Crime

Background

Ben completed pupillage with the CPS in Merseyside in 2020 and was an advocate for the CPS in the Magistrates Court and the Crown Court. Ben has been at the independent bar for over a year, developing a successful criminal practice of both Prosecution and Defence work at Harrington Street.

Ben worked in the CPS Crown Court team charging and managing cases. Ben has an in-depth knowledge of the CPS and has dealt with cases starting as early as advising on police investigations and up to dealing with sentences and ancillary orders.

Prior to qualifying, Ben engaged in charity work providing support and assistance to vulnerable persons, skills which he has developed to establish a foundation for working with a wide range of clients.

Practice Areas Crime

Ben accepts instructions in all areas of criminal law and enjoys a busy practice. Ben acts for the Prosecution and Defence in all matters of criminal law including offences against the person, drug offences, sexual offences and more. He has a wealth of experience in both the Crown Court as well as the Magistrates Court.

Ben is a Category 2 CPS Panel Advocate and has Prosecuted and Defended in a range of Crown Court jury trials. Ben has also represented both the Probation service and Defendants in relation to Probation hearings.

Ben is approachable and professional. Ben has prosecuted and defended at the North Liverpool Community Justice Centre dealing with cases involving mental health issues.

Recent Cases

R v R: Acquittal for a Defendant charged with wounding with intent, and affray.

R v P: Successfully opposed dangerousness submissions regarding a Defendant found guilty of multiple counts of strangulation.

R v J: Secured a 24-month suspended sentence prosecuting a misconduct in a public office case. The case was covered in the Express & Star.

R v M: Secured a suspended sentence order for a Defendant charged with 11 counts including two counts of possession with a bladed article.

R v A: Secured an absolute discharge for a Defendant with significant mental health difficulties charged with public order offences.

R v M: Successful prosecution of protestor under COVID regulations. One of the earliest successful prosecutions under this legislation.

R v S: Represented a youth Defendant, who suffered from mental health difficulties, for a trial of threatening another with a bladed article. Raised objections to the Crown’s application for an adjournment due to ongoing issues, and upon the adjournment being refused no evidence was offered by the Crown.

R v T: Successful prosecution of multiple domestic assaults. With the aid of an interpreter, Ben assisted a vulnerable victim (who had learning difficulties) through his evidence to secure a guilty verdict.

R v W: Successful prosecution under Animal Welfare Act in which a Defendant had neglected their dog.