Mike Leeman
Managing Partner & Specialist Criminal Defence Solicitor
Higher Court Advocate
Mike Leeman is the Managing Partner of Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors, one of the North West’s longest‑established and most trusted law firms. With more than 30 years of experience in criminal defence, Mike is known for his clear, straightforward advice and his ability to support clients through some of the most stressful and complex legal situations they will ever face.
Mike studied law at Sheffield Hallam University, followed by postgraduate study at the University of Sheffield. He completed his training contract with Bell Lamb & Joynson, having originally joined the firm in 1994 while still at university.
He has been police station accredited since 1994, qualified as a solicitor in 1998, and is a Higher Court Advocate.
Mike has worked exclusively in criminal defence for more than three decades. He joined Bell Lamb & Joynson as a student in 1994, qualified with the firm, and became a Partner in 2001 before later becoming Head of the Criminal Department.
When he joined Bell Lamb & Joynson, Mike’s early legal experience began under the mentorship of George Sale, one of the region’s most respected criminal defence solicitors — shaping his foundational approach to client care and advocacy.
As Managing Partner, Mike has transformed Bell Lamb & Joynson into a digitally advanced, people‑first, high‑performing law firm, supporting over 8,000 clients each year across criminal law, family law, conveyancing, private client, and disputes.
Areas of Specialism
Mike specialises in all areas of criminal defence, including:
- Drug conspiracy and supply offences
- Serious violence and public order matters
- Sexual offences
- Fraud and financial crime
- Youth crime
- Motoring offences, including complex driving matters
- Large‑scale, multi‑defendant investigations
He is known for his ability to break down complex legal issues quickly and provide practical, strategic advice at the most critical moments.
Notable Work
Throughout his career, Mike has acted in numerous high‑profile and complex criminal cases, including matters featured on national media such as BBC’s Crimewatch.
Key examples include:
- Representing Kevin Morrison in the high‑profile Alice Ryle murder investigation
- Defending key individuals in Operation Dreadnought, the UK’s largest land‑based cocaine seizure
- Acting in multi‑defendant drug conspiracies across Liverpool, London, Newcastle and Southampton
- Supporting clients through urgent, sensitive police station interviews and fast‑moving investigations
His reputation for calmness under pressure and tactical clarity has made him a trusted figure in serious crime work across the UK.
Accreditations & Memberships
Mike is a member of the Criminal Law Solicitors’ Association (CLSA), the leading national body for criminal defence professionals. He also holds:
- Higher Courts Advocacy qualification
- Police Station Accreditation
- Duty Solicitor
- Senior leadership responsibilities as Bell Lamb & Joynsons LJ COLP (Compliance Officer for Legal Practice) and Managing Partner.
Approach & Client Care
Mike’s approach is straight‑talking, calm, supportive and highly practical. Clients value his ability to cut through complexity, provide honest guidance, and stand firmly by them during the most difficult moments of their lives. As a leader, he is visible, approachable, and deeply committed to wellbeing, professionalism and inclusivity across the firm.
Awards & Recognition
Mike’s leadership has been recognised nationally, including being named Managing Partner of the Year at the Modern Law Conveyancing Awards — reflecting his impact on innovation, culture and client experience within the legal sector.
Outside of Work
Mike lives in Lydiate with his partner and has two children. Away from the office, he is a sports fanatic, an enthusiastic (and self‑proclaimed terrible) golfer, and a passionate Liverpool FC supporter — interests that bring balance to his commitment to leading Bell Lamb & Joynson.