Our Team are highly experienced in defending all criminal matters on a private (non-legal aid) basis from motoring offences through to serious crime.
The Private Criminal Defence Team supports clients at every step of the difficult and often sensitive process of criminal prosecutions.
Our clients uniquely benefit from our expert in-house counsel, meaning they can be advised by their barrister from the inception of their case providing consistency and quality of representation.
Matthew Gowen, in particular, has over 25 years’ experience in defending and prosecuting in the criminal courts and was previously a barrister at leading criminal chambers in London. His advocacy has been described as “redeeming and outstanding”. [Mr L acquitted of fraud in the crown court].
Our Experience
Vehicle accidents
Instructed to advise and representation a woman of good character charged with causing death by careless driving, following a collision at a level crossing. Cases such as these require special consideration due to the impact upon the family of the deceased and the defendant alike. We advised in interview, through the investigation, including instructing a reconstruction expert, which proved crucial in the sentencing phase, and advocated on the client’s behalf at court.
Fraud
Asked to advise and represent at interview individuals being investigated by the NHS counter fraud team in relation to misuse of funds. This necessitated detailed consideration of the procurement and funding regime and the internal processes of a local health board. Despite minimal disclosure we drafted very detailed prepared statements and supported the client through a number of interviews.
Sexual offences
Represented several individuals charged with non-recent sexual offending, including several dating back decades. In all these cases thorough preparation is the key to ensure that every detail of the allegation is scrutinised. Cases include advising a client from arrest through to trial, in relation to allegations of misconduct whilst a delivery driver in the early 1960s.
Malicious communication, stalking, and controlling and coercive behavior
We have represented and advised in many cases involving allegations of malicious communication, stalking, and controlling and coercive behaviour. These cases tend to include examination of social media, instant messaging and email contact. Cases have included representing several members of the same family, who were falsely accused of a campaign of stalking and malicious communications, against a neighbour.
Key Contacts
Accreditations
Top Tier UK 2025
Legal 500
Top Ranked 2025
Chambers
The firm spoke to us in plain English, put us at ease and supported us without prejudice – I cannot fault their service.
Chambers [UK 2025]