Olliers

Crime

Partner

Laura joined Olliers in 2005 and qualified as a solicitor in 2008.  She specialises in pre-charge and police interview representation and prides herself on achieving the best possible outcome for her clients.

She is also an outstanding Magistrates’ Court advocate and appears in courts across the country on a regular basis representing the best interests of her clients. Laura is an experienced Crown Court litigator with a specialism in defending allegations of domestic abuse and sexual offences. 

Since joining the firm, Laura has worked on a number of serious criminal cases which, of note, include high profile human trafficking cases, murders and many conspiracies to supply drugs.

Laura now specialises in the defence of those under investigation, particularly for offences of a sexual nature.

The Legal 500 2024

Laura was shortlisted for the Northern Powerhouse Criminal Lawyer of the Year 2024.

“Laura Baumanis is outstanding. Her client care is exceptional. She really goes the extra mile and is very good indeed with difficult clients in cases of the utmost seriousness.”

Pre-charge representation during criminal investigations

Laura is known for her pro-active approach during the ongoing investigation stage of a case. An interview under caution is an extremely important stage of the process but it is often after the police interview that the real work begins.  She will always look to bring an investigation to a conclusion without the need for a prosecution. She is known for her strategic approach liaising with investigators throughout. She applies a combination of formal and informal representations to police and prosecutors ensuring that the chances of a prosecution are kept to a minimum. Laura has significant experience in dealing with cases at this stage particularly cases involving sexual allegations and indecent images.

Laura acts for a number of professional clients, particularly medical professionals, representing both during the criminal stage of proceedings as well as during the professional discipline stage, frequently dealing with Interim Order Tribunals (IOT) before the General Medical Council (GMC).

Laura does not accept instructions on a legally aided basis at this stage of a case.

Interviews under caution

Laura regularly attends interviews under caution, particularly voluntary interviews which take place by arrangement with the police. She will always look to obtain early disclosure of allegations against her client so that meticulous preparation for the interview can take place. This will ensure that the most effective strategies are deployed at the police station. When clients are released under investigation Laura will then consider how best to ensure the most successful outcome to the investigation (see below).

Specialist Advocate

Laura also provides extremely professional  advice and representation at the police station and appears on a regular basis in the Magistrates’ Court.  In this time she has gained and maintained an excellent reputation as an advocate, boasting an impressive acquittal rate when it comes to trials, as well as securing notable results when dealing with sentences, bail applications and various ancillary applications.

Laura prides herself in putting at the heart of her representation her client’s needs.  Regardless of the nature of the allegation, Laura works tirelessly to ensure the best results for those who instruct her. Laura has a particular specialism in youth court work and regularly works with the Court, the CPS, YOS and other agencies to ensure that youths are being dealt with fairly and appropriately.  She appreciates how distressing criminal proceedings can be, not just for the youths involved, but for their family as well and offers unrivalled support and assistance throughout such cases.  

She understands that, to many, finding themselves on the wrong side of the law is a daunting and often overwhelming experience, and dedicates much of her time to addressing these issues.  Her priority is to ensure that each client receives confident, professional and accurate legal advice within a context that provides them with the maximum amount of reassurance and support.  Her experience ensures that the best possible outcome is reached in each and every case.

Laura does not generally accept trial instructions on a legally aided basis.

Football Banning Orders

Laura also specialises in the defence of football related offences including public order offences arising both pre and post football matches. She has considerable experience of successfully opposing football banning orders before the Magistrates’ Court and applying to have them removed once two thirds of the order has been completed.  She appreciates the practical difficulties that the imposition of such orders can cause, not to mention the distress caused to many who can no longer support their favourite team in person, and fights hard to minimise the impact of any such prosecution upon her clients.  

Laura in the Media

Due to Laura’s experience and impressive reputation she is frequently asked to comment on issues relating to criminal law by the national media.

Is deflating tyre offences a criminal offence?  Click here to read

Revenge porn Click here to read

Voice of Islam Radio -appeared on radio discussing conviction rates in relation to sexual offences

Discussing police rights with Stylist Magazine  Click here to read

Take a Break magazine – comment on stalking, and stalking protection orders for National Stalking Week

Laura was recently quoted in The Guardian highlighting her concerns about the prevalence of spice in prisons. Read more.

Laura also spoke to Vice about the law surrounding the supply of drugs. Read more.

Testimonials

“I couldn’t be happier with the service and representation I received from Laura Baumanis and Olliers. From initial contact and then throughout the case, Laura was easily contactable, explained everything clearly and demonstrated expertise and knowledge which all helped me immensely.”

“From the prompt response to my initial enquiry and the friendly and helpful office staff; I was impressed from the start. Laura’s advice throughout was spot on and she was a huge help. When you’re facing a situation that you’ve never faced before you need a Laura by your side.”

“Thanks for all your help. If it wasn’t for you I’d be serving a 3 year ban. I really am grateful and I’d not hesitate to recommend you.”

“I want to say a big big thank you for the other night. I was expecting that to be the most nerve wracking experience of my life, but you really put me at ease, which allowed me to give my evidence as clearly as I could. Very very much appreciated!”

“I still can’t thank you enough. I know it’s just your job to you. But to me and my family I can’t tell you how pleased we all are with the result.

I have only ever had three other encounters with solicitors. You by far are the most down to earth, polite, professional and approachable of them all.”

“An absolute masterclass performance, confident and knowledgeable.”

“Would just like to say many thanks to you and your team. Laura was an absolute blessing in court…she kicked ass…“

Women in Law Women in Criminal Law

Kings College London – LLB (hons) 2004 University of Sheffield – LPC 2005