Corporate, Commercial and Criminal
Prolific. Dynamic. Progressive. Just some of the words that have been used to describe the criminal practice within Eric Robinson Solicitors and while many prefer to keep this area of law in the shadows, the firm’s pride of success in this area of law has led to a respect and following from the corporate world.
David Franklin
When David Franklin first joined the criminal team at Eric Robinson Solicitors in 1992, the climate, audience and demand for his expertise was a world away from the present day. Since taking leadership of the department in 2014, it has won prestigious contracts, found an ever-increasing client base within the commercial sector and been rated as ‘exceptional’ in the Legal 500.
‘There has always been a crossover between my department and the commercial team, it’s just that, understandably, it is seldom mentioned,’ he explains. ‘Criminal law can affect people in all areas of business – tax returns and accusations of fraud, Health & Safety issues and motoring offences to name just a few.’
‘We are regularly called on to negotiate with VAT inspectors. One client had over quarter of a million pounds worth of assets seized, but we were able to get over 75% of it returned almost immediately.’
‘Another corporate client was facing criminal prosecution after an employee engaged in construction caused serious damage and claimed it was a result of inadequate health and safety precautions. We proved the accused wasn’t to blame.’
‘Our representation of business people has grown through word of mouth. People are embarrassed to call in and ask for a ‘criminal’ solicitor, but anyone can have a brush with the law. Seeking advice and legal representation should have no shame attached.’
In addition to these new markets, David Franklin secured a prestigious five year Legal Aid contract across the county of Hampshire and its surrounds, leading to a recruitment drive for new members of staff to join the existing team of 15 and the opening of the firm’s ninth offices in Portsmouth.
‘While our reputation goes from strength to strength, allowing our achievements and work to shine, there is a growing recognition and acceptance of the role we play in the business community for which we are very proud.’
Eric Robinson Solicitors
023 8042 5000
