Ellen Peart

Ellen Peart is a partner at BCL and is recognised as a leading individual specialising in serious and complex criminal litigation in relation to matters including serious sexual offences, homicide, public order offences, assault, offences of dishonesty, firearms and internet-related crime. She is described by leading barristers and peers as a “no-nonsense and immensely dedicated" criminal defence specialist. She is praised for her "absolute professionalism, client care and choice of counsel," and "Her tactical judgement, from police station interview to trial, is breathtaking." She comes highly recommended for her expert representation of high-profile clients, particularly those facing serious sexual and violent offence charges.

Noted for specialist police station advice, as well as advising clients interviewed by other prosecution agencies and regulatory bodies, Ellen has an excellent track record in making written representations that matters should not proceed to charge and that no further action should be taken. Ellen has an interest in Court of Appeal matters when advising clients who seek a second opinion post-conviction and sentence. She has established a reputation for representing clients under investigation by a school, college or university including having successfully defended a Deaconal investigation following which the college were compelled to withdraw the allegations, issue an apology and pay the full costs of the accused student. Ellen is also an expert in advising broadcasters and television production companies as to pre and post-production advice; she also advises sports’ bodies as to criminal procedure.

Trained Bemrose and Ling; qualified 2002. BCL 2002; partner 2010.

The Law Society; London Criminal Courts Solicitors' Association; the Howard League for Penal Reform; FPIPP, Women in Criminal Law; Fraud Lawyers Association.

Contributing writer to 'The Police Station Adviser's Index' (Sweet and Maxwell, 4th ed).