Raj Chada
Hodge Jones & AllenThe crime, financial crime, and regulatory team at Hodge Jones & Allen are particularly well acclaimed for their work regarding protesters, young defendants, and financial crime. Raj Chada leads the practice. The ‘top-notch’ Chada is greatly experienced in protester law; he also leads other complex matters, notably a manslaughter by gross negligence case, involving two police investigations, an inquest, hospital internal investigation, and criminal proceedings, which has required instruction from pathologist, nursing, and sleeping experts. Laura O’Brien, ’a tremendously hard worker’, specialises in representing young and vulnerable defendants, while Caroline Liggins is regularly instructed to defend both children and adults on serious allegations, including murder, sexual and drug offences. Kerry Spence is an expert in murder and multiple defendant cases, whereas Mike Schwarz currently works on protester and financial fraud matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Hodge Jones & Allen importantly present a human face to its clients at what is a very frightening time in their clients' lives. The team members have a strong knowledge of their area, but if they need clarification they will seek it rather than bluff. There is a strong emphasis on teamwork, with strength in depth.'
- 'Caroline Liggins was always approachable and ready to give advice and reassurance, without ever raising false hope. She was excellent at explaining the legal process, and was adept at managing expectations. Very importantly, she treated me as a fellow human being, even when she had the misfortune to come across me at my lowest ebb.'
- 'They have a unique group working at the highest level on the important and growing defence of protesters who take direct action. They have able in house advocates who have real expertise in this area. This does not come at the expense of their general crime practice.'
- 'Raj Chada has an unrivalled understanding of the growing and complex protest case law. He also leads his team brilliantly, supporting and encouraging the depth of talent. Laura O’Brien is committed and has a good strategic understanding.'
- 'Brilliant team with a range of specialities. They have particular expertise in young defendants, financial crime, and protester work.'
- 'Raj Chada has a great way of getting to the heart of the case and finding the route through to the right result. Top-notch lawyer, top-notch work. Caroline Liggins is a standout specialist for young defendants, vulnerable clients and also for gang related murders. She is at the forefront of changing the industry for the better.'
- 'A full service firm with a particularly strong presence in protest law.'
- 'Laura O'Brien is a tremendously hard worker and always ready to go the extra mile for the client. Raj Chada is a cutting edge human rights lawyer.'
Work highlights
- Acted for Greta Thunberg in relation to arrest in London.
- Acting for Kathleen Crane and others following the Post Office Scandal in relation to their criminal appeals and the statutory Public Inquiry.
- Acting for Durrell Goodall, Reano Walters and Nathanial Williams in appeal, which refers to aspects of the criminal justice system being institutionally racist.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Laura O’Brien
Hodge Jones & AllenPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Raj Chada