Jeremy Rawson
Senior Partner & Higher Court Advocate
Specialist Criminal Defence Solicitor
Jeremy Rawson is the Senior Partner at Bell Lamb & Joynson and one of the firm’s longest-serving solicitors, having been with the practice for more than four decades. Widely respected across Merseyside and North Cheshire, Jeremy is a highly experienced criminal defence solicitor and Higher Court Advocate known for his tenacious, straight-talking approach.
With over 45 years of experience in criminal defence, Jeremy has represented clients in cases ranging from motoring offences to the most serious allegations, including murder and large-scale organised crime. He conducts a significant number of the firm’s Crown Court cases and has built a reputation as one of the region’s most respected criminal advocates.
Career & Background
Jeremy studied law at the University of Manchester, obtaining his LL.B between 1977 and 1980 before completing his professional training at the College of Law. He was articled to Ivor Bennett at Bell Lamb & Joynson between 1981 and 1983 and has remained with the firm ever since qualifying as a solicitor in 1983.
He became a Higher Court Advocate in 2001 and has served as a Duty Solicitor since 1985. Jeremy was also a founder member of the South Sefton and Crosby Duty Solicitor Scheme and has contributed to the development of criminal defence services across the region.
Criminal Defence Expertise
Jeremy has extensive experience across the full spectrum of criminal law and has acted in numerous high-profile and complex cases throughout his career. His work includes:
Representing defendants in major murder trials, including the high-profile Alice Ryle case and the so-called Reservoir Dogs murder
- Acting in the landmark House of Lords case of R v Deitchmann
- Conducting multiple large-scale drug conspiracy cases, including major organised crime investigations
- Handling serious cases involving allegations of child death and complex forensic evidence
- Appearing in appeals before the Court of Appeal
He has conducted advocacy at all levels of the criminal courts and is an accredited advocate and supervisor on the VHCC (Very High Cost Cases) panel.
Broader Legal Experience
In addition to his criminal defence work, Jeremy has handled complex conveyancing and probate matters throughout his career and has significant experience in family law. He was previously a member of the Law Society’s Advanced Family Panel and represented the father in the leading House of Lords case of O & N.
Jeremy has also contributed to the wider legal profession, serving for 20 years as an Independent Costs Assessor (ICA) for the Legal Aid funding review committee.
Approach & Reputation
Jeremy is known for his direct, pragmatic and determined approach. Clients value his honesty and resilience, particularly when facing serious or life-changing allegations. His decades of courtroom experience allow him to cut quickly to the heart of a case and provide clear, strategic guidance at the most critical moments.
As Senior Partner, Jeremy has played a central role in shaping the firm’s long-standing reputation for robust defence work and unwavering client commitment.
Outside of Work
Jeremy was educated at Birkenhead School and has remained closely connected to the region throughout his career. Outside of work, he enjoys playing squash and is a keen horseman.