Les’ Practice
Les Rowley predominantly defends and prosecutes on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service in Magistrate’s Courts throughout London and Sussex. In the Crown court he defends clients.
With regard to Police Law he has acted for officers at Tribunals and also has experience in advising on Police Capability procedures enabling officers to complete their careers. He also has experience in handling complaints against the police relating to unlawful arrest and mishandling of property. This has also included drafting proceedings for hearing in the High Court in relation to Judicial Review hearings against Police Authorities.
He has also represented clients at Licensing Hearings ensuring that any sanctions which a Licensing Committee are proportionate and reasonable in order that client’s may continue with their trading.
He has a wealth of experience in representing clients at Road Traffic Courts either defending such prosecutions or making applications for Special Reasons or Exceptional Hardship.
He is a qualified police station representative and has advised clients accused of a whole range of offences, from road traffic matters to multiple rapes and murder.
Les’ Background
His first career as a police officer involved him in investigating all major crimes including the Brighton Bombings, numerous murder enquiries and serious sexual offences. He retired having served with Sussex Police for thirty years and left with an exemplary record.
He uses his inside knowledge of police procedure to assist clients at court and also in dealing with complaints against police.
Away from the courtroom he plays league badminton and competes in local and National tournaments. He also enjoys classical music and reading.
Areas of Expertise
Crime
Police Law
Regulatory Law
Road Traffic
Qualifications
Bsc (Hons) Policing and Police Studies
LLB (Hons)
MSC Criminal Investigation.
BVC, BPP Holborn – Very Competent.
Memberships
The Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn
Notable Cases
His recent cases including the following:-
R v Nurton Staines Magistrates Court – acquitted of careless driving.
R v Clarke Maidstone Magistrates Court – acquitted of assault.
R v Cummings Croydon Magistrates Court – acquitted of domestic assault.
R v Antonpillai Canterbury Crown Court – successful S78 application to exclude damaging prosecution evidence.
R v Crossingham Wood Green Crown Court – acquitted of Rape.
Kent Police v Chandler – acquitted of gross misconduct.