‘Probably the best overall criminal firm in Yorkshire. Strength in depth of talent is notable. High levels of client care are demonstrated- there is always a representative of the firm to support counsel.’

‘James McAulay – deals with sexual offenders in the most compassionate, understanding and knowledgeable way. His experience in mental health matters assists him in being able to spot mental health issues which impact on criminality.’

‘ABR has quality from top to bottom in Lawyers and are by far the best criminal/regulatory defence firm in Leeds. ABR are unique due to their size for a defence crime firm and are able to service the client’s needs in all areas from crime defence to Inquests, to Professional misconduct to POCA. Why go anywhere else when it is all under one roof.’

‘GT is a strong firm in general crime. Their meticulous case preparation, strategic thinking, and commitment to their clients make them a standout firm in criminal defence. They provide clear instructions, work collaboratively, and always prioritise the best possible outcome.’

‘Ed Youlton is a remarkable instructing solicitor.’

‘Patricia Walker is excellent with vulnerable clients, particularly youth clients facing serious allegations.’

‘Howard & Byrne is a highly experienced firm in all areas of criminal law and litigation. The firm offers timely advice in all relevant matters, including cross-border cases, and is distinguished by their practical and cost-effective approach to clients’ needs.’

‘Colin Byrne is an exceptional practitioner with vast experience in criminal litigation, both pre-trial and in court. He is sharp-minded, team-spirited, and focused on the client’s needs. He has notable communication skills and is distinguished by his problem-solving approach to even the most complex matters.’

‘Howard & Byrne have real strength and depth across this outstanding criminal practice. There is a genuine willingness to help across the board.’

‘They are highly experienced criminal solicitors who have operated at the upper level of the profession for years. So far as financial crime is concerned, they have one of the most experienced teams in the country. They should be ranked at the top of their field.’

‘Azizur Rahman has appeared in many of the most complex and difficult fraud cases over the last 20 years. His experience means that he is the go-to solicitor. He has won several seemingly impossible cases. Nicola Sharp is well-known for her skill and experience in financial crime, especially those involving international matters.’

‘RR are the go-to solicitors for defendants in major cases. They have a wealth of experience in this area and are involved in most of the leading fraud cases in this jurisdiction. Azizur Rahman is an outstanding and well known lawyer who contributes to many legal journals and The Times Law section.’

‘The main person who, for me, stands out, is Rebecca Smith-Bains. She is efficient, and she is brilliant with the clients. She is down to earth, is on the same wavelength as the client and always remains professional. Clients really like her and relate to her and, at the same time, understand she is working hard for them.’

‘A highly regarded and long-standing firm of solicitors. There is a definite focus on providing a quality service to the client, and leaving no stone unturned in case preparation.’

‘Wilford Smith is truly a « Tier 1 » firm which dominates the Yorkshire area and has expanded in recent years to have a truly national presence. All of the partners and staff are fully committed and fully capable of providing the best possible service to their clientele, whether an individual or a corporation. The firm cannot be recommended highly enough.’

‘Raja Atif Afzal is an exceptional lawyer. His attention to detail in preparing his clients case is second to none. His knowledge of the law is expert and he prepares his client’s case assiduously. He always work extremely hard in achieving the best results for his clients.’

‘No stone is left unturned, and it feels as if every client receives a bespoke service. A niche criminal firm in which its members have an intricate knowledge, experience and determination to grapple with issues that arise. They have solid relationships with leaders in the field, be they barristers or other experts, which helps to deliver positive outcomes for clients.’

‘Zahid Majeed is a stand-out member of the firm. He engages well with people from different backgrounds and is professional and courteous in all of his dealings with others. He sees the issues in each case clearly and executes his case strategy well to achieve the best results for clients.’

‘Friendly, diligent, hard-working team with expert knowledge in niche areas of criminal law, like animal welfare and dangerous dogs cases. Cases are well-prepared by solicitors who take a genuine interest in their clients and care about the outcomes of the cases. John Goodwin is extremely knowledgeable, strategic and intelligent.’

‘Arabella Snelling is extremely impressive in all aspects of her work. John Goodwin remains one of the best solicitors in the country. He leaves no stone unturned and goes over and above for each and every case he takes on.’

‘Ison Harrison is a powerhouse offering the very best legal services. The criminal team is exceptional and has attracting some of the brightest young minds in the country, making for impressive collective experience and a dynamic team.’

‘Mark Fowler is a particular stand out lawyer for HMRC investigations. His approach is hands-on and is directly involved at every stage of a case. In matters of restraint and confiscation, he has had success in cases with values in 8 figures. He seems to be involved in every big ticket revenue case nationally.’

‘Peter Minnikin leads a great team of experts in the field of crime and fraud. Peter is an excellent lawyer and as a group they get the best results for their clients. Their instructions to counsel are always helpful and well thought out.’

‘McCormicks are a firm of excellent, driven and committed solicitors. McCormicks are steady, reliable and effective solicitors who are dependable and consistently go the extra mile for their clients. They are a solid set of individuals.’

‘Ben Jones is a rare breed of client man who understands the needs of the client, and appreciates the emotional elements to a case and of the client. He is always accessible, and computes complex matters translating them into advice any client can appreciate.’

‘Opus Law are a team of outstanding Solicitors. Their dedication to client care and preparation in complex fraud cases, is second to none.’

‘Ben Jones is very much a leader in his field. I know of no other who goes to the lengths he does to meet clients outside of office hours or at their home address in order to ensure they feel comfortable discussing their case with him. He attends every hearing – which is rare these days – whatever the nature of the hearing. His high levels of service are unique.’

‘Mike Devlin is thorough and incisive in the most complex cases. His calm command of his cases is as reassuring to the most anxious client, as it is to the Crown Court judge who considers in submissions as a Higher Court Advocate.’

‘The crime team are fully conversant with their cases, they are proactive in investigating potential defences and instructing appropriate experts proactively and unhesitatingly give clients sound advice, regardless of the cost to them. They are dedicated to the client’s interest, regardless of the commercial impact it may have on their practice.’

‘Rob Fones is a quality solicitor who offers no nonsense practical advice to his clients. Rob has a string of repeat clients who know they can depend on his good judgement and persuasive advocacy.’

‘Irwin Mitchell are the « go-to » firm for client’s seeking the best representation in the business.’

‘Jason Newell is an excellent lawyer, is very approachable and works very hard for his clients.’

‘Jason Newall is exceptional.’

‘They focus on proactively preparing and defending cases from investigation stage through to court proceedings, and the aim is always to prevent a prosecution where possible. They are front-runners in providing expert advice and representation to clients facing investigation and prosecution for Rape, Serious Sexual Offences and University Misconduct proceedings.’

‘Meghan Waldron, Jeremy Scott and Richard Etherington are standout individuals in this field.’

‘Richard Etherington is realistic and never afraid to have difficult conversations. He is the standout solicitor in the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences field, with a sound understanding of the value of forensic evidence.’