Police Law
Fiona has extensive experience representing police officers.
She has been instructed by the Police Federation to represent Police Officers charged with criminal offences across the UK and also accepts instructions in police disciplinary proceedings.
Fiona has a unique background of experience to draw upon, having been a reservist member of the Royal Military Police for four years prior to joining the Bar. She has a strong understanding of practical policing tactics, use of force and policing procedure which allow her to portray successfully the stark reality and challenges encountered in modern policing.
Fiona is known for her fearless and persuasive advocacy and her ability to get to the heart of a case, with a meticulous approach to preparation. She is experienced in successfully taking over cases at short notice and is known to adopt a tactical approach to case preparation and advocacy.
She is able to deal skilfully and sensitively with vulnerable witnesses including in sexual offences and cases involving complex medical evidence.
Fiona is acutely aware of the stress serving Police Officers encounter when they are made the subject of criminal or disciplinary proceedings. She is adept at putting clients at ease and working in a collaborative way to ensure that their concerns and instructions are listened to and taken into account, in order to defend their position with tenacity and determination.
Cases
R v JS – Following a 6 day trial, a Greater Manchester Police Officer was unanimously acquitted of an allegation of Rape. The trial was prosecuted by King’s Counsel and involved expert medical evidence.
R v AK – Following a 3 day trial, a Lincolnshire Police Officer was unanimously acquitted of an allegation of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm against a member of the public.
PC J (Nottinghamshire Police 2025) – Represented a Police Officer during a Gross Misconduct Hearing facing allegations of Discreditable Conduct based on sexual related allegations. Three of the five allegations were found not proven. Two allegations were found proven but not on the basis alleged by the Appropriate Authority of sexual related behaviour. Finding of Misconduct only given the alternative factual basis found.
Outcome for the Officer – Written warning imposed.
