The criminal defence practice at Russell-Cooke LLP offers clients ‘an exceptional service’, notably dealing with murder allegations, protester litigation and modern slavery cases. Practice head Jae Cawardine's recent workload includes matters concerning historic allegations of rape, complex cases involving coercive and controlling behaviour, and criminal matters involving the media sector. Clients hail Martin Rackstraw as a ’master tactician’ who has a wealth of experience dealing with high-profile matters. He is particularly well known for his work on political and national security cases, and has recently strengthened his track record in murder appeals. Keshina Bouri is noted for their recent success in extradition cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'A very well-established and high-quality outfit. Very dependable to get things right.'
- 'Martin Rackstraw leaves no stone unturned.'
'The firm provides exceptional service to its private clients.'
'Keshina Bouri is a safe pair of hands who knows her way around criminal litigation and extradition. Adds value to every case.'
'Martin Rackstraw is a superb defence solicitor. He is highly experienced, extremely well respected and a very calm and assured presence in any meeting or conference.'
'Martin Rackstraw is a master tactician who makes all the right decisions from the start of a case to the end.'
Key clients
- Just Stop Oil
- Garbutt
Work highlights
Acting for a local businessman accused of murder, who stood trial with two other defendants in July 2023 at the Central Criminal Court. The case concluded with a unanimous not guilty verdict.
Ated for Chek-Min Ong who was alleged to have sent letters containing white powder to two members of the House of Lords. He was charged with two counts of sending a letter/article with intent to cause distress or anxiety s1 (1)(a) Malicious Communications Act 1988.
Acting for Robin Garbutt, in an attempt to overturn his conviction in 2011 for the murder of his wife Diana.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Keshina Bouri
Practice head
Jae Carwardine
Other key lawyers
Martin Rackstraw; Keshina Bouri