Claire is an experienced, robust and determined advocate practicing exclusively in criminal law. Her practice covers all aspects of criminal offences including murder, fraud, serious sexual offences, drugs and serious violent offences. Claire has extensive expertise in the areas of serious violence, sexual offences and in complex and sensitive cases.

Claire is known for being approachable with excellent client care and for her scrupulous case preparation. Claire has appeared on behalf of the defence as junior counsel alone in cases of attempted murder. Claire is often instructed in cases involving expert witnesses and young and/or vulnerable witnesses/defendants and has substantial experience of cases involving intermediaries.

CPS Panel appointments

General Crime Level 4
RASSO Level 4

Key cases & testimonials

R v G (2019) – Prosecution of a defendant charged with kidnapping, multiple counts of rape and attempted rape.

R v M (2019) – Prosecution of a defendant, led by David Herbert QC, charged with murder, rape and arson. The deceased was bound, beaten and strangled to death during a brutal and sadistic sexual attack. The defendant received a sentence of detention for life with a minimum period of 20 years and 10 months. Received national press coverage.

R v C (2019) – Claire is currently instructed to represent a care worker who is alleged, with others, to have physically abused residents at a residential care home for the elderly. This is said to be one of the first prosecutions of its kind.

R v J (2018) – Claire is currently instructed to represent a father accused of S18 and neglect, ‘baby shaking’.

R v C (2018) – Claire represented the defendant alleged to have assisted her husband who was charged with S18 and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life (nine week trial).

Claire's ability to pick up work at short notice and get to the root of the issues is astounding. She has a way with clients which is delightful in often difficult circumstances.Legal 500 2023
I would like to state that Claire was extremely thorough in her preparation which shone through during her cross examination. She was a masterclass in dealing with the correct tactical approach and managed to adduce evidence that otherwise would have been excluded. She was exemplary in her handling of the defendant and his witnesses. Overall she was excellent. I have no doubt that the clean sweep of acquittals during this trial was testament to her tenacious, dedicated and skilful ability. It was a pleasure to work with her. Birmingham Solicitors January 2019
I just want to say how hugely impressed my colleagues and I have been with Claire. She inherited this case at the 11th hour and got an immediate grasp of the facts . She has also been really proactive in relation to missing evidence / advice to us about steps to take at the start of the trial and has constantly stayed in touch. She has also remained extremely patient with the defendant. Irrespective of the verdict she has been brilliant. We would always be really happy to instruct her.Leicester Solicitor November 2018

Further information

Memberships

Midland Circuit

South Eastern Circuit

Criminal Bar Association

CPS Grade 4

Appointed to CPS Panel of Advocates at Level 3

Appointed to the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Panel

2019 – Legally qualified chair to serve on Police Misconduct Panels in Thames Valley, Surrey, Hampshire and Kent.

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