Specialist defence in drug cases, from conspiracy and importation to confiscation, within a broad criminal practice. Over 33 years’ experience, representing clients in the UK and abroad.
Acquittals following contested prosecutions and challenges to confiscation claims. Each report explains the allegations and the result.
Drug Offences
John Hurlock’s client acquitted in major international drugs conspiracy trial
Outcome: Acquitted on both conspiracy counts
John represented MM in a substantial multi-defendant trial. The defence challenged whether the evidence proved one overarching agreement. The jury acquitted MM of conspiracy to import cocaine and conspiracy to export ketamine. MM had admitted involvement with cannabis and ketamine; the acquittals concern the two conspiracy counts.
Class A conspiracy: no evidence offered against an exploited child
Outcome: Not guilty after the prosecution offered no evidence
John represented K, who was 16 at the time of the alleged offending, in a multi-defendant Class A drugs conspiracy. Supported by expert evidence and safeguarding findings, the defence challenged the decision to prosecute a child identified as a victim of criminal exploitation. The prosecution offered no evidence and a not-guilty verdict was entered.
R v N — acquittal in international drug conspiracy retrial
Outcome: Acquitted following a retrial
John represented N in a large-scale Class A and Class B drugs prosecution. The defence reviewed covert recordings that the Crown had not relied on. In cross-examination, the officer conceded that the recordings did not connect N to either the Essex or Holland end of the conspiracy. N was acquitted following a retrial.
John practises from 2 Bedford Row (2BR) in London, representing individuals and businesses and working with instructing solicitors. As a registered litigator, he offers litigation services alongside advice and advocacy. His experience includes murder and manslaughter trials, drug offences and other serious criminal cases, fraud and money laundering, financial investigations and appeals.
His wider work includes contracts and NDAs, prenuptial agreements, trademarks and patents. In sports law, he advises on permits and visas, contracts and disciplinary proceedings.
He works with clients in the UK and overseas, including Dubai, the United States and Spain.
The work and fees are agreed before instructions are accepted. Fees and quotations
TESTIMONIALS
Client & solicitor feedback.
“Once again, defence counsel John Hurlock maintains the ability to scrutinise and revisit the evidential basis upon which the Crown’s decision to prosecute was predicated in this case. Counsel’s relentless pursuit of another acquittal in a multiple-defendant drugs supply case and his attention to detail are to be commended.”
David Nicholson · Dobsons Solicitors
R v K and others · Class A drugs conspiracyView Case
“I was the solicitor instructing John Hurlock in R v N. I had worked with John previously and trusted him to be thorough, client-friendly and insightful in such a serious matter. His performance both in and out of the Court was…”
“John Hurlock is our go-to counsel for those accused of serious drug and violence offences particularly those involving organised crime thanks to his exceptional judgment and client-care. An accomplished advocate, he is a reassuring presence whose calm manner puts clients, and solicitors, at ease. His ability to see the true issues in a case, together with his ability to explain things to clients at all levels means he is highly sought after and for solicitors who insist on the highest levels of client care and quality for their clients, one of the finest and safest pairs of hands at the Bar.”
Solicitor feedback
R v X · Newton hearing and nil confiscationView Case
Practical information to help you take the next step.
Getting started
Can I contact him without a solicitor?
Yes. Individuals and businesses can email him directly or speak to his clerks at 2 Bedford Row (2BR). He accepts Public Access instructions, often called Direct Access, where the case is suitable. He will assess the work required and explain whether you also need a solicitor.
Yes. He is a registered litigator. He can undertake the conduct of litigation as part of agreed instructions, alongside advice and advocacy. The client care letter will set out the work covered and who is responsible for correspondence, documents and procedural steps.
Not necessarily. He is a registered litigator and can provide litigation services as well as advice and advocacy where agreed. Whether you also need a solicitor depends on the matter, funding and scope of the instructions. He will explain who will handle each part of the case before work begins.
Include the full name and date of birth of the person needing advice or representation, your contact details, a short outline of the matter and any hearing date or deadline. Mention the other parties and any solicitor already instructed. If applicable, include the person’s prison number and current prison. If you are enquiring on someone else’s behalf, explain your relationship to them.
Fees depend on the complexity of the case, the documents to review and the time required. The clerks at 2 Bedford Row can provide a quotation once they know what work is needed. Ask what is included, the VAT amount, any expenses and how a change in the work would affect the fee.
No. Direct Access is privately funded. If you have legal aid, instructions to a barrister must come through a solicitor. If you may qualify, speak to a solicitor about funding and your choice of barrister. Your solicitor can contact the clerks at 2 Bedford Row to discuss his availability for the case.
Call the clerks at 2 Bedford Row and explain the matter and the hearing, interview or deadline. He offers evening and weekend attendance. The clerks will confirm availability, the preparation required and the arrangements for your matter.
Yes. He handles voluntary interviews, including advice and attendance. Contact his clerks with the police station, the proposed interview date, the allegation and any papers or correspondence you have received. They will confirm availability and arrangements.
Yes. He offers evening and weekend attendance, including for police interviews and attendance following arrest. Call his clerks to explain the situation and when attendance is needed. Availability and arrangements must be confirmed for the particular matter.
His work includes drug offences, serious and complex crime, murder and manslaughter, fraud and money laundering, confiscation and asset recovery, regulatory and licensing matters, road traffic offences, criminal appeals and sports law. He also advises on contracts, NDAs, prenuptial agreements, trademarks and patents, and separately offers copywriting services. The expertise pages explain the work covered.
He works with clients based overseas, including in Dubai, the United States and Spain. Include your location, time zone, where the matter arises and any deadlines when you enquire. His clerks can discuss remote meeting arrangements. He will assess the relevant jurisdiction and whether any locally qualified legal advice is needed.
Case News covers his work in criminal defence, financial crime and related matters. You can filter cases by area and year, then follow the links to read more. Each case turns on its own facts and evidence.
Can I request an adjustment or information in another format?
Yes. Tell him or the clerks what would help when you enquire. They can discuss communication needs, alternative formats and arrangements for professional appointments.
Email him directly about your case or call the clerks at 2 Bedford Row. Evening and weekend attendance is offered, with availability and fees confirmed when arranging instructions.
John Hurlock, instructed by Lizzie Sieprawska of Virdee Solicitors, successfully defended a client acquitted at half-time, at Isleworth Crown Court, of GBH arising from a fatal assault. The case had started as a murder investigation following the discovery of the deceased at his home, several days after he had been involved in two separate incidents of violence.
John Hurlock, instructed by David Nicholson of Dobsons Solicitors, represented K, a young man charged alongside others at Wood Green Crown Court with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. K was 16 years old at the time of the alleged offending.
John Hurlock, instructed by Paul Cameron of Bark & Co, successfully represented a client facing trial at the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey) on charges of kidnap, false imprisonment and blackmail. The prosecution alleged that John’s client, together with 13 others, had been involved in the kidnapping of a Swedish national with a ransom of £150,000 demanded.