Qualifications and Study Experience
Stephen graduated from Birmingham City University (formally University of Central England, Birmingham) before achieving a commendation in the Legal Practice course at Birmingham City University.
Work Experience
Following University Stephen worked for the Law Society at the office of supervision of solicitors (now SRA) investigating complaints into solicitors, and therefore gained invaluable experience in identifying common areas of fault in solicitor’s practices and obtained experience in prioritizing client care.
After two years working at the Office of Supervision of Solicitors, Stephen then commenced his training contract, which was fast tracked due to the due to the experience he had already obtained at the Law Society, before then qualifying as a solicitor in 2006.
Stephen has worked for a number of firms, specialising in criminal law, and rapidly obtained his Police Station and Duty Solicitor Accreditation.
Having obtained extensive experience in advocacy and representing clients in County Courts, Magistrates Courts, Crown Courts and Court Martial, Stephen obtained his Higher Court Advocate status and frequently represents clients before the Crown Court and Court of Appeal.
Stephen has been with Waldrons Solicitors since 2010 and is the Head of the Criminal Department where he continues to put his experience to good use representing clients who are charged with minor offences through to very serious offences including murder.
Building on a solid defence background, Stephen also heads up our Professional Discipline department and represents professionals who may find themselves before their regulatory body, such work includes Police Misconduct & investigations including Misconduct Hearings and representing Prison Officers.
External Mentions
Stephen qualified as a Solicitor in 2006; he is regulated by the SRA and is a member of the Law Society for England and Wales
Notable cases:
https://crimeline.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/leonard2018ewcacrim870.pdf
https://crimeline.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/whitehouse2019ewcacrim970.pdf
https://crimeline.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/pritchard2018ewcacrim3012.pdf
Personal Info
Stephen is a keen amateur golfer and is a member of Enville Golf Club whereby he strives to reduce his handicap to single figures which is proving to be a difficult task.
If not on the golf course he can be found in the gym or on his bike with his two young sons.
Away from sporting activities, Stephen enjoys reading, playing the guitar and is an avid support of Aston Villa and has a keen interest in military history.