Q&A with Liam Ferris on Criminal Defence

Liam Ferris is a Partner at JR Levins and an experienced criminal defence solicitor who represents clients both at the police station and in court.

Having spent decades working in criminal law, Liam has seen first-hand how important good legal representation can be when someone is facing an allegation or investigation.

We spoke to Liam about what first attracted him to criminal defence, what clients need during an incredibly stressful time and what people often misunderstand about the role of a criminal solicitor.

What does your role at JR Levins involve?

Day to day, I work as a defence advocate within our busy criminal law department. I represent defendants in court and suspects during police interviews. A large part of my role is making sure clients understand what is happening, what their options are and how we can best represent their interests.

Alongside my own casework, I oversee the work of the hardworking teams carrying out this work with me. More recently, I have become increasingly involved in the management of the department as well.

What first attracted you to criminal defence work?

I was influenced by cases such as the Birmingham Six and Guildford Four. Those cases highlighted the consequences that can arise when people do not receive proper representation at the police station, whether because they are unrepresented or because the advice they receive is inadequate.

That made an impression on me and helped shape my interest in criminal defence.

I was also frequently told that I liked a good argument, so perhaps the career suited me from the beginning.

I have worked with JR Levins since its inception. Before that, I was a Partner at Jones Robertson for 19 years. My role has developed over time and I am now more involved in managing the criminal department alongside continuing to represent clients myself.

What do you find most rewarding about helping clients?

One of the most rewarding parts of the job is being able to reassure someone who is extremely worried that they are not “in it” on their own.

Being investigated by the police, attending an interview or appearing in court can be an unfamiliar and frightening experience.

Clients may not know what is going to happen next or what an allegation could mean for them and their family. Having somebody alongside them who understands the process, can explain what is happening and will represent their interests can make a real difference during that period.

What do people often misunderstand about criminal defence solicitors?

One thing people sometimes misunderstand is how we can represent both clients who tell us they are guilty and clients who tell us they are not guilty.

A criminal defence solicitor can act for either, but our role is very different depending on the instructions we receive.

If a client tells us that they have not committed an offence, our role may involve challenging the prosecution evidence and putting forward their defence.

If a client accepts that they are guilty, we cannot put forward a case which we know to be untrue. Instead, our role includes advising them properly, protecting their rights and making sure any relevant circumstances are put before the court.

Everyone is entitled to legal representation. Part of our job is ensuring that clients understand their position and that the criminal justice process is followed fairly.

What are you most proud of during your time at the firm?

I am particularly proud of the criminal law department we have built.

Following the merger of Jones Robertson and Levins, we have been able to bring together a busy and vibrant department with a great deal of experience.

That includes colleagues such as Gary Schooler, Adele Sephton and Donna Cann, who bring significant criminal defence experience to the team.

Criminal defence work relies heavily on people working together. Building a team with that level of knowledge and commitment is something I am very proud to have been part of.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?

Outside work, I am a Tranmere Rovers season ticket holder.

That probably explains why people frequently tell me to cheer up.

It isn’t easy.

Speak to our criminal defence team

Being arrested, invited to attend a police interview or facing criminal proceedings can be an extremely worrying experience.

Having legal advice from the outset can help you understand what is happening, know your rights and make informed decisions about what to do next.

Liam works alongside JR Levins’ experienced criminal defence team representing clients at police stations and courts.

If you need criminal defence advice, contact Liam Ferris for a confidential discussion regarding your situation.

Or you can call us on 0151 480 5777 or email enquiries@jrlevins.co.uk.