LAWYER PROFILE

Martin Rackstraw

UK 2026

Russell-Cooke

Ranked in 2 practice areas

Crime

London (Firms)

18 years ranked

Financial Crime: Individuals

London (Firms)

12 years ranked

About

Provided by Russell-Cooke

UK

Practice Areas

Partner with nearly 25 years experience defending in serious and complex criminal investigations and prosecutions.

Martin specialises in advising in complex financial crime cases, particularly involving allegations of international bribery and corruption. He also represents clients facing allegations of homicide, serious sexual offences and drugs matters. He has particular expertise in cases involving historic sexual allegations, and representing clients on appeals and applications to the CCRC in miscarriage of justice cases.

Martin's practice has always had a prominent human rights emphasis and, for example, he is often asked to advise journalists, media organisations and “whistle-blowers” in relation to criminal investigations. He acts in extradition matters involving serious allegations and where there are political and human rights aspects.

Career

Trained Russell-Cooke Solicitors, Solicitor 1995-2003; Bindmans LLP 2003 to 2019 (partner from 2009; Joint Head of Criminal Law Team 2012); Russell-Cooke Solicitors Partner 2019-present.

Professional Memberships

Fraud Lawyers association; Defence Extradition Lawyers Forum.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession

Crime - London (Firms)

Band 2

Individual Editorial

Martin Rackstraw has considerable expertise in a wide range of serious crime matters, including terrorism and murder cases, and also represents journalists who become involved in alleged criminal activity as either suspects or witnesses.

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Financial Crime: Individuals - London (Firms)

Band 4

Individual Editorial

Martin Rackstraw of Russell-Cooke has substantial experience handling SFO investigations, representing individuals facing allegations of bribery and corruption.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Martin is an excellent lawyer and has a real eye for detail. He manages clients very well and is very committed and careful in terms of information he gives to counsel.
CrimeChambers Guide to the Legal Profession
Martin is one of the most confident, experienced and understanding solicitors I have worked with. He has a real feel for criminal law, is never flustered and is great with clients.
CrimeChambers Guide to the Legal Profession
Martin is a brilliant lawyer who has an enviable ability to drill down into the detail of any case he is involved with.
CrimeChambers Guide to the Legal Profession
He is one of the most confident, experienced and understanding solicitors I have worked with. Martin has a real feel for criminal law; he is never flustered and is great with clients.
Financial Crime: IndividualsChambers Guide to the Legal Profession
He is extremely clever, very efficient and can turn his hand to all things related to crime.
Financial Crime: IndividualsChambers Guide to the Legal Profession