YEAR OF CALL 2001

‘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.'

‘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.’ The Legal 500 2025

Tom is a leading specialist criminal barrister, whose reputation is built on the thoroughness of his preparation and excellence of his advocacy.

His practice, often as leading junior counsel, tends to involve cases of gravity and complexity, such as multi-handed police or NCA investigations, encompassing the most sensitive disclosure and PII issues, as well as high public profiles. One such case, involving people-smuggling from Afghanistan, led to an official commendation from the Home Secretary.

Tom defends in the most serious or difficult cases - for example representing police officers in cases such as fatal/near fatal accidents, youths charged with rape and serious sexual offences, or offences where mental health is a significant feature of the case.

He has significant experience of landmark cases with complex legal issues, such as the prosecution of those who infect others with HIV, the pioneering use of technology and cases with an international dimension.

He has expertise in all aspects of road traffic offences, including drink-driving and technical defences.

Tom has for some years been a BASC recommended counsel, with a particular interest in firearms revocation appeals and antique defences.

tnicholson@2hb.co.uk