Praised by counsel for its 'thorough preparation of cases' and its 'exceptional client care' - which extends to attending the Crown Court for hearings - de Maids Solicitors & Advocates has a 'long established reputation' for handling the defence of crime at all levels, from summary only offences to long and complex fraud cases and multi-handed serious crime cases. Recognised by one instructed barrister as the 'premier solicitor in this field in Wales', team head Matthew de Maid 's 'input into any case is always pertinent and valuable'. In addition, his leadership skills also filter through to the rest of the 'hardworking' team, which includes head of the prison department Sarah De Maid and Stephen Jones, who continues to regularly represent clients accused of a variety of serious allegations, including murder, manslaughter, drug supply and fraud.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'In my experience they prepare their cases thoroughly, which certainly assists the advocates instructed.'
- 'The team offers exceptional client care, assists counsel with a proactive service and is available around the clock for the client.'
- 'de Maids is a long-established firm of solicitors with an excellent reputation that is also long-established.'
- 'My experience of the practice is that they pay great attention to client care. They keep regular contact with all of their live matters. They also attend the Crown Court with their clients for hearings, which is increasingly rare.'
- 'Matthew de Maid is a particularly able solicitor, and is someone in whom one can have complete confidence. His input into any case is always pertinent and valuable - even after counsel is instructed he will continue to take a keen interest in the case and will be actively involved in the preparation of the case.'
- 'Matthew de Maid must be the premier solicitor in this field in Wales. Outstanding reputations are hard won and in this case fully deserved.'
- 'The good practice comes from the top. Lazy leadership creates lazy staff. Matthew de Maid has instilled in his practice a genuine hardworking ethic and care for the client.'
Work highlights
- Successfully secured the acquittal of a client accused of conspiracy to supply cocaine as part of an Organised Crime Group.
- Successfully secured the acquittal of a client against murder, manslaughter, robbery charges in a joint enterprise (gang) murder, following a ten-week trial involving five defendants.
- Currently involved in a number of cases challenging the legality and admissibility of “Encrochat” evidence that is relied upon by the prosecution in Operation Venetic drug cases. This includes how and by what means the Encrochat evidence was obtained.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Matthew de Maid