15 September saw the publication of the 2005 edition of the Legal 500; one of the leading UK legal services directories.

As in previous editions, BCL Burton Copeland is identified as one of four niche firms that “have a firm grasp on the criminal fraud market.”  In all, we are recommended as a leader in three practice areas: Customs & Excise, Crime, and Fraud: Criminal.

Partner, Rachel Hubbard, joins the list of our other partners who are considered pre-eminent practitioners by the directory.

In relation to the practice area of Fraud: Criminal, we are again listed in the top of the table of recommended firms.  The directory states:

Ian Burton, “a force to be reckoned with” who is “a tough and canny criminal lawyer”, heads up the white-collar crime department at specialist fraud boutique BCL Burton Copeland, an established leader in this field.  The firm frequently acts for individuals or companies investigated and prosecuted by the SFO.  Its lawyers are praised for their “technical knowledge and responsive service”.  “Their preparation is meticulous”, says one admirer.  Harry Travers and Robin Booth are highly recommended, “renowned for their robust defence of clients”.

In relation to the practice area of Customs & Excise, we shoot into the top of the table of recommended firms:

White-collar crime boutique BCL Burton Copeland boasts nine partners with a wealth of experience advising individuals and corporates on tax and duty evasion, smuggling, drug trafficking and money laundering charges.  Harry Travers and Rachel Hubbard are highly regarded.

In relation to the Crime practice area, we maintain our presence in the table of recommended firms:

BCL Burton Copeland is well known for serious fraud work, but also handles serious criminal cases, including rape, murder, drugs, assault and motoring offences.  The firm tends where possible to eschew high-volume work in favour of representing high-profile, high-net-worth clients, including footballers, musicians and politicians.  Mark Haslam heads the team.