Nicola Bruce
Senior Associate

As a Senior Crown Prosecutor, Nicola held various lead roles including hate crime, domestic abuse and youth crime. Nicola was specially trained in rape & serious sexual assault (RASSO) and was responsible for providing pre-charge advice to the police for many years.
Nicola's approach to pre-charge engagement
Nicola was a Magistrates’ Court Advocate and managed cases of the most serious nature including murder, death by dangerous driving, multiple handed covert drugs operations, fraud, rape, sexual offences and indecent image cases.
Nicola re-joined Olliers as a Senior Associate and brings with her a wealth of knowledge, experience and the advantage of having worked as both a defence and prosecution lawyer.
At Olliers, Nicola specialises in representing clients at the pre-charge investigative stage particularly in relation to allegations of a sexual nature, domestic allegations and cases involving indecent images as well as Magistrates’ Court advocacy and police station representation in private client cases.
Nicola also specialises in Sexual Risk Orders, Stalking Protection Orders and applications to vary or discharge Sexual Harm Prevention Orders
Recent Cases – Pre Charge Engagement
- Client A 2024 – No further action. complainant alleged she was incapacitated through alcohol and incapable of consenting to sexual intercourse; extensive pre-charge engagement with the police; case also included representations against bail conditions led to removal of conditions
- Client L 2024 – No further action. The complainant alleged that throughout the marriage she was controlled & coerced
- Client A 2024 – No further action. The complainant alleged multiple rapes throughout the marriage and controlling coercive behaviour
- Client N 2024 – No further action in relation to a rape allegation following a work night out and complaint from a colleague. Extensive pre-charge investigative work undertaken.
- Client M 2024 – No further action in relation to domestic allegations. Client investigated for controlling and coercive behaviour and harassment. Following pre-charge engagement the matter was concluded with no further action for our client.
- Client L 2024 – No further action for client investigation in relation to indecent images offences
- Client K 2023 – Rape & controlling behaviour. Pre-charge engagement and new evidence put during second police interview. No further action from Police without seeking CPS advice
- Client Z 2023 – Sexual assault. Representation pre interview
- Client A 2023 – Youth indecent imagery of children – diversion May 2023
- Client B 2023 – Rape No further action Jun 2023
- Client C 2023 – Domestic inciting sexual behaviour, strangulation and controlling coercive – No further action July 2023
- Client D 2023 – Domestic controlling & coercive and assault (child) [reps served in relation to assault but decision made by police before PCE re CCB]
- Client E 2023 – Historic rape – No further action
- Client F 2023 – Domestic assault – No further action
- Client G 2023 – Domestic controlling & coercive behaviour. Neurodiverse client – No further action
- Client H 2023 – Domestic – rape, controlling & coercive behaviour and assault – No further action
- Client I 2023 – DV assault. Multiple assaults amounting to section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent, strangulation – No further action
- Client J 2023 – Rape (multiple) and controlling & coercive behaviour (domestic matter). No further action
Testimonials
- “In the midst of an ongoing legal battle, Nicola Bruce from Olliers has been my unwavering support. As my case continues, her proactive approach and empathetic council have been crucial. Grateful for her dedication, I’m navigating false accusations with confidence, knowing I’m in capable hands. For anyone facing pre-charge issues, I strongly recommend Olliers, particularly Nicola. Despite the ongoing nature of my case, her expertise provides assurance and guidance through the complexities. This journey is ongoing, but with Nicola on my side, I am steadfast in my pursuit of justice.”
- “I had previously been to another criminal solicitor who had told me there would most likely be a charge for my case. I was worried about the potential impact of this on my career, so I did my research and found out about Olliers Solicitors and pre-charge engagement.
- “Nicola was assigned to my case and she did an amazing job with my pre-charge engagement. Case was closed with no further action. I would give 6 stars if I could.”
- “The past few months have been one of the most stressful periods of my life was when a jilted ex accused me of a multitude of offences, wrongfully. I’m really glad I had Nicola in my corner. Nicola has been truly fantastic from the initial consultation when I felt like my head was going to explode through every single step of the way she’s made things clear, examined the facts, been there to answer questions and worked tirelessly until the entire case was rightfully brought to a No Further Action verdict. Can’t recommend enough”
- “Under Nicola’s guidance, a meticulously crafted pre-charge engagement representation unfolded, showcasing her remarkable attention to detail and legal acumen. The subsequent months of anticipation further illuminated her unwavering dedication. I am pleased to report that my case was ultimately resolved with a “No Further Action” verdict, an accomplishment that was reached even before the matter was referred to the CPS. Nicola’s insightful legal insights and methodical approach were pivotal in achieving this favourable outcome. Nicola has been truly fantastic from the initial consultation when I felt like my head was going to explode through every single step of the way she’s made things clear, examined the facts, been there to answer questions and worked tirelessly until the entire case was rightfully brought to a No Further Action verdict. Can’t recommend enough. Pre-charge representations were made to the police by Nicola Bruce, including evidence that contradicted the allegations. Five weeks after his interview the police confirmed no further action and the case was dropped, this was much faster than I had expected. It made a real difference to know that someone other than his family, was batting on my son’s behalf.”
Articles written by Nicola
Manchester
Head Office
- 0161 8341515
- nicolabruce@olliers.com
- Fourth Floor, 44 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5GP