Crime: The South

This team has an enviable reputation throughout Brighton and Hove; sources laud it as "a quality South Coast firm," and identify it as one of the region's strongest offerings for fraud and serious criminal defence. Highlights include the murder case of R v Sohag.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Bishop is the firm's managing director and a solicitor advocate in the Hove head office. Interviewees describe him as a "skilled lawyer with lots of experience."

This firm has built a great reputation from its base in Tonbridge in Kent. It handles family and civil as well as criminal litigation, including very high-cost case (VHCC) contract work. It is also active in general crime including legal aid and prison law matters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Dennis Clarke is a senior figure on the Kent legal scene who sources identify as "extremely thorough" and an ideal choice for handling complex appellate cases. Catherine McCarthy runs the criminal practice, and she wins acclaim for her "very sensible" and "effective" advice across the range of heavy crime, including assault and kidnappings.

This group works out of three regional offices, although the Haywards Heath office has the highest profile. Sources are quick to praise it as "very thorough and professional," and one peer even declared: "I would go here if I were in trouble." Highlights for the practice include R v Malesza, concerning the murder of a squat dweller.

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "excellent" David Osborne is widely recognised for his serious crime and fraud work, and sources particularly speak of his impressive advocacy in the Crown Court. Interviewees describe department head Rod Hayler as a well-prepared and convincing advocate, particularly when appearing in the Magistrates' Courts.

This group concentrates solely on privately funded work, and whilst it has the capability to handle regular and serious crime it is particularly noted for its niche expertise in countryside-related criminal matters such as hunting. Highlight work includes R v Gary Thorpe, concerning the alleged assault of two animal rights activists.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Firm founder Matthew Knight assists clients in criminal matters involving aspects of regulatory, professional discipline and public law.

This Chatham-based boutique is recognised as a quality firm with a dedicated legal aid and criminal practice, including road traffic matters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robin Murray founded the firm and is well regarded for his skilled and committed handling of criminal work.