Phil is a Senior Associate in our Dispute Resolution team based in our Newbury office.
Phil qualified as a solicitor in 2013 and specialises in criminal defence work. Phil has represented clients facing the most serious criminal offences such as fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, rape, historic sexual offences and violent crime, including murder and terrorism. He is known for exceptional client care and is widely recognised for his top-level advocacy at court.
Crime
Phil has an excellent track record in representing professionals and business owners facing criminal proceedings. He is instructed to advise and represent clients at interviews under caution, both with the police and other regulatory bodies. Phil works tirelessly to defend his clients’ position throughout the investigation process and is meticulous in securing and preserving evidence that may assist in his clients’ defence. His written representations to the police and Crown Prosecution Service have, on many occasions, helped preserve his clients’ clean record.
A skilful court advocate, Phil takes pride in his forensic examination of the evidence against his clients and is adept at constructing and presenting complex legal arguments to the Court. He is often instructed to assist individuals with highly technical motoring offences and uses his detailed knowledge of the law to defend motorists at risk of losing their license. His personable manner and ability to form a strong rapport with clients means that Phil is often instructed by the parents of young and vulnerable defendants.
Phil is also an experienced litigator in the most serious matters sent for trial at the Crown Court. He often represents clients charged with indictable offences and instructs senior counsel including leading King’s Counsel. His thorough preparation and attention to detail have been a key factor in achieving excellent results at trial.
Work Highlights
R v S – successful defence of client found not guilty of fraud by false representation after a trial in the Magistrates’ Court.
R v H – defence of client charged with conspiracy and money laundering.
R v C – defence of client charged with involvement in a multi-million pound drugs conspiracy.
R v Y – no further action against a client facing an allegation of fraud by false representation following a voluntary interview.
R v L – no further action taken in relation to a client facing an allegation of rape following a voluntary interview.
R v A – defence of client charged with preparing an act of terrorism and possession of terrorist material.
R v G – defence of client charged with double murder and detained at Broadmoor Hospital.
R v M – successful defence of client charged with rape.
R v G – successful defence of client found not guilty of assaulting his son after a trial in the Magistrates’ Court.
R v H – successful defence of client found not guilty of assaulting two police officers after a trial in the Magistrates’ Court.
RBC v A – written representations made to Reading Borough Council to overturn a decision to prosecute landlord under the Housing Act. Client accepted a caution as an alternative to prosecution.