Martin Heslop KC is widely recognised as one of the Leading Silks at the Criminal Bar with extensive experience of criminal trials including corporate and financial crime. He also specialises in Gaming and Licensing, Health & Safety and associated areas of practice.
For 9 years as Treasury Counsel he prosecuted the most serious and complex cases. However, at the same time, unusually, he maintained a significant defence practice, being in demand to defend in major trials because of his advocacy and insight into the prosecution process.
On taking Silk, he has continued with a high profile criminal defence practice and is highly regarded for his excellent tactical skills and presentation in complex cases both in the UK and abroad.
He is generally regarded as one of the finest jury advocates today and his cross-examination skills are of the highest calibre.
In addition, he brings these skills to the fields of Gaming and Licensing, and Health & Safety representing leading operators throughout the world.
He is held in the highest regard by his peers and his successful cases are well known and documented.
Martin accepts Direct Access instructions.
What others say:
He is cited in the Legal 500, Chambers UK and the Legal Experts Guide which have described him as:
“He is simply fabulous when dealing with the most serious matters given his criminal law expertise.” – Chambers UK 2025
“An exceptional advocate, highly persuasive and brilliantly incisive.” – Legal 500 2024
“A fine advocate with an enormous memory for the facts of any case.”
“Has an amazing knowledge of case law and completely grasps all the relevant points.”
“My go-to counsel of choice to defend in murder cases.”
“A highly rated advocate.”
“A truly brilliant advocate.”
“In the super league.”
“A colourful and likeable advocate who is terrier like in Court.”
“Dedicated, highly intelligent and quick witted with oodles of charm.”
“A fine silk, whose standing as an excellent criminal lawyer is seen further to compliment his gaming practice.“