187 Chambers

Nicholas is a highly respected figure in Legal 500, where he is recognised as a leading silk.

He specialises in business and regulatory crime, focusing on areas such as commercial fraud, bribery and corruption, and financial crime. Nicholas also has significant experience in handling serious criminal cases.

In relation to business and regulatory crime, he regularly advises and represents corporates, individuals, and government agencies, including the Financial Conduct Authority. His expertise covers a wide range of issues, from corporate governance and regulatory compliance to financial services regulations and corporate criminal liability. Nicholas often assists clients from the earliest stages of pre-litigation through investigations and appearances before courts and tribunals.

His work with professional regulators includes dealing with the SRA and FCA, particularly under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and the Conduct of Business Rules in UK Financial Services. He advises on criminal and regulatory issues tied to company governance, including bribery, corruption, money laundering regulations, asset forfeiture, and corporate manslaughter. Nicholas is also well-versed in ‘blue bag’ disclosure, handling legally privileged documents in inquests and investigations.

In addition to his regulatory work, Nicholas has a wealth of experience in serious criminal cases, including homicides, organized crime, and sexual offences. He has represented clients in high-profile trials, including those in the Grand Cayman Islands.

Nicholas is also dedicated to judicial training and legal reform. He works with the Horizon Institute (SL) and the Department for International Development (UK), providing advisory services to the Chief Justice, Minister of Justice, and Government of the Republic of Somaliland, helping to improve the country’s justice system and facilities.

Appointed as a Recorder in 2002, Nicholas is authorised to handle serious sexual offence cases.

Called 1981 QC 2008

Criminal Bar Association Public Access Bar Association CyberCrime Practitioners Association