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England - Regional Bar • North Eastern Circuit
3

Crime (general and fraud)

Wilberforce Chambers

More information
The team at Wilberforce Barristers boasts a solid track record in handling the full gamut of serious criminal work, with recent instructions spanning murder, sexual offences, and major drug conspiracies. Charlotte Baines is ‘an exceptionally well-organised barrister, particularly adept at prosecuting multi-handed trials’, and is currently being instructed by the CPS in a multi-defendant case involving street dealers charged with murder and drug supply from a local crack den. Michele Stuart-Lofthouse, hailed as ’a real class act’, is know for ‘achieving outstanding results in the most serious and complex of cases’. Oliver Shipley, praised as ’a jury advocate’, recently secured an acquittal for a defendant - with previous convictions for the same offence -  in a case concerning allegations of dealing Class A drugs.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The clerks are very efficient, notably Wayne Stevens. He replies promptly to enquiries and is honest about counsels' availability.'
  • 'The criminal clerks are super, and calls and emails are always returned.'
  • 'The clerks are helpful and accommodating.'
  • 'Wilberforce Barristers is well managed, with excellent clerks who are quick to respond to requests, no matter how big or small.'
  • 'Wilberforce Barristers is a fabulous set. The criminal team is friendly and supportive.'
  • 'Wilberforce Barristers is a strong set, particularly with criminal work.'

Lawyers

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

1
Charlotte Baines
‘Charlotte is a force to be reckoned with. Her cross-examinations are skilful and effective. Her closing speeches are incredibly persuasive. She has an impressive command over the courtroom that captivates jurors. She represents every client to the absolute best of her ability.’
1
Michele Stuart-Lofthouse
'Michele is a class act. She leaves no stone unturned in terms of case preparation and trial strategy. Her courtroom advocacy is measured but robust where needed.'
2
Julia Baggs
3
Dale Brook
Dale is excellent with difficult clients, tenacious but professional and convivial as an opponent counsel.’
3
Rachel Scott
‘Rachel is a stand-out junior. Her persuasive advocacy, well-reasoned arguments, and down-to-earth approach instil confidence in judges, juries and clients, both professional and lay.’

Rising stars

Rising stars at the Bar are defined as barristers between four and eight years’ call who are seen as up-and-coming members of the Bar in their respective practice areas by clients and peers alike. They will already be instructed in high-profile, complex, and high-value contentious and non-contentious matters, working with and opposite more experienced leading counsel.

1
Michael Forrest
‘Michael is a great advocate. He is good with clients, taking the time to explain matters to them. He will ensure that he puts across all points in mitigation on behalf of his client.’
1
Oliver Shipley
‘Oliver is a very good advocate, with an attention to detail.’
1
Connor Stuart
'Connor is a very adaptable and capable barrister. He has a good ability to grasp complex facts and present them in a simple and straightforward way to jurors and judges alike. He is adaptable, confident and a pleasure to work with.'