19th DECEMBER 2024: MEMBERS APPOINTED AS SPECIALIST REGULATORY ADVOCATES
We are pleased to announce that the Regulatory Board that operates a list of Panel Counsel on behalf of the Attorney General has appointed the following members of Chambers to the List of Regulatory Advocates in Health and Safety and Environmental Law:
Tom Nicholson (Grade A Panel)
Chris Moran (Grade A Panel)
Sally Mertens (Grade B Panel)
Ani Yeghikian (Grade B Panel)
Sam Barker (Grade B Panel)
Charles Drinnan (Grade B Panel)
Mahesh Karu (Grade B Panel)
Nicole Shaw (Grade C Panel)
The Regulatory Board comprises the Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency, Office of Rail and Road, Natural Resources Wales, the Care Quality Commission and the Office for Product Safety and Standards.
14th DECEMBER 2024: TWO HARCOURT BUILDINGS MEMBERS AWARDED NEW GRADINGS
Members of 2 Harcourt Buildings have been awarded new gradings by the Crown Prosecution Service and other specialist panels. Congratulations all.
Chris Moran – Fraud and Counter-Terrorism Special Panel Member, level 4.
William Goss – CPS level 4 and CPS Serious Crime Group Specialist Panel Member, level 3.
Amy Oliver – Serious Fraud Office Prosecution B Panel and CPS Serious Crime Group Specialist Panel Member, level 3.
Page Nyame – CPS level 3.
Nicole Shaw – CPS level 2.
10th DECEMBER 2024: FORMER LAWYER SENTENCED FOR FRAUDULENTLY OBTAINING PUBLIC FUNDING TO MAKE IRAQ WAR CLAIMS AGAINST BRITISH SOLDIERS
A former prominent human rights solicitor has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment suspended for two years at Southwark Crown Court in a case prosecuted by John Ojakovoh as Leading Counsel. In this complex and sensitive historic case arising from the Iraq War, the defendant had earlier admitted, during his trial, that he fraudulently obtained Legal Aid funding, later used to bring very serious allegations, subsequently found by an Independent Inquiry to be without foundation, against British soldiers. The defendant, described in sentencing as ‘thoroughly dishonest’, had failed to disclose, when applying for Legal Aid in 2007, that he had broken fundamental rules of his firm’s Legal Aid Contract and his Professional Code, by enlisting an Iraqi middleman to obtain clients by cold calling in Southern Iraq and paying him cash for each client he referred. Confiscation proceedings will follow.
John Ojakovoh was instructed as Leading Counsel for the prosecution by the CPS’s Serious Economic Organised Crime and International Directorate (SEOCID) and the case was investigated by the National Crime Agency.
Media: BBC, Sky News, The Daily Mail
28th OCTOBER 2024: CONVICTIONS SECURED IN MURDER AND ATTEMPTED MURDER CASE
Sean Brunton KC led Amy Oliver in the prosecution of 64-year-old Kenneth Walker for the murder and attempted murder of two brothers. Mr Walker was the brothers’ stepfather and they had attended his home to catch up. Mr Walker attacked them both with a large combat knife.
Mr Walker’s girlfriend Jane Byrne was convicted of perverting the course of justice and assisting an offender for her actions in cleaning up the crime scene, lying to police, providing Mr Walker with her phone, and updating him on the investigation.
Media: The Basingstoke Gazette
22nd OCTOBER 2024: CONVICTION SECURED IN HUMAN TRAFFICKING CONSPIRACY CASE
Sarah Gaunt led in the successful prosecution of a European Human Trafficking conspiracy involving multiple illegal migrants over a substantial period of time via several different routes and modes of transport, through or into several EU countries. The defendants will be sentenced in due course.
The case was investigated by the National Crime Agency and Sarah was instructed by the Crown Prosecution Service’s Serious Economic, Organised Crime and International Directorate (SEOCID), Birmingham.
Media: NCA, Sky News, BBC, The Daily Mail
29th OCTOBER 2024: ACQUITTAL SECURED
An American pilot has been found not guilty of kidnapping a nine-year-old girl outside Harrods in central London and sexually assaulting her. Robert Prussak was charged with Kidnapping, Kidnapping with intent to commit a sexual offence, administering a substance with intent and three counts of sexual assault.
Catherine Donnelly defended at trial instructed by Mohsin Ariff at Lloyds PR Solicitors.
Media: BBC
21st OCTOBER 2024: KIDNAPPING TRIAL COMMENCES
Robert Prussak goes on trial charged with abducting a 9-year-old girl from outside Harrods. The girl who was on holiday with her family from France was kidnapped outside Harrods before allegedly being drugged and sexually assaulted in an ordeal described by the prosecution as 'every parent’s worst nightmare'.
Catherine Donnelly defends Mr. Prussak at trial. She is instructed by Mohsin Ariff at Lloyds PR Solicitors
Media: The Telegraph
21st OCTOBER 2024: ELECTION TO THE BAR COUNCIL
Chambers is delighted to announce that Sarah Gaunt has been elected as a member of the The Bar Council of England and Wales, representing ‘self-employed junior counsel over 7 years in practice’.
The Bar Council is the governing body for all practising barristers in England and Wales, representing around 18,000 members.
Sarah's three-year term will commence on 1 January 2025.
18th OCTOBER 2024: TEENAGER DETAINED FOR LIFE
Teenager who had been convicted, following a trial, of the attempted murder of two fellow teenagers and a housemaster at a boarding school in Devon was today detained for life with a minimum term of 12 years. James Dawes KC leading James Caldwell acted for the prosecution at both trial and sentence.
Media: BBC
17th OCTOBER 2024: TWO HARCOURT BUILDINGS AND ITS MEMBERS RANKED IN 2025 CHAMBERS AND PARTNERS
We are delighted to announce that 2 Harcourt Buildings and 7 members individually have been ranked in the Crime and Financial Crime categories within the 2025 edition of Chambers and Partners UK.
Crime – 2 Harcourt Buildings - Band 4 London (Bar)
‘2 Harcourt Buildings is a recognised set for general crime with members of chambers prosecuting and defending the full range of criminal cases. Barristers at the set frequently take instruction in serious proceedings, many of them involving homicide, terrorism, sexual offences, drugs and child abuse. Recent examples of work include R v Prajapati, regarding the alleged murder of an eleven week old baby by her parents.
"The set has brilliant clerks."
"Clerking wise, they're brilliant. In Keith Poynter, they have the senior clerk who every firm would want."’
Individually Ranked Barristers London (Bar):
CRIME
James Dawes KC "James is a prosecutor to the core. He's detailed and hardcore from beginning to end, but charming. You are in for a fight." [Band 5]
Paul Cavin KC " He is very smooth, calm and an excellent opponent. He exudes charm and has the forensic detail you would expect at the bar."
"Paul is very impressive." [Band 5]
Dominic Hockley "He has the confidence and good judgement to advise and act on the most complex matters. He is a highly effective advocate and has achieved outstanding results when instructed."
"Dominic is a class act. He is very bright, personable and down to earth. He grasps issues and turns work around very quickly and he is very experienced on his feet."
"His attention to detail is unmatched. He is extremely hard working and has complete control of court." [Band 3]
Catherine Donnelly "Catherine is an extremely capable barrister. She works extremely hard, has fabulous judgement and is brilliant with both the jury and the judge."
"She is an outstanding advocate with a proven track record of success in complex and high-profile cases. She has a practical approach and conducts her cases to an exceptional standard."
"Catherine is extremely helpful, with vast knowledge and is a great source of reference. She is extremely experienced in working with vulnerable defendants and is very compassionate." [Band 4]
Christopher Stimpson "He is really good with clients and gives excellent advice. He is confident, charming and a good advocate." [Band 5]
FINANCIAL CRIME
Jane Osborne KC "Jane is very well respected by judges and reads in properly, really going into the nitty gritty."
"Jane Osborne KC is very tactical in her approach." [Band 4]
Individually Ranked Barristers North Eastern (Bar):
CRIME
Julian Jones "Julian is fastidious." [Band 3]
We would like to thank those who took the time to act as referees for this process.
10th OCTOBER 2024: DISCRETIONARY LIFE SENTENCE FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER
Sam Barker prosecuted Brwa Shorsh at his trial for Attempted Murder, and today Mr Shorsh received a discretionary life sentence for pushing his victim in front of an oncoming train.
Media: The Evening Standard
7th OCTOBER 2024: WELCOME TO OUR NEW PUPILS
We are delighted to welcome two new Pupils: Fenn Van den Brande and Walter Verkaik who start their first six pupillages today.
Fenn and Walter are under the supervision of Nick Alexander and Jenny Burgess respectively.
We wish them an enjoyable and fulfilling time with us.
2nd OCTOBER 2024: TWO HARCOURT BUILDINGS AND ITS MEMBERS RANKED IN 2025 LEGAL 500
We are delighted to announce that 2 Harcourt Buildings and 17 of its members (in 3 different categories) have been ranked within the Legal 500 UK 2025 publication.
LONDON BAR – CRIME – TIER 4
2 Harcourt Buildings is described as ‘an excellent set that conducts high-end prosecution and defence work’ and another client testimonial states ‘this set is outstanding in all respects; calibre of counsel, top-flight individuals with clerks who 'are unmatchable in service and client care’.
'Keith Poynter is a great clerk and Gary Wright is also very personable and easy to work with.'
'Senior clerk Keith Poynter is first rate in his client care and ability to provide the perfect counsel for each case.'
'Gary Wright and Keith Poynter are utterly client focused, extremely responsive, and know the market inside out. They are also very adept at encouraging and nurturing new and existing streams of work.'
'The clerks are superb - they have a lovely ethos and work hard to make sure that chambers is run efficiently and well. They are a joy to deal with.'
'2 Harcourt Buildings is an excellent set that conducts high-end prosecution and defence work. They have a range of seniority of counsel who are suitable for a wide breadth of matter types.'
'They are a good set with good counsel.'
'One of the best sets of chambers in London with barristers of the highest quality.'
'2 Harcourt Buildings has real strength in depth when it comes to prosecution. They never disappoint.'
INDIVIDUALS
CRIME
SILKS
Leading Silks
Jane Osborne KC ‘Jane is tactically astute and skilled at handling young clients. She holds the respect of the court and her judgement is spot on every time.' (Tier 3)
James Dawes KC 'James is never underprepared. He is direct and determined. His cross-examination is forceful and effective and his legal submissions are uncompromising. Despite his strong approach to prosecution he is delightful company and has a great sense of humour.' (Tier 4)
Paul Cavin KC ‘Paul is calm under pressure, able to assimilate vast amounts of information quickly, a smooth communicator, and clever.’ (Tier 4)
2024 Silks
Kate Blumgart KC ‘Kate is charming to have as an opponent but is always thoroughly prepared and completely on top of the case. She is a really persuasive advocate who juries warm to. Her cross-examination of defendants is usually devastating because she is well prepared and extremely sharp.’
JUNIORS
Leading Juniors
Catherine Donnelly ‘Catherine is an extremely capable barrister. She works extremely hard, has fabulous judgement and is brilliant with both the jury and the judge. Catherine can go toe-to-toe with silks and come out on top.’ (Tier 2)
Tom Nicholson ‘Tom's written advocacy and oral advocacy is very good; he is clear, to the point and covers all legal issues. He is able to present complex cases to a very high standard and is confident when dealing with tricky issues. Tom quickly gains the trust and respect of all present in the courtroom due to his legally sound judgement, his experience, confidence and calm nature.' (Tier 2)
Sam Barker ‘Sam is an exceptional advocate for his call. He combines excellent knowledge with common sense practical application.’ (Tier 3)
Jenny Burgess ‘Jenny is an excellent advocate. Her meticulous attention to detail is obvious from the ease with which she takes the jury through large volumes of evidence. Her sound judgement and confidence means that she knows which points to take and which to leave.' (Tier 4)
Edward Franklin ‘Edward's organisation and legal knowledge is impressive. He has a close attention to detail and excellent judgement. In relation to advocacy, he makes detailed submissions which has the court spellbound.' (Tier 4)
Natalia Constantine ‘Natalia combines razor-sharp intellect with an ability to deal robustly, but still courteously, with multiple experienced defence counsel. She takes responsibility for her aspect of the work without unnecessarily troubling others in the team. Natalia is an incisive advocate who gets to the real issue very quickly.’ (Tier 4)
Toby Fitzgerald (Tier 4)
Rising Stars
William Goss ‘William is an outstanding advocate. He has great flair in court, cross-examines beautifully, and has the ability to deal with opponents with courtesy but firmness. His instincts are superb, and his work is always of the absolute highest quality. He is quite obviously a star in the making.’
FRAUD: CRIME
SILKS
Leading Silks
JUNIORS
Leading Juniors
John Ojakovoh ‘A junior with a highly analytical approach to cases.' (Tier 3)
Dominic Hockley ‘Dominic is charismatic, responsive, charming and effective in court. He goes above and beyond to ensure any prosecution is presented in the most polished and perfected manner for the jury to understand. He is dogged and tenacious in ensuring a just result.' (Tier 3)
Tom Nicholson ‘Tom is very responsive and hard-working. He is able to engage the jury and judge with great ease and is a pleasure to watch on his feet.’ (Tier 4)
PROFESSIONAL DISCIPLINARY AND REGULATORY LAW
JUNIORS
Leading Juniors
Charles Drinnan (Tier 4)
ON OTHER CIRCUITS:
Sarah Gaunt is ranked as a Leading Junior (Tier 2) in Crime (General and Fraud) - Regional Bar (Midland Circuit) and Regional Bar (South Eastern Circuit).
Julian Jones is ranked as a Leading Junior (Tier 3) in Crime (General and Fraud) Regional Bar – North Eastern Circuit. 'A diligent junior with an authoritative court presence.'
Chambers would like to express their gratitude to all of their clients who took the time to act as referees.
To read the full set overview please click here
2nd OCTOBER 2024: FORMER LAWYER CONVICTED OF FRAUDULENTLY OBTAINING PUBLIC FUNDING TO MAKE IRAQ WAR CLAIMS AGAINST BRITISH SOLDIERS
John Ojakovoh, as Leading Counsel prosecuting a historic fraud case at Southwark Crown Court, secured the conviction this week of a former lawyer who had fraudulently obtained Legal Aid funding which was later used to bring very serious allegations, subsequently found in an Independent Inquiry to be without foundation, against British soldiers in connection with the Iraq War. The defendant, as Principal Solicitor of a then-prominent Human Rights law firm, failed to disclose, when applying for Legal Aid in 2007, that he had broken fundamental rules governing the acquisition of publicly funded clients in that he had enlisted an Iraqi middleman to cold call potential clients in Iraq and had paid the middleman cash for each client he referred. The defendant will be sentenced in December.
John Ojakovoh was instructed as Leading Counsel for the prosecution by the CPS Serious Economic Organised Crime and International Directorate (SEOCID).
Media: BBC, The Daily Mail, The Mirror
27th SEPTEMBER 2024: CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW TENANT
We are delighted to announce that Alice Hewett has accepted an offer to join Chambers, following the successful completion of her pupillage. We wish her every success for the future.
16th SEPTEMBER 2024: WELCOME
We welcome Nate Lara, an Australian Solicitor Advocate specialising in criminal law who today starts with us his reduced 6-month pupillage as a Transferring Lawyer. His pupil supervisor is James Caldwell.
5 SEPTEMBER 2024: SUCCESSFUL CHILD CRUELTY PROSECUTION
Jane Osborne KC leading Nicholas Alexander successfully prosecuted the mother of a child with cerebral palsy of two counts of child cruelty. Counsel were instructed by the Crown Prosecution Service London South.
The jury were sure that the mother both interfered with the feeding machine that was providing her daughter with nutrition whilst she was in hospital and carried out acts intended to lead the medical staff to over hydrate her daughter. Due to the nature of the acts of cruelty the case involved complex medical evidence from an expert paediatric gastroenterologist which had to be simplified to ensure that the entire picture was clear for the jury and they understood the potentially fatal consequences from the actions of the defendant.
The defendant was remanded in custody and will be sentenced in October.
31st JULY 2024: ATTEMPTED MURDER CONVICTION SECURED
Sam Barker successfully prosecutes man for Attempted Murder after he pushed a random stranger onto the tube track at Oxford Circus.
After just 32 minutes of deliberation, the jury returned the guilty verdict in a case where the defendant was accused of trying to kill an entirely innocent man who was on his way home from work. The prosecution’s case was that the defendant had waited at the platform for over half an hour, and then shoved the man into the path of an approaching Victoria Line train doing almost 60kph.
He will be sentenced next month.
Media: BBC, The Daily Mail, The Times, The Evening Standard
1st JULY 2024: WOMAN DETAINED INDEFINITELY FOR KILLING HER TWO CHILDREN AND STABBING HER HUSBAND
Amy Oliver acted as Junior Prosecuting counsel, led by Peter Grieves-Smith of the Crown Prosecution Service. The murder trial could not take place in the usual way as the defendant was found to be unfit to plead, due to suffering from mental disorders, so the jury was instead asked to determine whether the defendant did the acts. After hearing the evidence, the jury found all the acts proved, namely that the defendant had killed her two children and stabbed her husband (who survived the attack). The defendant was ordered to be detained in a secure hospital, with a s.41 restriction order not limited in time.
1st JULY 2024: CONSPIRACY TO SUPPLY & MONEY LAUNDERING SENTENCING
Mark Gadsden and Edward Franklin successfully prosecuted a prominent member of an Albanian organised crime group on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service and National Crime Agency.
Bujar Cozminca purchased and supplied 100 kilograms of cocaine, with a wholesale value of £3.5m and a street value of around £8m, in addition to laundering £2.5m of criminal cash.
The defendant was deported following his last conviction at Bristol Crown Court in 2013 for conspiracy to supply cocaine, but he returned illegally to the UK in order to carry on dealing in cocaine on a far greater scale.
The prosecution case was that he was a “national distributor" playing a leading role in a “professional, sophisticated, commercial, pan-national operation to sell large amounts of high purity cocaine in both kilo and multi-kilo amounts”.
Cozminca was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 28th June 2024.
Operation Venetic: Albanian OCG member jailed over multi million pound drugs offences | National Crime Agency
27th JUNE 2024: ORGANISED CRIME GANG LEADER SENTENCED
Following the successful prosecution by John Ojakovoh and Edward Franklin, Jonathan Strogylos was jailed for 31 years at Isleworth Crown Court for being the leader of an organised criminal gang heavily involved in cocaine supply and importation.
The Metropolitan Police investigation and CPS review cracked the illegal operation through the encrypted Encrochat messages the gang members were sending each other.
The CPS will now commence a proceeds of crime case so the gang does not profit from this illegal activity.
21st JUNE 2024: CONVICTIONS SECURED
James Dawes KC and James Caldwell successfully prosecuted a 10-week trial of a 17-year-old boy for three counts of attempted murder committed at Blundell’s School Tiverton, a private boarding school. The Defendant had claimed to be sleepwalking during the attacks and called an expert on sleepwalking from the USA; despite this the jury returned 3 guilty verdicts. James and James were instructed by Jo Pearce and Helen Phillips of South West CPS.
Media: BBC, The Telegraph, The Guardian, The Independent
18th JUNE 2024: WELCOME
We are delighted to announce that Sarah Gaunt (formerly of the 36 Group) has accepted an invitation to join chambers.
Sarah Gaunt is an experienced criminal advocate who defends and prosecutes. She is a Grade 4 prosecutor on the General, Serious Economic and Organised Crime and International Directorate (SEOCID) and Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) lists and is regularly instructed by complex and specialised CPS divisions. Sarah specialises in Serious Organised Crime; Cybercrime; Fraud/Money Laundering; Homicide and Serious Crime including Serious Sexual Offences. Sarah has recently been involved in the Undercover Policing Inquiry (2019-2024).
Sarah has presented several seminars, both domestically and internationally, on matters such as cybercrime, cryptocurrency & corporate compliance. A Lincolns Inn advocacy tutor, Sarah sits on the Bar Council Chambers Management and Representation Committees. Sarah was appointed a DDJ (Civil) in 2022 and sits as an LQC in Police Disciplinary Hearings. Sarah has consistently been a Leading Individual in the Legal 500 rankings over previous years.
Please direct all enquiries to Keith Poynter – kpoynter@2hb.co.uk and 020 7353 2112
10th JUNE 2024: WELCOME
We are delighted to announce Christopher Moran is joining us as a practising door tenant.
Chris was called in 2007 and defends and prosecutes in some of the most complex and serious cases across the country. In addition, he has considerable experience in a variety of regulatory cases.
His profile may be viewed here.
7th JUNE 2024: NEW HEAD OF CHAMBERS
2 Harcourt Buildings is pleased to announce the appointment of Jane Osborne KC as the new Head of Chambers. Jane has been a member of chambers since she became a tenant in 2003 following a third six pupillage.
Jane takes on the role from James Dawes KC and Paul Cavin KC who have stepped down after 6 years in the role. They both remain in active practice in chambers. Chambers is extremely grateful for everything that they have done during their time in the role and the way they have navigated some turbulent times at the criminal bar.
28th MAY 2024: CONVICTIONS SECURED
Following a 2-month trial at the Old Bailey, three defendants were convicted today in respect of the murder of a 25-year-old man and the false imprisonment of his mother. Riches Obi was stabbed to death and his mother, Bernadette Ortet, was bound with cable ties in her bedroom at their flat in Elephant and Castle in November 2020. Jurick Croes was convicted of the murder of Riches Obi, and he and his co-defendants, Raichell Felomina and Suvenca Martis, were found guilty of falsely imprisoning Bernadette Ortet. Miss Martis was also convicted of perverting the course of justice. The offences were motivated by disagreements arising from a sham marriage scheme in which Bernadette Ortet and the defendants were involved. HHJ Lickley KC will sentence all three defendants on 2nd July 2024.
Tom Nicholson, led by Jennifer Knight KC, was instructed by the CPS London Homicide Team.
Media: The Independent, Met Police News, Sky News
22nd MAY 2024: TRIAL SET FOR OCTOBER
Catherine Donnelly defends 56-year-old man accused of kidnapping, drugging and sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl. He denies the allegations and the trial is set for October 2024.
Catherine is instructed by Mohsin Arif at Lloyds PR Solicitors.
Media: The Independent,Evening Standard
21st MAY 2024: NEW TENANT
Chambers is delighted to announce that Ani Yeghikian (previously of Lamb Buildings) has accepted an invitation to join 2 Harcourt Buildings. Ani has a successful multi-disciplinary criminal practice representing individuals, companies and government departments encompassing serious and complex crime, Financial Services and Public Inquiries.
Please direct all enquiries to Keith Poynter.
14th MAY 2024: CONVICTIONS SECURED
Following a 5-week trial at Leicester Crown Court, Kate Blumgart KC and Jenny Burgess secured the convictions of five people for their part in the killing of Junior Osborne last year. A boy aged 16 was found guilty of murder and four other teenagers were convicted of manslaughter. All were also convicted of possession of a bladed article.
CCTV footage showed the group of youths following Mr Osborne as he was cycling before stabbing him to death.
The defendants will be sentenced in June.
Kate and Jenny were instructed by the East Midlands Branch of the Crown Prosecution Service.
Media: BBC, Leicester Mercury
7th MAY 2024: ONLINE SAFETY AND THE EUROS – THREE YEARS ON
Mahesh Karu explores what’s changed since 2021. Read his article here.
3rd APRIL 2024: HEALTH AND CARE PROFESSIONS COUNCIL
HCPC v SK: At a fitness to practice final hearing before The Health and Care Professions Council Conduct and Competence Committee, Mahesh Karu was instructed to cross-examine a vulnerable complainant on behalf of the unrepresented registrant paramedic. The registrant was accused of a campaign of bullying and harassment over the course of 11 years, with 9 specific incidents alleged. The complaint was the sole live witness for the HCPC. Following cross-examination, the HCPC found that the witness was not credible and that each of the individual incidents were not well founded.
29th APRIL 2024: FIREARMS SENTENCING
A man was sentenced for firearms offences last week at Lewes Crown Court in a case prosecuted by John Ojakovoh. The defendant had earlier pleaded guilty to possession of a converted pistol and compatible ammunition, and seven other blank-firing pistols readily convertible to fire live bullets. The weapons came to light in an NCA dawn raid. Following a two-day hearing, the sentencing judge sentenced the defendant to 3 years and 4 months’ imprisonment, reduced to 2 years and 10 months’ on account of his guilty plea.
John Ojakovoh, and Sally Mertens who appeared for the Crown on the second day of sentencing, were instructed to prosecute the case by Inderjit Khaira of the CPS Serious Economic Organised Crime and International Directorate.
Media: National Crime Agency
29th APRIL 2024: CLASS A DRUG IMPORTATION CONVICTIONS AFTER TRIAL
John Ojakovoh and Edward Franklin secured convictions last week at Isleworth Crown Court for conspiracies to import and supply cocaine. Encrypted messages obtained by the Police following Operation Venetic, a wider investigation into the encrypted messaging service EncroChat, evidenced an importation route into the UK that had been running for three years. In less than three weeks in 2020, cocaine with a street value of up to £132 million was imported. The defendant denied being the person who had operated under an EncroChat pseudonym as leader of the UK importation operation; but the jury convicted him unanimously of both conspiracies. He awaits sentencing, together with two co-defendants who had pleaded Guilty shortly before the trial.
John Ojakovoh and Edward Franklin were instructed to prosecute the case by Giorgina Venturella of the CPS Serious Economic Organised Crime and International Directorate. The case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command.
Media: WiredGov
25th APRIL 2024: PROSECUTING COUNSEL
James Dawes KC and James Caldwell act as Prosecuting Counsel in an ongoing trial at Exeter Crown Court, instructed by Helen Phillips of South West CPS. The trial is expected to last 6 weeks.
Media: BBC News
10th APRIL 2024: CONVICTIONS SECURED
Amy Oliver acted as second junior prosecuting counsel in a case involving what has been described as “Britain’s biggest benefit fraud”. Amy assisted in the preparation and bringing of the case against the five defendants who all, ultimately, pleaded guilty today to fraud and money laundering offences. They are due to be sentenced at Wood Green Crown Court in May.
Amy was instructed by Ben Reid of the CPS Serious Economic, Organised & International Directorate who stated “For a number of years, these defendants conspired to commit industrial-scale fraud against the Universal Credit system, costing the taxpayer more than £50 million”.
Media: BBC, ITV, Sky, Crown Prosecution Service Press Release
2nd APRIL 2024: DRUNK DRIVER CONVICTED OF KILLING TWO
Sally Mertens secures the conviction of a woman for causing the deaths of two of her passengers and serious injury to another, by dangerous driving.
The defendant was driving her convertible Mini Cooper in the early hours of 16th July 2022 when she overtook another car at considerable speed and crashed, causing the two rear-seat passengers, who were not wearing seatbelts and were ‘twerking’ at the time, to be flung from the car and killed. Her boyfriend, who was sitting in the front passenger seat, was also seriously injured. All of them had been drinking and the defendant was over the limit for alcohol.
Following a trial at the Old Bailey, a jury convicted the defendant unanimously on all counts and she will be sentenced on Friday.
Sally was instructed by the London Homicide Unit of the Crown Prosecution Service.
Media: The Sunday Times
1st APRIL 2024: APPOINTMENT TO THE INSOLVENCY SERVICE
Dominic Hockley appointed as Standing Counsel to The Insolvency Service Legal Services Directorate (Criminal Team).
Following a recent competitive recruitment exercise, Dominic and three others have been appointed as Standing Counsel to the Insolvency Service for a period of three years.
18th MARCH 2024: SILKS’ DAY
Our warmest congratulations to Kate Blumgart KC upon her appointment as King’s Counsel. We are very proud of her achievement and wish her continued success for the future.
1st MARCH 2024: BURGLAR SENTENCED
Prosecuted by Jenny Burgess, the defendant was sentenced to 11 and a half years’ imprisonment for a spate of burglaries culminating in the tying up and violent assault on a third and final victim.
The defendant stole property from the homes of three young men each of whom he had befriended whilst on a night out and accompanied home. He had sexual intercourse with the first two victims following which he stole high-value clothing and electrical goods. The third victim was tied up, gagged and beaten by the defendant and a second man before his address was also burgled.
Jenny was instructed by Francis Gomer of the Crown Prosecution Service.
23rd FEBRUARY 2024: SUCCESSFUL APPEAL AGAINST CONVICTION
Paul Cavin KC, leading Patrick Hill (3 Raymond Buildings), successfully represented Bob Stewart MP in his appeal against conviction to Southwark Crown Court. Following a retrial, the Court quashed his Magistrates’ Court conviction of last year for an alleged racially aggravated public order offence.
Paul was instructed by Ellen Peart and Rishi Joshi of BCL Solicitors LLP.
22nd FEBRUARY 2024: DENTIST RECEIVES HOSPITAL ORDER
Sally Mertens successfully prosecutes a dentist for offences relating to his sustained campaign of harassment against two individuals and other staff linked to the General Dental Council (“GDC”) and which included him threatening to kill his local MP, Barry Gardiner.
On the 15th of September 2023, Amit Kerai, pleaded guilty to four offences: (1) putting Keith Percival in fear of violence by harassment, (2) putting Emily Vidovic in fear of violence by harassment, (3) making a threat to kill Barry Gardiner MP, and (4) sending an electronic communication with intent to cause distress or anxiety to call centre staff at the General Dental Council.
Following his suspension from practice by the GDC in 2018, Mr Kerai began a four-year campaign of harassment against fellow dentist Keith Percival, who had sat on the local dental committee, and his daughter who worked as an administrator for the same organisation. Mr Kerai sought help from his local MP, Barry Gardiner, visiting him at his constituency surgery in February 2022. He later threatened to kill him.
Today at the Old Bailey, the Recorder of London sentenced him to a Hospital Order. He was also made subject to a Restraining Order for an indefinite period.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-68367110
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/barry-gardiner-amit-kerai-dentist-b2500883.html
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1869659/dentist-threatened-to-kill-labour-mp-barry-gardiner
19th FEBRUARY 2024: ACQUITTAL SECURED
Today at the Old Bailey, Fer Chinner secured the acquittal of her client who was on trial for two conspiracies to murder. Fer was instructed as Junior Counsel.
At the conclusion of the prosecution case it was successfully argued by the Defence that the prosecution evidence had not stood up to cross-examination and was inherently flawed. The Judge ruled there was no case to answer on all charges and directed the jury to return verdicts of Not Guilty.
The client had been arrested by the Police in 2021, accused of being the gunman in a drive- by shooting. The prosecution case was that two men were targeted by the defendants who carefully planned to murder the two men. Shots were fired at the two men from a stolen Mitsubishi bearing false plates. The client denied being in the vehicle at the time of the shooting despite being picked up on CCTV running from the spot where the vehicle had been burnt out.
The Defence successfully argued that the prosecution evidence could not prove presence at the scene of the shooting, and that what evidence there was of participation was insufficient to prove an intention to kill.
Counsel were instructed by Guven Atesh of Atesh Solicitors.
14th FEBRUARY 2024: CONVICTIONS SECURED IN OPERATION DAPHNIS
Sally Mertens, leading Amy Oliver/Joe Weeks, was instructed by the CPS Complex Casework Unit (East Mids) to prosecute a seven-handed conspiracy to steal and associated conspiracy to conceal/disguise/convert/transfer/remove criminal property, involving cars worth in excess of a million pounds.
After a five-week trial, and six hours of deliberation, the jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts in relation to three defendants. Four defendants had entered pleas of guilty in March 2022. Sentencing has been adjourned to a date to be fixed.
25th JANUARY 2024: SENTENCE OF IMPRISONMENT FOR MAN WHO DIRECTED SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILDREN
Prosecuted by Toby FitzGerald, today a defendant received a total sentence of 13 years and six months’ imprisonment for multiple international sexual offences committed in relation to young complainants located in the United States. The defendant made live internet contact with children in the United States, one of whom was under 13 years old, and caused or incited them to perform sexual acts. He was also sentenced for possessing multiple indecent images of children and for an offence of possessing extreme pornography.
13th FEBRUARY 2023: COVENTRY GANGSTER CONVICTED OF STRANGLING WOMAN AND HIDING HER BODY UNDER A BED
Paul Cavin KC and William Goss today secured the conviction of Shannon Grant for the murder of Natasha Morais, following a four-week trial at Leicester Crown Court. Natasha Morais died on 22nd June 2023 having been strangled using cable ties. Burn injuries to her body also revealed a level of torture using heated metal tools. Her body was found hidden in the base of an Ottoman-style bed. The defendant will be sentenced on 21st March 2024.
Paul and William were instructed for the prosecution by the CPS Complex Casework Unit (East Midlands).
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-68285595
https://metro.co.uk/2024/02/13/killer-caught-camera-buying-cable-ties-hours-killing-woman-20273613/
23rd JANUARY 2024: KATE BLUMGART TO BE APPOINTED KING’S COUNSEL
It is with great delight that 2HB announces the King’s approval of the Lord Chancellor’s recommendation that Kate Blumgart be appointed one of His Majesty’s Counsel.
Kate will be sworn in at Westminster Hall on the 18th March 2024, presided by The Lord Chancellor where he will formally bestow the title of King's Counsel.
We congratulate Kate and wish her the very best in Silk!
19th JANUARY 2024: ACQUITTAL SECURED
Following a 10-day trial, Jenny Burgess secured the acquittal of a defendant accused of possessing a firearm. The defendant - who was only 17 years old at the time - was arrested after armed police stopped the Uber in which he was travelling in North London.
His adult co-defendant was convicted of arranging for an unidentified third party to pass the firearm into the taxi. He awaits sentence.
Jenny's client admitted carrying a knife at the time of the police-stop and was given a 12-month conditional discharge for this offence.
Jenny was instructed by Mohsin Arif and William Giller of Lloyds PR.
12th JANUARY 2024: MOTHER AND HER BOYFRIEND SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDER OF 18 MONTH-OLD
Jack Benham and Sian Hedges, who were convicted in November 2023 of murdering Sian Hedges’ son Alfie Phillips, following a frenzied and sustained attack on him in November 2020, were sentenced today at Maidstone Crown Court. Mr Justice Cavanagh, referring to the assault on the 18 month-old as ‘vicious and brutal’ imposed life sentences on both defendants, with minimum terms of 23 years and 19 year respectively.
Jennifer Knight KC and William Goss were instructed for the prosecution by the CPS South East Complex Casework Unit.
4th JANUARY 2024: CUSTODIAL SENTENCES FOR CARE HOME RESIDENTS’ ABUSERS
Kate Blumgart and James Caldwell secure convictions of three defendants accused of ill-treating residents at a care home in Sutton. The defendants were convicted by a jury following a 4-week trial at Croydon Crown Court last year and sentenced today to a total of 5½ years’ imprisonment.
The defendants were employed as support workers at Grove House care home in Sutton which provided residential care for those with learning disabilities, mental illness and complex needs.
Two male residents suffered abuse at the hands of the defendants which included being sprayed with water, verbally insulted and humiliated, locked in a room, dragged by their hands and legs and roughly man-handled, denied food and having their clothing and possessions deliberately damaged.
These crimes have been described as “…as shocking example of a disability hate crime, involving abuse of very vulnerable people with complex needs”.
Kate and James were instructed by the Crown Prosecution Service (London South).
https://www.cps.gov.uk/london-south/news/three-men-jailed-abusing-residents-sutton-care-home
21st DECEMBER 2023: ATTEMPTED MURDER CONVICTION SECURED
Kate Blumgart and Charles Drinnan secure convictions for Attempted Murder, Wounding with Intent, Attempted Wounding with Intent, ABH and Possession of Knifes after a 14-day trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
The Defendant attacked members of the public with Stanley knife blades. The victim of the Attempted Murder had his throat slit nearby to the Tower of London in what was a savage, unprovoked and random attack. The other attacks were similarly random and violent, with the Defendant slashing members of the public with Stanley knife blades on buses and in a pub. The case involved novel points of law and required careful presentation as the incidents were split across five dates over a two-year period in locations around the country.
The Defendant will be sentenced in Spring 2024.
Kate Blumgart and Charles Drinnan were instructed for the prosecution by the CPS Crown Court North-East Unit.
20th DECEMBER 2023: DEATH BY DANGEROUS DRIVING CONVICTION AND SENTENCE
Jenny Burgess secures conviction of Defendant for Causing Death by Dangerous Driving. The defendant was convicted by a jury following a 9-day trial at Southwark Crown Court and sentenced to 11 years’ imprisonment.
The victim was a family man in his 50s who was crossing the road outside Earls Court tube station in the early hours of 1st January 2021 when he was hit by a Zipcar driven by the defendant and which was travelling at almost twice the speed limit. The Zipcar had been dishonestly hired by the defendant using his co-defendant’s account and there was evidence that the defendant had been drinking before the collision.
The defendant failed to stop or seek assistance at the scene. He subsequently called his co-defendant admitting that he had “done a hit and run”.
The co-defendant had been previously sentenced to 1 year’ imprisonment after admitting perverting the course of justice after he had lied to the police and to Zipcar about the vehicle being stolen.
Jenny Burgess was instructed by Miranda Jollie of CPS Homicide.
https://www.mylondon.news/news/west-london-news/muhammed-gure-hit-run-dad-28323283
20th DECEMBER 2023: COMPANY FINED £100,000 FOR BREACH OF HEALTH & SAFETY REGULATIONS
Charles Drinnan successfully represented the Health and Safety Executive in a Prosecution against a marine contractor for breaching working at height regulations. The company, who had contracts to repair Royal Navy warships and vessels, acted in a way that could have resulted in serious injury or death of two workers who removed equipment on a vessel’s deck in breach of Regulation 4(1) of the Work At Height Regulations 2005.
The company, which had a turnover of £18.5 million in 2022, was fined £100,000 plus costs.
Charles Drinnan was instructed by Nathan Cook of the Health and Safety Executive
13th DECEMBER 2023: TEACHER BANNED FOR LIFE FROM TEACHING FOR SEXUALLY MOTIVATED RELATIONSHIP WITH A CHILD AND DISHONESTY
Charles Drinnan, instructed by Kingsley Napley LLP, successfully represented the Teaching Regulation Agency in a case before a Professional Conduct Panel.
The case concerned allegations of unacceptable professional conduct and conduct that may bring the professional into disrepute. The teacher developed an inappropriate relationship with a child, sending inappropriate messages, including a topless photograph and heart emojis, gifts and money. The teacher then deleted evidence of the relationship, which the Panel found to be dishonest.
The teacher had denied his conduct was sexually motivated or dishonest, but the Panel found that the teacher’s actions were sexually motivated and that he had behaved dishonestly throughout the investigation.
The teacher was prohibited from teaching indefinitely. In view of the seriousness of the allegations found proved, the teacher is not entitled to apply for restoration of his eligibility to teach.
30th NOVEMBER 2023: MOTHER AND HER BOYFRIEND CONVICTED OF MURDER OF 18-MONTH-OLD BOY
Jack Benham and Sian Hedges were both convicted today of the murder of her son, following a 9-week trial at Maidstone Crown Court. Alfie Phillips died on 28th November 2020 following a sustained assault during which he suffered serious injuries including fractures to both his arms, one leg and multiple ribs. He also had multiple bruises to his face, head and body. Injuries to his mouth revealed an attempt to smother him. The defendants will be sentenced on 19th December 2023.
Jennifer Knight KC and William Goss were instructed for the prosecution by the CPS South East Complex Casework Unit.
6th NOVEMBER 2023: SENTENCE UPHELD IN £20 MILLION DARK WEB CONSPIRACY
The Court of Appeal today published judgment in the case of Christopher Kirkby v Rex [2023] EWCA Crim 1293 in which John Ojakovoh successfully responded to an appeal against sentence by one of five defendants involved in a conspiracy to supply counterfeit Xanax tablets (active ingredient Alprazolam, a controlled drug of class C), with a street value of more than £20 million. All five had previously been sentenced after a four-day Newton hearing, prosecuted by John Ojakovoh and Dominic Hockley, to determine the factual basis for sentencing after the five defendants had pleaded guilty. The Appellant’s grounds of appeal asserted that his sentence was manifestly excessive because of disparity with co-defendants’ sentences, and failure to account for totality, but the Court agreed with John Ojakovoh that totality principles had been correctly applied, and that differences in the roles, level of culpability, and aggravating and mitigating features, fully justified the Appellant’s sentence of 9 years 6 months.
John Ojakovoh was instructed by CPS Serious Economic Organised Crime and International Directorate, and Tammy Mears of the CPS.
3rd NOVEMBER 2023: PROLIFIC CONVICTED PAEDOPHILE RECEIVES ANOTHER SENTENCE OF IMPRISONMENT
Having pleaded guilty in August to multiple counts relating to sexual abuse of boys aged 6-11 living in Vietnam, spanning a ten-year period (see 2HB News dated 8th August 2023), the defendant, Behn, today received an extended sentence of 17 years’ imprisonment. Mark Gadsden appeared at the Sentencing Hearing on behalf of the Crown.
A co-defendant, Thorogood, will be sentenced for his involvement later this month.
The NCA investigation of the organised paedophile network continues in a number of countries across Europe and includes suspects based in the UK.
Mark (and Tom Nicholson & Edward Franklin who appeared for the Crown at the plea hearing) was instructed by the CPS Serious Economic, Organised Crime and International Directorate (SEOCID).
3rd NOVEMBER 2023: ORGANISED CRIME GROUP SENTENCED
Five members of an organised crime group were sentenced last week at Isleworth Crown Court to a total of more than 80 years’ imprisonment for their part in a drugs conspiracy prosecuted by John Ojakovoh and Edward Franklin. The case involved the importation of more than 300 kilos of cocaine and heroin, with a street value of more than £50 million. The lorry driver who on five occasions brought most of the drugs into the UK via Harwich port received 16 years, having previously been convicted at trial. Four other members of the OCG, including its head, who had all previously pleaded guilty, received sentences ranging from 21 years to 10 years 1 month. The Court set a timetable for confiscation proceedings.
John Ojakovoh and Edward Franklin prosecuted the case for the CPS Serious Economic Organised Crime and International Directorate. The case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command.
20th OCTOBER 2023: TWO HARCOURT BUILDINGS AND ITS MEMBERS RANKED IN 2024 CHAMBERS AND PARTNERS
We are delighted to announce that 2 Harcourt Buildings and 8 members individually have been ranked in the Crime and Financial Crime categories within the 2024 edition of Chambers and Partners UK.
Crime – 2 Harcourt Buildings - Band 4 London (Bar)
‘2 Harcourt Buildings is a recognised set for general crime with members of chambers prosecuting and defending the full range of criminal cases. Barristers at the set frequently take instruction in serious proceedings, many of them involving homicide, terrorism, sexual offences, drugs and child abuse. Recent examples of work include R. v. Howe & others, a complex case concerning the kidnap, imprisonment and rape of a young woman.
Client Service:
"The clerks go above and beyond to assist at all hours of the day in any way they can.”’
Individually Ranked Barristers London (Bar):
CRIME
James Dawes KC “James was a master of the material; he was very detailed and forensic in his presentation of the psychiatric matters involved and also in full command of the facts of the case generally."
"James is an affable, likable advocate, who's on top of the papers. He's a good speech maker and a good cross-examiner." [Band 5]
Paul Cavin KC "His command of the facts and the law was matched only by his command of the broader situation. He radiated an aura of calmness and competence that immediately put me and my team at immediate ease."
"If you've got something hidden under a stone, expect to be asked about it because he will find it." [Band 5]
Jennifer Knight KC "She's very thoroughly prepared, she knows her brief and she has an effective style." [Band 5]
Catherine Donnelly "Effective, determined, highly capable and good company to boot." [Band 4]
Dominic Hockley "Gritty, determined and clever, Dominic cross-examines very well." [Band 4]
Christopher Stimpson "Very good at sexual offences cases, he prepares his brief from both sides and is someone whose judgement you can trust." [Band 5]
FINANCIAL CRIME
Jane Osborne KC “Jane is an excellent KC.”
"She is good with the client and a great person to work with." [Band 4]
Individually Ranked Barristers North Eastern (Bar):
CRIME
Julian Jones "Julian Jones is thorough, clever and strategic in court and a powerful advocate." [Band 3]
We would like to thank those who took the time to act as referees for this process.
6th OCTOBER 2023: NEW MEMBERS OF CHAMBERS
2 Harcourt Buildings is delighted to announce that following the successful completion of pupillage, both Simran Ghotra and Joe Weeks have accepted our offers of tenancy in chambers. We are thrilled for them and have no doubt they will quickly build on their already successful practices.
4th OCTOBER 2023: CASE OPENED FOR THE PROSECUTION
Jennifer Knight KC, leading William Goss, has today opened the case for the prosecution at Maidstone Crown Court: a mother and her boyfriend are accused of murdering her 18-month-old son, Alfie Phillips, in a caravan in Kent during lockdown in 2020. Alfie died with a “myriad of bruises” and traces of cocaine in his body. The trial continues.
4th OCTOBER 2023: TWO HARCOURT BUILDINGS AND ITS MEMBERS RANKED IN 2023 LEGAL 500
We are delighted to announce that 2 Harcourt Buildings and 10 of its members (across 2 practice categories) have been ranked within the Legal 500 UK 2024 publication.
LONDON BAR – CRIME – TIER 4
2 Harcourt Buildings, with ‘a broad range of quality advocates‘, is gaining a reputation for being ‘a prominent defence practice‘ as well as an established prosecution set.
‘Keith Poynter is really good and very straightforward to deal with. Gary Wright is a really nice guy and a very helpful clerk. They’re both really safe pairs of hands.’
‘Keith Poynter is a top clerk and a natural leader. He is extremely responsive, always available and great at sorting diary issues. He is widely respected by solicitors, counsel and other clerks. He is ably assisted by Gary Wright who complements his proactive approach.’
‘2 Harcourt Chambers has now developed into a set with a prominent defence practice. Historically, they have had a reputation as being a prosecution set but are now conducting complex and high-profile defence work.’
‘A premier league set in every respect.’
‘2 Harcourt Buildings is an outstanding chambers. It has a national reputation for conducting the most serious prosecutions, and is a ‘go-to’ set for two counsel cases. At the junior end it is arguably the most experienced and able set of criminal juniors at the Bar.’
‘A fine chambers with a broad range of quality advocates. A top set.’
‘A set whose clerks are always happy to assist where they can. Both senior and junior members are popular and sought-after.’
INDIVIDUALS
CRIME
James Dawes KC - (Tier 4)
Jennifer Knight KC (Tier 4)
Jane Osborne KC ‘Jane has an excellent legal brain. Her written and oral submissions are of a very high standard. She has a comprehensive knowledge of her brief. Her cross-examination is suitably concise and effective. Her final speeches are very jury friendly and effective.' Jane balances defence and prosecution work, primarily prosecuting homicides, including those involving young people alleged to have connections to gangs. (Tier 4)
Catherine Donnelly Catherine is well-known for handling high-profile homicide and serious sexual offences cases. (Tier 2)
Tom Nicholson 'Tom is a good lawyer. He is hard-working and a pleasure to work with.' (Tier 2)
Sam Barker ‘Sam is an excellent lawyer and a naturally gifted advocate.’ (Tier 4)
Edward Franklin ‘Edward is an intellectual heavyweight. It is apparent from his excellent drafting that he has easy command of complex legal principles. His advocacy is measured and all the more forceful for that. He has mastered the art of emphasis by understatement, and can convey to better effect with a few short words that which many struggle to achieve when addressing courts at great length.’ (Tier 4)
Jenny Burgess ‘Jenny is a class act. She is meticulously prepared and knows her cases inside out. She is a confident, engaging advocate who gets straight to the point with legal arguments. She is reasonable in the points she takes and is very persuasive. Her closing speeches are also great.’ (Tier 4)
FRAUD CRIME
Jane Osborne KC ‘Jane assimilates case papers rapidly and has a clear grasp of the details. She gives important strategic advice from the outset of her instructions and is very pragmatic and forthright with clients when necessary.’ (Tier 4)
Dominic Hockley ‘Dominic is bright, diligent, knowledgeable and has very good judgement. He has excellent interpersonal skills which allows him to gain the trust of instructing solicitors, clients, opponents and judges alike. He has extensive experience in dealing with heavy fraud cases and is able to deal with factually complex matters with ease.’ (Tier 3)
John Ojakovoh ‘John is highly intelligent, has a good eye for detail and is very thoroughly prepared. He is liked by judges and extremely effective in cross-examination.’ (Tier 4)
3rd OCTOBER 2023: ACQUITTAL SECURED
Following a trial at Southwark Crown Court, Catherine Donnelly, as a Leading Junior, secured the acquittal of her client on allegations of fraud. The charges centred on a multi-million pound fraud said to have been committed against Barclays Bank over a two year period.
She was instructed by Mohsin Ariff at Lloyds PR Solicitors.
3rd OCTOBER 2023: WELCOME TO OUR NEW PUPILS
Chambers would like to welcome Alice Hewitt and Nicole Shaw who have each started their First Six Pupillages with us today. Edward Franklin and Paul Casey are their Pupil Supervisors and we wish them both the best of luck!
25th SEPTEMBER 2023: CONVICTIONS SECURED IN MULTI-COMPLAINANT INCESTUOUS CHILD ABUSE CASE
Following a three-week trial at Luton Crown Court, William Goss secured convictions on all 17 counts against man who, over the course of approximately 7 years, groomed, raped, and sexually and physically assaulted his elder daughter, and sexually assaulted another younger daughter. He was also convicted of the premeditated rape of his elder daughter’s school friend in a field during the COVID lockdown. Sentencing will take place in November.
William was instructed as Junior Counsel for the Crown by CPS Thames & Chiltern RASSO.
11th SEPTEMBER 2023: WELCOME
We are pleased to welcome Jade Lancaster, a lawyer from New Zealand, who will be spending three weeks being hosted by chambers and gaining some experience of the English courts and justice system. Jade is a Junior Crown Prosecutor at Raymond Donnelly & Co. in Christchurch, currently visiting England on the Pegasus scholarship scheme. We hope she finds her time here interesting and enjoyable.
To view archived news from August 2023 and earlier please click here.