Blackfords LLP

Client Satisfaction

Blackfords LLP houses a leading criminal defence practice, which acts for both legal aid and private clients, with the team often appearing before the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. One of the group's standout features is its vast experience in very high cost cases (VHCCs), and its proficiency in serious fraud matters, an area which managing partner Trevor Francis is a specialist. Co-leading the firm’s financial crime team, Gary Bloxsome is noted for his handling of allegations of money laundering and corruption, and his niche expertise in electoral cases and matters involving allegations of war crimes. Lauded for her work before youth courts, Diana Payne heads the general crimes practice, and is recommended by clients for her ‘rapier sharp tactical skills’. Hannah Giles handles the full gamut of violent crime, sexual offences, and gang crime, while Lucinda Shand represents clients in all stages of an investigation and prosecution, being particularly knowledgeable in international arrest warrants.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Hannah Giles is a powerhouse - organised, focused and very strong on the law.’
‘This is a firm that always puts its clients first and fights for justice for them regardless of reward. The senior partners are driven and very experienced and most importantly can see the wood for the trees.’
‘Gary Bloxsome, the rainmaker, along with Trevor Francis, the driving force behind their ever-growing presence at the top of the market, knows the background to every case on their books. Trevor Francis is charming and a pleasure to deal with but a very clever and tactically superb lawyer.’
‘Clients can be assured that they will receive first class representation; skill, dedication, experience and cool heads. Very collaborative with counsel, accessible and efficient. A joy to work with.’
‘Blackfords LLP is a particularly attentive defence firm. There are always two sets of eyes on each piece of case management. The teams are extremely experienced and have all worked together for a long time, despite the team covering a wide range of seniority.’
‘Diana Payne is an outstanding lawyer. She has a calm and pragmatic approach to her cases and clients. However behind the calm and friendly approach she has a detailed knowledge of the law, takes a very intellectual approach to her cases and has rapier sharp tactical skills.’
‘This is a first class firm with first class solicitors who always go the extra mile. They are committed to the case, whether it is a privately or publicly funded case and place their passion and dedication to the client first and foremost and the defence team.’
‘Blackfords has an extraordinary strength and depth. They can provide a platinum service to all walks of life from the ultra-high net worth individuals to the disaffected kid accused of getting involved in gangs.’

Work highlights

Represented an individual suffering from various mental health disorders who was charged with the attempted murder of her husband.
Acting for a media personality without previous conviction who faces various counts relating to the rape and sexual assault of a female.
Acting for one of multiple defendants in a case involving alleged money laundering to the value of £4m.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.