Laura Baumanis

Partner specialising in
criminal defence

Laura joined Olliers in 2005 and qualified as a solicitor in 2008. She specialises in pre-charge and police interview representation and prides herself on achieving the best possible outcome for her clients.

She is also an outstanding Magistrates’ Court advocate and appears in courts across the country on a regular basis representing the best interests of her clients. Laura is an experienced Crown Court litigator with a specialism in defending allegations of domestic abuse and sexual offences.

Since joining the firm, Laura has worked on a number of serious criminal cases which, of note, include high profile human trafficking cases, murders and many conspiracies to supply drugs.

Laura now specialises in the defence of those under investigation, particularly for offences of a sexual nature.

The Legal 500 2026

The Legal 500 2024

Laura was shortlisted for the Northern Powerhouse Criminal Lawyer of the Year 2024.

Pre-charge representation during criminal investigations

Laura is known for her pro-active approach during the ongoing investigation stage of a case. An interview under caution is an extremely important stage of the process but it is often after the police interview that the real work begins. She will always look to bring an investigation to a conclusion without the need for a prosecution. She is known for her strategic approach liaising with investigators throughout. She applies a combination of formal and informal representations to police and prosecutors ensuring that the chances of a prosecution are kept to a minimum. Laura has significant experience in dealing with cases at this stage particularly cases involving sexual allegations and indecent images.

Laura acts for a number of professional clients, particularly medical professionals, representing both during the criminal stage of proceedings as well as during the professional discipline stage, frequently dealing with Interim Order Tribunals (IOT) before the General Medical Council (GMC).

Laura does not accept instructions on a legally aided basis at this stage of a case.

Interviews under caution

Laura regularly attends interviews under caution, particularly voluntary interviews which take place by arrangement with the police. She will always look to obtain early disclosure of allegations against her client so that meticulous preparation for the interview can take place. This will ensure that the most effective strategies are deployed at the police station. When clients are released under investigation Laura will then consider how best to ensure the most successful outcome to the investigation (see below).

Specialist Advocate

Laura also provides extremely professional advice and representation at the police station and appears on a regular basis in the Magistrates’ Court. In this time she has gained and maintained an excellent reputation as an advocate, boasting an impressive acquittal rate when it comes to trials, as well as securing notable results when dealing with sentences, bail applications and various ancillary applications.

Laura prides herself in putting at the heart of her representation her client’s needs. Regardless of the nature of the allegation, Laura works tirelessly to ensure the best results for those who instruct her. Laura has a particular specialism in youth court work and regularly works with the Court, the CPS, YOS and other agencies to ensure that youths are being dealt with fairly and appropriately. She appreciates how distressing criminal proceedings can be, not just for the youths involved, but for their family as well and offers unrivalled support and assistance throughout such cases.

She understands that, to many, finding themselves on the wrong side of the law is a daunting and often overwhelming experience, and dedicates much of her time to addressing these issues. Her priority is to ensure that each client receives confident, professional and accurate legal advice within a context that provides them with the maximum amount of reassurance and support. Her experience ensures that the best possible outcome is reached in each and every case.

Laura does not generally accept trial instructions on a legally aided basis.

Football Banning Orders

Laura also specialises in the defence of football related offences including public order offences arising both pre and post football matches. She has considerable experience of successfully opposing football banning orders before the Magistrates’ Court and applying to have them removed once two thirds of the order has been completed. She appreciates the practical difficulties that the imposition of such orders can cause, not to mention the distress caused to many who can no longer support their favourite team in person, and fights hard to minimise the impact of any such prosecution upon her clients.

Case Studies

2025 Court of Appeal – AG approved an appeal on the basis that the sentence passed against S was unduly lenient

K was charged with a number of sexual offences in relation to a 15 year old pupil who she met through her work, including grooming, sexual assault when in a position of trust, and making indecent images. She pleaded guilty at the first possible opportunity and Olliers assisted her from the pre-charge stage, ensuring that she was putting herself in the best position as regards her mitigation. Despite an unfavourable PSR, and the lead offence having a starting point of four years custody, the Crown Court was persuaded to impose a sentence of two years imprisonment, suspended for two years. Permission to appeal was granted upon an application from the AG being lodged on the basis that the sentence was unduly lenient.

The Court of Appeal heard all of the submissions both on behalf of the Crown and of the defence and refused the appeal. Despite noting that it was a lenient sentence, it was not found to be so lenient as to be unreasonable and the mitigation submitted by the defence was accepted as being capable of reducing the sentence to one of two years. It was, therefore, well within the Crown Court’s discretion to then suspend this sentence.

2025 St Albans Crown Court – Rape

Z was charged with rape and sexual assault. This related to a former friend, who he had had sex with after a house party. It was alleged that the sex had not been consensual and that, after the parties had fallen asleep, the complainant woke to find Z digitally penetrating her. She made a complaint to their mutual friends that morning and messages were exchanged between the pair prior to the police being contacted. It was only when the complainant discovered that Z had also taken a photo of her wearing only her underwear whilst asleep, which he had shared with a third party, that she reported the matter to the police. Z accepted sharing the photo but maintained that the sexual activity was consensual. The parties gave evidence and, ultimately the jury found Z not guilty.

2025 Oxford Crown Court – Attempt to arrange/facilitate sexual activity with a child

R was charged with attempting to arrange sexual activity with a child. He had phoned a number which was advertising sexual services, which, unbeknown to him, was part of an undercover police operation. During the call he was offered a number of young girls under the age of 16 who were available for sexual activities, and he confirmed his preferred age and hair colour and prices, locations and timings were discussed. Ultimately, he ended the call stating that he would phone back to confirm and he never did. In interview he claimed that he had suspected the number to be involved in the sexual abuse of children and phoned it to gather evidence in order to make a formal complaint. Whilst he maintained that he did so via an anonymous website, no evidence of any such report was ever found either with the sites or on his devices. It also came to light that a number of years before this he had contacted a 14 year old girl who was looking for work and suggested they could have sex for money.

At trial the defence chose not to call R to give evidence, but through tactical and thorough cross examination of the officers involved, submitted that the Crown could not evidence an intention to meet. R was found not guilty.

2025 Magistrates’ Court – Making IIOC

D was charged with making Category B and C images. He had been arrested following the receipt of intelligence and a search had been conducted at his home address. One of the devices that was forensically examined was found to have approximately 25 indecent images of children on it, and an extreme image, as well as indicative search terms and file names. The images had been deleted but had been previously accessed by the user via Tumbler.

The Crown made a catalogue of errors in prosecuting the case, by failing to disclose the evidence upon which they relied until 36 hours before the trial date, and failing to warn their expert witness to attend Court. Olliers were pro-active in chasing the police, the CPS and in having the case listed for mention so that the Court could order disclosure. On the day of trial the Crown sought to have the case adjourned to allow their witness to attend. This application was rigorously opposed and the Court, in refusing the application to adjourn, commended Olliers for the work they had done to highlight the Crown’s failings to them and the Court well in advance of the trial. The Crown had to offer no evidence and the case was then dismissed.

2025 Magistrates’ Court – s39 x 2

B was charged with two common assaults. These arose from an incident at a festival when she was asked to leave by security manning the event. She initially refused to move, but then, of her own volition, made her way away from the stage, followed by the security guards. It was alleged that she tried to evade them in order to remain within the festival and, when they apprehended her she punched two of the security guards to the face. She was then taken to the floor and pinned down, at which point it was accepted that she spat one of them in the face. B denied punching either of the guards, although accepted flailing her arms around when they tried to grab her, and stated that she spat at the guard in self defence.

The matter was listed for trial and both complainants attended and gave evidence which included photographs of swelling to their faces. B also gave evidence and conceded that it was possible that she had touched their faces, although maintained that, if she did, it was accidental. The complainants gave slightly different accounts when put under rigorous cross examination, and these discrepancies were noted by the Magistrates’ who found her not guilty of both assaults. She maintained her good character.

2025 Pre-charge engagement – sexual assault x 2

J was arrested in respect of two sexual assaults, said to have been committed against his daughter and step-daughter. His step-daughter had made similar allegations against him previously but had never reported the matter to the police until she believed there was a second complainant. He gave a full account in interview and then instructed Olliers who proceeded to undertake a large amount of work as part of pre-charge engagement. As part of the defence six witnesses were spoken to and statemented, and over 30 exhibits, ranging from messages and emails to photographs and social services reports, were submitted to be considered alongside the police file. Notwithstanding the fact that there were two complainants who had made similar allegations the Crown were persuaded by the detailed representations and defence evidence and took no further action.

Laura in the Media

Due to Laura’s experience and impressive reputation she is frequently asked to comment on issues relating to criminal law by the national media.

Is deflating tyre offences a criminal offence? Click here to read
Revenge porn Click here to read
Voice of Islam Radio -appeared on radio discussing conviction rates in relation to sexual offences
Discussing police rights with Stylist Magazine Click here to read
Take a Break magazine – comment on stalking, and stalking protection orders for National Stalking Week

Laura was recently quoted in The Guardian highlighting her concerns about the prevalence of spice in prisons. Read more.

Laura also spoke to Vice about the law surrounding the supply of drugs. Read more.

Testimonials

“Dear Laura, I wanted to write to thank you for all the help and support you have given us. As you know, it has been one of the most harrowing and difficult experiences of our lives. It dragged on for over 3 years and at times seemed insurmountable. Firstly, your expertise and guidance were crucial in building an excellent legal defence. We had absolutely no knowledge of criminal law or the legal system but having someone like you steering the ship was invaluable and extremely comforting. Secondly, the patience and kindness you displayed throughout was hugely important. We were navigating our way through an absolutely awful experience and you never lost sight of this. I know that I must have sounded somewhat hysterical on some of our calls, but your knowledge and understanding always reassured me. You managed to maintain professionalism at all times, coupled with empathy and understanding. I believe this is something that few can achieve. All your hard work paid off with the excellent result we got in court last week. It will take us a long time to recover from this experience and for us to rebuild his lives. However, without you I am not sure we would have even had this opportunity. I speak on behalf of all our family when I say ‘we are forever grateful’. Thank you again and wishing you all the best in the future.”
“I couldn’t be happier with the service and representation I received from Laura Baumanis and Olliers. From initial contact and then throughout the case, Laura was easily contactable, explained everything clearly and demonstrated expertise and knowledge which all helped me immensely.”
“From the prompt response to my initial enquiry and the friendly and helpful office staff; I was impressed from the start. Laura’s advice throughout was spot on and she was a huge help. When you’re facing a situation that you’ve never faced before you need a Laura by your side.”
“Thanks for all your help. If it wasn’t for you I’d be serving a 3 year ban. I really am grateful and I’d not hesitate to recommend you.”
“I want to say a big big thank you for the other night. I was expecting that to be the most nerve wracking experience of my life, but you really put me at ease, which allowed me to give my evidence as clearly as I could. Very very much appreciated!”
“I still can’t thank you enough. I know it’s just your job to you. But to me and my family I can’t tell you how pleased we all are with the result.
I have only ever had three other encounters with solicitors. You by far are the most down to earth, polite, professional and approachable of them all.”
“An absolute masterclass performance, confident and knowledgeable.”
“Would just like to say many thanks to you and your team. Laura was an absolute blessing in court…she kicked ass…“

Recent Cases

R v S 2023 – lengthy investigation into possession of indecent imagery of children and RIPA (failing to provide passwords). File was submitted to the CPS under RIPA only and no further action was taken due to lengthy response provided in response to the request, highlighting the defences available and the deficiencies of the police during the investigation
R v M 2023 – accused of serious sexual assault against a minor. Due to active engagement with the police during the investigation, no further action was taken without the matter proceeding to the CPS. Subsequently an application was made to the DBS to remove evidence of the arrest from his record, which was successful. We were able to establish that this was a malicious allegation, fabricated with the intention to secure custody of the child.
R v H 2023 – allegations of controlling and coercive behaviour and assault against an ex-partner and her child. Significant work was undertaken in obtaining defence evidence, including obtaining audio recordings from with the house, statements from family members and colleagues, banking records, text messages and images. The case was submitted to the CPS prematurely by the police, who had failed to undertake any investigation into the allegations made or the defence raised. Ultimately no further action was taken.
R v D 2023 – historic allegation of rape. Assistance provided before, during and after voluntary interview, during which denials were submitted and defence witnesses provided. Due to active pre-charge engagement, a decision to take no further action was taken without recourse to the CPS.
R v B 2023 – client pleaded guilty to attempting to facilitate sexual activity with a child. Despite the sentencing guidelines suggesting that the requisite sentence exceeded that of two years, due to a significant amount of work done both pre and post charge in respect of rehabilitation, the court was persuaded that the case was exceptional, and reduced the sentence to 18 months, allowing it to be suspended.
R v C 2023 – instructed to deal with allegation of sexual communications with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, case both pre and post charge. Due to the amount of work undertaken to evidence rehabilitation, including obtaining character references, evidence of various courses attended and impact upon family, the court was persuaded to depart from the sentencing guidelines and imposed a three year community order after a prompt guilty plea.
R v O 2023 – Successfully acted for doctor at a pre-charge stage facing a number of sexual allegations. Successful outcome at Interim Order Tribunal (IOT) stage. No interim orders made and allegations subsequently no further actioned by the police.
R v N 2022 – Guilty plea to seven charges, including inciting child to engage in sexual activity – advised to expect immediate custody by Counsel. Sentenced to suspended sentence order
R v R 2022 – Pre-charge assistance in relation to an allegation of rape. Following on from advice during interview, and post charge representations, no further action taken, despite apparent admissions being made to the aggrieved party
R v M 2022 – Pre-charge assistance in relation to allegation of sexual assault. No further action taken
R v D 2022 – Court refuses to impose a Football Banning Order following on from a guilty plea for being drunk in a stadium. CPS appeal refusal and appeal is unsuccessful. Crown Court agrees Football Banning Order is not appropriate
R v W 2022 – Guilty plea to possession of indecent images. Case remained in the Magistrates’ Court and a Community Order was imposed
R v A 2022 – Historic allegation of rape. Following on from pre-charge representations no further action was taken. Further instructed to apply to have evidence of his arrest removed from his PNC. Also successful
R v F 2022 – Pre-charge assistance in relation to an allegation of sexual assault against his daughter. As a result of continued contact with the police no further action was taken and Social Services accept no cause for concern. All parties accepted that the allegation was malicious and unfounded.
R v A 2021 – Sexual communications with a child. Instructed post charge. Made successful representations to the Crown Prosecution Service that it was not in the interest of justice to prosecute. The Crown offered no evidence in the Crown Court
R v B 2020 – Instructed in relation to a youth accused of downloading hundreds of indecent images. Following advice at the police station she was able to persuade the Officers to deal with the matter by way of a youth caution.
R v C 2020 – Racially aggravated public order at a football match. Instructed after interview to undertake pre-charge work. Her pro-active approach in obtaining evidence in support of the defence resulted in no further action being taken.
R v D 2020 – Rape. Instructed after interview to undertake pre-charge work. As a result of the work undertake on behalf of the defendant and representations made to the police no further action was taken.
R v E 2020 – Common assault (Domestic Violence). Laura successful opposed the Crown’s application to adjourn the trial when they were not in a position to proceed on the day. No evidence offered and the case was dismissed
R v P 2019 – Successful post charge representations in relation to charges of harassment and criminal damage in a neighbours dispute. Crown discontinued the case after the first appearance as a result of lengthy written representations put forward by Laura.
R v U 2019 – Outraging public decency. Laura successfully defended the client at trial and despite there being three witnesses to the incident in question, he was found not guilty
R v R 2019 – Sexual assault x 2. Two separate allegations of sexual assault were made against R by former colleagues. Laura represented him throughout proceedings and secured him an acquittal at the conclusion of his trial
R v B 2019 – s47 assault (Domestic Violence). Instructed after interview to undertake pre-charge work. Detailed representations were made to the Crown which resulted in no further action being taken against him.
R v C 2019 – Rape. Laura was instructed to represent C at the police station when arrested for an allegation of rape. Following on from her advice and attendance upon the client no further action was taken
R v G 2019 – Contested application for a football banning order following a conviction for a Public Order offence. Laura was instructed after the guilty plea had been entered. Successfully opposed the Crown’s application for a football banning order.
R v R 2019 – Possession of indecent images. Laura represented R who was charged with one count of possession of a category A image. Successfully persuaded the Magistrates’ Court not only to deal with the case rather than commit the matter to the Crown Court for sentence, but to deal with the matter by way of a suspended sentence rather than an immediate period of imprisonment.
R v L 2018 – Successfully opposed imposition of Football Banning Order following a guilty plea to pitch invasion.
R v Z 2017 – Three handed case of pitch invasion. Laura’s client was the only person to avoid the imposition of a Football Banning Order.
R v Y 2017 – Theft from employer. Client was acquitted despite CCTV evidence purporting to show the offence.
R v X 2017 – Domestic Violence assault. Acquitted after trial.
R v W 2017 – Victimless prosecution. Crown sought to rely upon res gestae evidence. Laura successfully opposed the Crown’s application to adduce such evidence and the case was dismissed