David Spens KC

David Spens KC is recognised as one of the most commanding advocates at the senior Bar, with a practice spanning corporate crime, fraud, health and safety, manslaughter, and serious crime. He has a niche specialism in defending senior executives accused of bribery in multi-jurisdictional SFO prosecutions, including the Smith & Ouzman, Securency, and Alstom cases. His white-collar practice also covers large-scale VAT fraud, revenue offences and complex cross-border investigations.

David is equally experienced in defending allegations of manslaughter by gross negligence and health and safety breaches, including cases involving medical professionals and technical expert evidence.

Alongside financial crime, David has a formidable reputation in serious general crime. He secured the acquittal of Clive Goodman, royal editor of the News of the World in the phone-hacking trial, and has long experience in high-profile murder trials, defending Learco Chindamo, Robert Black and more recently, rapper Unknown T. He frequently represents prominent individuals facing sexual offence allegations, particularly historical ones, including a philanthropist accused across multiple jurisdictions.

Renowned for his tactical skill, rigorous cross-examination and ability to earn client confidence, David has acted in more than 250 murder cases and is repeatedly sought after for the most serious and sensitive trials.