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Privately Funded Criminal Defences

We provide legal advice to individuals who do not qualify for legal aid as well as company directors who have personal liability as an officer of the company.

Key contact

Heath Thomas

  • Partner, Head of Insurance, Risk and Regulatory and Thames Valley Office

  • +44 3301 075 810

I have over 20 years’ experience in the licensing sector, and I share a common goal with my clients – I make sure they can keep delivering unique experiences to their customers. I work with clients across every sector, from restaurant and bar operators to sports clubs, social clubs, hotels, theatres and outdoor events.

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Private criminal defence solicitors providing tailored legal support and advice

We frequently represent companies, directors, professionals and private individuals for whom a conviction would have serious reputational damage and business or career-limiting outcomes.

Our criminal defence coverage includes:

  • Motoring offences such as excess speed, drunk or drug driving, careless and dangerous driving
  • Fraud and theft
  • Offences involving violence, including assault, ABH, GBH, Public Order Act offences and affray
  • Serious sexual offences, including sexual assault, rape and historic offences
  • Harassment and stalking, including coercive and controlling behaviour
  • Drug offences, including possession, supply and production
  • Animal welfare
  • Proceeds of crime
  • Bribery.

Our regulatory defence covers offences in areas including:

Our expert support and clear route map gives you the peace of mind you need at a difficult time. From attending interviews under caution to finding expert witnesses, defending you before the courts and managing the media, we’re by your side every step of the way.

Services from our Insurance, Risk and Regulatory team

Recognition of our work

Investors in People

Investors in People

Recommended for Quality

Recommended for Quality

Times Best Law Firm

Times Best Law Firm

Legal updates and thought leadership

Resource
20 June 2023 1 minute read

About Us

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Hear what our clients say about us

As well as being incredibly professional and conscientious, Ruth was also incredibly kind and reassuring. This was a very difficult time for me, which had gone on for a long time.

Ruth reassured me with her knowledge of the law but was also a caring and empathetic person to be around. I honestly would not have got through it without her. Thank you so much Ruth.

Client An inquest and with insurance difficulties

As someone who practices at the Bar almost exclusively in the area of health and safety and regulatory law … I can say that Jonathan (Edwards) has a well-deserved reputation for being at the top of his professional tree.

He has a vast array of legal knowledge and also possesses considerable tactical and strategic acumen in relation to whether or not cases should be defended….

James Leonard, Barrister Outer Temple Chambers

I have worked with Jonathan Edwards as my ‘go-to’ legal specialist for over two decades. His strong technical skills backed up by an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the insurance market make him unique and he adds genuine value off the back of this. He has a calm and friendly nature, always taking time to understand us as a business and I am truly grateful for the invaluable support he has provided me over the years.

 

Jamie Lewis, Managing Director Jensten Group Ltd

I have instructed Jonathan over many years, because he quickly grasps and focuses on the key issues of an assignment, provides strong technical advice and delivers excellent outcomes. I know he is very well regarded in the insurance market. Just as importantly, he has a really positive manner that puts clients at their complete ease. He is someone I would thoroughly recommend.

Strong technical advice

Jonathan Edwards is a tremendous asset to have on your side. He combines a forensic eye for detail with astute tactical and practical advice derived from his many years of experience. His case analysis, judgment and ability to master complicated factual and technical details with ease mark him out as an outstanding lawyer. Jonathan is always approachable and calm in even the most highly pressurised situations and he adds real value to every case in which he is instructed.

Angus Withington QC Henderson Chambers

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