Russell-Cooke LLP‘s general crime team is praised by clients for its ’communication, professionalism and engagement‘, and regularly assists high-profile clients in cases with high public interest. The practice is highly experienced with criminal matters involving sexual offences, media related prosecutions, and serious organised crime. Jae Carwardine, described as ’exceptional‘, leads the team, with Martin Rackstraw providing expertise in cases with political and security implications, as well as cases of homicide. Other names to note include associates Jacob Smyth and Abby Ewing. Frances Murray and associate Emily Russell joined the team from Rosenblatt in May 2022 and June 2022 respectively, followed by associate Joanna Schaefer from Kingsbury Ellis Solicitors in September 2022. Associate Keshina Bouri joined from Carson Kaye in January 2024, contributing her deep knowledge of fraud, homicide, and terrorism.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This is my first time working with a legal firm. I have been positively impressed with the communication, professionalism and engagement throughout the process.’
‘Everyone I came in touch with was absolutely exceptional.’
‘Jae Carwardine is an exceptional partner. I have never known a lawyer make themselves so available to clients, even the most challenging ones. She combines unparalleled commitment and empathy with sound strategic acumen. Martin Rackstraw is also very impressive. He has deep experience in crime and extradition. His measured and focused manner commands respect. Diligent, shrewd and a delight to work with. Highly recommended.’
'The service was excellent. The commitment to our case was exceptional. The level of detail was brilliant. Our lawyer collaborated with medical professionals to create a case that was insurmountable. We were hugely relieved and grateful for the outcome of our case, which was achieved by diligence, a keen instinct for strategy, knowledge and experience.'
'We worked with Jae Carwardine who is an exceptionally good lawyer. Jae achieved the best possible outcome for us. She always took the time to make sure we understood what strategies she was employing and why. She was very supportive whilst remaining highly professional. She was able to reassure us whilst always being very realistic about the situation.'
Work highlights
- Represented Kirtland Gill, who stood trial accused of supplying 300 rounds of ammunition to an undercover police officer.
- Represented a local businessman accused of murder.
- Represented an Uber driver charged with an allegation of rape, the circumstances being that our client was alleged to have raped a female customer in his car whilst she was very drunk.
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Practice head
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Jae Carwardine