'Caring, compassionate, efficient and careful’, the team at GT Stewart Limited is regularly instructed on sensitive murder, rape, and firearm cases. Greg Stewart has been successful in the judicial review of criminal sentences on numerous occasions, while Mel Stooks focuses her practice on youth defendants and crime. Recently, she has advised on s18 GBH and s47 ABH matters. Will Russell is referred to as ‘one of the best magistrates’ court advocates’ and is noted for his capabilities in the appeal of serious convictions. Other key figures include Ronnie Manek, an experienced Crown Court advocate who boasts a strong track record in sexual offence cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The crime team at GTS are reliably the most effective and efficient advocates. They are knowledgeable, personable and highly competent. It is obvious to all observers that the team pride themselves on offering the type of "old fashioned" legal aid service that sadly is not at all common anymore.'
  • 'Will Russell is one of the best magistrates' court lawyers and advocates in the business. He is a personable and expert lawyer and advocate who is pragmatic yet fearless in the defence of all his clients.'
  • 'Good criminal defence firm. Well known and respected.'
  • 'Will Russell is simply superb. He is clever, charming, and committed.'

  • 'Sabrina Neves is an exceptionally intelligent, diligent, and effective solicitor. She achieves amazing results for her clients, who adore her. I love working with Sabrina because she really cares about her clients and does everything she can to help them achieve the best outcome possible.'

  • 'Will Russell is one of the brightest, hardest-working lawyers I have worked with. His cases are immaculately prepared, and he does not miss legal points. He is an absolute pleasure to work with.'

Key clients

  • Danny Barnes
  • Sabrina Kouider
  • Rupert Ross and Leon St Aubin
  • Hugo da Silva Pires
  • Kiran Hibbert-Gorden
  • Simeon Glasgow
  • Gregton Bower and Jarrell McKenzie

Work highlights

Advised on a case pertaining to a death by dangerous driving, involving the instruction of a large number of experts to advance the defendant’s instructions, involving appeals to the Court of Appeal and then the Supreme Court.
Assisted Hugo da Silva Peres, who was charged with the murder of a resident during a time of burglary. Evidence resulted in defence expert evidence being accepted by the Crown, withdrawing the  charge of murder and accepting a guilty plea to manslaughter.  
Advised Gregton Bower and Jarrell McKenzie, charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, even though no motive or target was identified. Appeal against conviction ongoing.

Practice head

Greg Stewart; Mel Stooks; Will Russell; Ronnie Manek

Other key lawyers

Sabrina Neves