John McGuinness KC

Practice Areas

Crime

Financial Crime

Career

John McGuinness is a leading criminal practitioner noted for his strong work ethic and persuasive advocacy style.

He has substantial Appeals Court practice in criminal and public law in the High Court, the Court of Appeal and The Supreme Court in cases of criminal law, public law and human rights. His wide range of appellate work includes appeals against conviction and sentence, Judicial Review, and Appeal by Case Stated.

He has a wealth of experience in prosecution and defence of homicide, terrorism and other serious general criminal offences, and also specialises in financial crime (including fraud, insider dealing, bribery and corruption) where he has been highly ranked by the legal directories for many years.

John’s cases often attract media attention - recent examples being R v Alex Belfield (stalking, including the broadcaster Jeremy Vine), and R v Tarek Namouz (using Covid loans to fund terrorism).

John has also been instructed in an appeal concerning legislation enacted by Parliament to address the topical issue of ‘small boats’ arrivals.

John holds specialised knowledge in Data Protection and Legal Professional Privilege and is a recognised leader in advising public bodies and companies on a wide range of criminal and regulatory matters, including corruption, terrorism and disclosure. He is retained as leading counsel in cases such as those concerning complex allegations of multi-jurisdictional tax fraud.

Professional Memberships

Criminal Bar Association