Hodge Jones & Allen

Nigel Richardson has specialised in criminal defence work since 1987. He is head of Hodge Jones & Allen's criminal defence department.

Nigel has particular expertise in dealing with motoring offences, drug related and sexual offences.

Nigel has represented many clients charged with serious and complicated matters ranging from homicide to criminal fraud, and regularly appears in court. Nigel is also a Deputy District Judge, sitting in the magistrates court.

Nigel is frequently available to attend police stations on behalf of clients arrested and held in custody.

Nigel is recommended as a 'leading individual' by Legal 500 UK 2011 and Chambers UK 2012.

Chambers UK 2013 Nigel Richardson has a reputation for brilliance in handling sexual, motoring and drugs-related offences. He is highly adept at understanding clients' needs, and is praised as a "mature, experienced safe pair of hands."

• Oxford University, MA English, 1977-1980
• City of London Polytechnic - Law Society Finals, 1985

• Articles, Hodge Jones & Allen, 1985-1987
• Admitted as solicitor, 1987
• Partner, Hodge Jones & Allen, 1991

The prosecution for manslaughter of the owner of a fishing vessel, which sank with all hands - one of the most complex cases to have ever gone before a criminal court

Represented a woman charged with running a brothel. The defendant called the police to report an attack on one of the women working there. As a result of the call, the owner of the brothel was herself arrested and charged.

Nigel lectures in criminal law at the Oxford Institute of Legal Practice, and writes on the European Convention on Human Rights and criminal litigation. He is responsible for the selection of solicitors applying to become duty solicitors and has a particular interest in the quality of advice given to suspects held at police stations.

Nigel is chair of the Practice Committee of the Solicitors Association of Higher Courts Advocates and a member of the LCCSA and LSC funding review committee.