Gareth Martin – 1 year at Olliers Solicitors

When did you join Olliers?

I joined Olliers in June 2023.

What is your role at Olliers?

I am a solicitor and partner, heading up the firm’s regulatory offering with a focus on defending professionals and those facing investigation and/or prosecution by bodies including the Health and Safety Executive, HMRC, FCA, NCA, Environment Agency and the like.

What have you enjoyed most about your first year with Olliers?

Without a doubt, the people. I have known a few of the lawyers for very many years but everyone has just been so welcoming to the point it feels like I have been here for much longer  – whether they think that is a good thing or not is something you will need to ask them but for me it is a huge positive.

What have you achieved in your first year at Olliers?

Whilst it has only been a year, I believe it has been a successful one during which we have seen an increase in the number of enquiries and in turn cases in the areas of professional discipline and regulatory law. It has been particularly pleasing to have clients referred to Olliers from fellow professionals who know that their contacts will receive the very best legal advice and assistance from an experienced, pragmatic and empathetic team.

What are your hopes for the next year and beyond?

As I say the biggest positive has been the people and that isn’t confined to just how nice everyone is but also how ambitious everyone is. 

From the first coffee I had with Matthew, I knew that our ambitions aligned – I and we as a firm want to be a go to for not only those under criminal investigation but individuals and businesses facing regulatory proceedings.

I genuinely believe that Olliers offers a truly holistic approach that very few, if any, can match for those caught up in arguably the most stressful times of their lives. We have lawyers dealing with criminal allegations who have particular expertise in pre charge engagement; we have a dedicated team who deal with Disclosure and Barring Service matters and experts dealing with the full range of regulatory matters- all from a purely defence background and perspective.

What would you say to anyone considering a career in criminal and regulatory law?

Do it. It is a challenging but very rewarding career.

What would you say to anyone facing criminal or regulatory proceedings?

Call Olliers.