Mark Cotter Q.C. and Nick Jones were specifically instructed to represent John Rooney in the high value confiscation enquiry that flowed from the infamous modern slavery trial of Rooney and Others. The original trial involved extensive allegations of trafficking, fraud and corrupt practices relating to wills. The POCA enquiry that followed necessarily involved complex financial and property issues. The Crown had specifically invited the court to take a purist approach to the Proceeds of Crime Act, which would potentially have resulted in an order in excess of £2m. However, the case finally resolved with an order of only £152k. Mark and Nick both have very significant experience of defending high value and complex confiscation proceedings.
Mark is a specialist in the field of criminal defence and has extensive experience in all areas of criminal work, from murder to money laundering. His particular areas of expertise include acting in cases involving homicide, fraud and serious sexual offending. Prior to taking silk, Mark led in numerous heavy fraud cases, multi-handed conspiracies and cases involving the most serious sexual offences. He has extensive experience of prosecuting and defending intelligence-led operations that raise difficult issues relating to disclosure and public interest immunity.
Nick is an experienced criminal and regulatory advocate. Prior to joining the Bar, Nick was a solicitor (admitted 1998). As a former solicitor he understands the importance of working as part of a team and the need for meticulous preparation. He has held Higher Rights of Audience (both criminal and civil) since 2003. He has been exclusively acting as an advocate in the Crown Court since 2008.
