Laura O'Brien

Practice Areas

Laura is a Partner at Hodge Jones & Allen and prominent member of HJA’s Protest Team and Youth Team. Laura has a particular interest in representing young people and those who have mental disorders, neurological disorders and neurological impairments. Laura also has an interest in criminal cases which engage public law issues and challenges to police powers.

Through her time at Hodge Jones & Allen has developed specialist experience in protest law and is a leader in this niche area.

Laura regularly represents Extinction Rebellion, Animal Rebellion, Just Stop Oil and Insulate Britain protestors as advocate and litigator in the Magistrates Court, Crown Court, Court of Appeal and High Court in criminal charges, contempt of Court and appeals. Laura has been involved in a number of appeals that have shaped protest law.

Laura represented two of the four defendants acquitted of criminal damage after the toppling of the statue of Edward Colston in Bristol during a Black Lives Matter protest. Laura acted in the Court of Appeal following the referral of this case by the Attorney General.

Laura represented one of the two defendants charged with causing a public nuisance after being suspended from the QEII Bridge for two days as part of a Just Stop Oil protest. This included in the Crown Court trial, in parallel contempt of Court proceedings in the High Court and in the Court of Appeal.

Laura acts for individuals facing the most serious allegations from sexual offences, drug supply, terrorism and murder. Laura has acted for a number of young people accused of murder and terrorist offences and young people who have been victims of criminal

Laura is a keen trial advocate in the Magistrates Court and the Crown Court.

Laura gives legal training and writes on the law on a regular basis.

Client Feedback

“Laura was absolutely amazing and instrumental to our defence and us getting acquitted!”

“Laura has been absolutely amazing, we cannot thank her enough, she always made time to answer our questions and kept us updated throughout the whole experience. Very professional. Would highly recommend.”

“I could not have found a better company and solicitor than Ms O’Brien at HJA! From the outset, communications and advice were clear and precise. The support, both moral and during trial was much appreciated over a very difficult period. Despite the shortcomings of the court, Ms O’Brien was extremely professional and a fantastic advocate. I would have no hesitation in recommending this company and solicitor.”

“Laura O’Brien is amazing. Extremely passionate, knowledgeable and professional. Laura was incredibly supportive and treated me with kindness and care as well as expert legal representation. Laura O’Brien defended me against false allegations of assault on an emergency worker. I was found not guilty on both counts.”

Professional Memberships

• LCCSA

• SAHCA – Society of Higher Rights Advocates

• Youth Practioners’ Association (Secretary)