and confiscation matters, including acting in one of the largest confiscation cases since the 2002 Act came into force (£154m benefit).
Colin is often entrusted with cases of the highest sensitivity acting in high-profile and high-value matters. He is sought after to defend in financial crime cases and is highly experienced in confiscation and assest restraint, routinely acting on behalf of third parties. In 2019, Colin acted as Junior Counsel in the high-profile FA Bribery and Corruption Trial at Southwark Crown Court. Colin has extensive experience in Private Prosecutions, both on behalf of the prosecution and defence. Colin has lectured on this topic and was a recent invited speaker at the PPNL Association conference advising on Private Prosecutions.
Colin has a diverse and varied advisory practice and is often instructed to act as part of a larger team working on corporate investigations. The same means that Colin is well placed to advise companies facing an investigation from relevant regulators. Recent examples include advising a FTSE100 company on compliance with Environmental Regulation and a Japanese Finance House on insider trading. Colin spent three years assisting a Regulator on the first ever investigation.
He has developed a reputation for offering excellent client care and for being an engaging and passionate advocate who can adapt to any tribunal, be they lay, professional, corporate or military. He is well versed in dealing with a variety of expert witnesses and has cross examined medical experts, including pathologists, breaking down complex facts and technical matters to get to the heart of the issue for jurors. In general crime, Colin has developed a specialism in defending in paper heavy, complex, criminal matters including murder, drugs and fraud which require thorough and effective case preparation. Colin has been led in a number of high-profile and complex criminal matters but is also a confident Jury advocate in his own right. He has appellate advocacy experience in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal, in addition to advising in CCRC matters.
In addition to his domestic practice, international law and military law has long been a passion for Colin both professionally and academically. As a former intern at the Special Court for Sierra Leone during the War Crime trial of Charles Taylor, the ex-president of Liberia, and as a Pegasus Scholar in Washington, Colin often brings an international perspective and approach to his cases. Colin has also discussed cross-boarder legal perspectives with experts, both legal and military, at the Pentagon, Qunatico and the Military Appeal Court, Washington DC.
Colin regularly publishes commentary on current legal issues and has lectured both domestically and internationally. In February 2017, Colin was invited to present a key note speech in Seattle, USA, on cross board perspectives on tackling racial bias within the jury system. In November 2017, Colin was invited to join the delegation in Qatar at an international bribery and corruption conference and in December 2018 Colin assisted in arranging a conference for The Rule of Law & Anti-Corruption Centre in London.
Extradition: Old Dogs, New Tricks (published by IFO) Colin co-wrote this article on extradition law with Kerim Fuad QC offering commentary on the separation of powers in the light of recent high-profile cases.
Disabled Children, a legal handbook (published by LAG) Colin was a researcher for this leading textbook on child disability law, focusing on researching and drafting content in respect of Statements of Special Educational Needs.
An Innocent Man’s Parole (Published by Converse) Article co-written with Charles Archer of J4E ltd offering advice for prisoners seeking parole whilst maintaining their innocence
The Value of Legal Learning (Law Conference 2014)
TUPE, an update (Chambers’ Lecture Series)
Contempt of Court (Chambers’ Lecture Series)
Forensic Science (Chambers’ Lecture Series)
Confiscation in drug conspiracies (Chambers’ Lecture Series)
Comparative Trial Advocacy (Stetson Law School, USA abroad programme)
Effective Technology in case presentation (Delaware, USA)
Member of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA)
Inns of Court: Pegasus Scholar 2014
Grade Two Crown Prosecution Panel Member
SFO: LPP Disclosure Counsel
Nottingham Law School, LLB (top 2.5 % in cohort)
BPP Law School, BVC (top 2.5% in cohort)
Nottingham Law School: European Funding Award
Middle Temple: Jules Thorn Scholarship
Middle Temple: Certificate of Honour for performance in Bar Finals
Appeal against conviction; judicial conduct in VAT fraud.
Appeal against conviction; cross territorial jurisdictional of document fraud offences.
Appeal against sentence in respect of manifestly excessive sentence; drugs.
Appeal against conviction in cold case review; murder, fresh evidence.
Appeal against sentence in respect of error of law and manifestly excessive sentence.
CCRC Appeal in respect of cold case review; bank robbery, fresh evidence.
Led Junior in five day final hearing; confiscation sought for £152million; awarded £500,000.
Privately retained on behalf of company directors in patent/trade mark offences.
Privately retained on behalf of multimillionaire property developer; confiscation sought for £1million; awarded £190,000.
Privately retained; successfully opposed an application by the Crown under section 22 to increase available amount.
Successfully made section 23 application.
Application for Certificate of Inadequacy.
Leading Estelle Thornber of Chambers in paper heavy case (150,000 pages) where 11 defendants faced an indictment alleging violent disorder in the context of an attempted murder.
Led Junior in four week murder trial.
Led Junior in multi-million pound conspiracy to supply Class A and B Drug, value in excess of £5million.
Led Junior in two month conspiracy to supply / import class A Drugs trial, value in excess of £7million.
Led Junior in a five week conspiracy to murder trial.
Led Junior in £1m fraud against the Government (deaf defendants).
Led Junior in a seven week multi-million pound money laundering trial.
Led Junior in £1.5m fraud against HMRC.
Led Junior in three week attempted murder trial.
Gang rape by young males of drunk complainant.
Multi-Count familiar rape (24 alleged occasions of rape); cross-examination of young complainant.
Violent rape in the context of domestic violence.
Knife point repeated rape of prostitute.
Assault allegation jointly charged with codefendant facing attempted murder; cross examination on premises of fabrication and “stitch up”.
Successfully defended in Section 18 and Threats to Kill matter.
Successfully acted at trial on behalf of a defendant (a victim of domestic violence) who stabbed her husband four times in self-defence.
Secured not guilty verdict for lifer charged with aggravated burglary.
Defence of company accountant; three separate trials resulting in acquittal.
Six week 17 handed conspiracy to rob trial (69 separate high value robberies). Secured one of two only acquittals.
Led by QC in high-profile and unusual fraudulent trading case.
Led by QC in cheating public revenue matter.
Together with QC advising on an international injunction case for LA based clients.
Retained privately by the European subsidary of an international finance company (with $2.5billion holdings) to advise on insider trading (both FSMA and CJA).
Retained as LPP Counsel by SFO in respect of international bribery case.
Retained as LPP Counsel by HMRC in respect of £400m tax fraud.
Defence Counsel on behalf of an accountant charged with fraudulent trading.
Instructed defence Counsel in 12 handed trading standards trial, prosecuted by Queen’s Counsel.
Privately retained in a five day fraud trial concerning misrepresentation to induce and retain building contracts.
Privately retained on the behalf of a company director of a large-scale importers and distributors in respect of trade description offence arising from EU patent breaches.
Junior Alone in a £3million Freezing Injunction arising out of a breach of fiduciary duty.
Successfully secured not guilty verdicts in a health safety prosecution in respect of contractors working at height.
Led by Damien Brown QC in a high-value Employment/Commercial Dispute involving high profile clients and media coverage.
Successfully acted at trial in respect of defending liability for valuable cargo which was damaged during transportation.
Led by Kerim Fuad QC in advising a leading commercial firm in respect of private prosecutions and injunctions due to conduct by former employee.
Year of Call - 2011
Chiara appears in the Crown Court, as a led junior and junior alone, on a range of serious and complex criminal matters, and has experience in the Appellate Courts. She has extensive experience in cases involving mental health, fitness to plead and fitness to stand trial issues, and excels in representing young and vulnerable clients. Her easy manner with clients and excellent advocacy skills have led to instruction in several high profile cases.
Chiara has advised on an international level including assisting with the drafting of statutory instruments. She has appeared before the High Court in Extradition proceedings.
Chiara welcomes instructions in disciplinary and regulatory work, and has appeared on behalf of interested parties and companies before various professional bodies such as the British Cycling Federation and the Traffic Commissioners Office.
Bar Standards Board accredited ‘Continuing Professional Development’ lectures given to barristers, firms of solicitors and in-house practitioners on a range of topics including youth sentencing and proceeds of crime legislation.
Chiara has also given media interviews in respect of complex legal issues, such as “Omissions as Criminal Acts” and Joint Enterprise.
Representative of the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Bar Mess
Member of Chamber’s Management Committee
Criminal Bar Association
South Eastern Circuit
Young Fraud Lawyers Association
CPS prosecutor, Grade 2
Metropolitan Police list of approved counsel
SFO approved LPP Counsel
Previously served as Secretary for the Care Lavers Parliamentary Group chaired by John Hemming MP
Italian
French (Conversational)
Exeter Crown Court. Currently instructed in a multi-defendant county lines drug conspiracy, where the defendant is also prosecuted under the Modern Slavery Act.
Court of Appeal. Successfully argued against a finding of dangerousness in a case involving an historic series of raped against a child.
Portsmouth Crown Court: Multi-handed conspiracy to traffic individuals in to the United Kingdom.
Norwich Crown Court. Secured acquittals in familial historic sexual assaults. Considered issues of hearsay, bad character of the complainant and s41 applications arising out of disclosure of school and medical records.
Bristol Crown Court. Led Junior. Client acquitted in a complex multi-million pound fraud relating to the sale of Carbon Credits.
Central Criminal Court. An Uber driver accused of digital penetration of a sleeping passenger. Legal argument resulting in late disclosure of medical records which resulted in an acquittal for the client.
Birmingham Crown Court. Multi-handed nationwide fraud against John Lewis Partnership. Involved complex legal arguments as to abuse of process and admissibility.
Canterbury Crown Court. Sole defendant acquitted on multiple counts of Aggravated Burglary and s18, extensive cross-examination relating to identification.
St Albans Crown Court. Conspiracy to supply 10 kilograms of cocaine. Extensive phone downloads and multi-jurisdictional issues.
Snaresbrook Crown Court. Successfully defended possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life at initial trial, following legal argument Crown offered no evidence on lesser charge of simple possession ahead of retrial. Youth defendant.
Wolverhampton Crown Court: Acquitted of violent robbery of a Cannabis factory. Extensive legal argument and cross-examination involving bad character.
Harrow Crown Court. Led junior in multi-handed bank fraud. Involved detailed cross-examination of financial experts.
Snaresbrook Crown Court & Kingston CC. Led junior on a 3-month human trafficking trial involving complex argument on legal definitions. A further retrial and additional rape and false imprisonment offences.
Central Criminal Court: Instructed in own name in a murder, later granted a certificate for QC. Conviction for lesser offence of manslaughter.
Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs: Instructed junior disclosure counsel on Operation Amazon, a multi-million-pound international fraud.
Consultant to the Chief Justice on sentencing principles. Assisted in the drafting the current proposed sentencing guidelines. Led a 4-day working group with the judiciary, including members of the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Justice.
Instructed LPP counsel on a multi-million-pound international fraud involving prolonged periods of false accounting.
Year of Call - 2011
Fiona accepts instructions in all areas of Chambers’ practice and has a particular interest in criminal law.
Fiona has defended in a broad spectrum of offences before the Crown Court and maintains an interest in cases involving offences of serious violence or fraud. She has a particular interest in the potential legal complexities involved in indictments alleging conspiracy and has been instructed to advise on conspiracy matters both in this jurisdiction and abroad.
As a result of her interest in the law relating to conspiracies, Fiona has been instructed as led Junior in a number of factually complex and paper heavy fraud matters involving multiple agreements, transactions and defendants. She takes pride in her reputation for competence and efficiency in such cases.
Consequentially, Fiona has a steadily increasing practice involving contested applications under the Proceeds of Crime Act, and remains a firm believer in the benefits of providing early advice in such cases.
Fiona continues to accept instructions to appear before the Youth Court for defendants charged with serious offences. As a consequence, she is regularly instructed on behalf of young and vulnerable defendants who consequently appear before the Crown Court for trial, charged with matters ranging from murder to rape and arson.
Fiona has appeared before the Court of Appeal in relation to appeals against conviction in relation to the framing of conspiracy indictments, and appeals against sentence in relation to a variety of matters, including dangerousness, and Article 8 considerations.
Fiona is a Grade 2 CPS prosecutor, and has prosecuted matters ranging from s.18 GBH, offences involving serious public disorder, sexual assault, large scale drug importation and fraud. She is also instructed by the Serious Fraud Office as disclosure counsel in SFO v Rolls Royce, and has been instructed by the Financial Conduct Authority as LPP counsel on a number of operations.
Because of her expertise in serious criminal offences, Fiona is also instructed to appear for parents at fact finding hearings before the Family Court. To that end, she has represented parents accused of serious criminal conduct including campaigns of rape and attempted murder.
Fiona also accepts instructions to appear before the Coroners Court on inquest matters.
She continues to write and lecture on a variety of topical criminal issues, and enjoys the theoretical aspects of criminal law.
Fiona plays an active role in the profession outside of the courtroom; she is a member of Chambers’ Management Committee and she is the Herts and Beds Bar Mess Representative to the South Eastern Circuit Executive Committee.
(2016) “The Modern Conspiracy – The Problem with Persons Unknown” – co-authored with Colin Witcher
(2016) “Shaken Baby Syndrome – The Development of Expert Evidence” – co-authored with Jo Morris
(2016) “Courts Martial and the Human Rights Act” – co-authored with Jo Morris
(2016) “Shaken Baby Syndrome – Practical Considerations” co-authored with Jo Morris and published by Crimeline
(2016) “Coercive Control” – co-authored with Jo Morris and published by Crimeline
(2016) “The Military Court Martial – An Outline of Military Jurisdiction” – Chambers Lecture Series.
(2016) “Shaken Baby Syndrome” – Chambers Lecture Series
CPS Grade 2
SFO disclosure panel
FCA LPP panel
Vulnerable Witness Training completed – 2018
Inner Temple Exhibition Award 2010
South Eastern Circuit
Criminal Bar Association
Bar Pro Bono Unit
Inner Temple
Ga (fluent)
French (basic)
Led Junior – Defendant unanimously acquitted of a gangland murder. DL was one of five defendants who faced trial for the slaying of a 15 year old boy in Croydon. DL was the only defendant to be unanimously acquitted of murder and manslaughter.
CM was unanimously acquitted of arson with intent to endanger life. CM accepted in evidence that he had sent his ex partner a threat to burn her house down, that he had attended her house with a can of petrol and that he had then set the property on fire whilst the occupants were asleep upstairs.
Successful prosecution of two defendants for the large scale importation of Class C drugs.
Successful appeal against conviction in relation to the sentence imposed for dangerous driving.
Defendant unanimously acquitted of 3 counts relating to cruelty to two children. The defendant was said to have tortured the two children by burning them.
Defendant unanimously acquitted of attempted s.18 GBH. The Crown alleged that he had deliberately driven his car at his ex partner’s new boyfriend on an empty road.
Led junior in case involving conspiracy to acquire criminal property. Case was noteworthy for its factual complexity.
Successful appeal against 12 year custodial term for rape. Reduced to 8 years and 6 months.
Successful prosecution of a youth under s.16A Firearms Act 1968 arising out of an incident where a 15 year old with severe learning difficulties had been threatened with a firearm in a car park.
Proceedings involving residence, contact, a previous abduction of one of the children, and a potential future abduction.
Fact finding hearing involving 11 allegations of rape, allegations of assault and suffocation of a child.
Instructed by the Treasury Solicitor’s Department on large scale, ongoing litigation as part of the BB scheme.
Treasury Solicitor’s Department
Year of Call - 2012
Anthony specialises in corporate and financial crime, general crime and civil litigation with a wealth of experience in private prosecutions. Anthony is highly sought after due to his ability to act as both a tactician and a strategist. He is praised for his lateral thinking ability and creativity.
Background
Prior to joining Chambers, Anthony was an analyst at Goldman Sachs. His responsibilities included advising the trading teams on matters including international fraud, bribery, money laundering and counter terrorism financing laws and ensuring the investment bank’s compliance with domestic and international financial regulations, including the anti-money laundering regulations, MiFID, EMIR and Dodd-Frank.
Anthony joined Chambers in 2013 and quickly developed a reputation in business crime. In 2015 he was seconded to the SFO to assist in an international multi-million-pound bribery confiscation case. Anthony was also seconded to Peters & Peters LLP on two occasions, where he advised on matters of general crime including murder and sexual offences, and on corporate crime including fraud, bribery and corruption, INTERPOL red notices, extradition, UN sanctions, export controls, and private prosecutions. Anthony advised on domestic cases, pre and post-charge, various EU cases, and on an complex international arbitration.
In 2018 Anthony spent a year in the financial crime team in KPMG, where he advised numerous high profile clients and successfully negotiated with various prosecution authorities to avoid clients being charged with criminal offences. Whilst at the firm, Anthony spearheaded KPMG’s legal offering in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space.
Anthony enjoys writing legal articles. He has been published in the New Statesmen and the New Law Journal, and has been quoted in The Guardian, CNN and the British Medical Journal.
Corporate and Financial Crime
Anthony specialises in advising employees and directors of organisations on criminal liability and defending those charged in criminal proceedings. His practice encompasses the spectrum of business crime, including heavy fraud work, complex white-collar crime, tax evasion and bribery. Anthony has been involved in various landmark cases including the Rolls-Royce prosecution. He has also been instructed in arbitrations, where the parties wish to deal with issues concerning potential criminality outside of the public forum.
General Crime
Anthony is an experienced prosecution and defence criminal practitioner. His recent cases include importation of drugs, kidnap, blackmail, bribery, attempted murder and serious sexual offences. He is forensically astute, dealing with the complex evidence and intricate legal issues. He has experience being led and sole junior for both the prosecution and defence.
Private Prosecution
Anthony has developed a particular specialism in bringing and defending private prosecutions. He frequently advises on the merits of bringing a private prosecution and on issues arising in the course of proceedings, such as those relating to disclosure, LPP, confidentiality and investigatory powers. Anthony has acted in private prosecutions involving employee fraud, historic sexual offences and on the prosecution of the Prime Minister for misconduct in public office.
Honourable Society of the Inner Temple
Criminal Bar Association (CBA)
Young Fraud Lawyers Association (YFLA)
South Eastern Circuit (SEC)
Western Circuit
Bar Pro Bono Unit (BPBU)
Free Representation Unit (FRU)
Crown Prosecution Service – Grade 2 Prosecutor
Serious Fraud Office – Review Counsel Panel
University of Durham, Law LLB, Upper Second Class Honours
Duke of Edinburgh Scholarship, Inner Temple, 2011
Exhibition Award, Inner Temple, 2011
Sweet & Maxwell Scholarship, Pupil Barrister Award, Inner Temple, 2013
‘Could Vote Leave be Prosecuted for its EU Referendum Propaganda?’ – New Statesman, 19 July 2016 – http://www.newstatesman.com/politics/staggers/2016/07/could-vote-leave-be-prosecuted-its-eu-referendum-campaign-propaganda
‘Covered Up?’ N.L.J. 2014, 164(7603), 15-16 – New Law Journal –http://www.newlawjournal.co.uk/nlj/content/covered
Assisted in 2016 and 2017 editions of ‘Asset Recovery – Getting the Deal Through’, Law Business Research – https://gettingthedealthrough.com/area/53/asset-recovery/
Quoted by Legal Affairs Correspondent of the Guardian in article ‘First legal attempt to prevent Brexit set for preliminary hearing’, 8 July 2016 – https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/jul/08/legal-attempt-prevent-brexit-preliminary-hearing-article-50
Advised a US entity on whether it had breached the UK Bribery Act 2010.
Advised a multinational company on the implications of the EU and US sanctions against Iran, Sudan, Syria, Cuba and Russia and Crimea.
Assisted in drafting the internal anti-bribery and corruption policies for corporate clients.
Acting in a Crown Court trial, where the client is charged with defrauding a multinational corporation.
Submitted representations to the United Nations and European Union Commission on the withdrawal of a travel ban and asset freeze on a politically-exposed person.
Submitted representations to INTERPOL on the removal of a Red Notice.
Instructed by the SFO as legal professional privilege (LPP) Counsel an international bribery and corruption investigation.
SFO
Instructed by the Treasury Solicitor’s Department on the Kenya Emergency Group Litigation.
Treasury Solicitor’s Department
Advised on sentence for rape and murder.
Advised on grounds of appeal on a multi-million-pound Serious Fraud Office prosecution.
Represented a youth charged with affray after allegedly brandishing a machete in a London shopping centre.
Successfully represented a father in the High Court in wardship of child proceedings.
Year of Call - 2012
Michael Polak is a very popular choice for high profile cases involving international law, serious crime, human rights, and strategic litigation.
Michael is currently acting in some of the most newsworthy cases including the Cyprus Rape trial and appeal, a challenge to the Government’s Huawei 5G plans, the defence of an artist’s freedom of expression, and a number of large scale private prosecutions in areas such as fraud and torture. Alongside this cutting edge work, Michael is also instructed to defend in a number of lengthy complex fraud and drug conspiracies.
In regards to strategic litigation, Michael’s strong understanding of the full range of legal options in both the domestic and international legal spheres means that he is able to advise on the best way to solve a client’s particular legal problems, whether they are individuals or an organisation, and whether that solutions lies in the civil, public law, private prosecution, or international law arenas.
International
Internationally, Michael has experience managing client’s cases in places as diverse as Belarus, Myanmar, Cyprus, Australia, Spain, Mexico, the USA, China, Greece, the Middle East, and India. Michael’s international work has included:
• Co-ordinating the defence of the British teenager who has been put on trial in Cyprus after reporting a gang rape;
• Submitting communications to the United Nations’ Special Procedures, the Working Group on Enforced and Involuntary Disappearances and the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and appearing before these groups on behalf of clients in China and Bangladesh;
• Assisting the Uyghur community with a number of different legal areas and speaking at the World Uyghur Congress’ Conference in Washington in 2019;
• Drafting successful representations to the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files to remove Red Notices. Michael is also the author of leading legal publisher Westlaw’s Insight article on INTERPOL Notices explaining the notices and the possibilities as to how they can be removed;
• Assisting clients as a member of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Pro Bono Panel set up to promote and protect the human rights of British nationals detained overseas;
• Assisting on research for an appeal at the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia;
• Working on the Mau Mau litigation in regards to the situation in Colonial Kenya;
• On secondments with the Public Defender in Jamaica, the Black Sash in South Africa, and at the Khmer Rouge Tribunal in Cambodia; and
• Working on a Hague Convention case involving the alleged abduction of a child from Italy to the United Kingdom.
Serious Crime
Michael is regularly instructed to defend in serious criminal matters. He applies a forensic approach but is able to relate well to juries as well. Michael’s secondment at the Financial Conduct Authority where he worked on a matter concerning alleged breaches of the listing rules by a major financial institution expanded his fraud knowledge and experience.
Michael has acted in trials involving the full range of criminal offences including:
8 Handed 75 Tonne Tobacco Fraud
Michael represented the first defendant of eight, alleged to be the mastermind of a conspiracy to evade excise duty payable on the manufacture of hand rolling tobacco from raw tobacco in regards to consignments imported by air with a gross weight of 75 tonnes.
It is alleged that the defendants created an “immensely complex” set of records and numerous shell companies to hide their real purpose – to import raw tobacco and then treat it so it could be sold for use by smoking. All other defendants were found guilty and a retrial for Michael’s client will being in January 2021.
Lengthy Courier Fraud Trial
Michael Polak successfully represented a Defendant in a lengthy trial St Albans Crown Court who was alleged to be involved in a 8 handed courier fraud conspiracy involving the defrauding of a number of individuals of over £350 000 by the participants.
The trial included a large amount of telephone cell-site evidence and the cross-examination of an expert in this area. The defendant Michael Polak was representing was one of only two Defendants out of eight who were found not guilty after trial.
Leading in Multi-Handed Lengthy Robbery Trial
Michael acted as leading Counsel representing a defendant in this 9 handed lengthy youth robbery at St Albans Crown Court. The case involved three knife point robberies committed by a gang of 9 young men against other youths in the local area. This case involved a large volume of telephone and CCTV evidence and careful management of young a vulnerable defendants and witnesses.
Michael led a junior barrister in this trial and held his own amongst significantly more senior barristers.
Kidnapping Trial
Michael Polak successfully defended a client alleged to have been involved in the assault and the kidnapping of a youth. After a 5-day trial at Northampton Crown Court the jury returned unanimous not guilty verdicts.
Private Prosecutions
Michael has conducted two successful private prosecutions from inception for assault occasioning actual bodily harm and unlawful eviction.
He is also currently advising on three high profile private prosecutions concerning allegations of torture, coercive and controlling behaviour, and fraud.
Appellate Work
Michael is regularly instructed to advise on appeals of both convictions and sentences to the Court of Appeal and is currently instructed to pursue an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights.
International Crime
Michael has the experience needed to advise on international criminal cases given his Master’s Degree in Public International Law which included international criminal law, his research for an appeal before the Mechanism UN Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunal, his attendance at a training course at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, and his work as an intern with the Defence Support Section of the Khmer Rouge Tribunal.
Michael can advise individuals who may find themselves subject to the jurisdiction of an international court or tribunal as well as organisations who may be considering submitting a communication to the Prosecutor of the ICC for her to consider prosecution in regards to certain situations.
Current Domestic Criminal Instructions
Michael is currently instructed in a large scale drug importation case, an armed robbery, and a s18 Assault Occasioning Grievous Bodily Harm trial.
Human Rights
As well as the international matters listed above which involve human rights arguments Michael is often instructed in domestic human rights public law and civil cases. This has included judicial reviews involving the provision of Kosher food to Jewish Prisoners, actions for assault on prisoners by prison guards or other inmates, and public law challenges to unfair prison adjudications.
Another human rights area in which Michael practices is extradition law and cross-border criminal investigations. In extradition, Michael has appeared in multiple applications for the Respondent raising arguments based on the Human Rights Act, procedural bars, and conviction in absence grounds. Michael has also successfully acted for a Pakistani national who was apprehended in Eastern Europe on a Red Notice issued on the request of a Middle-Eastern state to have it removed. Further to this Michael is also the author of leading legal publisher Westlaw’s Insight article on INTERPOL Notices explaining the notices and the possibilities as to how they can be removed.
Michael also has experience of inquiries have worked as a paralegal for the Secretariat to the Alexander Litvinenko Inquest before commencing pupillage and having also spent time on the West Kingston Commission of Enquiry (Tivoli Enquiry) in Jamaica which examined the circumstances surrounding an incursion by the Jamaican security forces into an inner city community which resulted in the death of over 70 people.
Michael is the elected President of Middle Temple Young Barrister’s Association, is on the Executive Committee of the Human Rights Lawyers Association (HRLA) where he was previously the Chair of the HRLA’s Young Lawyers Committee and where he started the annual judicial review competition and journal, the Young Human Rights Lawyer.
Michael is also an elected member of the South-Eastern Circuit and the Bar Council.
Michael has been a visiting Lecturer at Birmingham University Medical School where he taught subjects such as the law of abortion, patient choice, and euthanasia. Michael has also provided a guest lecture on criminal law at Birkbeck College, University of London.
Michael has been awarded the following awards and scholarships:
• Middle Temple Harmsworth Scholar (Major Scholarship);
• Middle Temple International Internship Award;
• South Eastern Circuit scholarship to attend the Gerald T. Bennett Prosecutor and Public Defender Trial Training Program at the University of Florida College of Law;
• London School of Economics and Political Science Anniversary Scholarship
Michael also voluntarily work for youth charity the Renaissance Foundation as the Skills for Life Programme Director. This involves putting together and running a practical skills programme with expert speakers and practical exercises for underprivileged young people.
During the Coronavirus crisis Michael set up and ran Fuel Our Frontline which delivered over 14 tonnes of groceries to frontline NHS staff members at over 30 British hospitals.
Polak, M.J. The Jadhav case and the right to consular assistance: ‘confessions’, spies, and remedies in international law. Indian Journal of International Law 57, 385–409 (2017).
Interpretation of Legislation under the Human Rights Act, November 2016
Westlaw Insight article on INTERPOL Notices, November 2015
Domestic Workers’ Rights Booklet, You and Your Rights, the Black Sash, South Africa, 2010
Constitutional Rights of Children Booklet, You and Your Rights, the Black Sash, South Africa, 2010
Sierra Leone: Blanket Ban on Political Rallies and Public Meetings Illegal, Article 19, 2010
Net Neutrality: Stronger Rules Needed in US and EU, Article 19, 2011
The Exclusion of Evidence in Criminal Law, Brunel University, January 2017
Visiting Lecturer at Birmingham University Medical School teaching subjects such as the law of abortion, patient choice, and euthanasia, 2015-current
Member, Foreign and Commonwealth Office Pro Bono Panel
Executive Committee, Human Rights Lawyers Association
Executive Committee South-Eastern Circuit
Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
Criminal Bar Association
Young Fraud Lawyers Association
Panel Member, Bar Pro Bono Unit
Member, Law Society International Action Team
European Criminal Bar Association
Amnesty International
Extradition Lawyers Association
Anglo-Australasian Lawyers Society
President of Middle Temple Young Barristers’ Association
2015-2017 Master of Law (LLM)(Public International Law) London School of Economics and Political Science Merit (Distinction in Law of War, UK Human Rights, and Dissertation published by Indian Journal of International Law https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40901-018-0077-8 )
2014-2015 Peacekeeping & International Conflict Resolution, Peace Operations Training Institute.
2011-2012 Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), Kaplan College, London. Very Competent.
2007-2010 Bachelor of Law, City University London, Upper 2nd Class Honours, 66.7%, Ranked 5/120 (top 4%) 1st Class in International Human Rights Law, European Law, and Public International Law
Michael secured a unanimous s18 GBH, Wounding, and Assault Trial acquittal after a 4 days trial at Birmingham Crown Court.
Michael successfully represented the defendant who was found not guilty in a case of Sexual Touching of Someone under the Age of 13. This case involved pre-recorded evidence and the cross-examination of the 10 y.o complainant.
Michael represented an Italian national who was facing 5 counts of sexual assault. Michael obtained the taped interview of the defendant which showed that the transcript was incorrect in that the defendant had not be properly cautioned before the interview commenced despite the transcript stating that he had. Michael successfully argued that the interview could not be relied upon ending the prosecution’s case against the defendant.
Michael made successful submissions to the Court of Appeal in regards to the length of the sentence and application of an extended sentence for the appellant who had been convicted of a serious armed robbery and burglary. After hearing Michael’s submission the Court shortened the length of sentence.
Michael appeared in a multi-handed 2 day sentencing hearing in regards to ‘sham’ marriages which were conducted in two locations on the same day. His defendant was one of a very small number of defendants not to receive an immediate custodial sentence.
Michael is currently instructed to privately prosecute an ABH matter which occurred when a taxi driver struck another taxi driver in a dispute over a carparking space causing permanent damage to his vision. Michael undertook all work on this case from its inception including the drafting of the information that was laid before the court, written submissions to the court as to why a summons should be granted, a successful application for a witness summons requiring the Detective Constable to produce all documents that the police have in regards to this incident, and appearing at all hearings in this matter. Michael is particularly keen on using the Public Prosecution procedure to prosecute Police misconduct and other cases where the authorities fail to live up to their duties.
Michael represented an Islamic Community Centre for failure to comply with an enforcement notice restricting the hours of operation of the centre. After lengthy mitigation submissions the defendant was fined only £100 per offence, an unusually low fine.
Michael drafted a number of written representation on behalf of a small business which had been investigated by the Fire Service for a number of breaches of fire safety laws. After Michael’s representation’s the Fire Service agreed to work with the company to remedy the breaches rather than to pursue enforcement actions and prosecute as they had said they would.
Michael successfully represented the mother of an Italian/Russian girl who was the respondent in a Hague Convention child abduction matter. The matter was concluded in the mother’s favour.
Michael was instructed by the Treasury Solicitor’s Department on large scale, ongoing litigation into the alleged abuses by the Colonial Government in Kenya against the Mau Mau as part of the BB scheme.
Treasury Solicitor’s Department
Michael is currently instructed in a civil Human Rights Act claim against the Ministry of Justice in regards to a Jewish prisoner who alleges that the prison where he was detained failed to follow the policy correctly in not giving him two kosher meals daily.
Michael is currently instructed in a civil claim by a prisoner who contracted HIV after being bitten by a fellow prisoner who subsequently died from AIDS.
Year of Call - 2013
Ciara is a committed defence barrister who is regarded as a first class advocate with over 12 years experience in the Criminal and Appellate courts. Ciara has an enormous capacity for complex criminal cases and has the ability to assimilate large quantities of evidence. Ciara is highly regarded for her meticulous preparation of cases, her impressive court room manner and her ability to form an instant rapport with clients. Ciara is regularly instructed in cases involving allegations of murder, large scale complex frauds, sexual offences and serious and organised crime.
Current Instruction
R v I: Multi – handed murder and attempted murder.
R v X: Multi – handed case involving the supply of several kilos of class A drugs.
R v H: Defendant charged with supplying 11 kilos of class B drugs.
R v L: Defendant charged with possession with intent to supply (6 kilos of cocaine and 11 kilos of cannabis)
R v W: Instructed to represent the Defendant in respect of allegations of rape and violent assault.
Regular appearances before the parole boards for lifer prisoners.
HDC applications, ROTL and re-categoristaion applications for serving prisoners.
Representation of prisoners at adjudication hearings for offences committed in prison.
The Honorable Society of Middle Temple
Member of the Fraud Lawyers Association
Higher Rights of Audience (All Proceedings)
The Criminal Bar Association
The South Eastern Circuit
University of North London- LL.B Hons Law
Inns of Court School of Law- Legal Practice Course
Higher Rights of Audience (all proceedings)
Fully duty accredited (courts and police stations)
Represented 1st Defendant of 13 as Leading Counsel in £20 million fraud involving Transport For London (TFL). The Defendant, together with others ran a highly sophisticated operation, fraudulently producing counterfeit rail cards on a massive scale. The Defendant was head of the distribution and manufacturing chain and was at the pinnacle of the operation. This case involved vast quantities of electronic telephone evidence.
Represented 1st Defendant in multi- handed large scale banking fraud which took place across England & Wales involving involving the use of cards which were adapted with false chips and magnetic strips encoded with legitimate bank card numbers to make large cash withdrawals. This case involved the manipulation of the cash withdrawal system resulting in huge financial losses to Barclay's Bank and Royal Bank of Scotland.
Represented Defendant following NCA investigation into the large scale import, export and distribution of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS). Over 600 kilos of AAS was seized from Heathrow Airport which led to the investigation and arrest of the Defendants who were an organised crime group which was the most prolific of its kind ever uncovered in the world and likely to be the biggest global players in the AAS market. This case involved complex legal arguments surrounding breaches of the relevant PACE provisions and hundreds of hours of surveillance evidence.
Perverting the Course of Justice- Represented two defendants in separate trials in an operation involving a total of thirty Defendants. This case revolved around the activities of a former employee of EMS Limited, a Ministry of Justice appointed electronic monitoring company. It was alleged that EMS employees arrange wholly outside of the proper scope of their dues and /or any legitimate authority, to use genuine issued equipment to tamper with electronic monitoring equipment. It was alleged that the equipment was tampered with in an effort to evade the practical restrictions which electronic monitoring necessarily involves. This case involved a vast quantity of raw scientific data and lengthy cross examination of the Crown's scientific experts.
Complex banking fraud involving transferred funds amounting to several million pounds. Bogus shelf companies were created with the intention of defrauding major banks of significant sums of money.
Appeal against conviction and sentence in a baby shaking murder case. Instructed post conviction to advise on the merits of an appeal and draft fresh grounds of appeal (Pro-Bono). This case involved expert medical evidence on the correlation between spinal injury and the respiratory system.
Represented Defendant charged with murder which was committed in custody. This case involved complex issues regarding diminished responsibility.
Represented Defendant in stranger rape case in which the Complainant was drugged, physically assaulted and violently raped over an extended period at the Defendants address.
Represented Defendant charged with the rape of a female on the premises of a Bar/Nightclub.
Represented Defendant charged with large scale, multi-kilo supply of class A & B drugs involving. Case involved surveillance evidence and a large quantity of telephone raw data.
Year of Call - 2014
Gregory specialises in general crime, corporate offending and regulatory matters with extensive experience beyond his year of Call having worked previously as a fee-earning paralegal for a leading niche private client firm and thereafter for 18 months at the Financial Conduct Authority. Gregory is well placed to understand the pressures on instructing solicitors and the importance of effective case preparation and managing lay client’s expectations. He is described as approachable, dependable and with an ability to instal trust and confidence in those that he represents.
Gregory is a Level 3 CPS Advocate and has membership of both the Specialist Fraud Panel and Serious Crime Panel. To that end, Gregory both prosecutes and defends in the broad spectrum of criminal law, believing the same makes for a more rounded, measured advocate. Recent instructions include robbery, matters of significance violence, firearms offences and the like.
In addition to criminal matters, Gregory has also developed a vast amount of experience in a Regulatory setting. Having first been on secondment with The Nursing and Midwifery Council as a case presenter, Gregory continues to advocate at tribunals both on behalf of the NMC and on behalf of registrants. Gregory is willing to be instructed in all regulatory matters, including cases concerning the General Pharmaceutical Council and the General Dental Council.
Whilst currently focusing predominantly on crime and business crime, Gregory has previously accepted instructions in all areas of general civil litigation, including relief from sanctions and the like. He remains happy to provide pre-litigation strategic advice in writing or in conference. Gregory is well versed in those matters which cross the civil/criminal divide including regulation and health and safety.
Gregory was former pro-bono advocate before the Armed Forces Compensation Tribunal and has a long standing interest in military law and ensuring the adequate representation of military personnel. Equally, he has an interest in sport law and representing those with legal issues in the sporting world having played for the Saracens Amateur team.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn (Wolfson Scholarship)
CPS Panel, Grade 3
Criminal Bar Association
Nottingham Law School, LLB
Kaplan Law School, BVC (Kaplan Advocacy Scholarship)
Retained by Thames Valley Police and the CPS in an advisory role as disclosure counsel to aid a 9-month fraud trial.
Secured an acquittal at the Central Criminal Court where the Defendant was charged with possession of class A drugs with intent to supply after a six day trial.
Prosecution on behalf of the CPS for a S.18 GBH in a domestic setting after a 4 day trial.
Successful defence of a gang member charged with armed robbery and threatening an individual with a knife after an 8 day trial
Secured an acquittal at Aylesbury Crown Court where the Defendant was charged with possession of a firearm with intent after 5 day trial.
Defence Counsel in a complex four-day trial concerning the neglect of three children aged 9, 10 and 14 by their mother this included the cross examination of all three young children and expert witnesses from Social Services.
Defence Counsel on a serious matter of racial violence; privately instructed.
Defence Counsel in two weeks trial concerning a conspiracy to supply Class A Drugs; multi handed cases.
Defence Counsel in seven day trial where defendant faced section 18 GBH committed in prison.
Represented registrant facing numerous assault allegation against patients through inappropriate restraint techniques.
NMC case presenter where registrant had allegedly maintained an inappropriate relationship with numerous patients.
NMC case presenter where registrant allegedly caused a patient’s death.
NMC case presenter where registrant allegedly contributed to the death of a patient.
Year of Call - 2014
Caroline is a hardworking, cogent and dedicated advocate. Caroline enjoys the ability to easily engage with clients from a variety of backgrounds to create a rapport. Caroline’s naturally compassionate approach to clients along with her persuasive and passionate advocacy is recognised and appreciated by both lay and professional clients.
Prior to coming to the Bar Caroline gained a wider knowledge and experience of a number of areas of law. These included International Criminal Law, Human Rights law, Civil Law, Corporate Crime and Capital punishment. As a former intern for Judge Osaki at the International Criminal Court, Caroline assisted in drafting a section of the Judgment on the Ntaganda case. Caroline spent over a year and a half working as a Paralegal on the Tesco Fraud case, this experience honed her capacity to deal with documentation and issue heavy cases as well as her Disclosure review abilities. Caroline interned with Amicus, working on Death Row cases as a Mitigation Investigator for the State Public Defender in Jackson, Mississippi. This experience focussed Caroline’s empathy for her clients to enable her to best mitigate their circumstances for the sentencing stage of their upcoming Death penalty trials. Caroline also has experience of working as a paralegal for a Magic Circle firm and one of the largest city firms.
Caroline remains close to Amicus, supporting the charity in writing articles for their newsletter and interviewing prospective interns. Caroline was also a former pro-bono advocate for the Free Representation Unit representing clients at Social security Tribunals.
As a result of Caroline’s previous experience she has an invaluable understanding of the pressures on instructing solicitors and the importance of effective case preparation and client care. Caroline is frequently instructed in a variety of matters from driving matters to theft or violent matters.
Whilst currently focussing predominantly on Crime and Business Crime, Caroline has received instructions in Family and Civil matters.
Caroline remains interested in International Criminal Law and Human Rights Law and is keen to continue to gain experience in these areas and to apply her knowledge and experience gained through her time at the International Criminal Court to do so.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn International Criminal Court (ICC) Internship Scholarship (6 month placement), The Hague, 2017
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn Continuing Education Fund, Amicus Internship, Jackson, Mississippi, 2016
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn Bursary – European Court of Human Rights Visit, Strasbourg, July 2015
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn Bursary – International Criminal Court (ICC), June 2015
The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn
Criminal Bar Association
Amicus
Young Fraud Lawyers Association
University of Exeter, LLB
BPP Law School, BPTC
Year of Call - 2016
Amy has shown herself to be an able, versatile and dedicated advocate whose client care is widely recognised. Throughout her time in Chambers, Amy’s hard work, understanding of the law and measured approach has earnt her numerous plaudits from clients and solicitors.
Prior to commencing pupillage, Amy worked as a Parliamentary Researcher and as a county court advocate.
During law school, Amy strengthened her experience in a variety of areas including employment law as a FRU representative and volunteering as Housing Law advisor. She also volunteered for Street Law and the Citizens Advice Bureau. This has provided her with a wealth of knowledge, particularly when dealing with vulnerable clients.
Amy is Direct Access qualified and accepts instructions directly from the public and business alike.
• Lord Diplock Scholar - The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple (2014 – 2015)
• Blackstone Entrance Exhibition Award - The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple (2014 – 2015)
• Commercial Bar Association (COMBAR) Scholar – (2015)
• Graduate Diploma in Law - City Law School, University of London (2013 – 2015)
• Bursary Award for Advocacy - Criminal Bar Association (November 2020)
• Criminal Bar Association
• Young Fraud Lawyers Association
• The Honourable Society of Middle Temple
• Completed the ICCA Advocacy and the Vulnerable Training Programme
• Completed the Youth Court Advocacy Training Programme
• CPS - External Advocates Panel (Grade I)
• Government Legal Department 'Junior Junior' Scheme .
• FA Independent Discipline Panel Member.
Year of Call - 2018
Jibreel has a broad mixed common law practice. He has earned a reputation as a strong, robust and thorough advocate – often providing solutions to complex cases. His approach to all cases is to be pro-active and communicate with others in an open and transparent manner so as to provide the best solution to any given case. His advocacy is robust and he adapts to various situations in an effective and determinative manner. He was called to the Bar in October 2018 and he gained relevant experience at a firm of Solicitors. He has also undertaken Human Rights work with a Non-Governmental Organisation on various human rights situations across the world (including Yemen, Kashmir, Alaska, Palestine). He has attended sessions within the United Nations (Palais Des Nations, Geneva) and the European Parliament. He has also assisted in organising round tables and side events in which official members of the UN and EP would regularly attend. As mentioned above, he is also a qualified football coach and is passionate about football.
Jibreel has appeared in all civil claims from the small track to the multi track. His approach to these kind of cases is to always uncover the best possible solution for his clients in the circumstances.
Jibreel’s expertise in the Family area begins with private child law – often building a strong rapport with his clients so that they feel comfortable and feel the compassion that he offers. His approach is always to resolve the issues between parties in a pragmatic manner. Alongside this, he has dealt with a wide ranging financial issues between separated parties. He adopts a similar approach to child law but his experience allows him to robustly, calmly and swiftly resolve issues outstanding between parties.
Jibreel has drafted and appeared at a level challenging the point of law in respect of administration so as to ensure a fair, just and streamlined execution of administrative law. He regularly drafts grounds for judicial review on points of challenge which is aimed at deciphering and solving issues which are of great public importance.
Jibreel has appeared at the First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal dealing with complex public and human rights matters. He regularly advocates on the engagement of Article 8 ECHR. He often appears on matters of immigration and has expertly dealt with all relevant matters on Immigration to which he has provided effective and successful outcomes.
Jibreel has built a robust understanding in matters relating to sports, particularly football and accepts instructions on this area in respect of: contracts, agency contracts, advice on sports law and the like. He is a qualified Football coach (Level 2) as has been coaching since he was 18. He is currently a Football Coach at St Lawrence School of Football and Juventus Academy London.
BPTC – BPP Law School (Holborn)
LLB – Brunel University London
Successful acquittal of Defendant under Section 89(2) of the Police Act 1996 at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court
Acted for Defendant in an inheritance case for the will of the deceased worth £395,000. Successfully argued that the Claimant had no ‘reasonable financial provision’
Acted for the Employer against the Claimants’ claim for constructive unfair dismissal claim and age discrimination. The Claimant’s claim was dismissed. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/60f97f37d3bf7f044c515918/Mrs_A_Dopson_v_Stag_Publications_-_3352829-2017_-_Reserved_judgment_and_reasons_-_signed_on_6-7-21.pdf (also reported at various news outlets)
Appeal allowed under after successful argument under EEA Regulations 2016 8(2)(b)(ii) on the word “joined” at the First-tier Tribunal
Permission to Amend granted and relied on the case of Balijigari v SSHD at the Upper Tribunal
http://www.bailii.org/uk/cases/UKAITUR/2019/HU004902019.html
http://www.bailii.org/uk/cases/UKAITUR/2020/PA080592019.html
Successful appeal allowed at FtT on family route pursuant to the Immigration Rules under Appendix Fm
Year of Call - 2018
Zayd Ahmed is a great advocate and has achieved fantastic results for my clients at trial. He is always thoroughly prepared and is very knowledgeable of the law. I have had excellent feedback from my clients and have no hesitation in instructing him.
Associate Solicitor at EBR Attridge, Harry Charalambous
Zayd is a criminal and extradition barrister who represents both children and adults charged with a full range of criminal offences.
He has represented a variety of individuals at both the magistrates and crown courts and has conducted in excess of 200 trials obtaining great results. Zayd has an in-depth understanding of the CPIA and the disclosure obligations on both the prosecution and defence.
Zayd is also a dual qualified duty solicitor and has a detailed understanding of the police interview process, allowing him to challenge any breaches of the codes of practice.
He also has experience in dealing with extradition proceedings both at the initial and final hearing and has worked on Proceeds of Crime applications so is able to advise on and challenge cash seizure, forfeiture and confiscation proceedings.
Prior to qualifying as a barrister, Zayd worked for some of the top criminal defence firms litigating high profile cases including murder, terrorism and fraud.
Zayd is an elected member of the Bar Council and confidently represents the needs of young and Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic barristers practicing at the bar in England and Wales. He is also a social mobility advocate for the Bar council.
Current instructions include:
R v PD: Sole counsel defending a charge of rape
R v VP: Sole counsel in a s18 GBH matter
R v F: Sole counsel in a money laundering charge
Elected member of bar council
Member of the Criminal Bar Association (CBA)
Duty Solicitor
Criminal litigation accreditation
Cardiff University Competent March 2020
Magistrates Court Qualification (Duty Solicitor)
BPP Very Competent September 2016 – September 2017
Sussex University LLM Merit September 2015 – September 2016
Sussex University LLB 2:1 September 2012 – July 2016
Sole counsel defending a charge of rape
Sole counsel in a s18 GBH matter
Sole counsel in a money laundering charge
Mr Kerim Fuad QC’s client was a 16 year old defendant who was on trial both for the Murder of a 19 year old, and the S.18... more
On 17 January 2022, George’s client was discharged by a District Judge at Westminster Magistrates’ Court; his... more
The Appeal against sentence involved arguments as to the appropriate weight to be placed upon offenders own attempts to remain... more
Yasin Patel has been instructed to represent a leading International Athlete in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)... more
Church Court Chambers’ Michael Polak has begun his term as the Chair of the Bar Council’s Young Barristers’ Committee... more
Glenn Harris was instructed by a top defence firm of Solicitors VHS Fletchers in Nottingham and secured an acquittal for an... more
In a Judgement handed down on 7th January 2022 at the Central London County Court by Her Honour Judge Baucher, Jibreel secured... more
Church Court Chambers’ international human rights barrister Michael Polak, drafted a formal written complaint which has been... more
This was a complex case involving a defendant of good character and an allegation of Rape dating back 40 years. The complainant... more
On 2 December 2021, George’s client, N.R. was discharged by a district judge at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. ... more
Yasin Patel of Chambers has been asked to advise and assist a number of International and County Cricketers who have come forward... more
On the 12th November 2021, Church Court Chambers’ Michael Polak spoke at the World Uyghur Congress General Assembly panel in... more