Richard grew up in the Leeds area. Having been awarded a 1st Class law degree from the University of Leeds he went on take the Bar exams in Nottingham. He then returned to Leeds when he joined Chambers as a pupil in early 2005. He became Joint Head of Chambers in 2017, becoming one of the youngest Head of Chambers in Circuit history.
Richard’s speciality is criminal defence work. He is regularly instructed in grave and complicated cases, including murder, fraud, money laundering, drug trafficking and sexual offences.
Richard is direct access qualified and accepts work on this basis in general crime.
Crime
The majority of Richard’s practice occurs in Crown Courts on the North-Eastern Circuit, particularly in Leeds, Bradford and Sheffield. However, he has also defended in serious cases across the country. He has established himself as key member of 39’s criminal team over the past two decades.
He regularly represents clients charged with serious offences. He has secured acquittals in a number of serious offences including murder, attempted murder, fraud, money laundering, conspiracy to supply drugs, rape, causing grievous bodily harm with intent and armed robbery.
He has also appeared in the Court of Appeal on a number of occasions, including an Attorney General’s reference.
Richard is an avid supporter of Liverpool Football Club, visiting Anfield at least 10 times a season. He has attended 2 Champions League finals.
He enjoys playing poker with friends. When feeling lucky he enters the occasional tournament.
