Crime

Steven has gained considerable and extensive experience in appearing for both the defence and prosecution in the criminal courts. With over 12 years of experience in litigation and representation Steven is regularly instructed in a wide range of matters, including those of particular gravity such as murder, large scale drug importation and supply, significant money laundering offences and serious sexual allegations.

Steven also has experience of defending individuals and organisations within regulatory and HSE proceedings.

Many of Steven’s cases have involved confiscation and proceeds of crime applications, and a considerable level of expertise has been developed by him in this area. Steven regularly lectures to practitioners acting in this field.

As a category 3 prosecutor he has undertaken a wide range of work on behalf of the CPS. He has undertaken the appropriate training in the handling of young and vulnerable witnesses.

Steven is keenly aware of the need to maintain and provide the highest levels of service, and aims to ensure advantageous results through effective representation of clients in court.

Recent Significant Cases

R v David Bell and ors

An important case on confiscation following conviction for tobacco importation offences. This case was dealt with by the Court of Appeal in January 2011 and resulted in a dramatic reduction of confiscation orders in a large number of appeals.

R v M

A prominent bar clerk successfully appealed to the Court of Appeal against a sentence of 5 ½ years imposed for serious offences of violence.

R v Adam Eden

a notable recent Court of Appeal decision which involved an analysis of the admissibility of psychological evidence in cases involving allegations of sexual abuse.

R v Shore

Large scale charity fraud involving charitable proceeds of approximately £1,000,000.

R v Moran and others

The largest murder investigation ever conducted by Cheshire police. This defendant was found not guilty of murder.

R v Ghouse

Conspiracy to export in excess of £3,000,000 worth of stolen motor vehicles to middle and far east. Involved extensive confiscation issues.

R v Brady

Acted for publican charged with murder and acquitted at trial.

R v Mushtaq

High value drug importation from Holland. This case involved significant PII issues stemming from covert surveillance conducted by police and customs.

R v Da Silva

Prison riot at YOI Deerbolt which caused over £1,000,000 worth of damage and necessitated the attendance of police and army negotiators.

R v McGivern 

Money laundering based upon tax evasion. The prosecution POCA application was in a sum over £3,000,000

R v K

Presently instructed to defend an individual charged in an £18,000,000 money laundering prosecution.

Regulatory

Health and Safety Law

Steven has wide experience of representing individuals and companies in health and safety law. In particular, Steven regularly acts on behalf of defendants who face investigation and prosecution by the HSE or local authorities. An extensive range of regulatory knowledge has been gained in appearing on behalf of those facing prosecution based upon accidents or risk of accidents in the work place. Steven has a keen interest in all aspects of workplace regulations, including for instance, breach of regulations governing protective equipment, electricity use at work and fire safety. Similarly, Steven has a wide understanding of public health based prosecution, including food standards and contamination issues.

Steven is also developing an environmental law practise.

The following are examples of the type of work previously undertaken:

R v AB – represented company prosecuted under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Work at Height Regulations

R v RD – acted on behalf of a drinks supplier facing allegations of food contamination

R v SJ – defended care home company charged with failure to manage risk of Legionella outbreak

HSE v xx Care Homes Ltd
Defended care home group prosecuted in relation to Legionella risk.

Trading Standards

A level of expertise has been gained in this complex area of law. For instance, Steven has acted for individuals and companies charged with copyright and trademark offences. In addition, Steven is experienced in representation within proceedings for trade description allegations.

Notable cases include:

R v PS – represented defendant and company involved in advertising and selling large volume of DVD’s in breach of copyright and trademarks.

Office of Fair Trading v FC Ltd - Steven has acted on behalf of companies and directors who are called to appear before the OFT. This particular case involved wide consumer protection and licensing issues.

Memberships

Health and Safety Law Association

Public Access