Somewhat of an anomaly in the ranking, Hugh James largely focuses on regulatory and business crime matters, as opposed to conventional crime and fraud. In this context, while it does handle some defence work for existing corporate clients of the firm, the focus remains on prosecution matters for public sector clients including local authorities and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. The 'extremely knowledgeable' Justin Davies handles much of this and is best-known for his representation of the South Wales Fire & Rescue Service on its fire safety prosecution work, an area that he conducts his own advocacy. Regulatory head Martin Jones is the key contact for defence work, including in the context of fraud, money laundering and financial regulation matters.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Hugh James' great asset in criminal work is Justin Davies, who has built a unique practice in regulatory work and in particularly fire safety prosecutions. His knowledge exceptional and he combines that expertise with a friendly and reassuring client facing manner.'
- 'Justin Davies is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in his fields of expertise, which he exudes in his formidable style during the training sessions that he delivers to our new entrants.'
- 'Justin Davies stands out because of his expertise and ability to cut immediately to the core of an issue; he does not waste time (or client money) in pointless arguments or self indulgent pondering, but while he very often will use his skills to disarm an opponent he will always leave them wondering how he did so with such charm and grace.'
- 'Leah Ellison is enthusiastic, professional and friendly.'
Key clients
- Welsh Government
- Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency
- South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
- Mid & West Wales Fire Rescue Service
- Independent Office for Police Conduct
- The City of Cardiff County Council
Work highlights
- Acted for the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency in its prosecution of a defendant for 26 offences contrary to the Fraud Act 2006.
- Acted for Cardiff County Council in its prosecution of Rowshanara Begum, a landlord of a House in Multiple Occupation in Cardiff at which significant safety defects were discovered culminating in the service of an Improvement Notice under the Housing Act 2004.
- Acting for the Managing Director of a number of leading companies in the international gambling sector, regarding an HMRC-related criminal interview in respect of allegations including conspiracy to bribe foreign public officials and conspiracy to launder money.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Martin Jones