Lincoln House Chambers

Abdul Iqbal

Abdul Iqbal KC is a favoured choice of counsel among both solicitors and lay clients. He is widely recognised for his skilful, tactical and robust advocacy in the most complex cases. He took Silk in 2014 after years of being instructed as leading counsel in high-profile cases where Queen’s Counsel had been instructed by other parties in the case. Abdul has built a very large and successful defence practice focused on the most serious criminal cases, such as homicide, high-value complex commercial fraud, serious organised crime, terrorism, and large-scale international drug trafficking. He also has specialist expertise in confiscation and deprivation of assets issues arising from these areas of criminal work. Abdul previously practised as a pharmacist, and has a particular interest in cases involving expert medical or paramedical evidence. He is noted for his ability and experience in cross-examining expert witnesses on the most complex areas of evidence. He has defended in a series of sensitive cases where professionals (solicitors, accountants, doctors, pharmacists) have been charged with regulatory offences. Adbul regularly reviews serious and complex cases and advises upon the prospects of seeking to overturn, before the Court of Appeal, potentially unsafe convictions sustained in cases where he has not appeared at first instance. He also regularly reviews serious cases and advises as to whether a sentence can be regarded as manifestly excessive so as to be successfully appealed before the Court of Appeal. Abdul is noted for his ability and judgement to quickly and reliably identify the real and decisive issues in ‘very heavy’ cases. He excels in offering clear, concise and tactically focused advice in the most complex and voluminous cases.

Alaha Faryl

Civil LawImmigration & Asylum Law

Alan Taylor

As an experienced practitioner, Alan has built a successful Criminal and Regulatory practice. In the last five-years, he has transformed his practice so that Professional Discipline & Regulatory conducts around eighty-percent of his work load. Alan also continues to practise in criminal law. Alan is a highly-experienced advocate. He regularly receives plaudits from both professional and lay clients for his advocacy style and for the results he achieves for his clients. He will leave no stone un-turned in seeking to achieve the desired outcome for his client. In the field of professional discipline, Alan is one of the General Medical Council’s regularly instructed advocates. He has recently been appointed to the Council’s list of advocates sufficiently experienced and skilled to appear in the High Court. He conducts all types of hearings for many professions, including Fitness to Practise, Review and Restoration hearings. He has extensive experience of appearing before Interim Orders Panels. Much of Alan’s current practice is taken up with Fitness to Practice Hearings involving misconduct (including dishonesty, sexual abuse, and serious clinical errors), deficient professional performance (following performance assessments), and adverse physical or mental health. Examples of Professional Disciplinary/Regulatory work: Extensive experience of both prosecuting and defending healthcare professionals Appearing regularly on behalf of the General Medical Council, before Investigation Committees and Fitness to Practise, Review and Restoration Hearings Extensive experience of Interim Orders Panels, currently appearing regularly in High Court on behalf of the General Medical Council seeking interim order extensions Representing other non-healthcare professionals in disciplinary hearings Inquests (including death in custody) Examples of Criminal Law work: Wide-ranging experience of prosecuting and defending in complex cases encompassing all areas of crime Acting as junior in murders, conspiracies and frauds Particular experience of historic rape/sex abuse cases

Alexander Leach

  Alex is one of the leading criminal practitioners in the North, engaged to defend and prosecute in some of the most high-profile criminal cases of recent years. At Crown Court level, Alex is a specialist in three principle areas: 1. Murder and Serious Organised Crime; 2. Fraud and; 3. Rape and Sexual Abuse cases. Alex is described by those who instruct him as a creative and intelligent strategist capable of influencing the outcome of a case from its very outset. He provides training to leading criminal solicitors on the value of pre-charge engagement and encourages a proactive and assertive approach from the moment an investigation begins. In preparation for trial, Alex has a meticulous approach to detail and a tireless work ethic, often identifying weaknesses in a case that only emerge from close analysis of the evidence. Alex always places his client at the centre of the trial preparation process and has a real ability to create a successful working partnership in even the most challenging circumstances. In Court, Alex deploys an expert approach to legal argument that often leads to the exclusion of pivotal sections of a prosecution case. He commands the respect of the Judiciary for his knowledgeable, focused and well-judged approach. Above all, Alex is instructed as a trial advocate, sought after for his energetic and forceful approach to the most difficult of cases. Juries naturally warm to his reasoned and intelligent manner and he is capable of adjusting his style of cross-examination from the type of sensitive approach needed with more vulnerable witnesses to the more robust approach often required when dealing with the most serious organised crime. Many of Alex’s most impressive results have arisen in circumstances where he has been retained privately and at an early stage in proceedings and he is highly sought after by private clients for that reason. Prior to taking silk, Alex sat on the level 4 CPS panels for Serious Crime, Fraud, Confiscation, Rape and Sexual Abuse and Counter Terrorism. Alex also conducts an appellate practice, dealing recently with conviction appeals relating to historic convictions. Alex also sits as a Recorder (Criminal) and is authorised to try serious sexual offences. .

Alistair Webster

Alistair’s recognised excellence and client care across the spectrum of criminal and criminal related cases has made him an extremely popular choice for clients paying for the costs of their own advice and representation. As he is one of the country’s most experienced QCs, it is hardly surprising that his wealth of experience and record of success put him in demand. His breadth of experience means that he has dealt with aspects of fraud not only in the criminal courts, but also in the High Court, the Administrative Court, and the tax tribunals. Added to his experience in proceeds of crime and restraint orders, he is thus able to offer a rare combination of services across the board and to advise with an eye to the consequences beyond the immediate issues presented to him. Alistair has regularly appeared in the biggest cases to come before the courts, ranging from income tax and VAT frauds through to regulatory offences in areas such as Health & Safety, Trading Standards and Environmental prosecutions. He is on the Serious Fraud Office’s panels for both fraud and proceeds of crime which makes him, we believe, unique outside London. He has successfully represented, on a privately paying basis, solicitors, company directors and other professionals charged with a multitude of offences as varied as fraud by abuse of trust, corporate manslaughter, money laundering and offences arising from regulatory non compliance. He has successfully challenged both restraint orders and search warrants in relation to cases involving the SFO and SOCA. Alistair is highly recommended in the legal directories year on year. Alistair’s recognised excellence and client care across the spectrum of criminal and criminal related cases has made him an extremely popular choice for clients paying for the costs of their own advice and representation. As he is one of the country’s most experienced QCs, it is hardly surprising that his wealth of experience and record of success put him in demand. His breadth of experience means that he has dealt with aspects of fraud not only in the criminal courts, but also in the High Court, the Administrative Court, and the tax tribunals. Added to his experience in proceeds of crime and restraint orders, he is thus able to offer a rare combination of services across the board and to advise with an eye to the consequences beyond the immediate issues presented to him. Alistair has regularly appeared in the biggest cases to come before the courts, ranging from income tax and VAT frauds through to regulatory offences in areas such as Health & Safety, Trading Standards and Environmental prosecutions. He is on the Serious Fraud Office’s panels for both fraud and proceeds of crime which makes him, we believe, unique outside London. He has successfully represented, on a privately paying basis, solicitors, company directors and other professionals charged with a multitude of offences as varied as fraud by abuse of trust, corporate manslaughter, money laundering and offences arising from regulatory non compliance. He has successfully challenged both restraint orders and search warrants in relation to cases involving the SFO and SOCA.

Anam Khan

As an established practitioner with a multidisciplinary practice, Anam is able to draw upon her diverse experience in Civil, Crime, Regulatory and Coronial law to deliver lateral advice to her Clients. In addition to representing parties at trials and interlocutory hearings, she is frequently instructed for her advice and analysis in matters concerning privilege, disclosure and the instigation of proceedings. Some of her professional clients include various Government departments, the Information Commissioner’s Office (‘ICO’) and Greater Manchester Police. Anam is enthusiastic and confident in turning her mind to new areas of law, her recent instructions cover a broad spectrum, namely, acting as Junior Counsel with a disclosure function on the Manchester Arena Inquiry, defending a cash forfeiture action brought by HMRC, claiming for damages arising from an actionable interference with an easement, representing parties at the Employment Tribunal and developing a practice of civil actions against the police. Anam prides herself on meticulous case preparation. She has a keenness to get involved with all aspects of preparatory work, recognising the need for her clients to be fully equipped for court proceedings, from the outset. Anam employs a pragmatic approach to her cases which allows her to deliver sensible and practical advice to her clients. Anam is often commended by Solicitors for her thoroughness and excellent attention to detail. Following a three-month secondment at the ICO, during which time, Anam acted as a disclosure junior on one of the ICO’s largest multi-defendant prosecutions, Anam continues to prosecute a range of data protection act offences, particularly, offences of unlawfully obtaining and disclosing data. During her secondment, Anam acquired the requisite skills for handling a large-scale disclosure exercise; she produced disclosure logs, disclosure management documents and maintained schedules of sensitive and non-sensitive material. Anam worked closely with the case investigators and advised them on issues surrounding lines of enquiry and the recording and retention of material. Anam developed a thorough understanding of the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996 Code of Practice and kept her knowledge up to date regarding matters contained within the CPS’ disclosure manual. Anam prosecuted the landmark case of ICO v MK which attracted media interest for being the first ICO prosecution for a non-data protection act offence, to result in the imposition of a custodial sentence. Anam was involved in all aspects of this prosecution from shaping the charges to conducting the first appearance through to the confiscation proceedings. Anam is keen to expand her existing regulatory practice.  

Andrew Thomas

Andrew Thomas QC was called to the Bar in 1989 and awarded silk in 2008. Andrew has been appointed to sit as a Deputy High Court Judge (Administrative Court) and Recorder (both Criminal & Civil). Whilst Andrew has a mixed practice, undertaking both serious criminal cases in the Crown Court and common law civil work, the most significant proportions of his work involve either allegations of regulatory breach; including health and safety cases and environmental law or the most serious and complex criminal cases.  Andrew also undertakes Judicial Review proceedings on a regular basis. Andrew Thomas also undertakes advisory work for both prosecution and defence in respect of Corporate Manslaughter, Gross Negligence Manslaughter and Health and Safety Offences. Instructions received frequently relate to the following sectors: construction and demolition; haulage industry; NHS hospital trusts; medical professionals; nursing and care homes; and children’s care home. Andrew Thomas has considerable experience in environmental regulatory proceedings, in particular relating to the waste management industry. He regularly advises and acts for operators in criminal proceedings, in administrative appeals and on judicial review.

Andrew Peter Nuttall

Andrew specialises in: Serious crime, fraud, regulatory crime, disciplinary tribunals and inquests. Over the past 10 years he has also become recognised as a leading practitioner in the defence of the most serious driving offences. Andrew is an extremely popular barrister with a large solicitor following, who is regularly instructed in the most high-profile regulatory and criminal cases on circuit and beyond. The Solicitors who instruct him are generally considered to be the most specialist firms practising in the various areas. In Inquest work areas, Andrew is often instructed to represent both organisations and individuals. He has represented interested parties in the Hillsborough Inquest, the Cumbrian Shootings Inquest (Derrick Bird) and several other lengthy high-profile matters. Andrew’s Crown Court practice generally consists of representing private and insurance backed clients in a range of offences including: death by dangerous and careless driving, sexual offences, drug offences, serious violence, murder and fraud. Andrew has been a Recorder of the Crown Court since 2002. He is a Category 4 Prosecutor, and lectures regularly on criminal law and Coroner’s Court topics. For many years, Andrew has been involved in defending death by careless and death by dangerous driving cases, nationwide, and has regularly worked for solicitors whose clients are Insurance companies. Andrew has represented a wide range of clients- including farmers who have been charged whilst using machinery, to bus drivers, taxi drivers, elderly people who have fallen asleep at the wheel, and young men who have been alleged to cause serious injury whilst driving dangerously. The most recent examples of such work includes: The prevention of an immediate prison sentence to a man who drove on the wrong side of the road which killed one son, seriously injured his wife, his two other children, and a lorry driver; the prevention of  immediate imprisonment of a man who pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and causing serious injury after he caused life-impending injuries; and obtaining a community order for a man who sought to cross a level crossing with his tractor, and was hit by a train. He has represented nurses and teachers and is currently working on five other cases; one involving a high-profile death of a ballet dancer in London. Andrew has successfully had cases dropped by reason of drafted submissions before any trial and has also stopped trials at the conclusion of the prosecution case on the basis of legal submissions. Andrew likes to be involved with the case before any magistrate hearing and often attends the magistrates court even if it is for a sending as, in doing so, he can meet and advise the client immediately. Client care is of particular importance to him. Andrew is well known for his efficiency and the speed in which he works. He always replies to emails and no one ever has to ask him to do anything twice.

Anna Chestnutt

Anna enjoys a busy Crown Court practice, with a healthy mixture of prosecution and defence work. Whilst managing work both typical of and beyond her level of call, Anna has also been instructed as a led junior in long-running, serious criminal cases. Aside from her criminal practice, Anna has conducted several Fitness to Practice hearings before the Nursing and Midwifery Council (‘NMC’) on behalf of nurses. The overlap between criminal and regulatory law is of interest to Anna, who completed a three-month secondment with the Information Commissioners’ Office (‘ICO’), assisting their criminal prosecutions team. Anna has been appointed to the Specialist List of Regulatory Advocates and is able to receive instructions on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency and CQC. However her work in these areas is not restricted to the prosecution, she also undertakes defence work in a number of regulatory areas. Anna has defended in a significant number of driving offence matters and has an impressive track record for her work in this area. Her services are specifically sought by a number of specialist solicitors as a result of her experience of driving cases involving complex matters of law and procedure. Additionally, Anna represents holders of operator’s licences and drivers alike before the Office of the Traffic Commissioner. Prior to the Bar, Anna enjoyed a brief period working as a recruitment consultant in Manchester. Further, she developed her pro-bono experience through a three-month secondment with the Texas Defender Service, advising on death row appeals. Anna is a member of the Criminal Bar Association, the Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers and a member of the Northern Circuit. Anna is qualified to accept instructions on a Direct Access basis.

Austin Welch

Austin Welch specialises in public inquiries, inquests and health and safety and is one of the most experienced and well respected junior barristers in these areas of law. Over a number of years Austin has been consistently recognised by the UK legal directories as being a leading individual in these specialist areas of practice. Austin has been instructed in some of the most significant, high profile and complex inquests and public inquiries in recent years including: The Manchester Arena Inquiry; The Independent Investigation into Child Sexual Abuse and the Hillsborough Inquests. Austin represents companies and corporate bodies; public and local authorities; government departments; individuals and bereaved families who are granted interested person or core participant status. He has a particular specialism in representing clients in inquests and inquiries that involve health and safety issues. Austin represents clients in relation to health and safety, fire safety and food safety offences. He is regularly instructed to represent companies and individuals charged with such offences in both the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court and has an excellent track record for achieving positive outcomes for his clients.  Austin is experienced in representing clients from a wide variety of industries and is known for providing clear, commercial advice. Austin also represents companies and individuals in criminal and professional disciplinary proceedings that follow inquests and public inquiries and successfully represented one of the retired police officers in R v Denton and others, the Hillsborough ‘cover-up’ trial that was dismissed at the close of the prosecution case.​ As a member of the Regulatory List, Austin is instructed by the HSE to prosecute health and safety cases. Austin is also a member of the Attorney-General’s  List of Counsel and is regularly instructed to represent government departments in complex Article 2 inquests. Austin represents medical professionals in disciplinary proceedings brought by the GMC. He regularly appears on behalf of doctors in fitness to practice proceedings in the MPTS as well as other professionals charged with disciplinary offences by their regulators. Austin also has significant experience in representing police officers in disciplinary and criminal proceedings.

Brendan O'Leary

Brendan O’Leary is credited as being an advocate who combines excellent courtroom skills with a manner that both clients and juries warm to. He also brings hard work and detailed preparation to each case he deals with. He has quickly developed a busy Crown Court practice. His maturity and calm manner has seen him instructed on a number of serious cases from early in his career. Brendan also regularly appears at the High Court and Court of Appeal. Brendan’s practice is more defence based, but he also prosecutes regularly, where he applies the same hard work and determination to secure the best possible result for his client. In addition to his Crown Court practice Brendan has developed a busy Road Traffic Law practice. He has experience in acting for a wide range of individuals, including a number of high net worth clients. He has an enviable success rate in achieving the best outcome for his clients. Brendan also increasingly receives instructions in the areas of asset recovery and confiscation, licensing, and trading standards. He is regularly instructed by local authorities and private clients in both areas. Prior to coming to the bar Brendan was employed by the Government, and his role brought him into assessing and documenting cases of alleged Human Rights abuses in a number of conflict zones in Africa. Brendan achieved first place on his Bar Vocational Course, and was both the Criminal Bar Association Kalsiher Scholar and Richard Isaacson Q.C. Memorial Scholar in 2007.

Charles Howard Bloomer

With over 30 years of experience in a variety of fields, Charles is one of the most versatile members of the bar. A wealth of court experience combined with an eye for detail and excellent client skills have led to him being ideally suited for difficult cases. Charles’ practice now prominently focuses on PI and Immigration, however Charles has spent in excess of 10 years dealing with a variety of criminal cases, as well as having substantial experience in Contract and Chancery matters. Charles is well known for his excellent manner with clients. He has been described as approachable, professional and an expert in his fields and he has an established client base because of this. It has often been said that Charles manages to extract the best points of a case for his clients. Following one such conference, a senior solicitor asked “why is it that you manage to get so much more from the client in an hour or so of conference than I’ve got from several meetings?” Charles’ approachable and professional manner builds confidence in his clients, and his wealth of experience reinforces this. He is able to pinpoint key points within a case and draw vital information from clients with his approachable personality.

Chris Daw

Chris Daw QC was called to the Bar in 1993 and was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2013. Before taking silk, Chris built his reputation in the criminal courts, acting in high profile trials and appeals, from serious organised crime to commercial fraud. As a QC, whilst maintaining a substantial criminal and serious fraud practice, Chris acts in a broader range of matters, including business, regulatory and professional discipline instructions. With an entirely private practice, Chris is able to dedicate the time and attention to detail required to service his principal client base of corporations, high net worth individuals, public figures and professionals in various fields. He has extensive experience of acting for the country’s most senior police officers, up to and including the rank of Chief Constable, in criminal proceedings, inquests and misconduct hearings. Chris takes on only a small number of clients at any one time. Given the pressures on his time he tends to act for those clients who retain him at the earliest possible stage of a case, often in the pre-charge or pre-investigation phase. In addition to major document-heavy criminal and regulatory cases, Chris has a niche practice advising and representing high net worth individuals in sensitive personal and criminal matters, where the consequences for a client’s reputation may outweigh the gravity of the issues involved. He also advises individuals and corporations on the tactical use of criminal law strategy, such as private prosecution, in both personal and commercial disputes. Where appropriate Chris takes an aggressive and proactive approach, before proceedings even begin, drafting representations against charge, and thereafter, vigorously pursuing pre-trial applications on disclosure, abuse of process, exclusion of evidence and to dismiss charges altogether. In addition to appearing in criminal trials, inquests and disciplinary tribunals Chris advises on appeals where he did not appear at trial. Chris approaches every case with the same high standards of preparation and clients find him direct, honest and passionate about what he does. He works closely with solicitors at every stage of a case and is always available to provide advice and support throughout the preparation of the difficult and sensitive cases in which he is involved. Chris is a passionate advocate of social mobility, speaking at schools, colleges and other events, encouraging students from state schools to make it into the legal profession.  He is a member of the Bar Council Barristers for Schools scheme and recently judged a sixth form advocacy competition at the Supreme Court, organised by Big Voice London. Chris accepts instructions throughout the UK and, where necessary, in international jurisdictions.

Clare Ashcroft

Clare is renowned for her significant experience in representing young defendants across a range of serious criminal offences. She is regularly instructed to represent those accused of joint enterprise and gang related murder. A very common element of Clare’s practice involves dealing with complex evidence, including cell site, encrypted devices, firearms and ANPR in cases ranging from murder through to drugs, firearms and trafficking conspiracies. Clare has developed a wealth of experience in “baby shaking” cases and the handling of highly specialised complex medical evidence. She has successfully acted for a father accused of the murder of his daughter (led); of a mother accused of inflicting life changing injuries upon her baby son and; of a mother accused of causing/allowing the death of her baby son (alone). Clare is well used to approaching cases involving the dual jurisdictions of the Crown and Family Courts. Clare has achieved success for her lay clients as the result of legal arguments including applications to dismiss (causing/allowing death of a child; attempted murder); abuse of process; exclusion of hearsay (absent complainant; deceased witness); exclusion of late-served evidence and exclusion of bad character. Her knowledge and understanding of sentencing law, for which she gained her D.Phil, has seen Clare develop a successful appellate practice regarding appeals against both conviction and sentence, including those which are “out of time”. Clare has successfully responded in a number of sentences referred to the CACD by the Attorney General. Clare continues both to develop and to draw upon her considerable experience representing those with complex mental health needs and the very young. She is able quickly to assist in the instruction of the correct experts to address issues such as possible fitness to plead, ability to form the necessary intent, diminished responsibility, psychological and/or neurological factors (such as autism or ADHD) that might impact upon the ability of the client to engage in and understand proceedings. Her knowledge and understanding regarding disposals and sentencing pursuant to the Mental Health Act 1983 (including so-called “Hybrid Orders”) is exceptional. Clare’s empathetic manner together with her experience of the use of intermediaries both for the lay client and witnesses has resulted in her representing those charged with very serious sexual offences. Clare is experienced in defending historic sexual allegations often featuring multiple complainants and substantial third party disclosure. She accepts instructions to defend sexual allegations on a private basis only. NOTABLE CASES Murder/Manslaughter R v OS – defence of young male “single punch” manslaughter. R v BJ – (led) defence of 3rd defendant; joint enterprise stabbing murder alleged. R v MN – (led) defence of young male accused (along with another) of murdering another young boy by stabbing. R v EH – (Leading) defence of young adult multi-handed trial initially charged as conspiracy to murder (application to dismiss then resulted in review to conspiracy to commit armed robbery); voluminous telephone, CCTV evidence; complex application to exclude hearsay (foundation of Crown’s case) and part of the CCTV evidence. Following legal argument, case resolved by way of plea to single count of PWITS Class B. R v AK – defence of former soldier accused of attempted murder, successful application to dismiss. R v DA – Attempted murder by a 14 year old boy of his twin brother, both suffered from rare neurological condition; fitness to plead; complex psychiatric, neurological and psychological evidence, took the lead in adducing evidence of all defence experts and cross-examination of prosecution experts; MHA 1983 disposals and ongoing review of fitness post-MHA 1983 disposal. R v SM – Murder, successful defence on basis of “single punch” manslaughter. “Baby Shaking” R v DA Murder (led) – Defence of “baby shaking” case involving complex expert evidence including neuropathology, neuroradiology, ophthalmic pathology, histopathology (“the Triad”). R v LB – Causing/Allowing serious injury “baby shaking” case, acting for vulnerable client. The case involved dual jurisdiction owing to proceedings in the family court, together with voluminous disclosure. Complex expert evidence including neuroradiology, ophthalmology, psychiatric and psychological evidence ( the latter adduced to establish that the client was not capable of forming the intent required). Successful application to dismiss. R v BB – Causing/allowing death of a child (“baby shaking” case). Featured complex medical evidence including neuropathology, neuroradiology. Adduced psychiatric evidence to establish client unfit. Successful application to dismiss. R v NB – (leading) defence of father accused of causing serious life changing injury to 8 week old son. Dual proceedings in family court; expert evidence in paediatric neuroradiology, paediatric radiology. Firearms R v MH – Defence of individual in multi-handed conspiracy to supply prohibited firearms and Class A drugs; large volume evidence (telephone/cell site/surveillance) across a multi-agency prosecution. R v LK – Defence of individual in multi-handed people trafficking conspiracy involving kidnap and the use of firearm (multi-agency prosecution). R v CB – Defence of alleged “leading” conspirator in multi-handed drugs and firearms conspiracy (multi-agency prosecution). Drugs R v JM – Defence of female accused of importation of 150kg heroin; intelligence led investigation featuring international mutual assistance. R v IK – Defence of lorry driver accused of importation of significant quantities of cocaine and cannabis; intelligence led investigation featuring mutual assistance. Targeted disclosure request led to PII application and matter discontinued. R v VdL – Defence of individual in multi-handed conspiracy to import Class A drugs; international mutual assistance case. Appeals and Legal Arguments ER v R – (Rex v Emmanuel Richards [2022] EWCA Crim 1470) full appeal conviction and sentence encompassing fresh evidence; bad character; disclosure and appeal sentence (convictions for rape; appellant a dangerous offender). R v HS – (R v Hakeem Silini [2019] EWCA Crim 2089) CACD judgment regarding sentencing guidelines re s.18, the assessment of harm and the danger of “double counting” culpability factors. R v JP – (R v Mark Roberts and Others [2016] EWCA Crim 71) Full court CACD judgment (Lord Chief Justice) regarding IPP and the assessment of dangerousness. R v MG – (R v Mark Golds [2014] EWCA Crim 748) Murder and diminished responsibility; the meaning of “substantial impairment”; evidence of multiple experts (psychiatric and psychological). R v PY – Historic sexual offences; multiple complainants (significantly reduced in number following successful applications to dismiss); application to exclude evidence of deceased complainant. R v MM – (R v Maria Mellor [2016] EWCA Crim 1445) instructed re “out of time” appeal; CACD judgment regarding prohibited firearms and the circumstances where mandatory minimum sentence is not applicable. R v DLF – Successful application to stay prosecution for abuse of process. Client scaled the Manchester Wheel and had been prosecuted for public nuisance. https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/may/06/manchester-gangster-scales- ferris-wheel-protest Sexual Offences/Rape R v MH – Historic intra-familial sexual offences featuring multiple complainants and significant third party disclosure. R v RN – Defence of familial serious sexual offences. Young complainant cross- examined under s.28 procedure and with use of an intermediary. Featured dual jurisdiction and significant third party disclosure. R v BM – defence of historic rape allegations, featured previous civil proceedings, care homes. R v PY – defence of multiple complainant historic rape allegations featuring familial and non-familial offending; deceased complainant. R v X – defence of youngster with learning difficulties accused of multiple rapes; Toolkit cross-examination; intermediary for complainant and defendant. Inquests Clare is instructed to represent bereaved families during inquests. She has experience representing those whose relatives have died in custody or otherwise in the care of the state (Article 2 inquests). Clare’s experience of police and criminal law has enabled her to consider the wider issues that arise in such cases. Her knowledge of PACE, Codes of Practice, Police Law and the Mental Health Act 1983 ensures that she is able quickly to identify and develop arguable issues.

Constance Halliwell

Constance Halliwell completed her pupillage and accepted an offer of Tenancy at Lincoln House Chambers in 2022. Her pupillage had been supervised by Austin Welch. Constance enjoys a busy criminal practice across the full spectrum of Magistrates Court and Crown Court work. In the Magistrates Court, Constance regularly prosecutes and defends a range of offences including sex offences and driving matters. In the Crown Court, Constance deals with sentences, bail applications and interlocutory hearings. Constance is a Level 1 prosecutor. She has completed her vulnerable witness training and has worked on cases involving issues of fitness to plead and capacity. Constance also defends regulatory breaches in the Magistrates Court, dealing with breaches of Consumer Protection Regulations and allegations of fraud. During her first six, Constance helped draft advices and sentencing submissions in relation to complex aspects of regulatory work including offences under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. During the first-six of her pupillage, Constance developed experience in the field of Public Inquiries. Constance shadowed Austin throughout his work on the Manchester Arena Inquiry, as counsel representing the bereaved families. Constance attended court to hear live evidence; reviewed documents published by the Inquiry Legal Team; conducted research and reviewed closing submissions prepared on behalf of the families. Prior to pupillage, Constance developed her pro-bono experience working with the Bar’s national pro bono charity, Advocate, as a Casework Volunteer. This included reviewing evidence, drafting case summaries and preparing bundles. Constance received a first-class honours law degree from Lancaster University. She was awarded the Harmsworth Scholarship from the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple to study the Bar Course at BPP University, Manchester, completing the course with a grade of Very Competent.

Craig Hassall

An A-List Specialist Regulatory Advocate, Craig prosecutes and defends in a wide range of regulatory cases. His regulatory practice includes serious health and safety and healthcare cases, often involving fatalities. He has appeared for both regulators and potential defendants at numerous inquests. His regulatory crime practice also encompasses criminal proceedings brought by a wide range of other regulators in the areas of environmental crime, trading standards, fire safety and food safety. He has a particular interest in cases involving allergen control. Craig has extensive experience of representing corporate defendants. He can be relied upon to approach a case commercially and with a view to avoiding reputational damage. He is experienced in explaining the commercial reality of corporate accounts to lay and professional tribunals and regularly advises boards of directors in relation to criminal and coronial proceedings. Craig has represented both regulators and professionals in the disciplinary processes of several different professional bodies and sits as a Legally Qualified Chair in Police Misconduct Hearings. Craig’s knowledge of cases involving a wide range of prosecuting authorities enables him to bring a unique perspective to cases that transcend more than one area. He has been involved in many large cases with multiple defendants, regularly dealing with sensitive issues of disclosure.

Dan Thomas

Dan Thomas practices in commercial litigation, regulatory, and white collar defence and investigations.  

Darren Finnegan

Darren has experience in defending corporations, partnerships and individuals in regulatory and criminal offences. Darren has a particular interest in road freight matters such as tachograph and maintenance offences, civil law carriage of goods claims and impounding. He has also represented operators at public inquiries and acted in appeals of public inquiry decisions to the Upper Tribunal. He has also provided advice on transport matters for operators in jurisdictions outside Northern Ireland such as the Republic of Ireland and in Great Britain. Having completed pupillage with an experienced civil practitioner specialising in personal injury, Darren is also accepting instruction in matters of personal injury and health and safety in the workplace. Darren is able to accept instructions in all areas. Qualifications First Class LL.B (Hons), Queen’s University Belfast 2018. Diploma of Professional Legal Studies, Institute of Professional Legal Studies 2019. Mini-pupillage 1 Chancery Lane, London 2017. Winner of IPLS-Kings Inn Eoin Higgins Memorial Moot 2019. Winner of Oxford University Press national mooting competition 2017 Experience During university, Darren was heavily involved in mooting, having won the Queen’s University internal moot in 2016, the OUP UK national moot in 2017 and representing QUB in the Essex Court mooting competition. This continued during the IPLS where Darren was an advocate on the winning team of the Eoin Higgins Memorial Moot against fellow trainees at Kings Inn and also had the opportunity to moot at the Supreme Court in front of Lord Kerr.

David Pojur

David specialises in Regulatory law covering the areas of Healthcare & Professional Discipline, Inquests, Health and Safety, and Environmental law. He is regularly instructed by solicitors to act for many of the country’s large insurers, multinational corporations, medical defence organisations and high net worth individuals. He acts in both contentious and non-contentious work and is often called upon for his advisory work. He is frequently led by and appears against King’s Counsel. David is appointed to List A as Specialist Regulatory Panel Counsel in Health and Safety & Environmental Law, CQC, Ofsted. David has significant experience in matters concerning Healthcare and Professional Discipline. He is instructed in matters concerning GMC, CQC, NHS England, Safeguarding, NMC, RCN, Performer Lists, OFSTED, GDC, GPs, Consultants and the Civil Aviation Authority. He is very experienced appearing before Panels and Tribunals, addressing fitness, contested matters and appeals, as well as advising on strategy. He advocates on behalf of surgeons, nurses, doctors and dentists. His practice in healthcare also complements his inquest work where there has been a death in a medical setting. David has a strong practice dealing with GMC, Care Quality Commission and Ofsted cases before the First and Upper Tier Tribunals. He advises Doctors as well as Providers and Managers on Notices of Proposal, Decision, Fit and Proper Persons, Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. David also frequently advises NHS Trusts and their staff. He appears at Urgent closure hearings before the Magistrates’ and the Appellate Tribunals under the Section 30 & 31 Provisions HSCA 2008. He frequently advises Registered Providers and Registered Managers on prospects of appeal and how to appeal under the Memorandum of Understanding for Urgent Appeals. He has an insightful understanding and knowledge of the Health and Social Care Act and Regulations and their application. He works with expert consultants and Registered Managers and Providers, ensuring their case is fully advanced. He has been instrumental in defending Notices of Proposal and Notices of Decisions to restrict admissions. He mainly addresses cases where cancellation of registration and closure of a setting is sought. David also advises the regulator, CQC and its Inspectors. He represents them at contested hearings and advises on urgent closure of settings where there is serious risk to life. David gives training on Healthcare law and matters under the HSCA and Regulations. European Court of Human Rights, Strasbourg David appeared before an exceptional convening of the Grand Court of the ECtHR to address miscarriages of justice. In Victor Nealon and Sam Hallam v United Kingdom [2023], 20 international judges heard argument concerning whether the statutory scheme for compensating the victims of miscarriages of justice (Criminal Justice Act 1988, s.133) violates the presumption of innocence guaranteed by Article 6§2 of the European Convention on Human Rights. An amended test, introduced in 2014, requires applicants for compensation to demonstrate that the fresh evidence which led to their convictions being quashed demonstrates beyond reasonable doubt that they are innocent. Both applicants argue that the scheme infringes their right to be presumed innocent. Health and Safety David represents companies and directors in complex proceedings involving fatalities arising out of breaches of health and safety regulations. David’s clients include professionals at risk of corporate manslaughter liability or gross negligence manslaughter. He frequently advises on the Health and Safety at Work Act and potential liability and where it may fall under the Sentencing Council Guidelines. David’s article on risky definitions of roles when working at height under CDM has been published in Planning and Building Control Today. Notable cases include: Representing stables where a horse bit a child causing grave injury. Advising on Safeguarding Investigation into fire at a setting with vulnerable service users. HSWA fall from height resulting in life changing injuries. Manslaughter arising from noxious substances from neighbouring premises. Gross Negligence Manslaughter – Led by silk in six-week multi-handed workplace fall from height. Success in Upper Tribunal CQC appeal concerning serious risk to life. Represented company where operative lost fingers on rotating saw. Acted for company directors in carbon monoxide poisoning of several people in residential premises. Represented directors of a national plastics company – operative’s arm caught in rotating machinery with degloving injuries. Denbigh County Council v DS Ltd. Representing MD and his company regarding a fatal explosion of split wheel rims. Appearing for company in gas explosion resulting in a fatality. Greater Manchester Fire Safety Authority v Khan & six others. ‘Death Trap’ shisha lounge case. Led by Queen’s Counsel in ‘Princess Parkway Pile Up’ representing the lorry driver. Barnsley Borough Council v Whitehead. Successful prosecution of Director under HSWA. Horrific injuries from converting semi trailers. Representing HSE against a company who had repeatedly flouted safety rules. A steel girder fell onto an employee during shipping. Successful prosecution of major UK supermarket chain for health, safety and food standards breaches. Environmental, Water and Nuisance David is Regulatory Counsel with expertise in Environmental Law. He has significant experience with PINS and the public inquiry procedure & NRW. He was counsel in the leading environmental case of Jagger succeeding in the Court of Appeal to overturn a conviction concerning the definition of controlled waste. David’s specialism has led to his frequent instruction representing companies and individuals against the EA and NRW at PINS, contested hearings before the Crown and Civil Courts and the High Court of Justice. He is well respected in this area. David is chosen by clients and solicitors because his cases are demanding and complex, requiring sharp analysis and attention to detail. His advocacy and advisory services are sought after. He advises clients pre interview, involving the EA, HSE, OFSTED, CQC, Civil Aviation Authority and Local Authority. He has been appointed by the Court to act as Special Counsel. Notable cases include representing an international shipping company concerning controlled waste transportation to China. This was a multi handed and lengthy case, where the EA discontinued the case against David’s client. David’s time studying International Law at the University of Amsterdam was useful. One of the largest environmental trials before the Crown Court was listed for four months. There were many parties and it was a very complex case. David successfully argued that the proceedings were unfair and the EA was abusing the courts process. This resulted in the acquittal of the defendants. David also advises and contests cases for clients in actions against the EA, to hold them accountable for their failures. These proceedings are for high worth damages before the High Court. David is approachable and has significant knowledge and court craft in his speciality field of Environmental Law. He works closely with leading solicitors in this field. He is a keen strategist, always seeking to achieve the best results for his clients. He ensures that the client is central to the team he leads. Notable cases include: Representing Contruction company in rare Tree Preservation Order prosecution. Succeeded in having the prosecution against an international bakery dismissed for alleged breaches of Clean Air Act; secured large wasted costs. Acting for company directors suing the EA for damages in negligence 7 breach of duty. Four-month EA prosecution. Led by Queen’s Counsel in vast multi-handed and rare case. Ended on abuse of process application. High profile international shipping broker in multi-handed case accused of large-scale environmental criminality. David successfully had the Indictment discontinued. Advising and representing global company on odour management regulations and nuisance abatement and Environmental Information Regulations. Advocating for an international company accused of supplying huge amounts of toxic substances for land spreading. Representing company accused of massive fish kill and water pollution as well as spreading carcinogenic waste Environment Agency v Jagger [2015] EWCA Crim 348 2015 WL 997446. Successful appeal against conviction in ground-breaking environmental waste trial. Inquests and Inquiries David Pojur brings a wealth of expertise to the inquests field owing in part to his appointment as assistant coroner for North Wales. He has considerable capabilities acting for clients in cases involving health and safety fatalities, suicides or deaths in healthcare settings. David sits as an Assistant Coroner undertaking investigations and inquests both with and without juries. These are often complex proceedings with several interested persons addressing hospital, medical or care related deaths. David has been appointed by the Court as Counsel to the Inquest (CTI) on several occasions by Senior Coroners and in Judge led inquests. He also advises and represents coroners in judicial review challenges before the High Court. In his coronial practice, he deals with difficult Article 2 jury inquests where there are a number of complex issues and experts. These often relate to health and safety issues, deaths in police custody or prison and hospital settings and homicides. Experts are commonly encountered, ranging from toxicology, psychiatric, psychological, pathology, to engineering and reconstruction expert reports. A routine part of his work is assimilating complex medical or legal information and explaining it to the jury. David has acts for families, Police officers, Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, Ambulance Service, Doctors, Surgeons, Nurses, insurance companies and company directors. He often guides Serious Incident Reviews. He frequently argues areas relating to Prevention of Future Death Reports Notable cases include: Appointed as Counsel to the Inquest following a cold case murder from 29 years ago where the killer was acquitted in 1994. Successfully defending a Coroner in a High Court JR before the Chief Coroner. Representing a construction company concerning the fall from height of an employee. Representing Care Home group concerning inappropriate foods given to service user. Appearing for a Local Authority whose employee was fatally struck by a vulnerable service user. Representing an ophthalmic surgeon whose patient died after eye surgery. Representing a son whose father died in prison custody by a ligature. Represented NHS re elderly patient lacking capacity, subjected to violence. Inquest into death of elderly patient whose food line was placed into his IV line. Implications flowing from this affected not only national but European healthcare. Represented a family whose teenage son with mental health concerns went missing, focussing on action of the police. Represented the NHS concerning a young man who went on a rampage with a weapon, inflicting fatal wounds on himself. The case was reported on the BBC website and in the Daily Post. Death in Custody. Representing custodial services. Significant number of medical experts. Representing the Chairman of a holding company and Managing Director of a quarry re laden volumetric vehicle. Crime David prosecutes and defends the most serious crimes before the Crown Court and regularly appears in the High Court and Court of Appeal, where he has succeeded in having convictions overturned. He often appears alone against silks and enjoys a strong reputation. He is recognised as a leading junior and was appointed to List A of the Specialist Regulatory Panel Counsel for HSE, EA, ORR, CQC and Ofsted as well as being assessed as Panel 4 category Counsel and a Rape and Serious Sexual Offence (RASSO) specialist. He has prosecuted trials instructed by the CCU. He has experience of a breadth of work from multi-handed conspiracies to murder, gross negligence manslaughter, corporate manslaughter and drugs importation cases as well as representing terrorists. David frequently represents companies and directors in serious injury and fatal health and safety cases of significant complexity. David has particular expertise in abuse and violence cases. He is fully conversant with handling expert witnesses and the requirements of young and vulnerable witnesses and defendants. He is often called to deal with grave crime cases that require the utmost sensitivity and planning. Notable cases include: Appearing for accused in manslaughter trial where death occurred through noxious gases. Representing terrorist accused of violent assault on prison guard. Acting for group member in Robberies at Manchester Airport’s secure area. Representing member of group in Conspiracy to commit GBH on prison staff when leaving prison estate. Successful convictions in historic abuse of trust rapes against sisters resulting in child being fathered. Acting for group member in Conspiracy concerning shooting and drug cultivation. Defending in a led case of Gross Negligence Manslaughter & Health and Safety offences in a multi handed ‘cut throat’ defence concerning poisoning. Four-month EA prosecution, led by Queen’s Counsel in vast multi-handed and rare case. Succeeded on abuse of process application. Defending in a led case, Gross Negligence Manslaughter concerning a fall from height on a construction site with significant legal argument on CDM Regulations. Prosecuting historic child abuse cases by several family members. Defending murder and manslaughter, in a led case, to acquittal, where there was a death bed video identification of the killer. Prosecuting wounding, rape and coercive behaviour. Defending a former sports coach who abused four boys, 20 years ago. Prosecuting a paedophile ring and procurement of infants. Defending ‘honour crime’ where injuries were described as ‘torture’.

Douglas Mark Stuart

Mark Stuart has one of the largest criminal practices on the Northern Circuit.  He prosecutes occasionally but it is predominantly defence based. Mark is regularly instructed as both a Leading Junior and Junior in serious cases of violence including murder and manslaughter.  In 2011, alone, he was instructed in 6 murder cases.

Ellen Shaw

Ellen Shaw is an established and well regarded junior who specialises in crime, regulatory, and professional discipline. Ellen is regularly instructed to both prosecute and defend in a wide range of cases including offences against the person, dishonesty, drugs, sexual offences, intellectual property, driving offences, breach proceedings and cases involving proceeds of crime applications. Ellen provides advice and assistance to both the prosecution and defence on all aspects and stages of the criminal and regulatory enforcement process including: enforcement notices, the investigation, the decision to prosecute, and PII and disclosure issues. She also regularly advises on evidence, procedure, sentence and appeal. Ellen is a level 3 Crown Court prosecutor, and often receives instructions as a regulatory and private prosecutor. In this capacity she frequently prosecutes for  government departments (the HMRC, DWP, DVLA and DVSA)  local councils and organisations such as the Post Office. Ellen is a member of the specialist regulatory advocates panel in Health and Safety and Environmental law. In her defence practice Ellen receives instructions to act along-side leading counsel but also regularly acts as solely instructed counsel in cases where the prosecution, and other defendants, have both leading and junior counsel. Ellen accepts instructions on all types of regulatory and public law matters and has specific experience in inquiry work. Ellen was instructed as junior counsel to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, specifically instructed on the Roman Catholic Investigation (July 2017-2019). The investigation considered the extent to which the Nolan and Cumberlege reviews of child protection in the Roman Catholic Church improved the Church’s policy and practice considering 3 case studies: firstly the English Benedictine Congregation focusing on the Schools Ampleforth and Downside, second: Ealing Abbey and St Benedict’s School and thirdly: the Archdiocese of Birmingham. Ellen took a leading role in the review of disclosed material and supervised the redaction process. She was responsible for drafting Rule 9 statement requests and assisted with preparation for the public hearings, including the formulation of evidence proposals as well as drafting witness questions for leading counsel, she also oversaw the rule 10 procedure determining which questions from the Core Participants would be adopted by Counsel to the Inquiry. She attended the public hearings as junior counsel and was one of the four counsel who drafted the Ampleforth and Downside report.

Emma Gilsenan

Emma is an experienced and versatile barrister practising in regulatory law with a particular focus on Professional Discipline. Emma has, for the last six years, practised almost exclusively in Professional Discipline and Regulation, representing regulators and professionals from a variety of industry sectors. She advises and acts primarily in cases arising from the healthcare industry. Emma is on the General Medical Council (GMC) approved list of advocates and regularly appears in respect of Fitness to Practise proceedings arising from allegations of misconduct, deficient professional performance, conviction, adverse physical or mental health, English speaking, and determinations by other regulatory bodies. In addition, Emma is on the GMC approved list of advocates for providing advice and representation in respect of High Court Extension, Interim Order, Review and Non-Compliance hearings. In 2017, Emma undertook a 12-month secondment with the GMC where she broadened her knowledge base of the medical regulatory framework. Emma regularly advised on Rule 12 review requests, having regard to complaints raising new information and/or alleged material flaws in the GMC decision making process. In the course of this work, Emma frequently considered and advised on the impact and weight to be attached in the decision-making process to Inquest documents including Coroner Reports/Verdicts, Trust Investigation Reports, independent medical investigation reports and medical records. During the course of her GMC secondment, Emma frequently advised on applications in respect of whether the public interest criteria had been met to investigate matters outside of the five-year limitation period in accordance with Rule 4(5). Emma has a background that combines Criminal litigation, Professional Discipline, Regulatory and Public law. Her areas of expertise complement one another, enabling her to provide a comprehensive service to organisations, as well as professional and lay clients seeking advice and representation. Prior to joining Chambers, Emma was appointed as Assistant Public Solicitor in the British Overseas Territories of St Helena and Ascension Island (in the South Atlantic). During this appointment, Emma was admitted as an Advocate of the Supreme Court of St Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan Da Cunha. Emma was asked to return to the Island in this role, following her appointment pre-pupillage, to advise on a specific high profile cross jurisdictional case. In addition to having conduct of a series of high profile and politically sensitive cases, Emma advised and represented clients in relation to general Criminal, Civil, Medical Regulatory and Professional Disciplinary matters. Emma returned to the islands to assist the Public Solicitor’s Office in 2017 and 2018.

Gerard Doran

Gerard is an extremely popular and sought after senior junior who specialises in criminal defence, regulatory and professional disciplinary work. As is suggested by his regular endorsements by leading legal directories, Gerard’s popularity and success in practice stems both from his reputation of being a superb jury advocate and his client care skills which many consider to be second to none. Gerard is a down to earth people person who is able to get the most from his clients. His enthusiasm for their case is evident from the first meeting and he is able to put the most anxious of clients at ease by his calm and unflustered, yet determined approach. Following his call to the bar, in 1993, Gerard practiced at the London Bar before returning to the North West. During his years spent on the South Eastern Circuit, Gerard developed a strong practice often regarded to be “beyond his call”. In 2005, with a healthy practice and requests to represent those involved in the most serious cases, across the United Kingdom, Gerard decided to return to the North West of the country. Since then, his practice has gone from strength-to-strength with a portfolio of high level work which is often nationally reported. Gerard’s crime related work covers the full spectrum of criminal offences but he is particularly popular for the most serious criminal offences which frequently include terrorism, drug trafficking, firearms, fraud & money laundering, homicide & serious violence and sexual offences. Although Gerard will act as junior counsel in appropriate cases, the vast majority of the work undertaken involves him taking the leading role whether that be as a leading junior or a junior alone. Gerard is often instructed for the Appellant in the Court of Appeal. Gerard’s caseload is mainly built of complex conspiracies with high page counts. Gerard is able to effectively manage high volumes of complex evidence and is extremely experienced in managing information in many different electronic forms. In his professional disciplinary practice Gerard is a member of Lincoln House Chambers GMC team and regularly represents the GMC at IOT, Review & FTP hearings. Gerard also accepts instructions to defend medical practitioners before other regulators.

Graham Rishton

Graham Rishton joined Chambers in 2022 as a transferring legal professional and after completing a reduced pupillage under the supervision of Mr Brendan O’Leary. He began his career at a Chambers and Partners Band 1 national criminal defence firm in 2013, qualifying as a solicitor and higher court advocate in 2016. He became a director of the firm in 2019. As a solicitor, Graham acted for clients across a broad spectrum of criminal offences including murder, sexual offences and complex drug conspiracies. He developed a particular niche in acting in large-scale fraud offences. He most notably acted in the Royal Household Bribery Case for the only Defendant to be acquitted, and in the SFO v Unaoil trial, reported to be the largest bribery case in history. He was also regularly instructed to act on a private basis for clients accused of sexual offences. Graham developed a reputation as a solicitor for his ability to absorb significant amounts of material, attention to detail and approachable manner with clients. Since joining Chambers Graham has developed a busy Crown Court practice defending and prosecuting. He is a Grade 2 prosecutor. Instructions have included defending at trial in a multi-handed drug conspiracy, and defending those accused of rape and serious sexual offences. Notable cases include: R v K – Preston Crown Court – Operation Marina – Defending in a five-handed conspiracy to supply Class A drugs conspiracy. The prosecution relied upon surveillance and cell site evidence. Graham represented the only Defendant to be acquitted R v V – Stafford Crown Court – Led counsel acting for Defendant accused of participating in an OCG involved in a muti-million pound conspiracy to supply Class A drugs throughout the midlands. R v W – Burnley Crown Court – Obtained a suspended sentence order for a Defendant who pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs R v H – Preston Crown Court – Representing a Defendant accused of money laundering following a complicated phishing fraud. Defence advanced that he had been used as an unknowing mule. Defendant acquitted after 4 day trial. R v G – Manchester Minshull St Crown Court – Representing Defendant alleged to have committed a series of thefts. Prosecution based on identification evidence of a police officer. Defendant acquitted. R v G – Bolton Crown Court – Representation of a Defendant who accepted the opportunistic theft of a vehicle from a driveway but denied burglary of the car keys. Acquitted after a 3 day trial. R v W – Burnley Crown Court – Represented a Defendant accused of S.18 GBH involving a slash wound to the face. The charge was negotiated to a S.20 and the Defendant obtained a suspended sentence order. R v L – Manchester Crown Court – Instructed as prosecution counsel in serious injury by dangerous driving case. The Defendant pleaded guilty at PTPH. R v H – Chester Crown Court – Instructed as defence counsel in a multi-complainant case in which the Defendant faced allegations of sexual assault by penetration. Prosecution sought to rely on evidence from “Fitbit” device but a successful s.78 application excluded it. Case also raised difficulties concerning cross-admissibility of counts. Client acquitted after a 4 day trial. R v M – Manchester Crown Court – Acted for Defendant who pleaded guilty to inciting a child to engage in the commission of a sexual offence after being caught by a “paedophile hunter” group. Graham has also developed a busy motoring practice and regularly attends at the Magistrates’ Court to act for drivers accused of drink or drug driving offences or to advance special reasons or exceptional hardship arguments. He notably retained the licence, after an exceptional hardship argument, of a driver who had accrued no fewer than 36 points. Graham also accepts instructions in regulatory matters. He has successfully defended cash forfeiture applications and prosecutes such applications on behalf of the National Crime Agency. Other instructions have included acting on behalf of the DVLA, for local councils in licencing matters and on behalf of a HGV licence operator in a public inquest before a Traffic Commissioner. A long-suffering Leeds United fan, Graham is a keen sportsman and plays football for his local side. He enjoys relaxing with his young family and running in the hills with his golden retriever Edith.

Guy Gozem

A very experienced criminal advocate, who has dealt regularly with murder, gross negligence manslaughter, and serious sexual allegations, he is also instructed by leading Fraud Panel Solicitors in lengthy commercial fraud cases and regulatory work.

Heather Aspinall

Heather primarily practices in two main areas, namely Personal Injury and Coronial Law. As well as these primary areas, Heather also accepts instructions in respect of all other aspects of Civil Law; Professional Discipline & Regulatory Law; and Immigration, Nationality & Asylum Law.Heather prides herself on offering all of her clients a personal, yet professional service and offers a swift turnaround in respect of all paperwork. Solicitors often comment on her outstanding customer service. Written work is dealt with quickly, communication on cases is excellent and Heather is extremely accessible and happy to assist when her clients require her for ad hoc advice or assistance. Heather has been appointed as Junior Counsel to the Crown (Regional B Panel) since 2015. Heather’s appointment was recently extended by the Attorney General, Rt. Hon. Suella Braverman QC MP, who described the competition for places on the panel as “fierce”. Heather’s appointment will continue until 2026, and requires her to undertake complex civil, and public law work on behalf of all government departments.

Henry Blackshaw

Henry Blackshaw is a specialist criminal Barrister who acts for both prosecution and defence in cases of the utmost gravity. Henry regularly appears as a Leading Junior. He is an established Category 4 Prosecutor and is on the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Panel. He has a particularly strong ability in cases involving drugs, gang-related criminal activity, homicide, rape and serious sexual violence, motoring and vehicle crime and money laundering. Henry is highly skilled in setting strategies for the further collection and preparation of evidence for trial. He is proficient and confident in the use of technology, particularly in the presentation of evidence in Court.

Holly Nelson

Holly Nelson has built a strong reputation as an effective and persuasive advocate on the Northern Circuit. With a particularly affable nature she is able to relate to lay-clients and professional clients in a genuine and meaningful way, especially in cases of particular sensitivity. Holly’s main priority remains robustly representing each of her clients’ interests in court in a productive manner. Holly has developed a very busy criminal practice both defending and prosecuting in a variety of matters that are more often undertaken by significantly more senior barristers. Her regular instructions in the Crown Court include Class A drug conspiracies, serious violence and sexual offences. Holly has also obtained a numerous very impressive results when she has been retained privately for criminal defence work in the Magistrates Court where she is sought after by private clients for the full spectrum of criminal offences. In addition to general crime, Holly also has significant experience in regulatory fields having represented Trading Standards and Local Authorities in regulatory matters in the Magistrates and Crown Court. She regularly and reliably turns her mind to complex legal argument and is able to conduct significant legal research in novel areas of law. Notable Cases Firearms Operation Absolute – Manchester Crown Square – Led Junior for the Crown in the prosecution of three defendants charged with conspiracy to possess firearms with intent to endanger life following firearms discharges in Eccles and Whitefield. Operation Drever – Manchester Crown Square – Led Junior for the Crown in a prosecution of 4 defendants for conspiracy to possess firearms with intent to endanger life. Drugs Operation Alberta – Preston/Burnley Crown Court – Led Junior for the Crown in a 33+ defendant conspiracy to produce, supply and burgle cannabis farms in East Lancashire. Operation Drever (drugs) – Manchester Crown Square – Junior alone in the supply of Class A and B drugs in North Manchester. Operation Simplon – Preston Crown Court – Junior alone prosecuting the supply of 30kg+ cocaine and heroin where the defendant was sentenced to 17 years’ imprisonment. Operation Feast – Preston Crown Court – represented defendant in a Class A drug conspiracy whose sentence resulted in a ‘walk out’ following negotiation with the Crown as to acceptable alternative offences. Operation Zodiac – Preston Crown Court – represented a defendant with an accepted starting point at sentence of 7 years’ imprisonment. Defendant received a suspended period of imprisonment. Operation Horizon – Preston Crown Court – Led Junior for the Crown in a retrial relating to a seventeen-defendant operation arising from county lines drug supply to Barrow-in-Furness. (CCU) R v O  – Preston Crown Court – successfully defended a man charged with PWITS Class A and B who was found with 1kg of cocaine in his trousers. Cut-throat defence. Overnight return in second-six of pupillage. R v P  – Carlisle Crown Court – Junior alone prosecuted a trial of issue relating to PWITS 100kg cannabis. Violence R v M – (CACD) – Successfully appealed a sentence imposed overturning dangerousness finding and reducing sentence by eight months. R v V – Manchester Crown Court – Led Junior for the prosecution in trial of defendant charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to cause GBH, and possession of firearm with intent to endanger life. Operation Drever (B & H) – Manchester Crown Court – conspiracy to cause GBH with intent sentenced to 7.5 years’ and 4.5years’ imprisonment respectively. R v D – Preston Crown Court – successfully defended one of two women charged with a joint enterprise s47 assault in Barrow-in-Furness. Other Operation Sprite – Led Junior for the Crown in a conspiracy to burgle/steal high-value vehicles in East Lancashire with an estimated value of over £1m. R v R – Court of Appeal – appeal against sentence for the Defence. Submissions described as ‘very attractive” and “succinct”. Dingemans LJ referring to the “excellence” of her submissions. Client subsequently acquitted after 16 months’ imprisonment, and the quashing of a 54 months’ sentence at Carlisle Crown Court R v G – Carlisle Crown Court – successfully made a submission for the jury to be discharged following a jury irregularity which came to light after the Defendant had given evidence. PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP Northern Circuit (Former Junior of the Circuit – January 2022 – July 2022) Criminal Bar Association Gray’s Inn Interests Outside Chambers Holly is usually found on a Lake District fell with her Golden Retriever. Appointments CPS Grade 2 – Serious Crime, Specialist Advocate Panel CPS Grade 2 – General Crime Advocate Panel Scholarships Gray’s inn: Prince of Wales major BPTC scholarship Hebe Plunkett BPTC scholarship Ann Felicity Goddard pupillage scholarship

Hugh Barton

Barrister specialising in general crime, public law and actions against the police.

Ian McMeekin

Ian McMeekin was called to the bar in 1987. He joined Lincoln House Chambers in 2008 and has since built a practice defending in all areas of serious criminal offences, including high-profile drug trafficking and related crime, murder, fraud, terrorist offences, armed robbery and sexual offences.Ian specialises in drug trafficking offences and has been involved in most of the largest cases in the North West over the last fifteen years, working as both junior to silks and lead junior, many of which have focused on abuse of process and failures in the disclosure process. Ian is currently defending in the Massey/Kinsella murder, one of the largest joint operations in Manchester and Merseyside to date.

Isobel Thomas

Isobel Thomas prosecutes and defends in a wide range of criminal matters; including, but not limited to, murder and manslaughter, sexual offences, drug conspiracies, serious violence and fraud. Isobel has developed a reputation as a forceful advocate who is able to deal with complex and unusual legal issues.  Isobel is able to able to quickly build a very good rapport with clients and provides clear and is extremely proactive in her management of cases, providing practical advice at every stage in proceedings. In addition to her serious crime practice, Isobel is also frequently instructed by private clients in both driving matters and also regulatory offences including licensing, food safety, trading standards and actions brought by local authorities. Isobel is public access qualified. Isobel is a level 3 prosecutor.

Ivan Bowley

At Lincoln House Chambers, Ivan Bowley is an established force in industrial disease work. Applauded as an “exceptional member of the Bar,” he is a barrister “head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to disease work.” Asbestos, work-related lung disease, cancer and noise-induced hearing loss cases all fall within his remit. Ivan has acted in numerous high-profile cases including the British Coal litigation.” Ivan Bowley joined Lincoln House in 1992 after practising in London. Having initially covered all areas of Chambers‟ work, Ivan specialised in personal injury and for many years he has worked exclusively in this field. His main area of work, for which he has acquired a national reputation, is in occupational disease and, in particular, asbestos litigation and other respiratory disease. Ivan works almost exclusively for claimants.

James Pickup

He has long been established as a specialist in commercial fraud defence and corporate crime. More recently, whilst he continues to defend in substantial commercial fraud prosecutions, he has widened his practice to embrace civil fraud and is now regularly instructed in the VAT and Duties Tribunal, both First and Upper Tiers, High Court (Chancery and Companies Court), Administrative Court and Court of Appeal, both criminal and civil. He has a wealth of experience in defending in the criminal courts in tax and duty fraud (R v Anwar 2003, R v Baig 2004/05, R v Sandhu 2007, R v Raykanda and Others 2006, and Rv Allad and Others). In the Tribunal, he is instructed on behalf of traders appealing against decisions of HMRC to withhold the repayment of VAT on grounds of the trader’s participation in fraud. In February 2010, he represented the lead appellant in the conjoined appeals of Mobilx, Calltel Opto and Blue Sphere Global before the Court of Appeal. This was the first opportunity for the Court of Appeal to consider the legality of the “Kittel” test and the proper approach of the FTT to its application in domestic law. Since Mobilx, he has appeared in a number of appeals before the FTT and others are to be heard in 2013/14. In July 2010, he represented the Directors of the bonded warehouse Abbey Forwarding Limited, who were sued for damages by the Liquidator (put in place by HMRC) for breach of duty, being their involvement in excise duty fraud. He also appeared on behalf of Rochdale Drinks Distribution before the Companies Court (Floyd J.) in March 2011 successfully overturning HMRC’s ex parte application to appoint a provisional liquidator on the ground that the company had been engaged in duty evasion. This decision was appealed by HMRC in September 2011 where RDDL were able to resist. HMRC’s argument that there should be a lower threshold of proof in cases where HMRC sought a PL having presented a winding up petition on assessments raised on suspicion of fraud. During 2010/2011, he was engaged on behalf of the Directors of Eastenders PLC in challenges to restraint and management receivership orders obtained by the CPS on grounds of suspected excise duty fraud. In January, the Court of Appeal quashed orders made by the Central Criminal Court in December 2010, and in February 2011 on a renewed application, the Directors achieved a similar result. He has conducted associated challenges to search warrants obtained by HMRC for the premises of Eastenders and other parties, before the Divisional Court in April, May and June 2011 as well as similar challenges to the legality of search warrants in the conjoined applications of Glenn & Co., Medway Soft Drinks and Dale Wholesale. In addition to his work in both criminal and civil fraud, he has experience in professional discipline work, both at Tribunal Statutory Committee and Higher Court level in the Administrative Court and Court of Appeal; representing Police Officers, Pharmacists and Solicitors.

James Heyworth

James practices predominantly in criminal law: acting for defendants in the Crown Court and at Court Martial. He has experience across the full spectrum of criminal offences; from murder and manslaughter, to sexual offences, violence and drugs. He also defends in regulatory cases: including fire and food safety breaches, health and safety offences and breaches of commercial trading regulations. James’s Crown Court practice predominantly involves defending in cases involving rape and other sexual offending: often where there are vulnerable witnesses to be cross-examined. He is experienced in the section 28 procedure utilised in such cases, and has defended in cases involving child witnesses and child defendants. In addition, he is regularly instructed to defend in “county lines” drugs operations and has extensive experience in that area. His cases have involved alleged members of organised crime groups from Liverpool, Manchester and London, and have frequently involved issues of modern slavery and firearms. James also regularly appears in the Coroner’s Court, representing interested parties at inquest. In particular, he has experience of cases involving fatal diving accidents in both recreational and commercial settings. NOTABLE CASES Murder R v King – Conspiracy to murder. Instructed to defend the principal defendant in a multi-handed conspiracy involving a planned shooting. Led by Paul Reid QC. R v Mackie – Led by Peter Wright QC in a case dubbed “The Candlestick Killer” by the national press. Manslaughter & Death by Dangerous Driving R v Morton – Instructed to defend a father who caused the death of his 13 year old son by administering him a morphine tablet for a headache. R v Logan – defended a former soldier accused of causing the death of a father and his two children by dangerous driving Sexual Offences R v M– successfully defended a man facing multiple counts of historic rape of his wife. R v C- violent attempted rape of a sex worker R v S –  defended an executive accused of raping an employee. He was acquitted on all counts. R v E – historic rape and sexual abuse of a child R v J – defended a 17 year old accused of rape of a family member. He was found not guilty following a trial in the Youth Court Importation and “County Lines” drugs offences R v Olaloko – instructed to represent a member of a London drill rap group accused of people trafficking and drug dealing across county lines R v Osman – defended one of the principal defendants in an NCA operation involving the importation of firearms, and Class A drugs, into the UK from Holland R v H – represented a 17 year old caught up in a county lines organised crime group. The case involved issues of modern slavery and child exploitation. R v Hodson – county lines drugs conspiracy involving the transportation of drugs from Yorkshire to Blackpool R v Baron – county lines drugs conspiracy involving organised crime groups from Liverpool and Preston. R v Nguyen – cannabis production conspiracy involving Vietnamese nationals and issues of modern slavery Football Related Offences R v Hartley – Defended one of the principal defendants in a multi-handed violent disorder trial involving alleged members of the “Burnley Suicide Squad”. R v Spencer – Defended in a multi-handed football violent disorder case involving Burnley and Sheffield Wednesday fans. Serious Violence R v Houlgrave – Defended in a serious s18 stabbing trial and later represented the defendant in the Court of Appeal. R v Casey – Defended a former soldier and Iraq veteran, who suffered from PTSD in a serious section 18 wounding case. Fraud & Money Laundering R v Ratcliffe – represented an alleged organised crime group member involved in a series of armed robberies across the North West, with money being laundered through fixed-odds betting machines R v Wilson-  defended one of the principal defendants in a nationwide credit card fraud and money laundering conspiracy, investigated by the City of London police R v Wen – defended a Chinese national in a multi-handed money laundering trial, involving the remittance of hundreds of thousands of pounds back to China. R v Markey – led in a multi-handed fraud which featured as part of the BBC “Rogue Traders” series. Regulatory Offences R v McMullen – Instructed to defend a client facing a series of commercial trading breaches arising out of his celebrity vehicle sales company. R v Britannia Corporation – Defended a company facing a series of fire safety breaches arising out of a serious fire in a house of multiple occupancy. R v Pound Bakery & Sayers – represented the well known bakers in proceedings arising from a series of food hygiene breaches Inquests & Fatal Diving Accidents – Inquest touching upon the death of Richard Bufton: Instructed to represent the family of Richard Bufton, who died following a closed-circuit rebreather “try-dive” at Capernwray Quarry in October 2010. The inquest was held before a jury at the Coroner’s Court in Preston and involved a number of complex issues of causation: it being in issue whether the diving accident was as the result of a previous medical condition or factors arising from the dive itself, which was conducted on a closed-circuit rebreather. James was able to use his own experience of diving, and in particular diving closed-circuit rebreathers, to assist the court and my client with identifying a number of significant issues with the use of such breathing apparatus. Following a significant amount of expert evidence the jury returned a narrative verdict which confirmed that this was a diving accident and not the result of any medical condition. Santos v Sub C – instructed to represent a Danish diving company in proceedings before the Admiralty Court. The case involved the death of a British commercial diver in German territorial waters, whilst undertaking work on an offshore wind farm. Inquest touching upon the death of Kevin Miles: instructed to represent the interests of the daughters of Mr Miles, who died at Stoney Cove during a rebreather training dive See www.divinglawyer.co.uk for more details. Inquest touching upon the death of Vera Tranter – represented, on behalf of his insurers,  a taxi driver who was involved in a fatal road accident Inquest touching upon the death of Pamela Pennington – represented Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council at the inquest into a suspected suicide Private Client Work R v Glen Doherty – Secured the acquittal of a commercial saturation diver facing assault charges in the Magistrates’ court. R v B – represented a former policeman in a successful appeal to have his lifetime notification requirement removed R v Philpott- instructed to represent the director of a limited company in respect of various alleged trading standards breaches Court Martial & Forces Clients: R v Dyson (Court Martial)- represented a Lance Corporal in the RLC facing an allegation of assault whilst on deployment to Kenya R v Piper (Court Martial) – defended a Colour Sergeant in The Rifles in respect of the alleged discharge of a parachute flare out in Germany R v Nottingham (Court Martial)  – represented a Corporal facing an allegation of negligence, arising out of an AFT in Germany, in which a number of personnel suffered heat related injuries. R v KM (Court Martial) – represented an JNCO facing an allegation of sexual assault whilst on deployment to Sudan R v Butterworth  (Court Martial)– Instructed to defend a former Army recruit facing serious sexual allegations R v Whalley – Defended a Royal Engineer diver and Afghanistan veteran facing weapon and public order offences. R v Braithewaite – Defended a Royal Navy submariner for violent offences.

Jeremy Lasker

Hugely experienced in all aspects of criminal advocacy and with an enviable composure/ presence in court, Jeremy Lasker is a formidable expert in the art of jury advocacy and is respected both by his professional colleagues at the Bar and by Judges alike. In criminal cases, he both prosecutes and defends and has for many years been assessed by the CPS as a Category 4 [highest level] prosecutor. He is highly regarded both for his easy and approachable manner towards his professional clients and his ability to relate to and inspire confidence in the most difficult of lay clients. In the field of criminal work, Jeremy receives instructions not only from the foremost criminal firms of solicitors based in the North West but has also accepted instructions from solicitors across the UK and he has appeared in substantial criminal trials as far afield as Carlisle Crown Court [defending a local politician charged with corruption] to Basildon Crown Court [defending a client charged with drugs importation]. His experience covers the heaviest of criminal cases and he has defended lay clients facing the full spectrum of criminal offences. Jeremy is a member of the Criminal Bar Association and has been a Recorder of the Crown Court since 2004. Since 2010, he has been accredited by the Bar Council for direct access work.

Joe Allman

Joe is an experienced and tenacious advocate, with a track record of excellence in dealing with cases of particular difficulty, whether because of the vulnerabilities of the witnesses, defendants or complainants involved, or the high level of complexity. Joe is a Category 4 prosecutor and a member of the CPS Serious Crime Group, and Counter-Terrorism specialist advocate panels, and has a high level of expertise in all aspects of serious and complex crime, particularly where there is an international dimension. Joe has extensive experience of prosecuting organised crime and offences which involve the professional exploitation of human beings. In recent years Joe has prosecuted some of the largest “county lines” conspiracies in the region, including those involving the trafficking of young people, and large-scale drug supply conspiracies organised and directed by serving prisoners. Joe now regularly leads in such cases. Joe served on behalf of HM Government as the Criminal Justice Advisor to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and Liaison Prosecutor in the United Arab Emirates, and was based in the British Embassy in Manama. He also worked with senior prosecutors and British missions in a number of other Middle-Eastern countries. He is often invited to participate in training overseas prosecutors, judges and law enforcement professionals. In recent years Joe has acted as a subject matter expert for the UN Office for Drugs and Crime, Office for Counter-Terrorism, on the subject of terrorist finance, in Ulaanbaatar, and on prosecuting serious crime, in Karachi and Hyderabad, Pakistan. Within the field of counter-terrorism, Joe has extensive experience in dealing with offences involving extreme right-wing ideology, including offences under the Terrorism Act, and those involving the propagation of racial or religious hatred. Joe has prosecuted a number of offences linked to organised antisemitism and hostility towards Muslims. Joe has a strong working knowledge of the mindset and the modus operandi of the far right and is particularly familiar with the more subtle tropes of antisemitism. Joe has prosecuted youths under the Terrorism Acts as well as individuals with significant psychiatric and other mental health issues. Joe served as a mobilised reservist in an infantry role in Iraq and has a strong working knowledge of firearms, component parts and ammunition. He enjoys a high level of security clearance. Joe is a member of the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offending advocate panel. Joe has devoted a significant part of his career to cases of this kind and has particular expertise in respect of historic sexual offending and sexual offences against vulnerable people. Joe is known for his sound advice on, and rigorous approach to third party and digitally stored material. Joe has prosecuted trials involving multiple-victim rape cases, and a case in which a victim of rape was murdered by her partner shortly after giving her ABE interview and before any proceedings had commenced against him. Joe enjoys a reputation for dealing sensitively and communicating in a manner appropriate to the needs of vulnerable victims, witnesses, and defendants. Joe makes time for this important interaction, whatever the demands of the case. Joe has a growing defence practice and particularly welcomes instructions in cases involving vulnerable or mentally disordered defendants, and those who may have been the victims of trafficking. Joe recently persuaded the Crown through formal submissions, to offer no evidence in a case involving an individual holding views aligned to the “Freeman on the land” belief system. Joe also recently secured a key reduction in sentence in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division for an individual whose treatment amounted to exploitation short of the defence under Section 45, in a case where the court emphasised the need for adequate detail in sentencing remarks (Ardit Saffa [2021] EWCA Crim 661; [2021] 4 WLUK 440). Joe is a pupil supervisor and recently supervised a senior officer in the Royal Navy during her time with chambers on her way to becoming a barrister in the Royal Naval Legal Service.

John Harrison

John Harrison KC is both a regulatory law and criminal law specialist known for his capability to handle complex cases with a clear, pragmatic approach. John is a highly-regarded barrister, earning his reputation through working on cases involving substantial factual and legal complexity. Called to the bar in 1994, John has developed a strong practice, spanning over twenty years, encompassing all aspects of serious crime; but is well noted for his expertise in complex fraud and regulatory work (including FCA regulation). John’s background in civil litigation and commercial law makes him particularly well placed in assisting clients in a wide range of litigation areas, including but not limited to health and safety, environmental, professional disciplinary and financial regulation. Whilst predominantly based in the North of England, John maintains a practice with national scope. John is the NE Circuit representative on the Bar Council International Law Working Group and, prior to taking silk, was a member of the Attorney General’s list of prosecution advocates; although, it should be made aware that the vast majority of his work is as defence counsel. John’s advice is often sought from the very outset. This includes advising professionals and businesses on interpretation of regulatory regimes and pre charge advice to both defence and prosecution authorities in matters which are subject to potential criminal proceedings.

Jonathan Sandiford

Jonathan Sandiford KC has maintained his reputation as a top-class advocate throughout his career. He has over 25 years’ experience in complex and sensitive cases including fraud and Trading Standards prosecutions, murder, terrorism, hate crimes (racial, religious and sexual orientation) and large scale drug dealing. His expertise and attention to detail have made him a firm favourite with prosecution agencies specialising in both crime & regulatory areas and, whilst those relationships continue to go from strength to strength Jonathan is also regularly instructed to defend by leading solicitors firms. Jonathan was sworn in as Queen’s Counsel in March 2020, prior to taking silk Jonathan regularly undertook work that might have usually been instructed to a QC, this was as a direct result of the confidence and trust in his abilities shown by the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorist Divisions as well as the eCrime Team of the National Trading Standards Board. Between March 2014 and September 2016 he was retained by the Crown Prosecution Service to advise the IPCC in respect of the investigation into alleged misconduct by South Yorkshire Police and others in the aftermath of the Hillsborough Stadium disaster. In 2015 he was instructed as Junior Counsel to prosecute youngest ever defendant charged and convicted of terrorism offences in the UK for inciting another to launch a murderous attack on the ANZAC Day Parade in Melbourne, Australia. He has prosecuted a number of cases involving the stirring up of racial, religious and other forms of hatred via the internet including the leading case of Sheppard and Whittle [2010] 1 Cr.App.R 26 in the Crown Court and later the Court of Appeal. In 2016 – 2017 Jonathan was instructed to prosecute two defendants first case in the United Kingdom involving the importation and supply via the Dark Web of the highly concentrated and dangerous opioid, Fentanyl. In 2017 Jonathan successfully prosecuted a defendant who was stopped at Manchester Airport as he tried to smuggle a viable improvised explosive device (IED) onto a Ryanair aeroplane at Manchester Airport with the intention of detonating it in flight. In 2009 Jonathan was one of the youngest persons to be appointed to sit as a Recorder (part time judge) on the North Eastern Circuit.

Kate Blackwell

Kate is one of the UK’s leading silks specialising in criminal law and public inquiries. She is sought after for high-profile cases and is instructed by leading firms of solicitors nationwide. Kate has a formidable reputation as a first-class silk due to her skill, judgement and outstanding performance in serious and complex cases. The professional guides rank Kate as a “Tier 1” advocate. Kate has been instructed to represent NHS England in the Manchester Arena Inquiry – an independent public inquiry to investigate the deaths of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena Terror Attack. manchesterarenainquiry.org.uk Kate is Leading Counsel to the Jermaine Baker Inquiry – an independent public inquiry into the shooting of Jermaine Baker during a Metropolitan Police Service operation. www.gov.uk/government/publications/jermaine-baker-inquiry-terms-of-reference Kate was appointed by the Home Secretary as Counsel to the Daniel Morgan Independent Panel, to address questions relating to police involvement in the murder of Daniel Morgan, the role played by police corruption and the incidence of corrupt connections between private investigators, police officers and journalists at the News of the World. danielmorganpanel.independant.gov.uk Kate was appointed by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care as expert legal member of the Gosport Independent Panel to investigate historic concerns about the initial care of older people at Gosport War Memorial Hospital and the subsequent investigations into their deaths.  gosportpanel.independent.gov.uk Kate also accepts a high proportion of privately-funded instructions on behalf of individuals facing criminal offences. She has an outstanding success rate in having cases dismissed and winning jury trials. Following success in a recent case the client said, “Kate was absolutely fantastic. I was extremely impressed by how quickly she grasped the case and focused on the most relevant points to have the case dismissed.” Kate is an employee of KBQC Law Ltd.

Katherine Pierpoint

Katherine has been a member of Lincoln House Chambers since she was called to the Bar in 1998.  She was educated in the North West and obtained a First Class Law Degree from Nottingham Trent University. Katherine has developed an extensive criminal practice involving both prosecution and defence work.  For a number of years she has been recommended in crime in the leading legal publications.  She undertakes a broad spectrum of work including cases of homicide, large scale drugs conspiracies, armed robberies, violence, serious sexual offences and fraud.  Katherine is instructed in complex and lengthy trials (including VHCCs) as both junior and leading counsel.  She has been involved in a number of high profile gang related cases. As a category 3 prosecutor she is engaged in the prosecution of a wide variety of offences. In addition to Katherine’s highly rated skills as a persuasive advocate she is recognised for her proficiency in dealing with vulnerable clients and witnesses.  In previous editions of Chambers and Partners and Legal 500 she is noted to have “the confidence and ability to really connect with clients” and as being “Well regarded for her ability to deal with sensitive clients in sexual offences cases.”​Katherine is regularly instructed to defend youths facing serious allegations in the Crown Court. Katherine routinely works on behalf of the Police Federation representing Police Officers facing both criminal and disciplinary proceedings.  These cases have involved allegations of assault, fraud, sexual misconduct, dangerous driving and misuse of confidential material.  She has recently been involved in an appeal in which a dismissed Officer was reinstated. She has experience in regulatory work in particular the defence of prosecutions brought by Trading Standards.

Kathryn Johnson

Kathryn was called to the bar in 1989, joining Lincoln House as a tenant in 2007. Prior to joining Lincoln House, Kathryn practised from Winckley Square Chambers in Preston and has retained her Lancashire connections by appearing regularly in Lancashire Crown Courts. For the first 20 years of her career, Kathryn specialised specifically in both the defence and prosecution of the most serious criminal offences brought before the criminal courts. This is work that Kathryn still maintains for both privately paying clients and those with the benefit of legal aid. In addition to Criminal work, Kathryn has spent the last 10 years developing her practise into the line of regulatory work, this work includes cases brought in the criminal courts and before specialist tribunals. Kathryn undertakes the majority of her work as a junior alone but does have significant experience as a leading junior. Kathryn is a Category 4 Prosecutor and is on the GMC list of advocates able to undertake FTP, IOT & HCE as well as several other hearing types dealt with in medical practitioner disciplinary proceedings. Kathryn is known for her fearless advocacy and her determination to always get the best possible result for her clients. A large proportion of Kathryn’s work load is repeat instructions, this is testament of her approachability and excellent client relationship skills.

Katie Laura Jones

Katie was called to the Bar in 2003 and has been a member of Lincoln House since 2008. An experienced practitioner, Katie has built up a reputation as a fearless advocate who is highly skilled at combining a robust and sensible approach with her ability to deal with witnesses and defendants sensitively and compassionately, when required.  She is organised and diligent in her preparation of her cases, identifying and communicating potential issues early on, and she is approachable in manner to professional and lay clients alike.  She has a wide range of experience before various courts and tribunals.  She is often asked to provide advice on complex issues at short notice, and is always happy to assist wherever possible. Katie spent the first 12 years of her practice practising almost exclusively in criminal law, both for the prosecution and defence, and predominantly in the Crown Court.  She has extensive experience of conducting a wide range of cases across the criminal calendar.  She is both a Category 4 prosecutor, and a member of the RASSO panel.  Katie continues to practise in criminal law. Since 2015, however, Katie has successfully expanded her practice into Regulatory law, which now accounts for a significant proportion of her practice.  She is regularly instructed by the General Medical Council in Fitness to Practise hearings before the Medical Practitioners’ Tribunal, having been appointed to the GMC’s full list of approved counsel in 2015.  She regularly appears on behalf of the GMC before the Interim Orders Tribunal, at Review hearings, and for Restoration cases, and is also instructed by the GMC to appear in the High Court, in relation to applications to extend Interim Orders.  Katie is a member of the Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers. In addition, Katie sits regularly as a Fee Paid Judge of the First Tier Tribunal, Health Education and Social Care Chamber, ticketed to sit in the Mental Health Review Tribunal, and she has been instructed by the Care Quality Commission before the First-Tier Tribunal (Care Standards). As a result of the direction that Katie’s practice has taken in recent years, she has developed a particular interest and expertise in dealing with cases which involve a medical/healthcare/educational background, as well as mental health issues, particularly where there is a cross over with areas of law or procedure with which she is very familiar, given her long standing criminal practice. She finds that her breadth of experience in dealing with serious criminal and regulatory allegations, and her familiarity with a range of jurisdictions, makes her ideally placed to advise on such cases.  As such, she often provides written advice on complex issues when this is required to progress a case, and she is always happy to discuss a particular issue with her Instructing Solicitor, to help them to ascertain if such written advice would be helpful in the context of their case. Examples of cases conducted in recent years R v JG – prosecuting – assistant head teacher accused of historic sexual abuse; R v S  – prosecuting – multiple rapes and other sexual offending – convicted; R v RR – Defending – Rape and s18 Assault – background of DV – acquitted; R v S – Defending – Possession with Intent to supply Cannabis – acquitted; GMC v Dr K – representing GMC before MPT – misconduct by dishonesty – Dr suspended; R v W  – Defending, Dangerous Driving – acquitted; R v D  – Defending, s28, foster carer accused of Assault on children in his care, acquitted; R v A and others – Prosecuting – multi-handed kidnap and Affray – case proceeded to trial but was successfully resolved during trial with acceptable guilty pleas; R v P – Prosecuting – Ill-treatment by carer contrary to s44 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 – convicted; R v R – Defending – witness intimidation – acquitted; GMC v Dr W – representing GMC before MPT – misconduct, dishonesty, Dr erased from register; R v D – defending – Rape and Assaults – acquitted of Rape; GMC v Dr S – representing GMC before MPT – health, Dr suspended from register; R v M  – prosecuting – historic rape – D pleaded guilty to offences during trial; R  v H – prosecuting – racially aggravated assaults – convicted; Dr F  – representing the GMC before MPT – conviction case – Dr suspended from register; R v A  – prosecuting – multiple sexual assault allegations – convicted; GMC v Dr J – representing GMC before MPT – misconduct, dishonesty – Dr suspended from register; R v M – prosecuting – various sexual offences – convictions; Dr S  – representing the GMC before MPT – misconduct by dishonesty – Dr suspended from register; R v S – prosecuting – exposure – D found unfit to plead/stand trial, found to have committed the act, Supervision Order made; R v LL – defending – s18 Wounding – acquitted; GMC v Dr G – representing the GMC before MPT – health case – conditions imposed on Dr’s registration; GMC v Dr S – representing the GMC before MPT – caution – Dr suspended from register; R v L – defending – s20 GBH – acquitted; R v M – prosecuting – s18 Wounding – convicted; Dr D – representing GMC before MPT – Conviction – Dr suspended from register; Dr M – representing GMC before MPT �� Misconduct (dishonesty) – Dr erased from register; Dr S – representing GMC before MPT – Misconduct (dishonesty) – Dr suspended from register; Dr A – representing GMC before MPT – Misconduct (dishonesty) – Dr suspended from register.

Kimberley Obrusik

Criminal Law I am a level 3 prosecutor and undertake both prosecution and defence work in Crown Courts across the North of England. I have experience of both prosecuting and defending complex cases involving significant case papers and complex issues. I am often instructed in rape cases and have experience in dealing with vulnerable witnesses including children as young as 6years. I pride myself on client care and going the extra mile for my professional and lay clients. Notable Cases Operation Brent (ongoing)- junior prosecution counsel in a conspiracy to rob involving significant violence committed against a homeowner with firearms. R v Ward & Others- successfully prosecuted 4 defendants for their role in the burglary and extensive criminal damage committed at Thwaites Brewery in Blackburn in 2018. R v Arnfield- achieved an acquittal for a defendant in a large class A drugs conspiracy between Liverpool and Blackpool. R v Sproat- achieved an acquittal for a defendant in a large drugs conspiracy between Merseyside and Blackpool. Operation Spoonbill- achieved an acquittal for a defendant in a nationwide drugs conspiracy ranging from Kent to Teesside. Operation Fossick (ongoing)- prosecuting a 4 handed drugs conspiracy in Barrow-In-Furness with elements of exploitation under the Modern Slavery Act 2015. R v JA ‐ successful prosecution in the Youth Court of an offence of inciting a child under 13 years to engage in sexual activity. The complainant was 6 years of age. R v Horbury – defended in a case of attempted murder where the defendant was deemed to be medically unfit to participate in the legal proceedings. Previous Experience Upon completing my undergraduate degree I went to New Orleans where I undertook an internship with the Capital Post Conviction Project of Louisiana. During this time I was responsible for the investigation and preparation of court documentation for two of the office’s most notorious cases (A. Frank and M. Weary).

Kitty Colley

Kitty Colley specialises in all areas of serious crime. She is renowned for her expertise in the most serious offences including Murder & Manslaughter, Fraud & Money Laundering and Drug Conspiracies and is widely considered as being one of the leading regional practitioners in Sexual Offences. She is a highly skilled trial advocate of significant experience having been in practice since being called to the Bar in 1992. Kitty is a consummate professional and has a thorough, analytical and adaptable approach. She is particularly skilled in the handling of young and vulnerable witnesses and defendants, including those with mental disability and incapacity. She is highly personable, putting clients from all backgrounds at ease, and has an established reputation as being a tenacious advocate. Kitty offers a top-class service to private clients in the full spectrum of criminal offences and in cases before tribunals. In addition to criminal law, Kitty also has a keen interest in coronial law and, having dealt with many professionals in criminal proceedings throughout her career, professional disciplinary law. Kitty is an extremely popular and active member of the profession who has attracted wide judicial endorsement and been heavily involved in the training and development of her colleagues at the bar. In additional to being involved in numerous circuit educational programmes, Kitty has held the position of Senior Lecturer in Criminal Litigation & Advocacy on the BVC (BPP Law School), she is IATC trained and Hempel method trained and has been an external advocacy assessor and trainer for the CPS since 2008. Kitty was Guest Speaker at Middle Temple Scholars Day in 2018 and 2019 and Lead Trainer for the Questioning of Vulnerable Witnesses training program with the Inns of Court College of Advocacy. Kitty also acts as a mentor to Leeds University Law Students. Murder & Manslaughter Kitty has experience as both leading and junior counsel in murder, manslaughter, child cruelty cases (where death occurred) and death by dangerous driving. Since 2019, she has been instructed by both prosecution and defence in several homicide cases. Recent Cases of interest include: R v D- Murder-successful prosecution, upheld on appeal- man who was stabbed through the heart in the street. Leading junior. Operation Palenville: Murder – prosecution junior counsel Operation Parking Mike -Murder- prosecution junior counsel – 7 defendants- Sheffield CC. R v B: Murder: defence- Domestic violence/Loss of Control by daughter. R v T: Murder: defence- vulnerable victim in relationship with D. R v P: Murder- prosecution- Asian community-victim killed by husband in family home. R v C : Defence- Multiple violent and sexual offences upon a 3 year old boy, involving complex medical evidence. Private Client Kitty regularly receives instructions from private clients accused of a range of criminal offences, however, as a result of her recognised leading status in serious or historic sexual offences this is an area in which she is in particularly high demand. She regularly succeeds in securing not guilty verdicts for clients facing allegations of rape and sexual abuse. Cases of interest include: R v C – Not Guilty: Successful defence of (former) premiership footballer, charged with rape. Unanimous Not Guilty verdict after a 9 day trial. Jury deliberated for 45 minutes. R v B – Non-recent rapes and sexual abuse of step-daughter: not guilty. R v D – Non-recent sexual assault of child by a businessman of good character; not guilty. R v G – Private historic sexual abuse case in Haredi Jewish Community, Manchester R v X – Sexual Abuse: Doctor of Chinese Medicine- private client defence R v S – Ex-husband of serving specialist police officer accused of rape of friend – acquitted. Fraud & Money Laundering & POCA Cases of interest include: R v L – Mortgage fraud of £1m, with others; plea and community sentence- defence R v AH and other: Prosecution-contested POCA £4m benefit from Class A drug supply conspiracy R v TJ and Others – Controlling prostitution for gain and money laundering- prosecution. R v T – Charity Fraud – 6 week trial- multi-defendants- defence Drug Conspiracies Cases of interest include: R v FL and others: Drugs- prosecution/complex case conspiracy to import ad supply cocaine/POCA. R v W and others: Drugs conspiracy/complex case/ conspiracy to supply heroin and production of cannabis. Sexual Offences “Recommended for cases involving either recent or historic sexual offences.” – The Legal 500 (2021 and 2022) Over the past 15 years, Kitty has become one of the most highly rated specialists in cases involving rape and other serious sexual offences. She has both prosecuted and defended the most serious cases. Instructions include cases of stranger and familial rape (including at gunpoint or involving extreme violence), as well as recent and non-recent complaints and those of the utmost complexity, sensitivity or public interest. She is very experienced with multi-count indictments, multiple complainant and multiple defendant cases. Child Sex Exploitation Kitty has been instructed by the defence in all CSE operations across Yorkshire since 2015. She was appointed as lead defence advocate in the Rotherham exploitation trial in September 2016. Kitty is highly experienced in multi-handed sexual offences cases and has a sensitive understanding of the particular dynamics involved. Vulnerable witnesses Kitty has extensive expertise in questioning and dealing with the most vulnerable witnesses and defendants, including those with severe communication difficulties and mental-health issues. In one case, she dealt with an autistic complainant who could only communicate through drawing. She has extensive experience of pre-recorded cross examination of vulnerable witness since the Section 28 pilot scheme launched in 2016. Cases of interest include: CSE-defence- Operations Kellerabbey, Polymor, Tendersea, Hazelshot ,Tournway and Tapeton. R v S – defence-Knife point stranger rape of school-girl in a graveyard/defendant with personality disorder. R v P : defence- rape and robbery of elderly lady in her home. R v JH- defence-16 yr old boy accused of multiple rapes of girlfriend. R V JG: prosecution- gunpoint kidnap of stranger and sexual assault. R v W- prosecution: Foster carers charged with sexual abuse of 3 vulnerable children in their care. R v W. prosecution- rape of a female police officer. R v D prosecution- familial historic sexual abuse over 4 decades involving 3 generations, including foster children. R v M and D- prosecution- paedophile ring with 10 victims involving internet grooming and pornography. R v D – prosecution-Rape by a police officer of a vulnerable woman whilst on duty. R v C – prosecution-Rape and burglary of an elderly lady. R v C & S- prosecution of internet grooming to abuse young children/undercover operation. Reported cases R v JOC [Crime – sexual offences] – Non-recent complaint. Rape. Appeal point on presumption of incapacity/doli-incopax. R v Perkins: [Crime – sexual offences] – Status of victim personal statements. R v Lomax [Crime-historic rape] Section 41 application.

Lara McCaffrey

Lara is a capable and diligent junior known for her excellent writing skills, analytical mind and meticulous attention to detail. Her ability to master voluminous material with ease and precision means that she is regularly instructed in paper heavy cases. She is quick to dissect complex information, identify the key issues and present them in a clear and succinct way. Lara is currently acting as junior counsel to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse and the Manchester Arena Bombing Inquiry, where she has been described as “an asset” and “a star…her work is of the very highest quality.” She is commended in particular for her drafting skills and efficiency; “she has been given a lot to do, with tight deadlines, and has consistently delivered a high standard of work.” Lara successfully completed her pupillage at 25 Bedford Row in London, where she became a tenant in 2016. Her practice involved work across all areas of criminal defence, with a particular focus on violent crime and cases involving vulnerable witnesses. Shortly after gaining tenancy, Lara was instructed as junior counsel to represent the principal in a multi-million pound conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. The case was regarded as one of the most complex and significant investigations into serious organised crime in Northern England. It covered some 250,000 telephone calls spanning a sixteen month investigation, in which nineteen defendants were arrested. Lara was responsible for detailed analysis of cell site evidence and co-location of telephones, along with crucial aspects of disclosure and witness anonymity. She was also instructed as a led junior in a murder case which involved complex issues of causation, substantial legal argument and forensic analysis of pathological evidence. Lara previously worked for the Prisoners’ Advice Service, where she was responsible for advising clients on issues such as parole, categorisation, adjudications and appeals to the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. She gained extensive experience as a County Court Advocate on the South Eastern circuit, appearing on behalf of litigants in over 1,650 hearings in the County Courts, the High Court, and in the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal. She was instructed by numerous firms of solicitors to deal with a broad spectrum of civil matters including case management hearings, residential and commercial landlord and tenant disputes, applications for summary judgment, bankruptcy proceedings, appeals and small claims trials. Lara was ratified by the Free Representation Unit to represent clients in the Employment Tribunal and trained at the National Centre for Domestic Violence, where she handled sensitive cases involving victims of abuse.

Laura Barbour

Barrister specialising in criminal law, with an equal division between prosecution and defence work. Also practises in personal injury (including industrial disease), immigration and CICA applications.

Lee Hughes

Lee is considered a “rising star” in business and regulatory crime by Legal 500. He specialises in regulatory law, with a focus on health and safety (including fire), road traffic (including work in front of the traffic commissioners), seizures by HMRC and Border Force, Ofsted enforcement, inquests, professional discipline, environmental law and trading standards. Prior to joining chambers Lee worked as a solicitor for some of the country’s leading regulatory practices. In doing so he gained experience in advising and representing international corporate clients, developed excellent client handling skills and amassed significant technical knowledge in his specialist areas. He also developed a keen insight into what instructing solicitors require from their instructed counsel. Due to Lee’s significant experience as a solicitor coupled with his thorough preparation and eye for detail, Lee has quickly established himself as a successful, sought-after junior in regulatory law matters. Since moving to the Bar Lee has been in high demand for representing privately funded defendants in the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court for a range of criminal offences. He has also appeared in numerous cases involving POCA, where substantial sums have been sought. In much of his work, Lee is instructed by insurance practices and national law firms to defend corporate clients and individuals. In addition to his solid defence practice, Lee also prosecutes on the Specialist Regulatory Advocates list for Health and Safety and Environmental Law. Lee has also been instructed in matters of national significance, including the Manchester Arena Inquiry, the Gosport Independent Panel Review and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. In addition to advocacy, Lee provides training and assistance to instructing solicitors and regulatory bodies on a range of subjects and is always happy to get involved in a case pre-charge, when he can influence the direction of investigations. Lee develops strong working relationships with instructing solicitors and clients alike, using his experience supervising teams of lawyers to ensure successful outcomes. Due to his professional disciplinary experience Lee has been appointed as an independent investigator by the United Kingdom Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association (UKBJJA) in disciplinary matters and also as a legal expert assisting the Disciplinary and Arbitration Committees of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF). Lee has been successful in achieving panel status for several specialist prosecution agencies, including the CPS general Crime list, the CPS Serious Crime Specialist Panel, the SFO Panel and the Specialist Regulator (AG) Panel. He is authorised to represent members of the public under the ‘Public Access’ scheme.

Leila Ghahhary

Leila is an established and well-regarded junior who specialises in public, regulatory and common law. Leila is regularly instructed to represent and advise local and central government departments, individuals and, a variety of public and private organisations before a range of UK courts, tribunals and constitutional panels across a multitude of legal areas and issues arising under public law, regulatory law and common law including: Public Inquiries Inquests Judicial Review Equality and Human Rights Health and Safety Licensing Trading Standards / Consumer Protection Food Safety Environmental Protection Fraud Professional Disciplinary Housing, Planning and Highways (Enforcement) Leila has been instructed in matters of national significance such as the Manchester Arena Inquiry, Gosport Independent Panel Inquiry and, the Hillsborough Inquests. Leila has been appointed onto: The Attorney General’s Panel of Counsel. She regularly receives instructions from the Government Legal Department to represent and advise a variety of government departments on a range of public law and civil matters. The Panel of Specialist Advocates in Health and Safety and Environmental Law providing advice and representation to the Health and Safety Executive, the Environment Agency, the Office of Rail and Road, the Care Quality Commission, the Office of Nuclear Regulation and, Natural Resources Wales. The Equality and Human Rights Commission Panel of Counsel providing advice and representation to the Commission on matters relating to equality, public and human rights law. Prior to joining Lincoln House Chambers, Leila spent 9 years working in-house as a Local Government Lawyer within the Common Law Department of a Greater Manchester Local Authority. The work Leila undertook in this role was varied, complex, voluminous and covered the whole range of common law and statutory and corporate functions of a local authority, in relation to a wide range of legal issues relevant to all departments and levels of seniority within local government. Leila regularly represented the Council conducting court proceedings on a wide range of civil, criminal and regulatory matters, in all manner of courts and tribunals. Since joining the independent Bar, Leila continues to enjoy instructions from many local authorities on all aspects of local government business. Leila’s experience covers both the enforcement and administrative aspects of Public and Regulatory Law. Leila provides advice and assistance to both prosecution and defence on all aspects and stages of the regulatory enforcement process including: enforcement notices, the investigation, the decision to prosecute, PII and disclosure issues. Leila accepts instructions on all types of regulatory and public law matters, her practice is not limited to the above list of areas. In this regard, Leila’s background of experience brings to any case the added advantage of first hand understanding of the wider statutory, public law and corporate issues which affect governance in a public law and regulatory arena. Leila also regularly delivers seminars and provides training to other legal professionals. These training courses are prepared and presented by Leila and have covered a variety of legal areas and issues. In particular she regularly provides such training to Local Government Officers on all stages of criminal investigations, disclosure and the preparation of a case for prosecution. In this regard Leila is accredited in Criminal Investigation Management by the University of Portsmouth.

Lisa Roberts

Leader of the Northern Circuit. Lisa Roberts QC specialises in regulatory law, inquests & inquiries and private client criminal defence. She took silk in 2015 and is consistently ranked in Legal directories, as a leading silk in no fewer than three categories: Health and Safety (North and North East Bar) Professional Discipline Crime (Northern Bar) Lisa Roberts QC is regarded as a first-class, specialist silk in Health and Safety and Environmental Law and is instructed in some of the country’s leading cases. She has a strong reputation for guarding the interests of her clients in Inquests and Inquiries and is currently representing the North West Ambulance Service in the Manchester Arena Inquiry.  She also acts on behalf of police officers, large companies and public bodies in inquests and inquiries. She was involved in the Hillsborough Inquests, representing a senior police officer. Lisa is regularly instructed to act on behalf of Federated and senior ranking police officers in criminal matters and Police Misconduct (disciplinary) hearings. Lisa also accepts privately-funded instructions on behalf of individuals facing criminal offences. Recently she has dealt with a number of high profile footballing legends. Lisa regularly presents seminars and webinars on crime, regulatory and trading standards’ law to defence solicitors, corporate clients and industry regulators. In recent years Lisa has acted on behalf of utility companies who are facing prosecution by the regulators. She also carries out private prosecutions on behalf of the utility companies. Lisa was instructed by United Utilities to represent them throughout the DWI prosecution which followed the cryptosporidium event of the summer of 2015. Lisa earned a formidable reputation prosecuting and defending regulatory offences and serious crime. Regularly instructed by the Major Incident Teams of the North West and the Complex Case Unit of the CPS, Lisa also defended in many of the region’s most high-profile cases. She has built on that solid background in the criminal courts and focused in more recent years on Inquest & Inquiry work, Regulatory work & Professional Discipline. Lisa’s practice consists of the following: Regulatory Law Health and Safety Environmental Drinking Water Police Federation – criminal and disciplinary Trading Standards Medical Profession – criminal and GMC (defence)

Louise Kitchin

Having worked for one of Manchester’s leading criminal firms and later successfully running her own business, as a freelance clerk and law costs draftsperson, Louise was called to the Bar in 1998. Louise’s instructing Solicitors include many of Manchester and the surrounding areas’ leading criminal defence firms. She is also a “Category 3” prosecutor undertaking serious prosecution work for a number of CPS teams. Having been at the Bar in Manchester for many years, Louise has been at Lincoln House Chambers since December 2004 where she maintains a very busy crown court and professional disciplinary practise. In 2014 Louise undertook a 6-month secondment to the GMC where she worked advising on, and developing “Guidance on convictions, cautions and determinations” in addition to other areas of policy development. Over the last 3 years, Louise has moved from prosecuting to defending before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service and she now represents Dr’s in GMC matters on a very regular basis. Louise is able to undertake the full range of GMC/MPTS hearings including Interim Order Hearings, High Court Extension Hearings, Fitness to Practise, Review and Restoration Hearings. In addition to representing Dr’s, Louise also has experience before other tribunals including the NMC, HCPC & Social Work England.

Louise Cowen

Crime, personal injury, clinical negligence, immigration, housing law.

Marianne Alton

Marianne is a diligent and persuasive advocate who prides herself on meticulous case preparation and client care. She enjoys a reputation for hard work and sound judgement. As well as undertaking work typical of her call, she has acted as junior counsel in a series of significant pieces of criminal litigation including cases rooted in organised crime. Alongside maintaining a busy practice in England, Marianne is a trustee of a legal charity Evolve – FILA that provides pro bono assistance in Uganda to improve access to justice, build capacity within the legal profession and promote fairness, integrity and efficiency within the Ugandan criminal justice system. In November 2018, Marianne was selected as Young Pro Bono Barrister of the Year at the Bar Council’s Annual and Young Bar Conference in recognition of her pro bono work in Uganda. Marianne is regularly instructed in a wide range of criminal defence and prosecution work, including offences of serious violence, dishonesty, drugs, sexual offences, public disorder, regulatory offences and confiscation proceedings. Marianne prepares and presents legal applications and arguments, such as dismissal, abuse of process, disclosure, applications to exclude evidence and submissions of no case to answer. In addition to rapidly developing a successful defence practice, Marianne is regularly instructed to prosecute both in private prosecutions and on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service. Marianne is on the CPS General Crime Panel (Level 3), the CPS Specialist Serious Crime Panel (Level 3), and the CPS Fraud Panel (Level 2). She has also been appointed to the Serious Fraud Office (‘SFO’) Panel C List.

Mark Ford

Mark joined Lincoln House Chambers in 2010. He specializes in all types of criminal law both prosecuting and defending including murder, serious fraud, regulatory offences and cases of a serious sexual nature. For many years Mark has undertaken criminal work at the highest level. He has extensive experience in successfully representing clients charged in the most serious offences, these include murder and manslaughter (including corporate manslaughter), conspiracy to commit armed robbery, high level drug importation and distribution and serious sexual offences, multi-million pound frauds, money laundering, political corruption, regulatory offences (health & safety, trade descriptions & environmental). A number of the cases in which Mark has appeared have been of national significance. Mark sits as a Recorder of the Crown Court.

Mark Friend

Mark has rapidly developed an extremely busy Crown Court practice, covering all aspects of criminal law. Although he is often sought as prosecuting counsel by the CPS his practice is predominantly based in defending a wide range of cases. He joined Lincoln House in 2011. Mark has extensive experience of cases spanning the entire spectrum of criminal law. He has been instructed in a variety of serious and complex cases that have received considerable media attention including prosecutions by the Serious Fraud Office, HM Revenue and Customs, Trading Standards, the Department for Work and Pensions and the Federation Against Copyright Theft (F.A.C.T.). Mark also undertakes regulatory cases and is often instructed to act on behalf of the General MedIcal Council. Mark has also acted as junior counsel in a number of cases including those involving allegations of serious sexual misconduct, large scale drug conspiracies, substantial frauds and money laundering. He has experience of video and TV link cases involving young and vulnerable witnesses and is regarded as a meticulous preparer of the cases in which he is instructed. Mark has a keen interest in road traffic law and has developed an enviable reputation for successfully defending motorists across the country in privately funded cases. Mark adopts a pro-active and determined approach to his cases, placing a premium upon thorough preparation and dedicated client care. Clients, both professional and lay, regard him as approachable and very committed. Mark is a member of the Sports Law Direct team which provides representation at disciplinary hearings and regulatory matters. He also offers awareness seminars for sporting figures on staying within the law both in and outside the sporting area – conduct, public order, alcohol, driving, sexual behaviour and privacy.

Martin Hackett

Martin Hackett is an experienced Criminal Law Barrister who specialises in the most serious and complex cases. He is currently working for the European Union Rule of Law Mission in the SpecialProsecution Office for the Republic of Kosovo as an International Prosecutor and Head ofthe War Crimes Unit. Seconded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in November 2013, Martin ispractising as a Continental Civil Law Prosecutor with overall responsibility for more than800 war crimes cases. His duties range from dialogue with the Serbian authorities for thedevelopment of joint investigations and disclosure in war crimes cases, to appearing as aProsecution Advocate before international Judges in War Crimes trials. Martin has also advised the FCO, the Kosovo Government and the International Commission for Missing Persons regarding war crimes, corruption and organised crime. In addition to his international work, Martin has spent well over 20 years practicing in serious crime on the Northern Circuit, he has considerable experience in handling the most complicated and sensitive sexual cases, complex fraud allegations, large scale drug conspiracies and cases involving murder, manslaughter and serious violence. Martin is often instructed in cases where defendants or witnesses suffer from severe mental health problems. Martin is a CAT 4 Prosecutor. Prosecutor and Head of the War Crimes UnitEU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) Martin has responsibility for developments in joint investigations in War Crimes, toappearing as Prosecution Advocate in Court before International Judges. As Unit Head heis responsible for over 800 war crime matters including old UNMIK cases, allocating theseto other prosecutors, liaising closely with the Police War Crimes Investigation Unitregarding the priority and running a very active high profile team of Prosecutors and LegalOfficers. Martin manages the Unit’s caseload and strategy and is accountable to the Head ofMission. His additional duties include interviewing witnesses, directing the wholeinvestigation process, drafting documents and indictments for the court based uponInternational Humanitarian law concerning cases of war crimes. Martin provides representation to the Chief Prosecutor for the Republic of Kosovo aboutpolitically sensitive cases. He liaises with Serbian Prosecutors and Ministers to establish aprotocol concerning international legal co-operation and disclosure of evidence plus heliaises over the repatriation of the bodies of victims. When required Martin takes over as Acting Head of the Special Prosecution Office. A mainpart of his role is to research, organise and manage evidence, conduct legal research andadvice on specific cases, including substantive and procedural aspects of Kosovo’sdomestic criminal law and international criminal and human rights law within theframework of the ICTY. He works to strengthen the domestic capacity of Kosovan Prosecutors, in this transitionalphase of the mission, to ensure a lasting legacy regarding war crimes prosecutions. Other War Crimes roles Martin covers include: • Trial advocacy : opening and closing speeches, examination-in-chief and crossexamination of witnesses, make submissions on motions when required during thetrial process.• Liaise with NGO’s especially in the area of sexual violence during conflict• Supervise exhumation sites liaising with both the police and forensic teams.• Meeting and advising Kosovan government think tank upon corruption.• Meeting and advising UK Officials upon corruption and war crimes.• Advising the International Commission for Missing Persons about Kosovan criminalprocedure and how it currently impacts upon ongoing missing persons cases.• Advising on The Mission Implementation Plan.• Advising on possible changes in Kosovo law to assist the transition process to fulllocal Kosovo control over all war crimes matter.• Attendance at the International War Crimes Conference regarding Balkan co-operation.• Drafting Memorandum of Understanding between Kosovo and Serbia about theexchange of information in war crimes cases.Martin prosecuted two of the Mission’s most high profile cases:• The Drenica Group trial. It involves the prosecution of high ranking KLA members forwar crimes committed in 1998. The allegations involve murder and torture. Martin islead prosecutor in this ten defendant trial which has been running since May 2014.• The Rezella/Raska case. This involves large scale cross border investigation and dialoguewith Serbia and relates to a massacre during the war where the bodies of the manyvictims have been concealed in Serbia.

Matthew Howarth

Matthew started practice in 2014 with the Banking and Finance litigation team for one of the World’s largest law firms, Baker & McKenzie. During his early practice Matthew defended a large FTSE 100 Company as part of the LIBOR Scandal. He has extensive experience in Fraud and Financial Crime as a result, with a vast experience in dealing with complex issues arising from Legal Professional Privilege. Joining Chambers in 2016, Matthew has sought to develop a practice that encompasses Public Law and Regulatory. He also has a strong criminal fraud and POCA practice. As a result, he has gained numerous prestigious appointments that make him stand out amongst his peers at the Bar. He has a strong practice on behalf of HMRC, the Government Legal Department and the Serious Fraud Office. Recently he was instructed as a junior counsel in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, and assisted in a Judicial Review for the Victim’s Rights Group ‘Hacked Off’ following the Phone Hacking Scandal. He has vast experience of dealing with complex Judicial Reviews applications and POCA matters, Regulatory offences and mainly Fraud (including VAT and MTIC). He sits on the Attorney General’s specialist Panel of Counsel, the Serious Fraud Office Panel, Regulatory Panel and is a specialist CPS POCA Prosecutor. He has extensive experience defending in these areas also. He is currently defending a multi-handed transfer of firearms and Class A PWITS matter in Nottingham. Recently Matthew has been appointed to the National Safeguarding Panel to offer legal advice on behalf of Sports Resolution In 2020 Matthew was called to the Bar of Northern Ireland. Financial Crime, Fraud & POCA Matthew has extensive experience in POCA and Fraud matters. In 2021, Matthew was one of five barristers out of London to be appointed to the Serious Fraud Office Panel C of Prosecution. He is currently instructed in an on-going large scale investigation into Fraud on behalf of the SFO. Coupled with his experience from the Financial Litigation Team at Baker & McKenzie, he is routinely instructed to handle large scale complex financial litigation dealing with disclosure, legal professional privilege and advising on litigation. Matthew was one of two Manchester barristers appointed to the Attorney General’s Panel C in 2020. He often deals with cases brought by HMRC from Forfeiture and confiscation hearings, through to Commercial Account Freezing Orders and POCA proceedings in the Crown Court to the Court of Appeal. He was appointed to the specialist CPS Panel Level 2 for POCA in 2021. Matthew also has experience with Tax Fraud. Recently he was instructed by HMRC to prosecute a multi-million pound MTIC Fraud case before the Tax Tribunals. (Kittle and Mecsek). He has also dealt with numerous VAT and Tax applications before the High Court on appeal. Matthew also has extensive experience in dealing with general criminal litigation and is recognised in this area of law by his appointment to the CPS General Crime Panel Level 3 and POCA Panel Level 2 in 2021, and Serious Crime Panel Level 2 in 2020. He is currently being led on a large scale drugs and gun conspiracy at Nottingham Crown Court. Public Law (Immigration and Judicial Review) As a specialist barrister for the Attorney General, the bulk of Matthew’s practice is in Judicial Review claims for False Imprisonment relating to periods of Unlawful Detention by the Secretary of State. He has recently dealt with a number of Judicial Review applications and interim relief hearings, and is often sought to advise on Quantum in the QBD and Administrative Courts. He has dealt with EEA cases under Dublin III and Non-EEA Hardial Singh claims and is often instructed to offer advice for Government Departments and grounds of appeal in this work. Recently he had conduct of a number false imprisonment claims made during COVID-19 under Article 3 & 5 ECHR and in relation to failure to provide s.95 and s.4 Accommodation. In addition to providing expert advice in unlawful detention/false imprisonment claims, both for judicial review and civil claims, Matthew has extensive experience in substantive claims for failure to provide asylum support. He has recently dealt with cases regarding unpublished policies and the impact of Lumba, as well as issues relating to adequacy and delay. Matthew has recently been instructed to conduct inquest hearings on behalf of the Secretary of State. He has experience developed as a junior in the IICSA inquiry and through the Phone Hacking Scandal on behalf of ‘Hacked Off’. Matthew is also experienced in Immigration litigation from the First and Upper Tier Tribunals through to Fresh Submission Judicial Review claims. He has been instructed recently to propose a number of interim relief applications before the High Court. Further to this he has had conduct of a Habeas Corpus claim in the High Court and recently before the Court of Appeal. It is currently pending application before the Supreme Court. Civil Cases Matthew has also conducted a wide range of multi-track and fast-track personal injury and public liability claims. He is routinely instructed in county court claims and to draft papers on behalf of Government and Claimants. He has also a great deal of experience with landlord and tenant disputes. Disciplinary/Safeguarding/Professional Negligence Coupled with this experience he has conduct of a number of Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) appeals under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Group Act 2006 in the Upper Tier Tribunals and is on hand to offer representation within this area on a Direct Access Basis. He is willing to draft submissions and make representations on short notice. Matthew Has represented both the DBS and Appellants from initial advice on paper, drafting submissions for court, conference and on appeal to the Upper Tier Tribunals. Matthew is often instructed on a wide range of professional negligence matters against and for doctors, dentists and solicitors. He is routinely instructed to draft advices, assist with letters before action and represent professional clients at court Matthew is one of the few members of chambers appointed by the Sports Resolution panel to give legal advice in this area. He is direct access qualified. Regulatory Law & Road Traffic Offences In 2019 Matthew was appointed to the Specialist Regulatory Panel C of Prosecution Advocates. This recognised his experience in the fields of Environmental Law and Health & Safety Law. Matthew has extensive experience in representing haulage companies in relation to Road Traffic matters both in the Crown Court and before Traffic Commissioners Office in the Upper Tribunals. He has conducted a number of disputes in relation to tachographs and operators licenses through to fly-tipping offences. He is able to offer advice in this area. Recently he has advised Government on a range of Civil Penalty Appeals for Clandestine Entrants and Operator Licensing disputes. Matthew is routinely instructed to defend Environment Offences, from fly tipping through to advising large companies in relation to waste and water disputes. Matthew has also represented a number of companies. In the Crown Court he has conducted cases in relation to gross-negligence manslaughter through to Health and Safety at work offences in construction disputes. Recently he has appeared as advocate prosecuting and defending a number of licensing and Trademark/counterfeit goods offences. He has successfully represented a number of companies in relation to Fraud allegations as to HGV licences and individuals in Taxi license appeals. Matthew has gained substantial experience in Road Traffic Offences. He recently was instructed on a Death by Dangerous Driving at Leeds Crown Court through and is often sought to argue exceptional hardship/special reasons mitigation in the Magistrates Court. Through appointment on the Attorney General’s Panel Matthew has experience in a number of cases relating to Driving License Disqualification and appeals of DVLA decisions in relation to licensing following bans for drink driving or medical reasons.

Mohammed Nawaz

Mohammed Nawaz was called to the bar in 1995 and has specialised in serious crime and fraud throughout his career. He became a QC in 2021. In recent years Mohammed has defended in cases of murder, terrorism, major fraud, sexual exploitation of children, drug trafficking, bribery and confiscation proceedings – the vast majority of these cases have been of significant complexity and have received national media attention. The trials have required extensive, meticulous preparation and Mohammed always provides a tailored and specialised service to his professional and lay clients. Current instructions include a HMRC prosecuted VAT fraud trial of 4 months, people trafficking conspiracy involving 3000 asylum seekers, a substantial “grooming” case featuring multiple allegations of rape and sexual assault, offences under the Modern Slavery Act, major drugs and money laundering offences, firearms offences and Encro prosecutions. Some of Mohammed’s notable cases from the recent past are: R v X: Defence Counsel in a case of inciting terrorism. D was 15 years old. Using an alter ego of a Jihadi Commander he was alleged to have incited murder. His age/psychiatric vulnerabilities required vigilance. This was a difficult, voluminous and complex case. D was brainwashed by ISIS terrorists and the press made strenuous attempts to report his identity. A very favourable plea and sentence was negotiated and press attempts to report his name were successfully resisted. R v Anwar: Defence counsel in a trial of sexual exploitation of 14-year-old by 300 men. Cross-ex of the complainant presented many challenges and was commended and adopted by all other defence counsel. A vast body of information required streamlining to enable tightly defined and effective cross-examination. R v Ansari: Defence counsel in a £2m fraud trial involving hacking of company emails and creation of bogus online businesses to defraud customers on Black Friday. This was a complex and large-scale fraud and involved a three-way cut-throat defence. R v Tafham: Defence Counsel in a murder trial described as an “honour killing” of D’s mother-in-law for her complicity in wife’s affair. R v Khalid: Defence counsel in a trial involving alleged conspiracy to import 400kg of cannabis. R v Dedek: Defence counsel in a murder. D a foreign national and unfamiliar with Justice System had consumed large quantity of alcohol at the time of the stabbing. Using the defence of loss of control, the case was favourably resolved with the Prosecution accepting a plea to manslaughter. R v Reynolds: Defence counsel in a trial of supply of large quantities of Class A drugs. R v Akhtar: Defence counsel in a trial involving fraud/immigration offences. D was an Immigration Advisor with own practice and had serious medical conditions. A number of Counts were dismissed at the outset of the case. In relation to other counts submissions at half time were successful. The case required sensitive, careful and detailed cross-examination of professional witnesses and an extremely vulnerable lay witness over many hours. R v Rathod: Defence counsel in trial of fraud and laundering criminal proceeds. D and his family were alleged to have set up fake Sikh Temples to flout immigration laws. R v Smith: Defence counsel in murder trial. D (20) and deceased both drug dealers. D ran conjoined defences of self-defence/loss of self-control. R v Iqbal: Defence counsel in trial of conspiracy to defraud. D owned colleges with Home Office licences to run an international English test. Extensive, detailed cross-examination of witnesses based on large volumes of material. The case also required detailed legal arguments to exclude Prosecution evidence. R v Jamshaid: Defence counsel representing an International Cricketer in a spot-fixing/bribery case with the Prosecution being brought with the use of under-cover NCA agents. R v Patel: Defence counsel in an ongoing case of complex VAT/Counterfeit Fraud. 250,000 pages of evidence. Value of fraud – £85m. The allegations span 7 years and have extensive international dimensions. The case contains many legal and factual complexities incl. abuse of process, GDPR, European Law, trial in absence/extradition and exclusion of evidence.

Neil Usher

Neil has a busy criminal practice, divided fairly evenly between defending andprosecuting. He is a Category 4 Prosecutor and is member of the Rasso panel. In addition to his criminal practice, he also regularly appears in the Medical Practitioners’ Tribunal, acting for the GMC in Fitness to Practice proceedings. He also sits as a Recorder in both the Crown Court & County Court (Family). Since 2012, Neil has focussed much of work on serious sexual offences and homicide cases. In 2012, he was junior prosecution counsel in the first Rochdale grooming case heard inLiverpool – Operation Span. Since then he has acted as leading junior for the CPS Complex Crime Unit in a large number of linked Rochdale grooming cases, including Operation Routh and OperationDoublet, trials 1-4. In 2015, Neil successfully prosecuted the former TV weatherman, Fred Talbot, for historic child sex offences. He also prosecuted a former Premier League footballer for offences of rape. Notable Cases R v Arif Ansari – Neil was instructed by the Complex Crime Unit to prosecute the editor of the BBC’s Asian Network for allowing the name of one of the victims of the Rotherham grooming cases to be named during a live BBC broadcast. The defendant was represented by a leading QC. R v Kim Tran – Neil successfully prosecuted a Crown Court translator for conspiring to pervert the course of justice by assisting a defendant to falsely claim she was a child defendant. Operation Caspian: Neil was again leading junior for the prosecution. Each defendant had two counsel. People trafficking conspiracy and conspiracy to launder in excess of £1m. Complex banking evidence, difficult issues around meaning of forced labour, numerous vulnerable witnesses. Each defendant was convicted following a four week trial. Homicide R v Bennett – Neil secured the acquittal of his client following trial. Mr Bennet was a restaurant customer accused of the manslaughter of a fellow customer by pushing him to the floor causing fatal brain injuries. Causation of death being one of the issues in the case, involving the consideration of three neurosurgeons’ reports. R v Dawick and Flynn – successfully prosecuted parents of a baby murdered by the father. Both defendants represented by QC’s and juniors. Neil prosecuted without a junior. Complex medical evidence from seven experts. Case involving the recent law of allowing a child to be killed. R v Michael Marler – Neil successfully prosecuted the defendant on a count of murder. The defendant stabbed his girlfriend to death before jumping from a window and landing on a passing vehicle. Defendant represented by QC and junior. Neil prosecuted without a junior. R v Hedley Plummer – instructed by the Complex Crime Unit to prosecute this murder case. Defendant represented by QC and junior. Neil prosecuted without a junior. Sexual Offences R v DL – Neil successfully represented a female teacher accused of sexual activity with a 15 year old pupil, in a case which generated much national publicity. Through the efforts of Neil and his solicitor we were able to show the complainant had sold his story to The Sun newspaper in advance of giving evidence. Neil represented the “Northern Quarter serial sex attacker” – Abdoulaye Diallo. The defendant attempted to violently rape three women in Manchester City Centre in the early hours of the morning. The incidents led to the police issuing CCTV footage of the assailant in an attempt to identify him. Notwithstanding the gravity of the offences, Neil was able to secure a sentence which will allow the defendant to apply for parole in under four years. R v PD and Another – Successfully defended his 17 year old client who was tried for the joint rape of a 14 year old family member. At the close of the prosecution case Neil submitted there was ‘no case to answer’ given weaknesses in the account of the complainant during his cross-examination of her. Unusually where the issue was the credibility of the complainant’s account, the trial Judge agreed and directed Neil’s client and his co-defendant be found not guilty. Earlier in the trial Neil had also successfully adduced evidence of a previous false allegation of rape, and made a successful application to adduce evidence of the complainant’s alleged sexual history (s.41). Operation Span – the first of the Rochdale grooming cases, heard at Liverpool over an eight week period. Ten defendants and nine convictions. The case generated intense national debate on the nature of grooming gangs. Operation Routh: another Rochdale grooming case. Leading junior for the prosecution. There were ten defendants, eight of whom were convicted. The case involved difficult issues around ‘recent complaint evidence’, legal professional privilege, and abuse of process. The appeals against conviction and sentence were heard by Lord Chief Justice who gave a leading judgment on sentences in grooming cases. Appeals resisted by Neil. Appeals refused. R v Abbondandolo and others: Neil was leading junior. Another Rochdale grooming case with seven defendants of whom five were convicted. A difficult case involving issues around the meaning of incitement and disclosure issues. Operation Infrared: Rochdale child sexual exploitation case. Neil was again leading junior for the prosecution. Five defendants, all convicted. Difficult issues around disclosure, three extremely vulnerable child victims, who were all ‘looked after’ children. R v Fred Talbot: Neil was instructed by the Complex Crime Unit to prosecute the well known former TV weatherman for historic sex offences committed in England and Scotland. No junior. The defendant was represented by a senior QC. A case involving difficult issues including jurisdictional issues and hearsay. High profile, national TV interest. Convicted after trial. Operation Doublet 1: Rochdale conspiracy to rape grooming case. Neil was again leading junior for the prosecution. Six week trial. Five defendants, three represented by QC’s and juniors. The trial involved a vulnerable and hostile complainant. Intermediary required. National media coverage. Majority convicted, including each represented by a QC. All appeals refused. Operation Doublet 2: Rochdale CSE case. Neil was again leading junior for the prosecution. Eight defendants, 29 count indictment. Seven week trial. Difficult issues around meaning of consent, hearsay, vulnerable victim needing an intermediary. Seven defendants convicted. Operation Doublet 3: Rochdale CSE case. Neil was leading junior for the prosecution. Seven defendants, all convicted following a six week trial. Principal victim was herself serving a life sentence and who needed an intermediary.

Neil Fryman

Neil Fryman joined Lincoln House in October 2008, after developing a considerable reputation as an effective advocate in heavyweight criminal cases. He is a grade 4 prosecutor with a track record of attracting work from the Serious Organised Crime Agency as well as from the CPS and the Post Office. He has particular expertise in cases that involve information technology and computer-generated evidence. His defence practice has also allowed him to work in cases of the utmost gravity.

Neil Ronan

Neil Ronan’s practice encompasses all areas of serious and regulatory crime. He is regularly instructed in the most serious criminal cases on circuit. He is an experienced advocate; both at trial and in advancing complex legal argument.  He has garnered a reputation for client care and case management skills as second to none. Prior to his practice at the bar Neil spent 12 years as an expert witness and forensic scientist. In that time, he investigated and analysed evidence in thousands of cases, for both the prosecution and as a defence expert.  This included high profile cases and over 30 homicide case; for example https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2013/feb/19/jailed-gas-blast-toddler-partingto-oldham Therefore, Neil has particular expertise in cases involving the following :- Drugs Arson endangering life DNA Trace and particulate evidence Explosions and Explosives Firearms and discharge residues Cell site and phone evidence At different stages in his career Neil has managed case loads as a case worker, legal executive and litigator. He has first hand experience of working within a number of legal service providers offices and has an excellent understanding of how he can add value to those instructing in his service delivery and case management. Notable Cases Murder, Manslaughter & Serious Violence R v S – Bolton Crown Court – Nationally reported Thomas Campbell Multi-handed torture and murder case –  Thomas Campbell killing: Ex-wife among three jailed over torture death – BBC News R v Z – Bradford Crown Court – Multi handed murder involving complex scientific evidence R v SB – Bolton Crown Court – Death by Dangerous driving. Secured a sentence for the client which had to be AG referenced. R v RS – Manchester Crown Court – Death by careless driving R v A – Bolton Crown Court – S18 involving a machete wound to the bone R v C – Manchester Crown Court – S18 involving a stranger stabbing with a knife in a park R v W – Sheffield Crown Court – Successfully defended in a three-week trial stemming from the violent disorder that ensued during the Rotherham race riots. The case entailed highly involved legal arguments to successfully exclude aspects of the CCTV footage the Crown sought to rely on. Arson / Criminal damage Regularly instructed in cases of Arson endangering life. Neil was also regularly instructed as an expert witness in the most serious cases in England and Wales R v S – Successful app to dismiss – arson with intent; fingerprint on Molotov cocktail bottle at locus and CCTV R v H – Successful app to dismiss on arson reckless – prisoner started fire locked in a cell on his own R v E, E and L – Manchester Crown Court – Conspiracy Arson with intent, Case involved an OCG group petrol bombing a house in which the owner was present. R v DS – Stafford Crown Court – A case of multiple counts of arson reckless to endangering life and assault which occurred in prison. R v F – Manchester Crown Court 2016 Instructed to defend in a multi-handed conspiracy to cause £250,000 worth of criminal damage Sexual Offences R v T – Manchester Crown Court – Multi handed stranger gang rape of vulnerable complainant. Case involved s28 process. R v R – Manchester Crown Court – Multi-handed Asian Grooming rapes by three brothers R v H – Manchester Crown Court – Multi-handed false imprisonment and sexual assault R v W – Bolton Crown Court – Sexual assault at a party R v McC – Nottingham Crown court – Sexual assault by employee on his employer Drug Offences R v A – Conspiracy to import 30kg of cocaine (Encro case) R v H – Possession with intent to supply cocaine – Secured suspended sentence though guilty plea was on day of trial. R v P ��� Possession with intent to supply cocaine – Secured suspended sentence though guilty plea was on day of trial. Neil is regularly instructed in cases of Possession with intent to supply and as a previously registered forensic practitioner in drugs analysis you can be sure he will thoroughly review the evidence for anything that will help his client’s case. Fraud, Theft & Dishonesty Offences R v M – Multi-handed £500,000 fraud R v A – Conspiracy to steal high end cars – value of approximately £3,000,000 R v H – Manchester Crown Court – Successfully secured suspended sentence for Client who stole thousands from her employer whilst on a suspended sentence for doing the same thing to her last employer.  https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7022467/Boss-blasts-mother-38-spared-jail-despite-spending-5-000-firms-PayPal-account.html R v A – Bolton Crown Court – Conspiracy (postal fraud) R v T – Reading Crown Court 2015 Instructed to defend a client in a case of burglary with the trial run in his absence. R v K – Bournemouth Crown Court 2015 Successfully defended a woman charged with dwelling burglary, criminal damage and harassing her ex-partner though she admitted being in the property and damaging the items at that time. Motoring and Traffic offences in the Crown Court R v RSR – Manchester Crown Court (Minshull Street) – Death by Careless Driving. One of the first cases to be sentenced under the new sentencing regime. Case involved the tragic death of a milkman. Defendant was a learner driver who was found to be using his phone at the time of the accident. Manchester: Milkman about to retire killed by speeding learner driver | UK News | Metro News R v SB – Bolton Crown Court – Death by Dangerous driving. Secured a sentence for the client which had to be AG referenced. R v RS – Manchester Crown Court – Death by careless driving R v A – Bolton Crown Court – Dangerous Driving https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/18794656.teenager-crashed-stolen-motorbike-coma-3-weeks/ Neil is regularly privately instructed in all matters relating to the Crown Courts inherent jurisdiction to review the verdict / sentence in the lower courts. Magistrates and Youth Court Neil represents both privately funded individuals and companies at trial in the Magistrates’ courts the length and breadth of the country. He has successfully defended in such matters as drink driving and s172 failure to notify offences. His decade of experience as a forensic scientist assists greatly in understanding the evidence which is necessary to prove/disprove drink driving offences. He also has experience of dealing with criminal matters in the youth court and examining young and vulnerable witnesses generally. R v K – Bolton Magistrates’ Court – Successfully defended a nurse charged with assaulting a patient in A & E. The incident was caught on CCTV and the Doctor and receptionist present gave evidence against the defendant. As a consequence, the nurse kept his job. R v S – Manchester Magistrates’ Court – Successfully defended a man charged with assaulting his partner and stepdaughter late at night in the family home. R v D – Oxford Magistrates’ Court – Successfully defended a man charged with assaulting his teenage girlfriend in a hotel room when her father was present outside the door of the room. R v H Ltd – Birkenhead Magistrates’ Court – Successfully defended a company charged with failure to notify who was driving when its truck was speeding. R v M – Oxford Magistrates’ Court – Successfully defended a stepfather charged with breaching a non-molestation order by his two step daughters. Publications National Library of Medicine – Forensic isotope ratio mass spectrometry of packaging tapes https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15565219/ New Scientist – Toothpick test turns cellphones into a drug dealer’s worst enemy https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg17523520-600-toothpick-test-turns-cellphones-into-a-drug-dealers-worst-enemy/ Mycological Research – Genesis of taenia on the capillitium of Trichiales https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0953756208616469

Paul Williams

Paul specialises in regulatory work, inquests and crime.In regulatory, Paul regularly presents to the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service and is an active member of chambers’ GMC team. Paul is frequently instructed in lengthy and complex fitness to practice hearings (FTP’s) as well providing a regular Interim Order Tribunal service. In addition to GMC work Paul is regularly instructed to defend medical professionals before a range of other tribunals. He has an established client base specialising in representing nurses and dentists and will also accept instructions in HCPC matters. The service provided to health care professionals very regularly extends to those who are interested parties in inquests. He is adept at representing both individuals and bodies that might be exposed to criticism during inquests and inquiries and, whilst the majority of this work focusses on the health care professions, Paul has significant experience in a wider range of areas such as health & safety failings, accidents and situations involving psychiatric issues. Paul is instructed to act in the Manchester Arena Inquiry – an independent public inquiry to investigate the deaths of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena Terror Attack.  He represents “MA” a security officer who was a central eye witness to the action of the bomber. Paul exclusively defends in serious crime and continues to be instructed in complex crime on a regular basis. Paul has experience accross the full spectrum of criminl offences but is most often retained in sexual offences and dishonesty matters. Paul does not accept legally aided instructions unless the client is a medical professional. Paul has a keen interest in cases with complex medical and procedural issues and was junior counsel in the case of R v Norris, an allegation of serial murder by a practicing nurse. Instructed in large operational cases, Paul has extensive experience of cases involving covert surveillance, cell site analysis, telephone record analysis, RIPA applications, and terrorist related matters. Paul is the Discipline Chairman at York RUFC.  He represents senior players and the club at county disciplinary hearings. He oversees the junior section for their discipline and safeguarding issues.  He is also Captain of the York Cavaliers veterans rugby team.

Paul Campbell Reid

Paul is a criminal specialist who appears for the prosecution and the defence in all types of serious crime. He has wide experience of all types of serious crime, including murder, manslaughter, fraud, money laundering, drugs importation etc, both at first instance and in the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). With a reputation as a formidable cross-examiner and jury advocate he is as much at home in a gangland murder case as he is in dealing with experts in a shaken baby case or in the intricacies of investment fraud. He has appeared in many murder cases involving issues of joint enterprise, causation, diminished responsibility, provocation, shaken baby syndrome and battered wife syndrome.  In the Jules Lowe case he conducted the successful defence of sleepwalking (automatism) in what is now the leading case in medico/legal literature. He has experience of several so-called “honour killings” in the Asian community. He has dealt with cases of gross negligence manslaughter involving firearms, drugs and motor vehicles. His fraud practice includes investment and bank trading fraud, carousel fraud and electoral fraud. He has been involved in many high profile cases including his defence of the Stone Roses (with quotations from his mitigation in “Q” magazine February 2016), his defence of “Doctor” Gene Morrison (featured in the Sunday Times and BBC programme “Crime Scene Conman”), and his prosecution of Rahan Arshad, the taxi driver who murdered his wife and three children before fleeing to Thailand (featured in the BBC programme “Honour Kills”). The murder of Sophie Lancaster was the subject of a 2015 BBC2 programme “Black Roses – The Killing of Sophie Lancaster”. He is recognised for the heavyweight work he attracts.

Peter Wright

Peter Wright is a highly respected and extremely experienced advocate who has appeared in numerous high profile cases. Peter prosecutes and defends in respect of criminal offences of the utmost gravity and complexity including terrorism, murder, drugs and serious fraud. In September 2006, Peter was appointed Senior Treasury Counsel; the first person ever to be directly appointed to that position. In 2010, he stepped down to return to his defence work, for which he continues to be described as a highly respected senior practitioner, with a wealth of knowledge, experience and gravitas. Peter has appeared as leading Counsel in the series of trials arising from the alleged corrupt payments to public officials by journalists known as Operation Elveden; an OFT Investigation into International Cartel and Price Fixing Arrangements in the steel abrasives industry; the LIBOR scandal; civil and criminal proceedings arising from the investigation by the SFO into breaches of the UN Oil for Food Programme to Iraq; in addition to his “mainstream” criminal work in Corporate and gross negligence manslaughter; terrorism and murder. Peter also advises and represents companies and individuals who face investigation or proceedings under Health and Safety legislation, and in related cases such as fatal and other non-fatal accidents arising from incidents in the workplace.

Phil Holden

Philip has a substantial criminal defence practice that encompasses all areas of criminal law and inquest law. He is regularly instructed in high profile murder cases and large drugs conspiracies. He practices all over the North of England and is instructed by numerous firms of solicitors.

Philip Joseph George Boyd

Joe came to the Bar in 1993 having originally been a Branch Crown Prosecutor and national Head of Strategy with the CPS.  He has also been a lecturer at Chester Law College. He has a large criminal practice that incorporates all areas of criminal law including fraud, murder, manslaughter, drugs, violence and sex cases.  Joe is also regularly instructed in regulatory cases involving the Police. Joe has experience tackling a wide-range of intriguing and serious cases. He has been involved in a number of complex, high- profile trials, both defending and prosecuting. He continues to present seminars and lecture on regulatory and criminal topics to a wide variety of professional audiences.

Rachel Cooper

Rachel has a common law practice encompassing all areas and levels of criminal work; personal itBury claims; professional disciplinary actions (focusing on medically related work); regulatory work; and immigration appeals. She is very familiar with the use of medical and engineering evidence and often deals with expert witnesses. She is experienced in dealing with clients suffering from mental health problems.

Rachel White

Rachel is a criminal specialist with 18 years of experience. Her practice encompasses complex and serious cases that include allegations of murder, organised crime, violence, child cruelty, sexual offences, drug trafficking, dishonesty and fraud. She has appeared in several high-profile trials including R v RG (2017) (a murder committed during the course of a burglary where the householder was run over), R v GG (2018) (a fatal stabbing), R v GA (2018) (football related violence where the victim was left partially sighted) and R v DO (2018) (a husband accused of poisoning his estranged wife). She acts in cases of gang violence with firearms and offensive weapons and large public disorders. She also appears in cases where the background is domestic and the allegations are of assault, coercive and controlling behaviour or child cruelty. Rachel is regularly instructed to act for vulnerable defendants. She represented a mother accused of allowing the death of a child, who suffered from “battered wife syndrome”. She has defended veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic distress disorder and often acts for young adults with learning disabilities accused of crimes. Her particular expertise and sensitive approach to the preparation of such cases is seen as invaluable by both her clients and solicitors. Rachel is instructed in the full range of sexual offences, some of which have involved witnesses as young as three years old.  She has great experience in dealing with historic allegations of a sexual nature and those arising in an employment or professional context. Rachel remains conscious that some of her clients have previously never been before the courts, and she is always astute to the stress and anxieties that a prosecution can create. She is a member of the sexual offences panel. Rachel undertakes work involving financial misconduct by employees against large organisations, such as banks and care homes.  She also appears in complex frauds with multiple defendants, where the evidence is extensive and detailed. She has significant experience of defending those accused of dishonesty offences such as perverting the course of justice, blackmail and immigration offences associated with sham marriages. Rachel advises on the complex confiscation matters that arise in drugs conspiracies and appeared for the principal defendant in Operation Nexus – a multi-million-pound conspiracy to supply significant kilos of heroin and cocaine. In addition to appearing in criminal matters in the Crown Court and Court of Appeal, Rachel accepts instructions to act in inquests and in a range of regulatory actions. Rachel’s inquest expertise focuses on deaths in custody. She has been instructed in inquest matters by a wide range of interested parties and is particularly well placed to deal with deaths that have arisen from or involve criminal offending. Rachel prides herself on maintaining excellent working relationships with her professional and lay clients. She has a conscientious and proactive approach to case preparation. She is able to accept instructions via direct access where appropriate and undertakes private defence work, as well as legal aid cases.

Rebecca Filletti

Rebecca Filletti is ranked in The Legal 500 as a leading junior in general crime: ‘Rebecca is incredibly thorough and leaves no stone unturned. Her dedication to her clients is exceptional and she has the perfect balance of making them feel special whilst maintaining the required level of professionalism. Her written advice is meticulous and her advocacy tenacious. She is an asset to the criminal Bar.’ – The Legal 500, 2023 Edition ‘Rebecca devotes herself unreservedly to every case from start to finish. A joy to work with and always enthusiastic. If you are looking for a barrister who applies in-depth analysis, preparation and support backed up with detailed, meticulous advice you won’t be disappointed’ – The Legal 500, 2022 Edition ‘a superb oral advocate, always personable and persuasive in negotiation and in court. She is a forceful and courageous advocate who will not relinquish a good argument without a fight.’ – The Legal 500, 2021 Edition Summary Rebecca is a highly regarded and experienced criminal practitioner. She specialises in criminal defence and has acted as counsel to defendants accused of the most serious criminal offences including murder, manslaughter, rape, historic sexual allegations (including intra-familial and multi-complainant allegations), child cruelty, terrorism, drug offences, fraud and offences relating to serious violence and firearms. Rebecca is approachable and skilled in representing young and vulnerable defendants. She has extensive experience of representing defendants with complex mental health needs and defences involving insanity, loss of control and diminished responsibility. Rebecca regularly represents mentally vulnerable defendants in hearings to determine fitness to plead as well as subsequent trials of issue. She is experienced in advising on the instruction of relevant experts and in the use of intermediaries. She also has particular expertise representing defendants who are victims of modern slavery and exploitation. In addition to the above, Rebecca has experience of representing military personnel in Court Martial proceedings and she accepts instructions to review and advise on the safety of historic convictions. Rebecca’s practice also covers Prison Law and Inquest and Inquiries where she has been instructed on high profile cases.

Richard English

Richard is a skillful and persuasive advocate who prides himself on providing the best advice, and the most effective representation. Richard is a native of Dublin.  He studied History at Trinity College, Dublin University.  He qualified as a solicitor in England in 1996, and in Ireland in 1997 where he practiced for two years.  As a solicitor he was involved in a number of high-profile and complex cases amongst them – the London City Bond fraud and the Sally Clark appeal.  He became a partner with Burton Copeland Solicitors in 2000. He was called to the Bar in 2003 and practices at the Criminal Bar, appearing in courts in the North West and throughout the country.  He has a predominately defence practice, but does prosecute in complex, document heavy, multi-handed cases. He was a Law Society trainer on the Human Rights Acts and have been trained by Amicus in death row cases.  He has advised the Irish Council for Prisoners Overseas and has written for their journal on mental health issues. “With Richard controlling my case I felt reassured that everything will be dealt with professionally and without any drama”  – Client Testimonial

Richard Simons

Richard Simons has a predominantly defence based practice. He is instructed in a wide variety of cases concerning serious and organised crime. As can be seen below, he has appeared in a large number of significant cases involving offences of Murder (including alleged gangland executions), Robbery, Terrorism, Blackmail, Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, Money Laundering, Firearms, Prison Mutiny and Drug Importations. He is also instructed in a large number of offences of Fraud, including offences of Theft, Mortgage Fraud, PAYE Fraud, DWP Fraud, VAT Fraud and Corruption. He also has a particular interest in Confiscation Hearings and as a result of his practice has significant experience in conducting them. He is often instructed to conduct such hearings even when not briefed in the substantive trial.

Richard Dawson

Richard Dawson is an expert trial lawyer, specialising in road traffic law, regulatory and professional discipline matters, and serious crime. Richard has a nation-wide client base and undertakes work throughout the UK. Having developed a strong reputation for hard work, immaculate preparation and clear fact management in complex cases, Richard is highly regarded by all those who instruct him. A road traffic specialist with more than 15 years of experience representing those accused with driving offences, Richard particularly deals with offences arising from serious road accidents.  His wealth of knowledge and skill in this highly specialised area is best demonstrated by his track record of successfully defending drivers charged with causing death and/or catastrophic injury. Richard is regularly instructed in professional discipline matters and frequently appears before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service. With a background in regulatory matters, Richard receives consistent instruction in cases commenced by the General Medical Council; Trading Standards; the Health and Safety Executive; the Environment Agency; and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (formerly VOSA). His work includes being routinely instructed in cases arising out of and/or in connection to an inquest before a Coroner, touching on the death.  Such instructions are typically in the context of regulatory and road traffic work. Richard continues to be instructed in licensing cases, advising on matters for which a licence is required and representing applicants, local authorities and interested parties, at all levels, though committee to Court. Additionally, Richard represents those charged with the most serious crimes, including murder; serious assaults; serious road accidents, resulting in death or catastrophic injury; rape; sexual offences; drugs matters; fraud and financial offences. Richard is frequently asked to represent private client individuals.  He has successfully represented professionals in a variety of committee, tribunal and Court forums, including solicitors, accountants, medical professionals, professional sports personalities and high-net-worth individuals, and is licensed to provide legal advice and representation directly to members of the public.

Richard Butcher

Richard was called to the bar in 1985 and is a highly experienced Crown Court barrister specialising in defending in serious and complex criminal cases. Over the past 20+ years, Richard has established himself as a proven trial lawyer in a vast range of complex cases from MTIC and VAT frauds, to gun running and serious drug cases. His most recent work encompasses cases of utmost gravity, involving a large Class A drug supply conspiracy, a human trafficking case, a police corruption conspiracy, and number of violent crime cases including kidnap and section 18 assaults.

Rick Holland

Rick joined Lincoln House in 1994 having been a solicitor with the Crown Prosecution Service for nine years. For the most part, his work is criminal, both prosecution and defence, on occasions as Leading Counsel, in relation to offences of murder, attempted murder, serious sexual assault, organised crime gang activity, evasion of duty, VAT fraud, serious violence, firearms, child neglect, commercial and mortgage fraud, money laundering, large scale drug importation (particularly involving the deployment of undercover officers and participating informants), large scale car ringing, conspiracy to defraud and related trading standard offences, election fraud. He has extensive experience of inquests particularly death in custody cases and recently, unlawful killing/murder committed by British nationals abroad and he appears regularly before the MPTS on behalf of the GMC. Rick undertakes other regulatory work on behalf of the Information Commissioner’s Office and has spoken at seminars to investigative and legal members of the ICO in respect of law and practice applicable to the Data Protection Act 1998. He has defended in many cases involving misconduct in public office and related data protection prosecutions on behalf of serving police officers and others. In terms of disciplinary work he represents members of the Police Federation and has conducted lectures to the Greater Manchester Police and members of outside forces in relation to:- The deployment of C.H.I.S (Covert Human Intelligence Sources) , Ex parte PII Applications, non disclosure of intelligence sources and the provision of texts for informants, Covert police investigation and the deployment of dedicated undercover police officers (including in the context of participating and non participating CHISs). He has also lectured on behalf of White Paper to a wide range of law enforcement organisations in relation to issues of disclosure, public interest immunity, RIPA and the CPIA regime and spoken on the topic of phone intercepts. He is recognised as having a particular expertise in confiscation matters and has lectured to other barristers, solicitors and the police on the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

Robert Elias

Bob Elias is one of the most senior juniors on circuit. He has specialised in serious crime throughout his career and has been involved in several cases which have had significant national interest. Bob is well known for his no-nonsense, straight talking approach and is considered a top class advocate and brilliant cross examiner who can get right to the heart of any issue. Bob has significant experience across the full spectrum criminal offences but is in particular demand for cases involving the most serious violence, drug conspiracies, sexual offences and fraud. Bob is a Category 4 Prosecutor, with an equal split between prosecuting and defending. Historically Bob has been involved in some very significant fraud matters including acting as a leading Junior for the defence in R v Awan and other, a leading Customs Diversion Fraud case. Bob is an extremely popular member of the Northern Circuit, he is well known and very much respected by his colleagues at the bar and on the bench.

Samantha Riggs

Samantha Riggs is an established and well regarded leading junior advising and defending corporate and individual defendants in complex fraud and regulatory investigations and prosecutions; with extensive experience in environmental crime and expertise in waste management/environmental permitting and statutory nuisance, in particular. Samantha often advises pre-interview/pre-charge, is accustomed to taking a pro-active approach at the outset of proceedings, and is skilled in taking pre-trial challenges including legality of search warrants, abuse of process arguments, and interpretation of the Environmental Permitting Regulations. She is highly methodical in the preparation of cases with an eye for detail and skilled in disclosure. Experienced in restraint, confiscation and enforcement receivership, Samantha acts on behalf of defendants and interested third parties. With civil background and experience in appeals in the VAT Tribunal and before PINs and civil enforcement by the Environment Agency in the High Court. Other regulatory work includes health and safely, food safety, trading standards. Experienced in judicial review. Chambers & Partners list Samantha in Band 2 for Financial Crime and Environmental and perceive Samantha to be “knowledgeable” and able to “simplify things in a manner a client understands”. Samantha is listed in the Legal 500 as a leader in Business and Regulatory Crime (including global investigations) and Fraud: Crime (including money laundering and asset forfeiture. According to the Legal 500, Samantha is “very smart”.

Samuel Jones

Samuel was called to the Bar in 2011. He became a tenant of Lincoln House Chambers in January 2018. He is now well established and has developed successful working relationships with several local and national solicitors and insurers.Samuel primarily practises in Personal Injury, Travel Law, Credit Hire and Employment Law. However, he also accepts instructions in all other areas of Civil Law including Contract and Debt Recovery claims. Samuel is client-focused and approachable. He is content to accept instructions at any stage of proceedings and can provide ad hoc or informal advice at short notice. He is a meticulous and robust advocate and has been commended for his thorough case preparation and effective advocacy in court. Samuel has also received praise for the high quality of his written work and pleadings. Samuel is licensed to provide advice and representation under the ‘Public Access’ scheme directly to members of the public. Samuel has given several lectures and seminars on various topics to local solicitors. More recently, he has provided seminars on the MOJ Portal and Credit Hire. The training is free of charge and is registered for CPD.

Sarah Magill

Sarah Magill specialises in serious organised crime, courts martial, service discipline, professional discipline, regulatory and inquests. She both defends and prosecutes serious and complicated criminal matters. Sarah is a robust practitioner with a proven record in dealing with heavyweight cases. She is regularly instructed in multiple defendant cases, including cases of homicide. She has extensive experience in the sensitive handling of vulnerable defendants and witnesses. Sarah represents serving and former military personnel in the criminal justice system and the service justice system.  She also accepts public access instructions directly from members of the military who are facing disciplinary proceedings.  In 2021 Sarah launched website Forces Legal Resources with barrister Matthew Bolt from Cornwall Street Chambers, a project that stemmed from the publication of jointly written articles in regimental magazines. Sarah Magill was Called to the Bar in 2016 as an established criminal advocate.  Described as “knowledgeable, warm but assertive when needed” with clients and “articulate and fearless” in court.  She impresses “with her command of detail and with her obviously high level of skill at deciding the really important points to go at. She is also clearly someone who knows what is right and is prepared to stand her ground.” Sarah is on the serious organised crime and fraud panels and was appointed to the level 3 CPS general criminal panel in 2018.  Sarah is also on the specialist regulatory panel which enables her to prosecute on behalf of various regulators including the Health and Safety Executive, the Coal Board and the Environment Agency. Sarah is the trustee of a refugee evacuation charity and has particular expertise in safeguarding, trafficking and child abuse.

Shirlie Duckworth

Shirlie was called to the Bar in 1997 but in 2002 transferred to become a solicitor specialising in criminal law. Her experience allowed her to attain Higher Rights of Audience in 2007 and since then she has mainly practiced in the Crown Court. She has represented clients at every stage of criminal proceedings from the police station in the early hours of the morning right up to the Court of Appeal. Shirlie quickly developed as reputation as an outstanding HCA, earning the respect of the Judiciary and her peers; she founded the Manchester HCA group to help improve quality and standards of solicitor-advocates. Shirlie has a good understanding of the pressures facing solicitors and is keen to assist them by providing prompt and informative feedback from court and in conferences. Chambers welcomed Shirlie in October 2012 when she transferred back to the Bar. After 14 years of defending criminal cases she is now on the CPS Advocates Panel as a level 3 prosecutor. She has provided evidential analysis & charging advice to the CPS Welfare, Rural and Health division. Shirlie earned a reputation as a formidable advocate with enviable success rates in criminal trials. She is instructed on a range of cases: serious sexual and violent offences, conspiracy to supply drugs, money laundering, conspiracy to commit armed robbery and burglaries. She has been led in three murder trials and a money laundering/fraud case. Professional Disciplinary work is a large part of Shirlie’s practice. She is instructed by the General Medical Council to represent the Council before Interim Order Panels, Fitness to Practice Panels and the High Court. She also instructed by the Local Authority to prosecute Regulatory offences.

Simon Csoka

Simon specialises in all aspects of criminal law, in particular homicide, serious fraud and organised crime. He has defended many high profile cases such as Dale Cregan, Arran Coghlan, and Operation Elveden (the News International cases. He has been widely praised for his devastating cross-examinations. He exclusively defends in serious and complex crime. His practice encompasses murder, gross negligence manslaughter, evasion of duty, MTIC and serious fraud, terrorism, complex multi-handed drugs cases and corruption. He has appeared in many high profile cases. He defended John Hardy, a former sergeant major, in Operation Elveden who was accused of selling stories about Prince William and Prince Harry to The Sun. He was the only source to be acquitted by a jury in those News International trials. As well as his skills as a jury advocate, he is well known for his ability to develop complex legal arguments. He is known for his mastery of detail even in cases with voluminous quantities of evidence. He has an advanced knowledge of computing which can assist with the management of large amounts of evidence. He led for the defence in the first case in which an application for independent special counsel for disclosure was granted [R v Greaves]. Since then he has made several successful applications for special counsel which led to the cases collapsing. He has defended a number of solicitors and professionals in recent years who have found themselves charged with criminal offences. He has advised CEOs, such as Julian Wheatland, former Chief Executive of Cambridge Analytica. He will provide an extremely comprehensive and involved service together with a robust defence to those charged with more minor offences who wish to pay privately. He also appears in Sport Regulatory work and has appeared before the FA Appeal Committee and the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne. In 2012 he succeeded in restoring Bradford City FC to the FA cup after they were disqualified.

Simon Gurney

Simon is consistently recognised as a leading Junior in both the leading legal directories, the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. He is acknowledged for his expertise in three categories: crime; professional discipline; and financial and regulatory crime (including health and safety law). Simon has an extensive practice specialising in serious criminal litigation and regulatory proceedings, with a particular focus on professional discipline. He has substantial expertise in defending professionals accused of offences before the criminal courts and of misconduct in proceedings brought by professional regulators. His areas of expertise complement one another, enabling him to offer a comprehensive service to professional clients seeking advice and representation. He has built a strong reputation with a wide range of clients who value his intellectual ability, tactical acumen and outstanding attention to detail. His client care skills are much praised. He brings diligence, sound judgment and tenacity to every case to ensure the best possible result for his clients. Simon prides himself on offering a first-rate service and maintaining a close working relationship with those who instruct him. He is licensed to provide advice and representation under the ‘Public Access’ scheme directly to members of the public. In the criminal jurisdiction, Simon is instructed across the spectrum of serious criminal offending. He is involved in cases of the utmost gravity, sensitivity and complexity. He has particular expertise in defending allegations of fraud and financial crime and conducting cases arising from alleged organised crime, involving murder, firearms, controlled drugs and violence. He has an exceptional track record defending allegations of historic sexual abuse. He is particularly sought after in cases involving voluminous material and cases with a technological aspect. Simon is often instructed pre-charge in substantial cases to advise upon challenges to search warrants by way of application for judicial review; applications to discharge restraint orders and resisting applications for forfeiture of assets. He also specialises in regulatory law, with a particular focus on professional discipline. In the field of professional discipline, he has extensive experience representing medical practitioners, police officers, dentists, nurses and midwives, pharmacists, healthcare and social workers, solicitors, chartered surveyors and other professionals facing allegations of professional misconduct or other investigations into their fitness to practise. Simon is retained to advise practitioners at the early stages of such investigations and, if unable to bring the investigation to a swift end, he provides representation throughout the proceedings, not only before the tribunal but also in appellate proceedings. He advises practitioners on regulatory matters relating to licensing and registration and regulatory requirements imposed by the regulator, the NHS and the Care Quality Commission. In the wider regulatory sphere, Simon represents clients accused of breaches of regulations relating to health and safety at work, fire safety, environmental law and trading standards legislation. He is instructed to advise companies and individuals under investigation and to provide representation to those charged with regulatory offences in both the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court. Simon is a Category 4 Prosecutor and appointed to the specialist Serious Crime and Proceeds of Crime Panels. Simon is also appointed to List B of the Specialist List of Regulatory Advocates. He is regularly instructed by the Crown Prosecution Service and the Health & Safety Executive to prosecute serious criminal and regulatory offences. He has also appeared in a number of significant cases before the First Tier Tribunal (Tax Chamber), Upper Tribunal and the Court of Appeal arising from allegations of fraud made by HMRC in relation to VAT and excise duty. His extensive experience of fraud in the criminal jurisdiction provides a firm foundation on which to advise individuals and companies challenging decisions of HMRC.

Thomas Worsfold

om became a tenant of Lincoln House in December 2020 and has quickly developed a strong criminal practice, prosecuting and defending in equal measure in the Crown Court. As a Level 2 CPS prosecutor, Tom is frequently instructed to prosecute cases concerning violence, drugs and dishonesty. He has experience of serious crime having recently been led in a complex multi-handed drugs conspiracy. Recent defence trials include wounding with intent, public disorder and sexual offences. In court, Tom has quickly developed a measured and pragmatic approach, which he combines with rigorous preparation. He is equally adept examining witnesses in a focused and incisive manner as he is arguing points of law, such as bad character, hearsay and disclosure. Tom has earned the praise of judges for his considered and well-judged approach at trial and sentence, as well as for the quality of his written advocacy. Tom prides himself on his close attention to detail and thorough preparation of all cases. His strong work ethic means that no stone is left unturned, key advice is given promptly and important strategic decisions are fully informed. Whether prosecuting or defending, he is keen to build working relationships with clients as well as to construct a coherent and considered strategy from the start. Tom has experience of representing clients with mental health difficulties, both at trial and sentence. Tom continues to receive instructions on a private basis in the Magistrates’ Court, particularly in relation to road traffic offences. He has a particularly good record with exceptional hardship arguments, both in the Magistrates and on appeal to the Crown Court, and is frequently instructed for trials involving expert evidence, for example back calculations and collision reconstruction. Tom provides a professional and proactive approach in such cases, seeking to ensure that clients have the best advice at the earliest opportunity. Tom is part of the “Junior Junior” scheme with the Attorney General’s Panel Counsel, and was previously instructed by the Department of Health on the Infected Blood Inquiry. His work included disclosure, conducting conferences and drafting witness statements. He has recently represented HMRC, the DVLA and the Insolvency Service in regulatory and criminal proceedings. Since joining Chambers Tom has built on his previous experience as a county court advocate by conducting a variety of civil hearings. His recent civil work includes fast-track track trials (road traffic collisions and tripping claims), Stage 3 hearings and various interlocutory hearing. Advisory matters range from advising a foreign company pursuing a commercial debt, including on the issue of jurisdiction, to advices on quantum in personal injury cases.

Tim Storrie

Tim Storrie QC has an established reputation for work across the spectrum of crime and related litigation. His practice encompasses all aspects of business crime, homicide, organised crime and serious sexual offending. He frequently acts as a leading junior and is rated as a Category 4 prosecutor. Additionally he is identified as a Tier 1 Leading Individual by The Legal 500. Tim is often deployed in long and complex litigation. His recent caseload has included multi-million pound fraud work, hidden assets litigation, gangland murder and corruption. Additionally he undertakes advisory work. He has always sought to maintain a balance between prosecution and defence work.  He has been twice commended by constabularies for his work in trafficking and non-recent sexual offences cases.