John Kaye, John Carson and Tana Adelmann jointly lead the criminal law practice at Carson Kaye, which is praised for ‘offering the highest level of advice and service’ to both private and legal aid clients. Kaye is noted for his capabilities in organised crime and murder cases, while Carson ’offers a deep tactical insight’ and has experience with high-profile national security and extradition proceedings. Adelmann — praised by clients for her ‘diligence, reliability and composure’ — has recently been engaged in high-profile drug importation and domestic violence matters. Piers Desser is often involved in the initial investigation phase and has recently led on a complex firearm case. Sophie Clarke is experienced in terrorism-related matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'John Kaye is a grandmaster tactician. Smart and tough. John Carson is a magnificently warm and approachable partner, concealing an operator with unparalleled experience, undaunted by any case.'
- 'This practice has a number of solicitors and legal staff who are exceptional in the way they deal with their clients. They are always prepared to go the extra mile on cases to ensure their clients have the best representation and obtain the best results in their cases.'
- 'The partners demonstrate exceptional leadership, particularly in complex and sensitive cases. John Kaye whose calm authority and razor-sharp legal mind inspire confidence from the very first meeting. John Carson brings a deep tactical insight into every case and is especially effective.'
- 'Tana Adelmann and John Kaye are simply excellent. They identify from the earliest stages the path to the best outcomes yet have the agility to adapt as and when things inevitably alter during the course of litigation. They are nimble in how they go about litigating, and it's not surprising that the most high-profile cases keep coming through the door.'
- 'A great team of lawyers.'
- 'John Kaye is a great criminal solicitor. Excellent client skills.'
Key clients
- Dylan Earl
- Hektor Zhuta
- Enriko Spahiu
- Kofi Martin
- Courtney Freckleton
- Alder Willis
- Ammar Alkawareet
- Nathanael Colado-Jiminez
- Shaquille Sutherland
Work highlights
Defending in the first prosecution under the National Security Act 2023 involving state sponsored sabotage.
Advising a client in relation to Operation Glassball.
Advising a client who was acquitted after a complex NCA-led trial over £14m of cocaine smuggled in banana pallets.
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.
Sophie Clarke
Practice head
John Kaye; John Carson; Tana Adelmann
Other key lawyers
Piers Desser; Sophie Clarke