Steven Swift, a barrister practising in complex criminal cases, has joined the firm’s leading Criminal Litigation department in Wigan. He was called to the Bar in 1991 and for the last 11 years, he was a tenant at India Buildings Chambers in Liverpool.

Steven, originally from St Helens, said: “I’ve been instructed by Stephensons for many years undertaking criminal cases at the most serious levels including murder, rape, robbery, death by dangerous driving, sexual offences and drug offences.

“I took the opportunity to join the firm and conduct the work ‘in-house’ given the strength of the team in the field of Crime, and generally. This new position will enable me to conduct criminal trials at the highest level, alongside a strong and professional team of solicitors and support staff.”

Martin Jones, Managing Partner of Criminal Litigation at Stephensons, said: “Steven is an excellent addition and his appointment will enable us to provide clients with a completely seamless service. His expertise will also be used to mentor and develop the advocacy skills of others in the firm who wish to develop their higher rights of audience.”

Stephensons Crime team is one of the leading teams in the country, and is ranked in the top tier of the latest Legal 500, an independent guide to the legal profession, which says the firm is ‘one of only a handful of firms that have experience and expertise to deal effectively with criminal appeals’.