Trinity Chambers

Sophie is developing a strong defence practice and has an emerging reputation for approaching cases with a tactical eye, advancing legal arguments and leaving no stone unturned to secure results. Sophie is a determined advocate who understands the importance of providing outstanding client care to both her lay and professional client.  Sophie has experience in preparing for trials at short notice and has an ability to sift through and analyse complex evidence to devise a clear case strategy for her clients.

Sophie defends in a variety of matters in the Crown Court including offences of serious violence, false imprisonment, sexual offences including rape, assault by penetration and historic cases, drug offences (including production, cultivation and possession with intent to supply), complex fraud and acquisitive offences. Sophie also has an interest in motoring offences, particularly where serious injury and life changing injury is sustained. Sophie regularly prosecutes and is a Grade 2 Prosecutor. Sophie has experience dealing with vulnerable witnesses and has also completed specific Youth Court training and welcomes instructions of this nature.

In addition to her criminal practice, Sophie has a growing regulatory practice, frequently appearing for the local authority in private prosecutions covering various offences. Sophie has also been instructed to represent defendants in these matters. Sophie enjoys the challenge of grappling with niche areas of law.

Sophie also welcomes instructions of an advisory nature as part of her practice and has previously been instructed to advise on judicial review and an appeal by way of case stated. Sophie understands the importance of extensive legal analysis and produces high quality written work.

Over and above her criminal practice, Sophie is also regularly instructed by the Police force in relation to applications for Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, Sexual Risk Orders, Domestic Violence Protection Orders and Confiscation proceedings. Sophie has also represented the Insolvency Service.
APPOINTMENTS

• CPS Grade 2 Prosecutor

ARTICLES
Sophie has a particular interest in cases involving dangerous dogs. Sophie has represented individuals in cases of this type and has successfully argued against the imposition of destruction orders and contingent destruction orders.
“The Ban on American XL bully dogs – a disproportionate reaction or a necessary response?”
EDUCATION

• Newcastle University LLB Hons (2.1)
• Northumbria University, Bar Professional Training Course (Very Competent) with LLM (Distinction)

AWARDS/EXTRA-CURRICULAR

• BPP, Advocate of the Year, Winner (2018)
• Newcastle University Client Negotiating, sponsored by DWF (runner up)
• Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) Regional Negotiation Competition

MEMBERSHIPS

• The Honourable Society of Middle Temple