Harry Bentley

Harry Bentley’s principal areas of practice are criminal defence and professional disciplinary tribunals. He has been involved in many high profile, complex and serious prosecutions both as sole counsel and as junior counsel. These cases range from the murder of police officers through to multi-million pound frauds and large scale drug conspiracies. He has particular experience defending in conspiracy prosecutions in a wide range of circumstances including cases of slavery, controlling prostitution and breach of immigration laws. He has been instructed in a large number of heavy frauds over the years such as Operation Cotton (land banking conspiracy) and Operation Autovia (Construction Industry Scheme & VAT conspiracy).

Harry’s professional disciplinary practice is varied. He has significant experience presenting cases and advising regulatory tribunals including the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) in a wide variety of cases such as sexually motivated conduct, dishonesty and breaches of duties. In addition to presenting cases he also regularly appears on behalf of the Royal College of Nursing as a defence advocate in interim order hearings, reviews and full hearings. He has also appeared on behalf of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

Harry is ranked as a leading junior in Crime for both Chambers UK and Legal 500.

What others say:

“With Harry, a belt and braces approach is taken when preparing any document for court. Everything is covered and nothing is left out. Weighty documents prepared are always commended by judges. Harry is an advocate, who always impresses, well prepared, measured and can captivate juries with a friendly manner. An advocate with presence who commands the courts respect.” – Legal 500 UK 2022

“A dedicated advocate who has excellent legal knowledge and a thorough understanding of the law. He has always demonstrated attention to detail at all times so far as preparation and advice is concerned together with excellent advocacy skills.” – Legal 500 UK 2021

“A knowledgeable and highly responsive barrister who instils confidence.” – Chambers UK 2021

“A fantastic barrister.” – Legal 500 2020

“Exceptionally good. He’s very conscientious and diligent, and is strong on his feet.” “Harry’s approach to cases is thorough and clinical but his approach to clients remains kind and empathetic to levels not often seen at the Bar.” – Chambers UK 2020

“He provides very methodical and considered opinions and is never flustered by the most complex cases.” – Legal 500 2019

“He impresses quickly with his obvious ability and is a delight to work with.” – Legal 500 2017

“A very dedicated and effective junior – very straight-talking.” – Chambers UK 2016

“He really is exceptional for his years of call. His ability to get to the crux of the issue quickly is fantastic, especially when in fraud you have thousands of pages of disclosure.” – Chambers UK 2015