JMW Solicitors LLP lends ‘outstanding legal support and guidance’ across complex and international criminal defence matters, ranging from financial fraud, trade mark offences, HMRC investigations, professional misconduct, motoring offences as well as regularly providing police law representation. The Manchester-based team is headed up by Sam Healey and Hojol Uddin, the former representing HNWIs, sportspersons, businesses and corporate entities in fraud and financial crime cases among others, and the latter fielding long-standing experience in motoring offences. Ian Lewis has a broad international practice and has represented a number of high-profile sportspersons throughout his career, and Evan Wright and Mike Rainford bolster the team in financial crime cases. Lauren Bowkett and Sofia Dahou joined the team in August 2024 from Shoosmiths LLP and Horwich Farrelly respectively, and Lucy Hicks joined in April 2024 from Tuckers Solicitors, while Peter Grogan retired in April 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘JMW were recommended to me and I would certainly recommend them to anyone. I have consistently received outstanding legal support and guidance. Evan Wright has been exceptional - highly knowledgeable, diligent, and always approachable.’
‘Evan Wright is exceptionally knowledgeable and diligent, with a calm and measured approach to even the most complex situations and with a unique ability to remember past events. What sets Evan apart is his commitment to you. He is an outstanding legal representative and a credit not only to JMW but to the profession.’
‘Efficiency in response time, relevant expert advice when needed, immediately figured out where attention needed to be focused in order to proceed with the case. My dealings with Evan Wright were significantly positive and productive. ’
‘I dealt with Hojol Uddin, who at all times was professional, knowledgeable and inspirational. He dealt with the case with empathy, being non-judgmental and honest. When seeking a barrister again he knew who the best would be for the most positive outcome.’
‘Sam Healey has first rate client handling skills. He is available at all times for his clients and offers an exceptional service.’
‘Mike Rainford is still the doyen of the North, with all the good work and the wisdom.’
‘Sam Healey is a master tactician and is all across every case he does. he is one of the very best. Laura Leech's ability to see a case and her client care are second to none. An absolute star.’
‘Lauren Bowkett has an in depth knowledge of the Proceeds of Crime Act and is incredibly confident in giving the necessary advice to clients when they need it most.’
'They have a great mix between treating you as an individual with human emotional feeling while maintaining a professional approach.'
'The professionalism,integrity and dedication of Evan Wright and the wider team at JMW have been second to none. I cannot speak highly enough of the firms consistent excellence and commitment to me as a client.'
Key clients
- Police Federation of England & Wales
- Police Superintendents Association of England & Wales
- Chief of Police Staff Association
Work highlights
Advised in R v J, a case concerning Premier League’s biggest ever prosecution for international streaming of football games.
Advised in R v CP, concerning a conspiracy to defraud the UK government.
Advised AM concerning allegations of importation of Class A and B drugs.
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 partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Sam Healey; Hojol Uddin
Other key lawyers
Ian Lewis; Evan Wright; Mike Rainford; Lauren Bowkett; Sofia Dahou; Lucy Hicks; Jonathon Enston; Catherine Gaynor; Laura Leech