Advocacy

The advocacy department is led by experienced barrister John Barker. Before joining RFB John was a barrister in private practice for more than twenty years appearing in Criminal and Regulatory cases. His experience extends throughout the criminal jurisdiction with him acting as lead counsel in many serious and notable trials. John is available to advise you and to represent your interests whether it be in the Magistrates Court fighting for your driving licence or in the Crown Court fighting for your liberty. The Department undertakes trial advocacy for the firm's own clients and on behalf of other firms of solicitors.

Beside John’s practice in the regular criminal jurisdiction and in professional regulation, he has considerable experience in Health and Safety related matters and in financial investigations.

John was educated at University College (London) where he obtained a Masters degree in Law and at the Inns of Court School of Law where he qualified as a barrister in 1982. He is a member of The Honourable Society of Middle Temple and The Criminal Bar Association. John has been appointed to sit as a Legal Assessor to The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, The General Osteopathic Council, The Association of Accounting Technicians and The Market Research Society.

Gillian Frost, barrister, has been appearing in the Crown Court for over 25 years in private practice. She has principally practiced in the criminal courts and has defended clients in serious and complex cases, this has recently included a seven month VAT fraud and a substantial Health and Safety Executive prosecution appearing as leading counsel.

Gillian obtained a BA in business law before studying for the Bar qualification. She was called to the bar in 1979. Before embarking on her career in advocacy she was employed with the Law Commission. She is a member of the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn and the Criminal Bar Association.

Charles Digby joined the firm in 2010 having enjoyed a lengthy and successful career as an independent barrister. He brings with him a wealth of experience in all types of criminal defence including presenting the case as leading counsel in major criminal trials.

Charles has a particular interest in complex fraud and white collar crime but has developed an expertise in all areas of serious crime and extradition. He has defended in many murder trials and in trials involving the importation of huge quantities of drugs. Charles also has substantial experience in the Coroner’s Court. For many years Charles was on the Attorney General's preferred list of counsel.

Charles was called to the bar in 1982.

John Barker
Gillian Frost
Charles Digby