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Marcela Salter

Solicitor

Criminal Defence Solicitor 
Higher Rights Advocate (awaiting results)

Marcela Salter is a highly experienced Criminal Defence Solicitor at Bell Lamb & Joynson, with more than three decades of experience in criminal law. Known for her resilience, compassion and depth of courtroom experience, Marcela has supported clients through some of the most serious and complex cases across the UK.

Originally from Chile, Marcela came to the UK in 1975 as a refugee. She is fluent in both Spanish and English, bringing a culturally aware and deeply empathetic approach to client care, particularly when supporting vulnerable individuals and those facing language barriers.

Marcela began her career in criminal law in 1989, initially working as an office junior before progressing to Magistrates’ Court Clerk and caseworker roles across both the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts. She later undertook her legal studies while working full time, completing her LLB (Hons) and LPC at Liverpool John Moores University. She was admitted as a solicitor on 1 February 2016 and has practised as a solicitor ever since.

She joined Bell Lamb & Joynson in September 2021 and has since become a valued and respected member of the firm’s Criminal Defence Team.

Areas of Specialism

Marcela has extensive experience across the full spectrum of criminal law, including:

  • Serious violence and homicide

  • Sexual offences

  • Complex conspiracy cases

  • Major organised crime matters

  • Prison law

  • Youth and vulnerable client representation

  • Public order offences and general crime

She is known for her calm, determined advocacy and her ability to build trust with clients during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.

Notable Work

Throughout her career, Marcela has worked on a number of high-profile and complex criminal cases, including matters that have attracted national attention.

Her experience includes involvement in cases connected to:

  • The Bryann Ghay case

  • Representation linked to the Dale Cregan investigation

  • Historic serious crime cases during her prison law work, including matters connected to Jeremy Bamber and Dennis Nilsen

She has also represented individuals involved in serious sexual offence cases and complex investigations involving vulnerable victims and sensitive circumstances.

Accreditations & Memberships

Marcela holds a number of professional accreditations and recognitions, including:

  • Police Station Accreditation

  • Mental Health First Aider

  • Member of Women in Law

She is currently awaiting the results of her Higher Rights of Audience examinations with the University of London.

Marcela has also been recognised externally, being named a Legal 500 Leading Associate Solicitor and awarded Crime Leading Associate of the Year at the Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Awards.

Approach & Client Care

Marcela is known for her tenacity, honesty and unwavering support for her clients. Her own life journey gives her a unique perspective, allowing her to connect deeply with individuals facing uncertainty, trauma or injustice.

She is particularly passionate about ensuring that every client feels heard, understood and properly supported, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Outside of Work

Marcela has been married for over 27 years and has two adult sons. She often credits her family’s support as the foundation of her long and demanding career in criminal defence.