Serious and general crime; business crime and regulation.

David Hardstaff is a partner in BCL’s serious and general crime department, specialising in criminal litigation, professional discipline, controlled drug licensing, and proceeds of crime. He has particular experience in representing individuals accused of sexual offences, drugs offences and offences involving violence. He is an experienced police station representative and advocate, representing clients in a wide range of proceedings at the Magistrates’ Court, Crown Court and Court of Appeal. Regularly acting for professionals and high-profile individuals, he has a reassuring appreciation of the pressures and strains that clients face when subject to investigation. He also advises witnesses, corporates and broadcasters involved in criminal proceedings on matters such as reputation management and public relations.

In addition to his busy criminal practice, David advises companies and institutions in the cannabis industry. He is experienced in the Home Office controlled drug licensing system and in advising businesses (from start-ups to multinationals) in relation to proceeds of crime considerations.

Qualified 2014. Joined BCL Solicitors LLP 2015.

David regularly comments in the media on criminal justice news and issues (e.g. The Law Society Gazette and LexisNexis). He is a contributor to the forthcoming edition of the Law and Regulation of Medicines (OUP).

Law Society of England & Wales; London Criminal Courts Solicitors Association; Young Fraud Lawyers’ Association; London Irish Lawyers’ Association.

University of Dundee (2009, Law LLB (Hons)); California Appellate Project (2010); University of Law (2012, Legal Practice Course).