BCL Solicitors LLP houses a criminal defence practice which ‘is streets ahead in terms of dedication and service’, offering clients expertise in sexual offence cases, robbery matters and Section 18 grievous bodily harm proceedings. Under the supervision of the ‘utterly first-rate’ Ellen Peart, the team predominantly advises well-known, high-net-worth clients. Peart is particularly adept at handling cases involving the possession of indecent images. David Hardstaff leverages extensive regulatory expertise and boasts a strong track record in drug supply matters. Clients praise Daniel Jackson as an ‘extremely trustworthy, highly capable and deeply dedicated solicitor’. He has experience handling the full scope of criminal defence matters and has recently worked on several robbery and theft cases.

Bindmans LLP is reputed for its depth of expertise in a range of criminal matters, ranging from fraud and white collar crime to assault investigations and international sanctions violations. Under Tayab Ali‘s stewardship, the practice represents political figures, high-net-worth individuals, and other private clients, while also handling legal aid work. Ali is an authority in terrorism law, working for key stakeholders in multi-jurisdictional litigations. Katie Wheatley is well-regarded for her financial and regulatory expertise, with experience that covers the full gamut of general crime work. Jude Lanchin is noted for his capabilities in cases involving offensive weapons and grievous bodily harm. Catherine Jackson and Nicholas Jennaway strengthen an already deep bench. Kate Goold left the team in April 2025.

Corker Binning is recognised for its advice given to clients dealing with appeals, extradition hearings, and domestic abuse matters. The practice is jointly led by Edward Grange and Danielle Reece-Greenhalgh, which assists high-net-worth individuals, youth offenders, and others on a litany of general crime cases. Grange is an authority in extradition advocacy, with experience dealing with assault charges, murder cases, and multijurisdictional matters. Reece-Greenhalgh has recently been involved in a high-profile perjury matter, while Maia Cohen-Lask boasts a strong track record in the representation of vulnerable individuals. Joseph Hume is adept at handling serious sexual offences and drug importation cases. Henrietta Ronson joined the team from Simons Muirhead Burton in April 2025.

The team at Edward Fail Bradshaw & Waterson has built a strong reputation as legal aid specialists, assisting clients with the management of drug importation offences, fraud cases, assault allegations, and violent crime proceedings. Paul Harris, Shila Keshvari, Natalie Berman, and Kirsty Bishop jointly lead the team, which has a particularly strong presence in East London and Essex. Bishop is recognised for her financial crime expertise, but her practice extends to sexual abuse claims and terrorism investigations. Keshvari is noted for her capabilities in drug trafficking cases, while Harris is regularly involved in highly publicised investigations related to public order and fraud. Berman is equipped to handle the full range of general crime work and has recently acted in attempted murder cases and those involving the discharge of a firearm.

Hickman & Rose is a popular firm for privately funded clients who require assistance with controlling and coercive behaviour allegations, sexual assault cases, and actual bodily harm matters. Department head Jenny Wiltshire ‘is an absolute pro’ who has recently advised clients in the public eye on sensitive multijurisdictional sexual offence matters. The ‘brilliant’ Peter Csemiczky, a reference for both high-net-worth individuals and vulnerable clients, is experienced working with the criminal justice system as well as several professional investigatory bodies. Rose Commander is praised for her ‘impressive’ client care, while Ben Rose offers experience in unlawful act manslaughter cases. Kate Goold joined the firm from Bindmans LLP in April 2025.

The crime, financial and regulatory practice at Hodge Jones & Allen is praised for boasting ‘some of the leading practitioners in criminal legal aid work’, in addition to its robust private client offering. The team is spearheaded by Raj Chada, who is considered a point of authority in litigation involving protestors and boasts some of the largest international organisations as part of his client base. Caroline Liggins focuses her practice on youth defendants and crime, and has experience advising on murder, drug conspiracy, and sexual offences matters. Laura O’Brien works with ‘skill and determination’ as both an adviser and an advocate, particularly in complex national security cases.

Kingsley Napley LLP, 'an absolute diamond of a firm with gifted and talented lawyers' covering criminal defence and investigation support work, is jointly led by Louise Hodges, Sandra Paul and David Sleight. The criminal litigation practice boasts a particularly strong track record in the defence of serious sexual assault and rape allegations. Paul is hailed as ‘an absolute titan in the world of crime’ and is well known for her advice that overlaps with the media sector. Sleight is well-renowned in the sport sector and is equipped to handle the full lifecycle of a criminal matter, from the initial interviews with the police through to trial. Matthew Hardcastle, noted for his expertise in cases concerning high-profile individuals, and Rebecca Niblock, noted for her capabilities in cross-border matters, are further key contacts.

Praised for ‘the exceptional strength and quality’ of the team, the business crime and investigations practice at Peters & Peters Solicitors LLP is noted for its treatment of ‘each case with rigour, discretion and care’ under the leadership of the ‘completely unflappable’ Nick Vamos. Vamos leverages prosecutorial expertise in his practice and has recently advised on national security matters, murder trials, and rape allegations. He is supported by Liam Lane, who is noted for his capabilities in national security cases. Rachel Cook is particularly experienced in high-value robbery matters.

Phil Smith leads the crime and regulatory practice at Simons Muirhead Burton, offering high-net-worth and high-profile individuals ‘faultless’ assistance in a wide array of criminal matters. The team often acts in high-profile murder, rape and assault investigations. The ‘exceptional’ Smith often acts for public sector professionals, and has a strong track record in sexual assault cases. Anthony Burton’s depth of public law knowledge introduces a multidisciplinary approach in his defence of historic criminal allegations. Aysu Haker is also recommended.

Involved in novel precedent-setting litigation, ABV Solicitors is home to a well-established general crime team, acting for high-net-worth individuals, vulnerable clients, and industry professionals. The department is jointly led by Akhtar Ahmad, who often assists clients at the investigation stage, and Robert Borwick, who is noted for his capabilities in drug and GBH cases. Other notable names include Sunita Mehta, who frequently represents individuals involved in sensitive sexual abuse matters, and Hanisha Godhania, who has longstanding experience with firearm offences. She is hailed as an ‘incredible advocate who goes above and beyond to deliver the best results consistently’.

Led by Giles Bark-Jones, the team at Bark&co frequently advises on murder trials, sexual offences cases, and national security matters. Bark-Jones has repeated successes in cases involving high-net-worth clients or multiple jurisdictions, and is reputed for his depth of expertise in drug conspiracy or importation proceedings. Vanessa Wiggins is equipped to handle the entire lifecycle of a criminal investigation, while Ria Kudrati is particularly adept in matters involving vulnerable individuals such as children or people with mental disabilities.

Blackfords LLP is renowned for its ‘offering that spreads across the spectrum of criminal work’, demonstrating particular strength in its defence of sensitive rape and sexual offence allegations. The team is jointly chaired by Gary Bloxsome and Trevor Francis. Bloxsome is hailed as a ‘colossus of criminal litigation’ and is noted for his capabilities in cases involving actual bodily harm, while Francis’ wide-ranging expertise includes high-profile sexual offences. The ‘excellent’ Jennifer Richardson stands out for her expertise in cybercrime matters, assisting clients with ‘confidence and poise’.

John Kaye, John Carson and Tana Adelmann jointly lead the criminal law practice at Carson Kaye, which is praised for ‘offering the highest level of advice and service’ to both private and legal aid clients. Kaye is noted for his capabilities in organised crime and murder cases, while Carson ‘offers a deep tactical insight’ and has experience with high-profile national security and extradition proceedings. Adelmann — praised by clients for her ‘diligence, reliability and composure’ — has recently been engaged in high-profile drug importation and domestic violence matters. Piers Desser is often involved in the initial investigation phase and has recently led on a complex firearm case. Sophie Clarke is experienced in terrorism-related matters.

'Caring, compassionate, efficient and careful’, the team at GT Stewart Limited is regularly instructed on sensitive murder, rape, and firearm cases. Greg Stewart has been successful in the judicial review of criminal sentences on numerous occasions, while Mel Stooks focuses her practice on youth defendants and crime. Recently, she has advised on s18 GBH and s47 ABH matters. Will Russell is referred to as ‘one of the best magistrates’ court advocates’ and is noted for his capabilities in the appeal of serious convictions. Other key figures include Ronnie Manek, an experienced Crown Court advocate who boasts a strong track record in sexual offence cases.

Split between Uxbridge, Harrow, and Reading, Knights, formerly known as IBB Law, covers the entire scope of criminal work, led by Eddie Tang and Joanne Gibbons. Tang has repeatedly achieved positive results in highly publicised murder trials and has a particularly strong track record in matters involving gang activity. Gibbons is a seasoned defence solicitor, frequently advising on violent crimes, drug cases and sexual offences. Kam Varaitch is often involved in cases from the initial interview at the police station and has recently been successful in advising youth defendants.

Janes Solicitors handles the full range of crime cases, demonstrating particular proficiency in extradition requests, money laundering investigations, and proceedings pertaining to the importation of illicit substances. Department chair Robert Berg has handled a litany of serious criminal matters, including sexual offences and acts of violence up to and including murder. James Mullion is well-regarded for his involvement in major fraud and regulatory cases, but his practice extends to drug supply investigations, governmental misconduct cases, and high-profile appeals. Fiona Gavriel is noted for her knowledge of various white collar offences, ranging from forgery to Serious Fraud Office prosecutions. Alex Chapman is a respected solicitor advocate who has recently been involved in some high-profile terrorism litigation.

As ‘one of the biggest players in the criminal defence market’, Lloyds PR Solicitors is renowned for its involvement in highly publicised murder trials, under the leadership of Manoj Rupasinghe, Harsha Rupasinghe and Mohsin Ariff. Manoj Rupasinghe is noted for his capabilities in modern slavery and national security cases. Ariff is hailed as a ‘careful and dedicated solicitor’, frequently advising on matters involving the death of children. Harsha Rupasinghe excels in money laundering and drug conspiracy proceedings.

The criminal defence practice at Russell-Cooke LLP offers clients ‘an exceptional service’, notably dealing with murder allegations, protester litigation and modern slavery cases. Practice head Jae Cawardine's recent workload includes matters concerning historic allegations of rape, complex cases involving coercive and controlling behaviour, and criminal matters involving the media sector. Clients hail Martin Rackstraw as a ‘master tactician’ who has a wealth of experience dealing with high-profile matters. He is particularly well known for his work on political and national security cases, and has recently strengthened his track record in murder appeals. Keshina Bouri is noted for their recent success in extradition cases.

Jointly led by Madeleine Corr and Raymond Shaw, Shaw Graham Kersh possesses a ‘superb team’ which covers the entire scope of criminal law. The practice has experience dealing with indecent material offences, drug trafficking matters, and murder cases. Corr is praised by clients for being ‘highly intelligent and tactically smart’ and is noted for her expertise in the area of women’s justice, while her capabilities extend to terrorism and firearm cases. The ‘outstanding’ Shaw — noted for his financial and family law expertise — is adept at handling burglary cases and homicide conviction appeals.

Sonn Macmillan Walker is reputed for its depth of expertise in an array of criminal matters which ‘hit the headlines’, ranging from extradition proceedings and murder cases to assault hearings and allegations of money laundering. The practice is jointly led by Amy Cox, Leah Connolly and Katy Smart. Cox is well-versed in handling violent crimes, immigration cases, and sexual offences, while  Smart has built a strong record in the extradition space, working with agencies and entities in multiple jurisdictions. Connolly is recognised for her representation of vulnerable individuals in the full range of criminal proceedings in both the Youth and Crown Courts.

Stokoe Partnership Solicitors is home to ‘a very experienced team’ which is instructed in some of the largest drug conspiracy cases across multiple jurisdictions. Department head Bambos Tsiattalou boasts extensive knowledge of organised crime-related matters, and has recently advised on Encrochat and money laundering-related work. Praised as a ‘tenacious lawyer’, Maria Theodoulou is noted for her track record in defending drug and firearm charges. Other key names in the practice include Richard Cannon, experienced in national security cases, and Amjid Jabbar, who is hailed as ‘an incredibly intelligent lawyer’. Brian Swan often defends clients accused of drug manufacturing or distribution.

Brett Wilson is ‘unparalleled in terms of dedication and service’, advising private clients on the full scope of criminal defence work. On account of the team’s strong media law offering, it excels at mitigating potential reputational damage for its clients. Nick Brett spearheads the practice and frequently assists individuals accused of serious sexual offences or violent crimes. Other key figures include Vicky Lankester, who boasts a strong track record in drug conspiracy cases, and Sharron Boyce, who is praised by clients for her ‘strategic mindset’.

Hailed by clients as an ‘outstanding firm’, Cantaris Locke Solicitors excels in murder cases, drug conspiracy proceedings and matters involving serious, violent, or sexual offences. The criminal practice is jointly spearheaded by Costa Cantaris and Natalia Locke. Cantaris is praised by clients for being ‘the perfect litigator’ and is adept at handling smuggling matters and rape allegations. Locke impresses clients with her ‘preparation and attention to detail’, and is particularly well-versed in theft cases.

 

Duncan Lewis Solicitors‘ criminal law offering comprises ‘outstanding individual lawyers’ who advise clients on murder cases, sexual offences involving children, and illegal immigration matters, among other workstreams. The department is jointly chaired by the ‘tenacious and hard-working’ Hardeep Dhaliwal, who is well-versed in all facets of criminal law, and Sunjay Versani, who has strong credentials in matters involving vulnerable individuals. The practice is bolstered by the work of Matthew Humphreys, who has recently experienced success in the Court of Appeal.

The criminal defence offering at Edwards Duthie Shamash is noted for its expertise in murder cases, sexual offence matters, and drug supply conspiracies. The team, which offers clients 'an exceptional service’, is under the joint supervision of the following four partners, split between Waterloo and Ilford. Shaun Murphy has recently been successful in multijurisdictional drug cases, while Robert Dynowski is regularly instructed by the National Crime Agency and the National Education Union on sensitive matters. Other key names include Shabaz Ahmed, a key contact for clients facing rape allegations, and Rakesh Bhasin, who is building a strong track record in terrorism cases.

Freemans Solicitors is equipped to handle the full gamut of criminal defence work, showcasing proficiency in sexual offences, assaults, and criminal housing code violations. Michael Field has showcased the ability to handle sensitive matters with vulnerable clients, while the ‘wise, experienced and practical’ Kishoree Kotecha-Pau has recently been involved in high-profile criminal litigation in the healthcare sector. Peter Bedingfield has a strong track record in firearm offences. Together, they form the leadership group of the criminal defence practice. Leo Martin, noted for his representation of high-profile individuals, is also recommended.

JMW Solicitors LLP possesses a ‘breadth of experience’ which extends to murder trials, drug conspiracy cases, and extradition matters in multiple jurisdictions. Department head Daniel Martin is a seasoned litigator with experience handling high-profile cases involving allegations of sexual abuse. Amy Shaffron regularly liaises with the Metropolitan Police on complex rape investigations, while Angela Leskaj forms the bedrock of the team’s extradition offering. Ben Hall brings experience with negligent manslaughter and grievous bodily harm cases, as well as complex regulatory matters. Lucy Reynolds is a name to note for international trafficking cases and dangerous driving matters.

The ‘highly experienced’ criminal defence practice at Lewis Nedas Law Limited has strong experience in terrorism cases, child abduction matters and unlawful immigration proceedings, under the joint supervision of Miles Herman and Jeffrey Lewis. Herman excels in murder trials and cases involving modern slavery allegations. Sean Reilly is hailed as a ‘standout individual’ by clients. He is reputed for his depth of expertise in robbery matters or those involving public sector employees. Unan Choudhary has recently advised clients on a high-value drug importation case.

Mishcon de Reya LLP leverages extensive multijurisdictional experience to assist high-net-worth clients with allegations of robbery, assault, bribery, and corruption. The practice is led by Ben Brandon, an authority in extradition work who has recently worked with individuals subject to Interpol red notices. Nick Dent regularly works in highly publicised cases, demonstrating a particular proficiency in sexual offence and white collar criminal matters. Other key names to note include Celia Marr and Jessica Dunk.

Instructed by a range of high-net-worth and high-profile individuals, Mark Jones and the wider team at Payne Hicks Beach LLP are particularly well known for cases involving fraud, blackmail, and physical assault. Jones frequently assists clients with the complete lifecycle of a criminal investigation, advising them from the police station to the higher courts. Hanna Basha leverages her media law background to advise clients on defamation and harassment cases, but is noted for her capabilities in crisis and broadcaster management in highly publicised investigations.

Reeds Solicitors is reputed for its expertise in a range of serious crime work, including drug importation and supply cases, and murder cases. Department head Jemma Michaelson is experienced at dealing with serious sexual offences and cases involving a youth defendant. Mark Abbott is noted for his capabilities in gang-related matters and multijurisdictional contraband hearings. Joanna Benn is noted for her expertise in handling police investigations and advocacy in the Magistrates’ Courts.

Stuart Miller Solicitors is home to an experienced criminal defence team, which boasts expertise in the defence of murder, drug conspiracy and rape allegations. Abu Kibla, hailed by clients as ‘the driving force’ of the practice, is qualified as both a barrister and a solicitor. He leads the team alongside Mohammed Zeb, who is frequently involved in criminal proceedings related to gangland activity. Anna Sidgwick, whose experience covers murder, money laundering, fraud, and drug trafficking, is also recommended.

TV Edwards Solicitors LLP is praised for ‘its team of exceptional lawyers’, which advises predominantly legal aid clients on a wide range of criminal matters. Under the leadership of Adrienne Wright, the team is active in murder cases, drug trafficking matters, and burglary-related proceedings. Wright is hailed as the ‘star of the team’ and is renowned for her work in historical sexual abuse litigation. The team is strengthened by Sean Richards, who is proficient in violent and firearm offences.

'A very strong and diverse legal firm', Advice Wise Solicitors Limited‘s criminal defence offering is built upon expertise in illegal immigration cases, drug conspiracy matters, and violent offences. The department is jointly chaired by Shahid Khan, who is praised for his 'great depth of experience', particularly in human trafficking proceedings. Both praised as 'conscientious and knowledgeable', Abraar Ayaz frequently liaises with the National Crime Agency on high-profile cases, while  Ian John-Baptiste is recommended for Crown Court matters.

Routinely involved in highly publicised matters involving high-net-worth clients, Egan Meyer is praised by clients as a firm where ‘every case is important and every detail is chased.’ The team is jointly led by Richard Egan and Jim Meyer: Egan has a wealth of experience in dealing with murder cases, and also has a strong track record in instructions concerning the sport sector. Meyer's recent engagements include cases concerning corruption and grievous bodily harm.

Howard Kennedy LLP offers clients a ‘high-quality service’, displaying particularly strong expertise in sexual offence cases and road transport criminal proceedings. Department chair Ian Ryan is routinely involved in multijurisdictional criminal investigations. Kyle Phillips, hailed as an ‘outstanding lawyer’, brings experience in GBH cases, matters involving coercive behaviour, and the possession of indecent images. Angharad Hughes is also recommended.

The criminal law team at ITN Solicitors possesses a wealth of expertise in terrorism matters, civil liberties cases, and proceedings pertaining to burglary or theft. The ‘excellent’ team is jointly chaired by the ‘phenomenal’ Simon Natas, experienced in high-value drug conspiracy matters, and the ‘brilliant’ Nadeem Thanvi, who is adept at handling money laundering matters. Itpal Dillon left the firm for Bindmans LLP in March 2024.

Rustem Guardian Solicitors is noted for its capabilities in complex murder, sexual assault, and grievous bodily harm cases, and represents both private clients and legal aid recipients. The practice is led by Timur Rustem, whose wide-ranging capabilities notably include drug importation matters and money laundering proceedings. Ella Hughes frequently represents clients accused of sensitive sexual offences, while Katerina Tsibouklis focuses on violent crime matters.

'Hardworking and diligent', Berris Law's capabilities cover a broad array of criminal matters, including murder, serious assault, and robbery. Practice head Seema Dosaj is regarded by clients as 'an excellent lawyer who displays sound judgement and is meticulous in her preparation.' Other key figures include Julian Hayes, who is noted for his expertise in family law work.

Central Chambers Law is recognised for its representation of individuals accused of drug importation offences. Department head Ahmad Jawad oversees a practice split across three London offices, which is experienced at handling murder cases, assault matters, and allegations of sexual abuse. Sara Khan is a key part of the team who has recently advised clients on sensitive GBH matters and weapons offences.

Commons Legal is noted for its capabilities in mitigating reputational damage for clients involved in high-profile criminal matters. Department head Rhona Friedman regularly advises clients on highly publicised appeals proceedings but is equipped to assist with burglary proceedings, extradition requests, and drug manufacturing matters. Department co-lead Grace Loncraine notably draws on her background in immigration law, while Adeela Khan has a strong track record in protest litigation.

Hallinan, Blackburn, Gittings & Nott is well-placed to assist both legal aid and private clients with domestic and multi-jurisdictional criminal matters, covering murder trials, drug conspiracy cases, and money laundering matters. Practice head Namita Pawa is equipped to manage a case in its entirety, representing clients in initial police investigations through to hearings.

A go-to firm for public sector clients, Hempsons is well-versed in sexual assault investigations and domestic criminal matters. The team is led by Tania Francis, who is particularly well known in the healthcare sector. Further key figures include Adam Smith , who frequently represents police officers in criminal proceedings, and Surjit Dubb, also noted for his healthcare sector focus.

Richardson Lissack has ‘become a major player in criminal litigation’, possessing experience which extends to drug conspiracy matters, unlawful act manslaughter trials, and sexual assault. The ‘laser-focused’ Anthony Smith heads the team and leverages extensive multi-jurisdictional experience, recently advising on cases related to burglary, stalking, and rape. Paul Morris left the firm in January 2025.

Stephanie Roe spearheads the crime practice at Roe Lawyers, which demonstrates particular proficiency in drug supply matters, sexual assault allegations, and criminal damages cases. Roe leverages a wealth of multijurisdictional expertise and has recently advised high-net-worth individuals on appeals, terrorism legislation violations, and the challenging of police orders. Paul Morris is a ‘force to be reckoned with’ who has a proven track record in theft cases, data breach litigation, and fraud matters.

Saunders Law is noted for its capabilities in a wide array of domestic criminal matters, including actual bodily harm, controlling and coercive behaviour, rape, and sexual assault. The department is spearheaded by Ali Parker, who has experience with modern slavery and theft cases. Tom Airey is praised by clients for his capabilities in both domestic and multijurisdictional proceedings.

Shearman Bowen & Co has a particularly active white collar practice, working with clients on fraud, money laundering, and bribery investigations. The team is led by Mark Bowen, who has extensive multijurisdictional experience, and Vivien Cochrane, who is reputed for her considerable experience in sexual offence cases. Anna Ford, who frequently appears before the Crown Court and Court of Appeal, adds valuable depth to the bench.

Tank Jowett Solicitors is home to an experienced criminal defence practice that has a wealth of experience in cases concerning murder, unlawful immigration, and terrorism allegations. Practice head Baljit Tank is reputed for his depth of expertise in theft, money laundering, and drug supply cases. Other key figures include Rajesh Bhamm, whose capabilities cover firearms, and Adnan Hussain, who clients praise for his ‘unparalleled ability to dissect complex cases and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’.

Tuckers Solicitors houses a ‘reliable and efficient criminal defence team which is prepared to handle a plethora of matters, ranging from drug conspiracy cases to unlawful immigration proceedings.  Brett Loveday is described as ‘one of the best legal aid solicitors in the business’ and has experienced recent success in cases involving protests or explosives manufacturing.

Noted for its track record in both criminal and family law work, Venters Solicitors is particularly experienced in matters concerning allegations of serious sexual assault and domestic violence. June Venters KC, who, according to one client, 'never fails to impress', is the key contact.

Withers LLP offers a robust criminal defence practice, led by the ‘hardworking’ Natalie Sherborn and the ‘completely unflappable’ Carl Newman. The team boasts a strong track record in sexual assault cases, post-public inquiry criminal investigations, and proceedings concerning juvenile defendants.  Clients describe Newman as ‘vastly experienced and committed’, while Sherborn is noted for her experience both as a barrister and criminal solicitor.