Ed is a paralegal at Lloyds PR Solicitors, supporting fee earners across police station and Crown Court matters. He works on the progression of a case from the outset, opening files and preparing legal aid applications, and obtaining the information needed for the merits and means tests that secure funding for a client’s defence.

Much of his work centres on building the defence alongside fee earners: taking client instructions, gathering witness statements, and reviewing and organising evidence so that it aligns with the case strategy. He came to criminal defence through the GDL at the University of Law, where he graduated with Distinction and took the top mark in Public Law. He is currently completing SQE1, and has passed the written examination for Police Station Accreditation, which he is working towards under supervision.

Ed previously worked as a criminal defence paralegal at Blackfords LLP, where he assisted on serious cases, including an attempted murder allegation, liaising with counsel, the courts and the Legal Aid Agency to meet deadlines for fee earners. He has also volunteered with the Citizens Advice Witness Service, supporting distressed and vulnerable witnesses at court, and is a two-time winner of the University of Law’s mock trial and mooting competitions.