de Maids Solicitors & Advocates is noted for its particular strength in fraud matters, but covers the full spectrum of criminal work, including violent crime, drug-related crime, and motoring cases. Matthew de Maid leads the team, and is ‘a tireless advocate for each and every one of his clients’. Sarah de Maid is a key name, leading on prison law and advising on parole applications, while the ’calm and methodical’ Stephen Jones has experience representing clients charged with murder, manslaughter, rape, and terrorism offences, in addition to numerous other matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Matthew de Maid is extremely astute and gives everything to the case and more. He has an assiduous eye for detail and is a welcome sounding board for ideas and tactics.’
‘Accessibility of lawyer partners - cases frequently receive personal attention of principal - old-fashioned standards of thorough preparation and client support - as a long-established firm there is a pride in connections with clients as well as their families.’
‘Partners and staff very hands on frequently attending court even when counsel is instructed. It is obvious from their interactions with their clients that they quickly establish a rapport that develops into trust.’
‘Absolutely first-rate. First port of call from serious crime in Cardiff, South Wales and beyond. Extremely knowledgeable and efficient. No need to spoon-feed, they know exactly what they are doing, and work brilliantly as a team.’
‘Matthew de Maid and Stephen Jones are head and shoulders above their peers.’
‘The team at de Maids provide expert, professional and dedicated service to their clients. There is no firm in Wales that I trust more to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of their client's interests. Their judgment is sound and their tactical and strategic approach places their clients in the best possible position.’
Work highlights
Defended clients in a number of different Operation Venetic (Encrochat) prosecutions which resulted in clients being acquitted of conspiracy to supply cocaine and other drugs.
Achieved an acquittal of murder in joint enterprise (gang) murder for a client, following a 6 week trial involving four defendants.
Instructed to represent a client charged with terrorism offences before the Old Bailey in London.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Matthew de Maid
Other key lawyers
Sarah de Maid; Stephen Jones