Switalskis Solicitors handles a broad range of criminal matters, with a particular focus on representing vulnerable clients, including young people and individuals with mental health conditions. The Leeds-based team is led by Michael Devlin, who brings over two decades of experience and specialises in supporting individuals with mental health issues, ensuring their specific needs are addressed throughout the justice system. The ‘quality solicitor’ Rob Fones represents clients accused of sexual violence, while Jim Littlehales and Sarah Myatt are renowned for their ’determination to find justice’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Mike Devlin is thorough and incisive in the most complex cases. His calm command of his cases is as reassuring to the most anxious client, as it is to the Crown Court judge who considers in submissions as a Higher Court Advocate.'
  • ‘The crime team are fully conversant with their cases, they are proactive in investigating potential defences and instructing appropriate experts proactively and unhesitatingly give clients sound advice, regardless of the cost to them. They are dedicated to the client's interest, regardless of the commercial impact it may have on their practice.’
  • 'Rob Fones is a quality solicitor who offers no nonsense practical advice to his clients. Rob has a string of repeat clients who know they can depend on his good judgement and persuasive advocacy.'
  • ‘Switalskis has an extremely strong criminal law team. They fight hard for their clients and deliver a top quality service. They would be high on my list of firms for serious and heavyweight criminal defence. The firm will always dedicate the resources necessary to muster the best possible defence.'
  • ‘Michael Devlin is a heavyweight criminal practitioner, he is highly respected and fights hard for his clients. He is tactically astute and sees the bigger picture. You would fall into error not to follow his advice.'
  • ‘The team at Switalskis really do believe in 'teamwork'. The firm has a remarkable ability to turn work round quickly and always demonstrate excellent client care.  They also provide excellent support for counsel throughout the trial process and unlike many firms, Switalskis always send representatives to support the client and counsel at court.’

Practice head

Michael Devlin

Other key lawyers

Jim Littlehales; Rob Fones; Sarah Myatt