Martin’s practice involves all aspects of the law relating to asset recovery, money laundering and confiscation. He is experienced in handling the most complex restraint, receivership, forfeiture and civil recovery proceedings. With cases straddling criminal and civil jurisdictions, Martin acts for clients in the Crown Court, the High Court (King’s Bench & Chancery Divisions and the Administrative Court) as well as the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.
Acknowledged as one of the leading practitioners in the field of Criminal Fraud (“Stands out amongst his peers for top-tier handling of fraud and corruption cases relating to money laundering and SFO investigations”: ‘Who’s Who Legal: UK Bar 2022’). Martin defends, prosecutes and represents third parties (including companies) in serious fraud and corruption cases.
Ranked as a leading Silk for POCA Work and Asset Forfeiture in Chambers UK & Legal 500 directories:
‘A go to barrister for Supreme Court POCA work. Outstanding advocacy - highly persuasive with silky elegance and charm.'
‘Martin is exceptional. A joy to work with, he has sound judgement and offers real expertise in POCA matters.‘
"Very skilful and a pleasure to work with, he gives clear, categorical advice."
“He is clearly respected by judges and other practitioners in the field.”
“Evans is absolutely phenomenal.”
“He understands how the authorities work and how they're going to react to issues.”
“Few know more about this area. A real leader in the field. Delivers particularly high-quality written work. He is well-respected by all, including the judiciary and opponents. At home before any tribunal - civil or criminal. A good communicator and very responsive. A real team player who is willing to put himself out to deliver for those instructing him”.
“Clever, engaged, personable and very knowledgeable, he's a pleasure to work with.” “Very personable and able to give clear, practical advice in short order. Very responsive.“
"Clever and analytical but also charming and funny."
“Martin is considered a leading thinker on corporate crime and a ‘go to’ for money laundering cases”
He has a strong appellate practice; in the last few years he has been instructed in numerous cases before the Court of Appeal in which he did not appear in the lower court. He has been instructed two appeals in the Supreme Court: in the landmark case of CPS v Aquila Advisory Ltd (for the Respondent) and in Andrewes for the Appellant (the CPS).
Martin has been a contributing editor of ‘Archbold’ since 2006 and has responsibility for the chapters on confiscation and money laundering offences. He is co-author of ‘Corporate Criminal Liability’ (described as “scholarly and comprehensive” by Lord Hoffmann), the fourth edition of which was published in April 2021.
He has delivered training on money laundering for the Bar Council; devised materials for a training program for the judiciary on restraint and receivership under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and provided training to the Metropolitan Police on investigative powers. He regularly lectures on asset recovery and related topics both in the UK and abroad.
Called 1989, Silk 2017
Proceed's of Crime Lawyers' Association.