Madeleine Wolfe

After 24 years at the bar, Madeleine is consistently instructed in cases that are both legally and factually complex and has built up a reputation for successful outcomes. She defends serious high-profile cases, including attempted murder, organised violence, drugs, serious sexual allegations, and firearms. She is also a RASSO approved grade 4 CPS prosecutor.

Madeleine has an easy going and friendly approach with clients that allows her to connect with even the most anxious outside the courtroom. In court she uses intelligence, charm and humour to win over the jury; a strategic, persistent and robust approach in cross-examination; hard work and intellect to win an argument and is not known to back down from any tribunal. All of this is underpinned by legal acumen, a meticulous knowledge of the case detail and her fearless court presence.

As her years in practice have encompassed a wide range of offences, experience allows Madeleine to adapt and modify her approach on a case-by-case basis. She recognises where sexual allegations are made clients and witnesses can be vulnerable and require careful handling to achieve results. However, equally, there are cases when a robust and persistent approach is required. To achieve the best outcome possible, she works with her clients to identify and deploy the most beneficial tactical approach to her case.

Madeleine is also very practised at dealing with expert evidence. She has instructed, called and cross-examined the country’s finest expert witnesses in areas such as neuropsychiatry, psychology, pathology, DNA analysis, blood spatter analysis, fatal road traffic collisions, facial recognition, firearms, digital communication and arson.

Madeleine accepts Direct Access instructions.

She is ranked in the Legal 500 Directory as a Leading Junior and described as:

“Madeleine is a tenacious advocate. Her ability to adhere to the restrictions of s28 cross-examination but at the same time fully advance crucial elements of a client’s defence as well as highlight limitations or contradictions in the prosecution case is remarkable.” – Legal 500 UK 2025

“Madeleine is a very talented and experienced advocate with extensive knowledge of the most serious and complex cases.” – Legal 500 UK 2023

“A commanding yet calm presence in court, robust in any legal arguments and savvy in cross-examination. She deliveries the most impressive closing speeches.” – Legal 500 UK 2022

“A persuasive and fearless advocate” – Legal 500 UK 2021