The team at Bark&co is well experienced in matters concerning murder, organised crime, and sexual assault. Heading the team, Giles Bark-Jones often acts in serious and sensitive criminal investigations for high profile clients in the public eye. Vanessa Wiggins, described as ‘a superstar’ and ’exceptional’, is a safe pair of hands for matters concerning conspiracies to murder, murder, and distribution of class A drugs. Ria Kudrati, who ‘always goes the extra mile for her clients’ regularly acts in cases concerning organised crime, sexual assault and drug offences, while Dharsh Lokaswaran is experienced regarding criminal conspiracies and organised crime.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A top firm providing first class service to those accused of the most serious and complex crimes. They have a large staff of experienced and expert individuals but what makes the firm stand out is the commitment across the firm to each and every client, with everyone from the founding partner to the junior associates showing commitment to the case.’
‘Giles Bark-Jones is still absolutely hands on and committed to ensuring the best possible result for each client.
‘Giles Bark-Jones is still one of the real heavyweights of the criminal defence world. He is actively involved in client management and providing high-level strategic and tactical advice. Clients feel hugely and justifiably reassured knowing that Giles is in their corner.
- 'Vanessa Wiggins is great with clients, and has huge experience of cases of murder and serious violence.'
- 'They are one of the strongest firms. Because of their large team, they are able to deal with the biggest of cases.’
‘Large scale firm with multiple lawyers all with different specialisms in the area of criminal law.’
- 'Giles Bark-Jones is a rainmaker.’
Work highlights
- Successfully represented an individual charged (with others) with the murder of a man who died from a stab wound sustained during an incident outside a nightclub in Bodmin in April 2023, securing not guilty verdicts for murder and manslaughter.
- Acting for a high-profile individual under investigation for alleged historic sexual offences.
- Acting for one of multiple defendants charged in relation to the activities of two organised crime gangs operating in and around the South East of England and the alleged supply of very substantial quantities of Class A drugs.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Giles Bark-Jones
Other key lawyers
Ria Kudrati; Vanessa Wiggins; Dharsh Lokaswaran