David Hardstaff

David is a partner in BCL’s serious and general crime department, specialising in criminal litigation, professional discipline and regulatory law, and controlled drug licensing. He has particular experience representing individuals accused of sexual offences, drugs offences, and offences involving violence. He is an experienced police station representative and advocate, representing clients in a broad range of proceedings at the Magistrates’ Court, Crown Court, and Court of Appeal.

David regularly acts for professionals and high-profile individuals, and has a reassuring appreciation of the pressures and strains that clients face when subject to investigation. He also advises witnesses, corporates, and broadcasters involved in criminal proceedings in relation to reputation management and public relations.

In addition to his criminal practice, David advises companies and institutions in relation to applications to the Home Office for controlled drug licences, particularly in the context of research into cannabis and psychedelics. He has advised companies entering cannabis markets on due diligence, criminal liability, and proceeds of crime considerations.

David graduated from the University of Dundee (LLB (Hons)) before continuing his studies in London. Prior to entering private practice, David undertook an internship at the California Appellate Project, where he assisted in the representation of defendants sentenced to death in the San Francisco Bay Area. He later trained and qualified at a busy national firm, specialising in serious criminal litigation. He joined BCL in 2015 and became a partner in 2022.

London Criminal Courts Solicitors Association

Fraud Lawyers Association

London Irish Lawyers Association (Co-chair, 2021-present)

Association of Regulatory & Disciplinary Lawyers

European Criminal Bar Association