Lawtons Solicitors operates across multiple locations in the South East and London, with expertise in the full range of criminal offences. Serious sexual crime is an area of particular strength, but the group additionally covers violent crime, drugs offences, and theft, as well as matters relating to fraud. The group maintains a focus both on legal aid and privately funded work. Co-leading the group are Stephen Halloran and Nick Titchener, both of whom are based in St Albans. Joanne Cestaro and Paul Dillon share notable aptitude in relation to sexual offences.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team at Lawtons provide excellent client care. Conferences are arranged in good time to prepare for hearings. Focused and relevant instructions are taken from clients to assist counsel in the preparation of a case. Their strengths lie in identifying relevant issues in a case and instructing counsel to suit the needs of a client.’

  • ‘Nicola Hobdel offers excellent client care and robust advice delivered with empathy and compassion for clients. Efficient instruction of relevant experts and excellent communication.'

  • ‘Partners and solicitors work very well with counsel, giving a collaborative approach. They are very much there for the lay client and deal with the everyday challenges clients present with ease. They are all on top of their workload and no task, however small, is too much for them, both pre-trial and during the course of a trial.'

  • ‘Joanne Cestaro is a stand-out solicitor in the general crime and fraud practice. Her case preparation is second to none, ensuring that each and every client receives the best possible representation. She is detail-oriented and her knowledge of the law is first-rate. Joanne stands out in particular for her excellent client care and her ability to gain the trust of clients from all walks of life.’

  • ‘The team, in particular Stephen Halloran and Nick Titchener, are always very responsive and helpful for our clients when we refer to them for criminal advice. They are the go-to firm for criminal advice and have great links to the local community.’

  • ‘Stephen Halloran is down to earth and approachable. His advice is clear and delivered in a way that clients can understand.’

Lawyers

Leading partners

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Practice head

Nick Titchener; Stephen Halloran

Other key lawyers

Nicola Hobdel; Nick Seeley; Joanne Cestaro; Paul Dillon