James Thacker KC

Expertise in financial crime, organised crime, homicide and serious violence, sexual offences and child abuse, and regulatory and professional disciplinary proceedings.

Commended for his intellect, judgement and attention to detail he is an exceptional advocate providing the highest level of commitment and service to clients. His cross examination is described as ‘devastating’ and his closing speeches as ‘outstanding’ demonstrating his excellence combined with his natural ability to connect with and persuade juries.

James accepts instructions directly or through insurers.

Notable cases: Operation Hankcom (Conspiracy to murder); Operation Funsea (Conspiracy to launder ancient art from the Musee des Arts d’Extreme), Operation Widow (people trafficking); Operation Edge (Drug conspiracies involving 23 defendants and EncroChat); R v WT (stranger rape during national lockdown); R v T & F (DEFRA EU fraud); Operations Amaryllis/Ensete (International £7m banking fraud); Operations Veil nos.1&3 (multi-million tax evasion); R v HP et al (attempt to abort foetus); R v SG (death by dangerous driving); Operation Dinghy (investment fraud); R v Cameira (Legal services fraud); Operation Crystal (Access to Work fraud involving 12 deaf defendants); R v Brad (£3m bank fraud); R v Kayode (£4m Education Trust fraud believed to be ‘Britain’s largest Education Fraud’); Operation Glider (HMRC fraud); Operation Evergreen (Insider NHS fraud).

Called 2001 (Gray's Inn), King’s Counsel 2024, Bencher of Gray’s Inn, Recorder of Crown Court (since 2022). Chair of Central London Bar Mess.

Criminal Bar Association, Fraud Lawyers Association, Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers, South Eastern Circuit.