Olliers Solicitors: Partnering legal brilliance with unmatched client care

Written 6th January 2026 by Matthew Claughton

As we start a New Year at Olliers, our unwavering commitment to excellence in client service remains at the heart of everything we do.

Yes, we can point to prestigious awards and rankings, brilliant outcomes and testimonials, the standing of our lawyers within the profession, our first-class training and industry first accreditations.

All of this makes us an exceptional criminal defence firm. But, it’s our unwavering commitment to our clients that really sets us apart.

At Olliers we believe that when a client’s life, liberty or professional reputation is at stake – nothing should be left to chance. Our belief is simple – everyone has the right to the very best legal defence. When the might of the state is bearing down on you, we ensure that legal excellence, confidence in your team and care for your wellbeing combine.

Our clients are left in no doubt that when they instruct Olliers that they have instructed the best. And this commitment is not reserved to the lawyers at Olliers – it is shared by every single member of the firm.

Excellence embedded into Olliers’ core values

Some ten years ago we decided to take a really good look at the firm and define our core values and core focus. We documented them and have used them as our North Star ever since.

We looked at what we were best at, what we wanted to focus upon – and in some cases what we did not want to do.

We were adamant that if we could not absolutely guarantee a first-class service in any area of defence work, then we would not undertake it. (This led to us no longer undertaking prison law and turning down certain types of publicly funded work). 

When it came to values everything was about the client – reputation, professional ethics and excellence in client service. We did not just want to be a really good criminal defence firm. We wanted to be the best. And, we wanted the name Olliers to be a byword for ‘excellence’ in criminal defence.

And now, excellence in client service is not just a goal, it is a standard embedded in every aspect of our work.

Our core values are central to every induction session for anyone joining Olliers

From day one new members of the firm know how much we prioritise excellence in client service and the notion of putting the client first. The message is simple – anyone can become caught up in a criminal investigation or prosecution and they deserve the right to the best legal defence. We understand this and we are here to represent and support our clients, in what is frequently the most difficult period of their lives.

Reviews, Rankings and Awards

Of course we are proud to be recognised as a Times Best Law Firm and a Legal 500/Chambers Top-Tier 2026 Firm. We have also been recognised as Manchester Legal Awards Crime Team of the Year on eight occasions since 2011 reflecting just how highly we are regarded.

But the thing that gives us the most pride is the consistent stream of 5-star Google reviews and client testimonials that tell us that our clients felt fully supported by a team that was invested in their outcome throughout their legal journey.

This is why we do what we do, it’s our purpose, our belief and of course our commitment to every single Olliers client.

No other firm does more to support its clients. Here are some of our recent client testimonials that prove just that.

Testimonials

Testimonial for Zita Spencer and Connor Brylczak following Crown Court acquittal for serious sexual allegations

Please pass our enormous gratitude on to Zita and Connor who have given unwavering support to us all, especially in the darkest times during our journey. Both Zita and Connor are a credit to the profession and we feel blessed to have had them on our side and they will be part of our family forever. This case has been our life for almost four years and Olliers have been by our side for the majority of it and we are very grateful. Please pass on our thanks to everyone who has been on this journey with us.

Testimonial for Laura Baumanis following Crown Court acquittal for serious sexual allegations

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.

Testimonial for Gareth Martin following successful outcome in regulatory proceedings

I cannot recommend Olliers Solicitors highly enough for the exceptional support they provided during an incredibly challenging time for both my business and myself. From the very outset, their expertise in handling complex regulatory matters was evident, and their calm, strategic approach immediately put my mind at ease. Gareth Martin (Partner) went above and beyond, not only ensuring I fully understood every aspect of the process but also providing clear, practical advice that was tailored to my specific situation. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome was truly impressive. What stood out most was his empathy and understanding. Gareth recognised the personal and professional impact of the situation and supported me with kindness and professionalism every step of the way. Thanks to his outstanding efforts, I can now move forward with confidence, knowing my business is on a stronger footing. If you’re looking for solicitors who combine expertise, professionalism, and genuine care, I wholeheartedly recommend Olliers Solicitors. They were instrumental in helping me navigate this difficult time, and I am incredibly grateful for their exceptional service.

Matthew Claugton

Managing Director

Manchester

Head Office

London

Satellite Office

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