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The Legal 500 Hall of Fame Icon The Legal 500 Hall of Fame highlights individuals who have received constant praise by their clients for continued excellence. The Hall of Fame highlights, to clients, the law firm partners who are at the pinnacle of the profession. In the United Kingdon, the criteria for entry is to have been recognised by The Legal 500 as one of the elite leading lawyers for eight years. These partners are highlighted below and throughout the editorial.
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United Kingdom > North West > Crime, fraud and licensing > Law firm and leading lawyer rankings

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Crime: fraud

Index of tables

  1. Crime: fraud
  2. Leading individuals
  3. Next Generation Partners
  4. Rising stars

Leading individuals

  1. 1

Next Generation Partners

  1. 1

Rising stars

  1. 1
    • Adrian Williams - Forbes Solicitors

Cartwright King is 'fantastic' on serious fraud cases. It regularly defends investigations and prosecutions bought by the SFO, NCA, HMRC, the FCA and the Department of Business Innovation and Skills. The firm acts for company directors and professionals on criminal fraud and corruption investigations. Online and cyber crime is a key area of expertise where director Michael Balmer heads the team. Richard Cornthwaite and director Sundeep Soor, who heads the fraud and tax department, are also noted.

Practice head(s):Richard Cornthwaite

Other key lawyers:Michael Balmer; Sundeep Soor

Testimonials

There are no weak links in the team

The team stands out for its application and dedication

Farleys Solicitors LLP has experience in complex financial crime cases and is particularly noted for its experience in high-value revenue frauds, bribery, corruption, conspiracy to defraud, FCA investigations and mortgage fraud. Department head Paul Schofield has vast experience in national and international fraud and money laundering cases and has acted for numerous professionals and company directors. Associate partners Bridgette Hibbert, who specialises in fraud, regulatory and serious crime cases and is experienced in proceeds of crime matters, and Laura Walmsley, who is experienced in VHCC cases, are also key figures.

Practice head(s):Paul Schofield

Other key lawyers:Bridgette Hibbert; Laura Walmsley

Work highlights

  • Advised client, who was one of three people charged with fraud in a prosecution recently brought by the North West Regional Trading Standards Team, following an investigation spanning over four years into the activities of companies offering services to the public covering overpayments of council tax.
  • Defended client in a very large scale VAT fraud with associated money laundering allegations, investigated by HMRC.
  • Represented the company and the director in enforcement proceedings which follow from the local Council’s failed fraud prosecution.
  • Defended client charged with two counts of fraud.  
  • Defended client as one of nine defendants charged with fraud and money laundering following an investigation by Kent Police Money Laundering Teams.

The 'brilliant' team at Forbes Solicitors handles a raft of financial crime cases, with expertise across fraud, tax, internet, cyber crime and mortgage fraud cases, as well as civil and criminal restraint and forfeiture proceedings and the team handles cases across the UK. Daniel King, Craig Liversidge and David Ryan head the team which has recently been bolstered by the arrival of Allan Maidment and Shane Parkin as a result of its acquisition of Maidments Solicitors. Solicitor advocate Adrian Williams heads the POCA team.

Practice head(s):Daniel King; Craig Liversidge; David Ryan

Other key lawyers:Allan Maidment; Shane Parkin; Adrian Williams

Testimonials

The team has a high level of attention to detail

David Ryan works tirelessly and is a great advocate

Craig Liversidge is very hard-working, has a shrewd eye for detail, wins the confidence of clients and secures outstanding results

Work highlights

  • Represented a client on a complex investigation into a £90m tax fraud.
  • Represented client on acomplex investigation into a £50m Ponzi fraud.
  • Represented a client on allegations of conspiracy to defraud and fraud by false representations, in relation to a complex investigation by Trading Standards.
  • Represented the main defendant in a complex, multi-tiered conspiracy to launder the proceeds of crime.
  • Successfully defended client in a conspiracy to possess false instruments to commit fraud brought by the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

The 'dynamic, friendly and committed' team at JMW Solicitors LLP 'does the job properly' and is active across a full range of cases involving financial crime and fraud such as HMRC tax investigations, FCA-regulated matters and POCA cases. The team represents businesses and business owners on investigations and prosecutions by industry regulators. Team head Peter Grogan is 'exceptional'; Evan Wright particularly stands out for his experience in HMRC matters and is often engaged on cross-border cases; and Mike Rainford is noted for his experience in tax fraud investigations.

Practice head(s):Peter Grogan

Other key lawyers:Evan Wright; Mike Rainford; Sam Healey

Testimonials

The team is small and dedicated providing expertise in niche areas of financial crime such as challenging search and seizure operations

Evan Wright has a phenomenal work rate, is 100% reliable, and yet provides a light touch

Key Clients

Police Federation of England & Wales

Police Superintendents Association of England & Wales

ParkingEye

Easipet Care

Flashpark

Justpark

ZZPS

Creative Parking Solutions

Work highlights

  • Advised client on alleged tax evasion and money laundering between 2010 and 2018, in terms of VAT, PAYE and CT.
  • Advised client on a privately pursued civil fraud asset recovery investigation, with potential for a private prosecution.
  • Represented company against HMRC allegations that it had been involved in a VAT chain when they knew or ought to have known that others in the chain had caused HMRC a fraudulent loss of VAT.
  • Representing 10 directors against HMRC allegations that a group and its directors have been facilitating the fraudulent claiming of working tax credits by staff members, the under-declaring of tax liability across the company, fraudulent claims for public funding and under-stating the level of personal income.  
  • Representing a director of a firm of accountants and the corporate entity against allegations brought by HMRC.

MSB Law LLP is 'experienced' in defending cases of serious fraud and enjoys a strong reputation for its ability to handle heavyweight financial crime. Department head Sean Sexton provides 'helpful and pragmatic advice from the outset of a prosecution, ensuring that the client's interests are always comprehensively cared for' and consultant solicitor advocate Andrew Pearson is experienced across white collar crime, serious fraud and regulatory cases. Paul Gallagher (partner non-lawyer) is also a key figure.

Practice head(s):Sean Sexton

Other key lawyers:Paul Gallagher; Andrew Pearson

Testimonials

'Sean Sexton has a well-earned national reputation as a specialist in the largest frauds; he has many years experience in this type of case and it shows.'

'Andrew Pearson stands out for his excellent preparation and attention to detail'

'The partners are always available and nothing appears too much trouble.'

Olliers regularly handles investigations and prosecutions relating to financial crime, business crime, regulatory matters and asset recovery. Investigations conducted by the Serious Fraud Office, HMRC, FCA, NCA, Insolvency Service, HSE and Trading Standards are key areas of expertise. The firm acts for individual and business clients, which have included professionals such as solicitors, accountants, doctors and politicians as well as company directors and business owners. Department head Matthew Claughton and Matthew Corn are key figures.

Practice head(s):Matthew Claughton

Other key lawyers:Matthew Corn

Work highlights

  • Represented client in a Serious Fraud Office investigation facing bribery, corruption and associated money laundering allegations.
  • Represented a solicitor facing allegations of money laundering and conspiracy to defraud.
  • Represented company directors prosecuted following a police investigation into allegations of bribery following substantial data theft.
  • Advised on a police investigation involving three financial advisors suspected of involvement of complex pension liberation fraud.
  • Represented a company director in a Trading Standards investigation facing two counts of conspiracy to defraud.

Stephensons Solicitors LLP regularly handles complex criminal fraud cases and attracts work from all over the UK. The team handles cases involving a range of issues such as land-banking, Ponzi schemes, boiler room, VAT and investment fraud, as well as proceeds of crime, money laundering, tax evasion and restraint orders. The team often defends clients on high-profile investigations and prosecutions brought by a range of agencies such as the SFO, HMRC, the FCA, HSE and the Environment Agency (EA). Correna Platt , who is 'exceptional' and Sean Joyce lead the team, and consultant John Greenwood is 'very experienced'.

Practice head(s):Sean Joyce; Correna Platt

Other key lawyers:John Greenwood

Work highlights

  • Defended client charged with fraudulently obtaining housing benefit on properties that had been rented out.
  • Represented individual charged with fraud which involved confiscation proceedings and deportation issues.
  • Represented a defendant who was arrested and interviewed regarding benefit fraud.  
  • Represented an independent financial advisor on multiple charges of fraud.
  • Represented a client on fraud, false accounting and money laundering allegations.

Barnfather Solicitors handles a range of regulatory and business crime cases and defends on complex and high-profile serious fraud and financial crime cases brought by regulators and enforcement agencies. It represents companies, directors, senior personnel, entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals on allegations such as corporate fraud, bribery, corruption, money laundering, internal investigations, cartel and price-fixing. Firm founder Anthony Barnfather has a 'brilliant reputation' and operates across the firm's Manchester and London offices.

Practice head(s):Anthony Barnfather

Other key lawyers:Gary Broadfield

Key Clients

Richard Hughes

Gordon Craig

CPM

Work highlights

  • Represented Richard Hughes as the lead defendant in a high-profile HMRC prosecution relating to an alleged tax avoidance scheme.    
  • Represented Gordon Craig, a qualified accountant, in relation to a NCA led investigation into tax fraud, pension liberation and money laundering  
  • Represented three directors in a criminal cartel investigation run by the CMA.  
  • Represented client on a SFO investigation into corruption.
  • Advised client on a HMRC investigation into anti-dumping duties.

Burton Copeland LLP acts for for corporate and individuals across a range of criminal and regulatory proceedings. Department head Erin Cowley acts for defendants in complex fraud, money laundering, BIS and Trading Standards cases and is also experienced in POCA, restraint orders and receivership work.  Consultant Michael Mackey is experienced in fraud and white collar crime and is rated 'excellent'.

Practice head(s):Erin Cowley

Other key lawyers:Michael Mackey

Cunninghams Solicitors is regularly engaged on complex fraud cases and is experienced in confiscation and restraint proceedings, particularly under POCA. The team defends against allegations brought by major prosecuting agencies the SFO, HMRC, the Complex Case Units of the CPS and the police Serious and Economic Crime Units. It has experience in acting for clients abroad facing criminal investigation or prosecution in the UK. David Caplin and Philip Lythgoe head the team.

Practice head(s):David Caplin; Philip Lythgoe

Other key lawyers:Sarah Housley

Work highlights

  • Represented a client who was acquitted of substantial money laundering.
  • Acted for an individual in POCA proceedings pursued by the SFO.
  • Represented the directors in a time share-related fraud.
  • Acted for two clients in a boiler room fraud.
  • Represented a senior bank employee accused of diverting funds in a complex fraud.

DWF 's sizeable fraud and financial crime department also draws on experts based across the firm's UK network of offices. It advises on regulatory compliance matters such as civil, criminal, cyber breach, data breach and fraud, including pension, life, occupational and insurer fraud. It also handles personal injury fraud covering motor and employers liability. Lorraine Carolan, who is based nationally, is the firm's national financial crime and fraud team head.

Practice head(s):Lorraine Carolan

Other key lawyers:Ritchie Irvine; Nigel Teasdale; Joel Heap; Jamie Taylor; James Pinder; Ben Johnson; James Stevens; Colin Bushell 

Testimonials

The team provides expertise on a broad range of topics, which makes it the obvious one-stop shop.

James Pinder is approachable and his advise is solid and dependable; he has a wealth of experience and expertise, and a willingness to work with clients to innovate

The team is client focused and ensures that all work and tasks required to be undertaken are done so promptly and in consultation with right experts required for the case

 

Key Clients

LVFS

LV General Insurance

Aviva

NFU Mutual

QBE

Markerstudy

RSA

Insure the Box

Covea

Ageas

Work highlights

  • Acted for Markerstudy in defending claims made by two claimants which were found to be fundamentally dishonest.
  • Advised Insure the Box on a groundbreaking case which involved the use of telematics data to uncover a fraudulent claim.
  • Advised Liberty on the identification of fraud practices against a doctor, who was imprisoned.
  • Acted for company A on a significant fraud involving erroneous reversal of direct debit payments.
  • Instructed by bank A to deal with an insider large-scale fraud.

Irwin Mitchell acts for individual and corporate clients on criminal liability, compliance and multi-jurisdictional investigations, which includes advising on investigations by the SFO, SFA and HMRC, and internal investigations concerning issues such as internal theft and fraud and also bribery & corruption. Its fraud and financial crime experience spans sanctions, insider dealing, tax evasion and breaches of financial services regulations. Paul Haycock, who is based across the Manchester and Sheffield offices, heads the team.

Practice head(s):Paul Haycock

Keoghs LLP's counter fraud team acts for a number of leading UK insurers, as well as self-insured clients commercial companies and public sector organisations on a range of volume and complex motor, liability, disease, healthcare, abuse, catastrophic injury and insurance fraud mandates. Technical director Damian Ward, director of fraud rings Ruth Needham and James Heath, who operates across the firm's Bolton and Coventry offices, are key figures, as is Ben Leech.

Practice head(s):Damian Ward; James Heath

Other key lawyers:Ruth Needham; Ben Leech

Key Clients

LV=

RSA

Zurich

Aviva

Hastings Direct

Esure

Work highlights

  • Represented AICL following some in-house intelligence enquiries which suggested it may have paid out on an RTA claim following misrepresentations by a policyholder and third parties.
  • Advised an insurer client on a trip claim that was found to be fundamentally dishonest  

Despite several changes in the Manchester-based fraud team at  Slater and Gordon, it is often instructed on a number of fraud and financial crime cases. The team defends clients on complex and high-value fraud cases brought by agencies such as the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and HMRC.

Other key lawyers:Alan Greenidge; Jonathon Enston; Lucy Cohen; Chris Fallows

Tuckers Solicitors handles a range of criminal defence, fraud and regulatory cases. It has experience in money laundering, duty evasion and complex regulatory proceedings. Asim Ali, who handles complex fraud and regulatory matters, Leigh Wright, who has experience in restraining orders in international financial cases as well as European duty evasion fraud, and Franklin Sinclair head the team.

Practice head(s):Asim Ali; Leigh Wright; Franklin Sinclair

Work highlights

  • Represented a client on a complex fraud and misleading sales practices matter.

3D Solicitors handles a range of regulatory, professional discipline and criminal law matters. In the fraud sphere, Daniel Berke, who has experience across VAT fraud, advanced fee fraud and mortgage fraud cases, is a key contact, as is Deborah Britstone.

Practice head(s):Daniel Berke; Deborah Britstone

Work highlights

  • Represented a company director in a complex, high value VAT fraud case.
  • The firm is representing an individual who was arrested in relation to allegations of fraud and money laundering concerning Northampton Borough Council and Northampton Town Football Club.

ABR Solicitors is a 'major player in the criminal fraud market in the North West'. It handles a range of serious fraud and money laundering cases and defends individuals investigated and prosecuted by agencies including the SFO, FCA, HMRC, the Department for Business Innovation and Skills and the NCA. Rob Rode heads the team and Tony Murphy's 'preparation in the large fraud cases is meticulous and thorough'. 

Practice head(s):Rob Rode

Other key lawyers:Tony Murphy

Testimonials

The firm is a well thought of practice on the North West

Tony Murphy is the stand out partner who has extensive experience dealing with serious crime

Tony Murphy  is the main partner in the North West; he is very experienced and hugely committed for his clients.

Criminal defence firm Carter Moore Solicitors  handles a range of fraud and financial crime mandates, which covers  boiler room fraud, money laundering MTIC carousel fraud, Ponzi scheme and pyramid scheme fraud, and VAT and tax fraud. The firm's dedicated proceeds of crime team is led by Helen Lynch and Mark Carter, who heads the criminal law team, handles a range of serious crime and commercial fraud cases.

Practice head(s):Mark Carter; Helen Lynch

Other key lawyers:Jeremy Moore

Crime: general

Index of tables

  1. Crime: general
  2. Leading individuals
  3. Next Generation Partners
  4. Rising stars

Leading individuals

  1. 1

Next Generation Partners

  1. 1

Rising stars

  1. 1
    • Duncan Phillips - Stephensons Solicitors LLP
    • Adrian Williams - Forbes Solicitors
    • Lauren Wilson - Markel Law LLP

Burton Copeland LLP has a strong reputation for general criminal work; it handles the full spectrum of criminal cases with experience spanning serious and organised crime, sexual abuse and historical sexual assault cases, regulatory work and road traffic cases. In addition to its criminal practice, the firm also acts on behalf of police officers and professional associations in inquests and disciplinary proceedings. Managing partner Louise Straw, who has a strong reputation in high-profile sexual abuse and historical sexual assault cases, and consultant Michael Mackey are noted.

Practice head(s):Louise Straw; Gwyn Lewis; Daniel Weed

Other key lawyers:Jonathan Wall; Nick Terry; Michael Mackey

Testimonials

The team is very experienced and handles a range of criminal work

Based across its Blackburn and Preston offices, the team at Farleys Solicitors LLP is experienced across mainstream criminal cases and is regularly engaged on national serious and complex criminal matters. Motoring offences, theft, burglary, assault, sexual offences, public order, DWP and RSPCA prosecutions, communications, murder and drug offences are key areas of expertise.  Associate partner Bridgette Hibbert specialises in serious fraud and serious crime cases. Paul Schofield in Preston and Jonathan Taylor in Blackburn lead the team.

Practice head(s):Paul Schofield; Jonathan Taylor

Other key lawyers:Bridgette Hibbert; Laura Walmsley

Testimonials

'The firm has a fantastic track record in complex criminal cases.'

Forbes Solicitors is active across all areas of criminal work, with particular experience in serious, complex and high profile matters, including cases with an international element. It handles cases involving large scale conspiracies to defraud and international drug trafficking offences; and is noted for its experience in sexual offences as well as cyber crime. The team is also involved in cases involving people trafficking. The team has recently been bolstered by the acquisition of Maidments Solicitors. Firm managing partner Daniel King heads the special case work section. Craig Liversidge, who has 'outstanding client interaction', and David Ryan , who is 'superb in serious sexual offences and homicide cases', lead the Crown Court department, while senior associate Adrian Williams heads the proceeds of crime department.

Practice head(s):Daniel King; Craig Liversidge; David Ryan

Other key lawyers:Adrian Williams; Shane Parkin; Allan Maidment

Testimonials

One of the best firms in the North West; it is great on preparation and has very good client skills; it puts the client first

Forbes Solicitors is busy, not just because it has excellent coverage but also because it provides an outstanding service

Craig Liversidge is pure quality in every aspect of his work; his knowledge of all his cases is so detailed it is hard to believe he has more than one case on the go

Work highlights

  • Defended client in a large scale, multi-million pound publishing fraud case.
  • Represented a Manchester gang member on conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis.
  • Represented a Salford gang member in case involving a large scale conspiracy to rob cash in transit vehicles.
  • Defended an individual in a murder case.
  • Defended a client in a substantial multi-handed conspiracy to evade duty on diesel.

The business crime and regulatory team at JMW Solicitors LLP represents individual and corporate clients on complex and reputation threatening investigations and proceedings, with experience in a range of matters involving allegations of professional misconduct, serious or sexual offences, dishonesty, domestic violence, motoring offences and regulatory issues. Team head Peter Grogan 'gets great results' and Mike Rainford has a 'fantastic reputation'. Elsewhere, Evan Wright is experienced in HMRC cases, Ian Lewis specislises in police law and Hojol Uddin  is head of motoring.

Practice head(s):Peter Grogan

Other key lawyers:Mike Rainford; Sam Healey; Evan Wright; Ian Lewis; Hojol Uddin

Testimonials

An excellent firm with a tremendous reputation for hard work and success

Peter Grogan is highly experienced ; he is dependable and is excellent with clients

 

Key Clients

Police Federation of England & Wales

Police Superintendents Association of England & Wales

ParkingEye

Easipet Care

Flashpark

Justpark

David Duckenfield

Donald Denton

ZZPS

Creative Parking Solutions

Work highlights

  • Represented JD, on a case where he lost control of his vehicle on a B road in Kent.
  • Represented FA on a murder and attempted murder charge following a shooting incident in East Manchester in June 2018.
  • Defended a company director in relation to allegations of assault.
  • The team continued to represent David Duckenfield, the match commander at Hillsborough in 1989 who is charged with 95 counts of gross negligence manslaughter, at Preston Crown Court.
  • Represented two GMP Detective Constables in gross misconduct proceedings.

Markel Law LLP is best known for its experience in regulatory and criminal law. The team is regularly instructed by insured individuals and clients in regulated professions. It has specialist knowledge in acting for foster carers as well as care providers, and is also instructed by members of the Federation of Small Businesses.  It also acts for goods and passenger operators on licensing issues. Department head Gareth Martin has a 'superb manner with clients and combines charm with robust and direct advice'. Solicitor Lauren Wilson's 'knowledge of the interplay between the regulatory regime for transport operators and drivers under the Transport Act and secondary legislation is invaluable to lay clients facing such prosecutions'.

Practice head(s):Gareth Martin

Other key lawyers:Lauren Wilson

Testimonials

The firm has unique expertise in business crime and a particular niche in road transport crime

Defending road transport prosecutions brought by the DVA is a major strength

I would describe it as one of the North West's go-to firms for road transport operators and drivers who are facing prosecutions brought by the DVSA

Key Clients

Federation of Small Businesses

Fostering Network

Serendipity (Devon)

Greenacre Care Services

Work highlights

  • Represented Client A in respect of a Trading Standards investigation into sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 18 years and successfully negotiated a caution as opposed to prosecution.
  • Represented client A in respect of a council investigation into fly-tipping which resulted in no further action being taken.
  • Represented Mrs A in respect of a police investigation into allegations of child neglect. The matter concluded with no further action.
  • Represented client A regarding a police investigation into possible child sex offences which resulted in no further action being taken.  
  • Represented the three directors of a claims management company in respect of a far-reaching investigation by Trading Standards centred around alleged misrepresentation and unfair practices in respect of flight delay claims.

Olliers defends clients across a range of serious and complex criminal issues; it is experienced in cases involving serious sexual offences, regulatory matters, modern slavery, drug and firearms offences, robbery, assault, murder, manslaughter, terrorism, cyber crime and money laundering.  The team is experienced in cases investigated by the National Crime Agency, the Counter-Terrorism Unit and has handled Organised Crime Division prosecutions. The team is also experienced in representing certain client groups, such as clients with autism. Department head Matthew Claughton is 'outstanding'; Matthew Corn is a serious crime specialist; and Alex Preston specialises in serious crime and inquests. Toby Wilbraham and Stacey Mabrouk are also key figures.

Practice head(s):Matthew Claughton

Other key lawyers:Matthew Corn; Alex Preston; Toby Wilbraham; Stacey Mabrouk

Testimonials

Matthew Claughton is an outstanding individual

Olliers is fantastic

Work highlights

  • The team has acted for John Cannan, the man believed to be ‘Mr Kipper’, the only suspect in relation to the 1986 disappearance of Fulham estate agent, Suzy Lamplugh.
  • Represented a senior education consultant facing two police investigations into historic sexual abuse at a special school in the 1980s.
  • Represented AB, a 17 year old autistic male who had ordered 150 MDMA tablets from Amsterdam using the ‘dark web’.
  • Represented WR, an actor facing an allegation of sexual assault.
  • Represented an owner of chain of takeaways accused of modern day slavery offences.

Slater and Gordon stands out for its experience in advising on a range of criminal law matters and is best known for its experience in representing the Police Federation as well as private clients. It represents police officers facing criminal investigations, misconduct proceedings, shootings, fatal traffic collisions and deaths in police custody, or following police contact. This also includes representation at inquests and public inquiries. The team also represents individuals in complex criminal investigations arising from their employment. Richard Black regularly handles complex and high-profile cases; Paul Reddy heads the road traffic defence team; recently promoted principal lawyer Christopher Fallows represents police officers facing criminal and disciplinary hearings; and associate litigation executive Alan Greenidge is 'first-rate'.

Practice head(s):Paul Reddy

Other key lawyers:Richard Black; Christopher Fallows; Alan Greenidge

Testimonials

Paul Reddy and  Richard Black have vast amounts of experience in dealing with police federation-related criminal cases

Work highlights

  • Represented Darren McKie, a Manchester police inspector charged with murdering his wife.  
  • Represented Mr W who was acquitted of death by careless driving at Sheffield Crown Court.
  • Represented Mr N who was acquitted of the historical sexual abuse of a family member.  
  • Represented Mr L, a driver, who was involved in a collision with an illegal scrambler bike and was charged with death by careless driving.  
  • Represented Mr C and Miss A as serving police officers facing assault charges.

Stephensons Solicitors LLP handles a full range of complex criminal matters for clients across the country. It has experience across cases involving murder, manslaughter, serious sexual offences, GBH and other violent offences, firearms and drugs offences and motoring and transport offences. Local authority cases are also key area of expertise and the team is experienced in matters involving education, community care, Court of Protection, police complaints, prison law, inquests and judicial review cases. Recently promoted partner Colin Rawson, Mike Pemberton, who manages the civil liberties and public law department, Martin Pizzey, who is noted for his advocacy skills, and senior associate Duncan Phillips are key figures. Correna Platt and Sean Joyce lead the team.

Practice head(s):Sean Joyce; Correna Platt

Other key lawyers:Colin Rawson; Martin Pizzey; Mike Pemberton; Duncan Phillips

Testimonials

This is a highly experienced team where members are always involved in the big cases

Work highlights

  • Represented a client charged with causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving whilst uninsured.
  • Represented a client who was investigated for the murder/manslaughter of their daughter.
  • Represented a client who was charged with an offence of attempted murder.
  • Represented a client who was charged with historic sexual abuse.
  • Represented clients who were charged with conspiracy to produce and supply cannabis.

Tuckers Solicitors specialises in criminal defence, fraud, regulatory, civil liberties and prison law cases. It handles general crime as well as serious, and complex criminal cases which have included serious drug offences, fraud, money laundering, IT fraud, white collar fraud, motoring offences, murder and manslaughter.  The firm has defended numerous individuals including public figures, high-net-worth individuals and business directors, and has also acted for government departments and corporate clients. The Manchester team also has particular expertise in dealing with restraining orders in international financial cases. Leigh Wright, who is head of complex crime, Asim Ali, who is head of road traffic work, and Franklin Sinclair head the team.

Practice head(s):Asim Ali; Leigh Wright; Franklin Sinclair

Testimonials

The firm is noted for its strong criminal defence practice

Work highlights

  • Represented a client in a case involving complex fraud and misleading sales practices.
  • Represented a client charged with conspiracy to commit murder, racially aggravated public order matters and other offences.

AGI Criminal Solicitors represents local and national clients on a range of crime, serious crime, fraud, prison law and extradition cases. Recent matters for the firm have involved GBH, terrorism, drugs offences, conspiracy, murder, drugs and serious sexual offences. Team head Yasmin Aslam is a 'clever and creative lawyer who provides an excellent service to her clients'.

Practice head(s):Yasmin Aslam

Other key lawyers:Michael Levy; Baljit Singh

Testimonials

'Yasmin Aslam is prepared to take every arguable point and thereby provides an exceptional service to the client.'

'The level of engagement is impressive and the firm ensures that it understands the needs of vulnerable clients.'

 

Work highlights

  • Represented Phillip Harkins on the longest running extradition case in the UK.
  • Represented a client in a conspiracy to burgle case.
  • Represented clients in a controlling and coercive behaviour case.
  • Represented a client in a case alleging street robbery involving the use of an imitation firearm.

Brian Koffman & Co is best known for its experience in handling motoring offences, however the firm also handles general criminal cases such as fraud-related work, murder, serious sexual assault, money laundering, drug conspiracy, possession of firearms and assault. It acts for privately funded clients and has represented a range of professionals and individuals working in the sports and entertainment industries. Firm head Brian Koffman is a well-regarded figure in the market.

Practice head(s):Brian Koffman

Testimonials

Brian Koffman has a fantastic reputation

The firm is excellent and is particularity strong on motoring offences

Work highlights

  • Represented client D on a charge of death by careless driving in relation to the death of an 84 year old male.
  • Represented client T on two separate allegations of dangerous driving, with one causing serious injury, following a road rage incident.  
  • Represented Mr G on a case involving allegations of possession of indecent images and causing or inciting sexual activity with a child.
  • Represented client V who was charged with driving under the influence of excess alcohol and careless driving.
  • Represented Mr D on an appeal against a conviction of driving while using a mobile telephone.  

Cartwright King's criminal defence offering represents its clients in an array of general and serious criminal cases. The firm offers key expertise in cases involving murder, terrorism, robbery, assault, people trafficking, firearms, corruption and cybercrime. The team also handles drugs-related cases and regularly defends clients in relation to road traffic offences.

Other key lawyers:Mike Garstang; Richard Cornthwaite; Michael Balmer

Cunninghams Solicitors is adept at handling serious and complex casework, with expertise spanning cases involving fraud, complex drugs, gangland homicide and serious sexual offences. It is also experienced in the conduct of complex and high value confiscation and restraint proceedings, particularly under The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. The practice acts for local and nationally-based clients and has represented internationally-based clients facing criminal investigation or prosecution in the UK. David Caplin, who is handling several cases involving historical sexual abuse in football, and the 'very able' Philip Lythgoe head the team.

Practice head(s):David Caplin; Philip Lythgoe

Testimonials

The firm is experienced across a range of criminal defence work

Work highlights

  • Represented an assistant youth football coach facing historical abuse charges.
  • Represented a football coach accused as part of an ongoing police investigation and public enquiry into historical abuse in football.
  • Represented a longstanding client accused of gangland conspiracy to murder.
  • Represented an individual accused of serious firearms charges.
  • Represented one of 10 members of an alleged organised crime group responsible for a large scale conspiracy to remove and steal cash dispensing machines.

DLA Piper UK LLP is instructed on a range of investigations and is experienced in corporate crime prosecutions involving various issues such as corruption, dishonesty, tax evasion and bribery. The team represents companies and individual clients on investigations and prosecutions by HSE, CPS, the Police, the Serious Fraud Office, HMRC and the Office of Fair Trading. The team also stands out for its cross-border expertise. Regulatory lawyer and criminal litigator John Gollaglee is a key contact.

Other key lawyers:John Gollaglee; Richard Smyth

Testimonials

 

 

Draycott Browne Solicitors defends clients on a range of criminal cases including motoring offences, burglary, theft, assault, drug offences, murder, manslaughter, sexual offences, terrorism, human trafficking and cyber crime. Shaun Draycott is a key figure.

Practice head(s):Shaun Draycott

Other key lawyers:Rob Mann; Beth Mantel

Irwin Mitchell stands out for its experience in business crime, investigations, discipline and complex regulatory matters, and also handles a range of serious general criminal work such as cases involving assault, sexual offences, money laundering and conspiracy to supply drugs. Regulatory and investigations group head Paul Haycock is based across the firm's Leeds and Sheffield offices.

Practice head(s):Paul Haycock

Keoghs LLP stands out for its experience in advising on the criminal aspects of industrial accident investigations and acts on behalf of insurers, corporate clients and individuals. It regularly handles regulatory prosecutions and represents clients facing corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter, as well as fire safety, inquests, care sector investigations, motoring, health, safety and environmental offences. Neena Sharma specialises in motor crime and regulatory prosecution work; David Walton leads the Bolton-based crime and regulatory team; and Suzanne Drinkwater is particularly experienced in handling carbon monoxide cases.  Senior associate Kathryn Turner , who recently joined from Gateley Plc, and associate solicitor Heather Vyse are also key figures. Heather Vyse and solicitor Rekha Sharma

Practice head(s):Neena Sharma

Other key lawyers:David Walton; Suzanne Drinkwater; Heather Vyse; Kathryn Turner

Key Clients

LV=

RSA

Zurich

Hastings Direct

AXA

Admiral

Allianz

Direct Line Group

Esure

 

Work highlights

  • Represented Philip Smith on an ongoing joint police and HSE investigation arising out of the Bosley Wood Mill explosion in July 2015, where four people were killed.
  • Instructed to represent an individual arrested for causing death by dangerous driving in a road traffic accident where a 28 year old motorcyclist was killed.
  • Represented David Thompson following a tragic road traffic collision.
  • Represented Lisa Perkins on a charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
  • Represented David Threapleton on a charge of causing death by dangerous driving.

MSB Law LLP offers a 'wealth of experience and tactical know-how which is invaluable'. It handles a range of work including serious fraud, criminal and regulatory cases in Merseyside. The team is noted for its specialist experience in POCA proceedings, and is also active on health and safety work acting on behalf of insurers.  Department head Sean Sexton is 'outstanding in all aspects', consultant solicitor Andrew Pearson regularly represents defendants who are autistic or have Asperger syndrome and Paul Gallagher heads the Crown Court team.

Practice head(s):Sean Sexton

Other key lawyers:Andrew Pearson; Paul Gallagher

Testimonials

The firm impresses due to its commitment to the client

Paul Gallagher works tirelessly in support of his clients; he is a tactical lawyer, with the legal know-how to achieve results

The firm is the complete package as far as a solicitors firm is concerned.

Boutique offering 3D Solicitors specialises in regulatory, professional discipline and criminal law. Criminal defence, inquests, police misconduct, private prosecutions and public inquiries are key areas of expertise. Daniel Berke has handled a number of high-profile allegations of serious sexual assault and has acted for several senior police officers in criminal, inquests and professional discipline allegations. Deborah Britstone is noted for her experience in professional discipline and police law.

Practice head(s):Daniel Berke; Deborah Britstone

Key Clients

Chief Police Officers’ Staff Association

Police Superintendents’ Association

Work highlights

  • Represented former Chief Constable Simon Byrne who faced 74 allegations of misconduct, at a gross misconduct hearing before an independent panel.
  • Represented Chief Inspector Andrew Johnstone who faced an allegation that he assaulted a police officer colleague at a careers event at New Scotland Yard.
  • Represented retired ACC Steven Heywood in an IOPC investigation into allegations of perjury, perverting the course of justice and misconduct in public office.
  • Represented a company director in a complex, high-value VAT fraud case.

ABR Solicitors in Bootle is experienced across fraud, crime and regulatory cases and the team has a 'strong local following for general crime work' . Tony Murphy is a 'very experienced and hardworking solicitor' and represents clients on a range of criminal cases including motoring offences, murder and theft. Senior advocate Julie Murphy is experienced in handling fraud cases, confiscation proceedings and multi-handed drugs conspiracies.

Practice head(s):Rob Rode; Tony Murphy

Other key lawyers:Julie Murphy

Testimonials

The firm has a great reputation for looking after its clients and for preparing cases thoroughly

The 'professional and assiduous' team at Brabners LLP acts for a range of individuals and corporate clients on a range of matters which are often sensitive and require reputation management expertise; its client-base includes well-known sports and media personalities, as well as educational institutions, banks and major businesses. The team, which operates as part of the firm's litigation department, has particular expertise in firearms issues and handles a number of firearms cases. Team head Lachlan Nisbet, who works cross-office, is 'very experienced'.

Practice head(s):Lachlan Nisbet

Testimonials

The firm has in-depth knowledge of firearms law

Lachlan Nesbit is first-class in his approach to problems

 

Key Clients

Benjamin Stokes

Work highlights

  • Successfully defended England international cricket player Benjamin Stokes following his involvement in an altercation outside a Bristol nightclub resulting in a charge of affray.  
  • Advised a high profile client on an ongoing police investigation into alleged GBH following an altercation in 2018.
  • Representing a prominent registered firearms dealer charges brought regarding the alleged purchase of a Section 5 Firearm without the authority to do so.
  • Representing a client in connection with a charge of possessing a prohibited firearm without a certificate.
  • The firm was instructed to defend a client on charges regarding the alleged possession of a firearm without a certificate.

Licensing

Index of tables

  1. Licensing
  2. Leading individuals: Hall of Fame
  3. Leading individuals
  4. Rising stars

Leading individuals: Hall of Fame

  1. 1

Leading individuals

  1. 1
    • Malcolm Ireland - Napthens LLP

Rising stars

  1. 1

Kuit Steinart Levy LLP has an 'outstanding reputation' for licensing work; it acts for a range of national multi-site operators, property developers and individuals, and is well-known for its hospitality and leisure sector expertise. The team advises on a full range of licensing matters and is regularly instructed on high-profile licensing mandates. In the commercial and residential property sector, the team is increasingly advising on provisional licensing to clients with large leisure portfolios. The team also stands out for its experience in obtaining new premises licences in areas of cumulative impact. Anthony Lyons , who is a 'real leader in the field' and 'oozes charm', and the 'exceptional' Felicity Tulloch lead the team. Associate Rebecca Ingram is'very strong on client service'. 

Practice head(s):Anthony Lyons; Felicity Tulloch

Other key lawyers:Rebecca Ingram

Testimonials

The team works in well collaboration with its clients

The team is always on hand for advice

It is extremely responsive

 

 

Key Clients

Brew Dog Bars

The New World Trading Company (UK)

Revolution Bars Group (trading as Revolution and Revolucion de Cuba)

Turtle Bay Restaurants

Allied London

Bruntwood Estates

Individual Restaurants Company (Piccolino, The Restaurant Bar & Grill, Gino D’Campo)

Mission Mars

Somerset House Trust, London

The Alchemist Bar & Restaurant

Work highlights

  • The team is advising celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo on the expansion of his eponymous restaurant chain, a joint venture with the Restaurant Bar & Grill group of companies.
  • Team assisted the client on Brewdog’s acquisition of the 14 strong Draft House estate of bars and pubs located in London and the South East of England.
  • The licensing team continues to advise on numerous matters for national property company Bruntwood Estates, the most prominent of which is Circle Square, on the site of the former BBC HQ in Manchester, where the team obtained 12 licences in principle for a new city centre commercial and residential development.
  • The team continues to advise Turtle Bay on its rapid nationwide expansion, and has obtained licences this year for new sites in towns and cities including Durham, Southend and Uxbridge.
  • The team has advised The Alchemist on its continued expansion nationwide, and the team has advised them on obtaining licences in 2018 for new sites in towns and cities including City Road in Hackney, London and St. Martin’s Lane in Westminster, London.

DAC Beachcroft LLP provides licensing advice in complex and high value matters. Although it handles license applications, the team is best known for its ability to provide commercial solutions on strategic licensing requirements. The team acts for a range hospitality, sports, leisure, health and public sector clients, and it is increasingly instructed by real estate and commercial property clients such as large shopping centres and investor landlords. Jan Levinson heads the team.

Practice head(s):Jan Levinson

Other key lawyers:Andrew Martin

Key Clients

Manchester United Football Club

MITIE Facilities Management

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust

Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust

Epping Forest District Council

EE

MSV Group

Department of Education

Design Reach Limited

Chester West and Cheshire Borough Council

La Salle (Investments for BAE Systems Pensions Fund Trustees Limited)

City and Country Hotels

Work highlights

  • The team advised City and Country Hotels on the acquisition of a new premises licence for a new boutique hotel at Langley Hall in South Buckinghamshire.
  • The Team continues to provide advice to the pension fund on licensing issues that arise in respect of property within its portfolio.
  • The team advised Lendlease in respect of its Touchwood Solihull shopping centre on the permissions needed to provide alcohol at Christmas markets.
  • The team advised Teesside University on the licensing arrangements of its onsite bar.
  • The team continues to advise the hospital in respect of local licence applications.

DWF is experienced in handling licensing mandates across the food, sports, hospitality and retail sectors and the team regularly advises on matters across the UK. Senior associate David Crank who is 'very experienced' heads the team.

Practice head(s):David Crank

Key Clients

Colcaster SARL Group

Battersea Power Station Project

Village Hotels

Manchester Metropolitan University

Powerleague Group

Starboard Hotels

Earlsdon Holdings

 

Work highlights

  • Advised Battersea Power Station Development on licences to allow tenants to trade in licensable activities and facilitated the development of the retail and leisure element of the first phase of the Power Station development.
  • Advising Village Hotels on on-site licensing requirements and on the application for new licences as it increases the size of its hotel portfolio.
  • Advising Powerleague Group on the licensing aspects of a CVA for the operational business Powerleague Fives Limited, which included working with the client and accountants to ensure that the premises licences remained live by transfer of portfolio of licences as the CVA was activated to allow continued trade.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP stands out for its experience in licensing and gambling law and is active across the hospitality, leisure, gambling and retail sectors. It regularly acts for hotel operators and owners, retail and online gambling sector clients, as well as real estate developers, landlords and occupiers. Principal associate David Roberts heads the licensing team.

Practice head(s):David Roberts

Key Clients

Genting Casinos UK

Buzz Bingo Group (formerly Gala Bingo)

The Football Pools

Kambi

Land securities

Hammerson

Central England Co-operative

Caterleisure

Manchester International Festival

Paddy Power

Work highlights

  • Advised Genting on the offshoring to Malta of its online gambling operations, which included advice and guidance on the necessary applications to the UK Gambling Commission for an operating licence for the new company, reviewing and advising in respect of operational policies and procedures, and advising in conjunction with Maltese counsel on differences in local regulatory requirements and strategies to overcome conflicting obligations of the relevant regulators.
  • Represented Manchester International Festival on its application for a premises licence for a cultural events programme in Manchester before the Manchester City Council Licensing Committee.
  • Advised Hilton Worldwide on a premises licence for a new hotel under the Hampton by Hilton brand at Edinburgh Airport.
  • Supported Buzz Group (formerly Gala Leisure) on the licensing implications arising out of its re-branding from Gala Bingo to Buzz Bingo across its UK retail estate.
  • Advised Kambi on multi-jurisdictional gambling regulatory advice for potential new markets.

Boutique firm Licensing Legal regularly advises on a range of alcohol, entertainment and gambling licences. Anthony Horne is the key contact.

Practice head(s):Anthony Horne

Napthens LLP stands out for its 'pragmatic' and 'commercial' approach and the team works with clients in the leisure sector to handle the licensing requirements of breweries, pub chains, restaurant groups, nightclubs, off-licenses and hotel groups. Its client-base ranges from single-site operators through to large brewers and pub-owners. Department head Malcolm Ireland 'goes the extra mile' and is an 'exceptional licensing lawyer; he is strong technically'. Solicitor Samantha Faud is also a key figure.

Practice head(s):Malcolm Ireland

Other key lawyers:Samantha Faud

Testimonials

Malcolm Ireland is charismatic and energetic

The firm stands out for its great customer service

The licensing team is very strong and offers the right blend of technical knowledge, commercial good sense and empathy

Key Clients

Daniel Thwaites

Frederic Robinson

Admiral Taverns

Seafood Pub Company

James’ Places

Holt Pub Company

Titanic Brewery

Inglenook Inns & Taverns

Blind Tiger Inns

Leo Taverns

Work highlights

  • Defended Switch Leisure in summary review proceedings following a serious incident of violent disorder in a venue covered by the same premises licence.
  • Represented Little Dog on an application to vary its premises licence to remove restrictions and increase hours.
  • Represented Southport Pier Café  a contested hearing to obtain a premises licence to allow licensable activities to be carried on at the end of a pier up to 03:00am each day.
  • Advised Titanic Brewery on a premises licence at a train station.

Brabners LLP is best known for its expertise in firearms and shotgun licensing work and the team acts for a number of registered firearms dealers. Team head Lachlan Nisbet operates across the firm's Liverpool, Manchester and Preston offices.

Practice head(s):Lachlan Nisbet

Testimonials

'Strongest firearms licensing team in the UK. Depth of numbers and experience. No one comes close.'

'Lachlan Nisbet has amassed a wealth of experience in this field. He is efficient and knows exactly what is needed.'

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