England - London • Crime, fraud and licensing
GT Stewart Limited
The criminal defence practice at GT Stewart Limited is comprised of several specialist teams. The appeals team, led by Greg Stewart, deals with applications to the Court of Appeal and the CCRC. Melanie Krudy co-leads the team and is responsible for training and billing, as well as acting as a higher court advocate. Mel Stooks leads the youth crime team and is particularly commended for her work on cases involving the Modern Slavery Act and her advocacy in the Youth Court. Claire Dissington covers criminal matters in the City of London, while Will Russell leads on private client matters and the South East London team. Sophie Smith leads the South West London team, while Ronnie Manek is the head of the higher court advocacy team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Superb legal firm at the forefront of legal knowledge, tactical skills and supplying legal services. They are one of the few firms who are heavily laden on preparation long before counsel is involved. They have access to experts, know their cases inside out, and are industry front-runners.’
- ‘Will Russell is one of the best solicitors I have ever worked with. His preparation, tactical skills, legal skills, and work ethic are second to none. He is the player every team would want on their side.’
- ‘The youth team cannot be beaten by other solicitors’ firms in London. It is headed up by Mel Stooks who is the walking book on all things youth law! Client care is exceptional, attention to detail and the solicitors’ cradle-to-grave style of casework is fantastic.’
- ‘A very good mixed legal aid and private practice characterised by extremely dedicated and committed professionals who always provide an excellent service no matter how big or small the case.’
- 'A really good firm, committed to criminal defence.'
- 'Will Russell is an exceptionally talented criminal defence lawyer with a very good legal brain to match. Clients would be hard-pressed to find a stronger all-rounder in complex criminal cases.'
- 'GT Stewart Solicitors deserves its reputation for providing top class criminal defence. The criminal team is unparalleled in its commitment to ensuring that all clients get the best possible representation, determinedly going in to bat for those whom they represent.'
Work highlights
- Represented 3 Vietnamese nationals of good character charged with offences of producing a controlled drug of Class B and possession with intent to supply Class B drugs.
- Represented a retired police officer charged with making indecent images. Acquitted following trial.
- Represented one of 4 defendants prosecuted for conspiracy to defraud by being party to a bribery scheme that involved the Ministry of Defence and the Saudi Arabian National Guard.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Greg Stewart, Melanie Krudy, Mel Stooks, Claire Dissington, Will Russell, Sophie Smith, Ronnie Manek