Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
27 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Criminal Defence Solicitors in London & Brighton
Old Bailey Solicitors have built a reputation as leading criminal defence specialists with over two decades of experience. Our team combines extensive legal expertise with a client-centric approach, focusing on achieving the best possible outcomes for individuals and corporate clients facing serious allegations. Recognised as Band 1 by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500, we provide tailored representation in sexual offences, violent crimes, fraud, and other complex legal matters. Our solicitors, including Managing Director Rod Hayler and Directors Camilla Rents, Robert Beighton, and Jill Joyce, bring decades of combined experience and a commitment to protecting clients' rights and reputations.

We operate from offices in London, Brighton, and Horley, offering 24/7 legal support and fixed-fee services for both privately funded and legally aided cases. Our approach prioritises transparency, proactive communication, and rigorous case preparation, ensuring clients receive comprehensive guidance throughout the legal process. With a strong track record of acquittals and charge dismissals, we combine technical excellence with compassionate support to navigate clients through high-stakes legal challenges.
Services
Sexual Offences Violent Offences Fraud & Financial Crime Domestic Violence Drug Offences Motoring Offences MHRA Offences Tax Investigations
Details
  • Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
  • 24/7 availability for urgent legal representation
  • Band 1-rated criminal defence expertise by Chambers & Partners
  • Proven track record in complex sexual offence and violent crime cases
  • Transparent fixed-fee pricing structure
  • Client testimonials highlighting exceptional support and successful outcomes
Associations and certifications
  • Chambers & Partners
  • Legal 500
  • Law Society Criminal Litigation Accreditation
What people say
Most Professional and Personable Service Expertise and compassion Made my ghastly situation bearable Prompt and honest communication Restored my faith in justice
Services
Sexual Offences Defence
Specialist defence for sexual offence allegations including rape, indecent images, and grooming. Our solicitors provide discreet representation from police station through to Crown Court trials. With over 20 years' experience, we combine technical legal expertise with compassionate support to protect clients' futures. Our team has secured numerous acquittals and charge dismissals in complex cases involving historic allegations and digital evidence.
Violent Offences Defence
Comprehensive legal defence for violent crime allegations ranging from common assault to murder. We handle cases involving GBH, ABH, and domestic violence with strategic preparation and expert advocacy. Our solicitors challenge forensic evidence and build robust defences while maintaining client confidentiality. The team includes Higher Courts Advocates with experience in appellate courts.
Fraud & Financial Crime
Specialist representation in complex financial crime cases including tax evasion, money laundering, and corporate fraud. We analyse voluminous evidence to identify weaknesses in prosecution cases while developing clear defence strategies. Our solicitors work closely with forensic accountants and industry experts to challenge allegations of securities fraud, benefit fraud, and regulatory breaches.
Domestic Violence Defence
Experienced legal support for domestic abuse allegations including assault and coercive behaviour. We provide police station representation and court advocacy while addressing ancillary matters like restraining orders. Our solicitors understand the emotional impact of these cases and work to protect clients' family and professional relationships while challenging evidence.
Drug Offences Defence
24/7 legal representation for drug-related offences from possession to large-scale importation. We challenge forensic evidence and police procedures while developing mitigation strategies for sentencing. Our solicitors work to minimise penalties including driving bans and custodial sentences through charge negotiation and trial advocacy.
People
Rod Hayler
Managing Director
With over 20 years' experience, Rod Hayler specialises in complex criminal defence cases including sexual offences and violent crimes. He has successfully challenged Sexual Harm Prevention Orders and secured acquittals in high-profile trials. His expertise in appellate work ensures comprehensive legal representation.
Camilla Rents
Director
Recognised for excellence in criminal defence, Camilla Rents provides strategic representation in serious fraud and sexual offence cases. Her client-focused approach combines technical expertise with compassionate support, as evidenced by numerous successful outcomes in contested trials.
Robert Beighton
Director
Specialising in financial crime and regulatory investigations, Robert Beighton brings extensive experience in defending complex fraud allegations. His expertise covers corporate manslaughter and confiscation proceedings, delivering strategic legal solutions for both individual and corporate clients.
Jill Joyce
Director
Ranked Band 1 by legal directories, Jill Joyce specialises in defending serious criminal allegations including historic sexual offences. Her courtroom advocacy skills and attention to case preparation have secured numerous favourable outcomes for clients facing life-changing charges.
Brian Aldred
Barrister
As an in-house trial advocate, Brian Aldred has secured acquittals in challenging rape cases. His courtroom experience and strategic approach to evidence analysis provide significant advantages in defending serious criminal allegations.
Questions
How much does a criminal defence lawyer cost?
We offer fixed fees for services including £350+VAT for initial consultations and £750+VAT for Magistrates Court representation. Complex cases require case-specific quotes provided after reviewing your circumstances.
When should I hire a criminal defence lawyer?
Engage legal representation immediately upon arrest, police interview invitation, or charge notification. Early intervention significantly improves case outcomes through strategic evidence gathering and charge challenge.
Can you help with sexual offence allegations?
Our specialist team handles all sexual offence allegations including rape, indecent images, and grooming. With over 20 years' experience, we provide discreet representation from police station through Crown Court trials.
Do you offer 24/7 legal support?
Yes, our criminal defence team provides 24/7 representation for police station interviews and urgent legal matters across all offence types.
How do you prepare for criminal defence cases?
Preparation involves evidence analysis, witness instruction gathering, and strategic defence planning. For not guilty pleas, we prepare defence statements and challenge prosecution evidence through forensic analysis and expert testimony.
Can you handle complex fraud cases?
Our solicitors specialise in complex financial crimes including tax evasion, money laundering, and corporate fraud. We work with forensic accountants to challenge evidence and develop robust defence strategies.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Oliver Jackson
Oct 20, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism
I was very impressed with the service I got from them , they always kept me informed with things.
Andrew Stevenson
Jun 16, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Tim was fantastic from start to finish. Extremely professional and friendly. Kept me in the loop and was always very quick to respond. Would recommend him to anyone!
WhYoga Uk
May 04, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
Tim Cosham at Old Bailey Solicitors was incredibly supportive during a very difficult time. He was highly responsive and In court he articulated the mitigating circumstances surrounding the offence, which culminated in the best judgement we could have hoped for. I highly recommend OBS services and in particular, Tim.
Poppy Alexander Perkins
Oct 04, 2020 Report
Grant was excellent, professional and supportive throughout my sons case. It was a very stressful and difficult time and I really appreciated Grants expertise which led to a good outcome.
Alicia Meredith-Smith
Aug 26, 2020 Report
Positive:Professionalism
Tim Cosham dealt with my matter very professionally and promptly. He gave me solid legal advice which proved to be 100% beneficial to my matter. I would definitely recommend Tim and Old Bailey Solicitors for any legal matters that one requires help and advice with!