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Direct access barrister

Jeanette Ashmole

Barrister · Called 2012

"From the outset this was an extremely aggressive prosecution by the CPS due to me once being employed by the CPS myself. My job, legal qualifications and livelihood was at stake because of this wrongful conviction...

Direct Access qualified Barristers are regulated by the BSB
Jeanette Ashmole

Regions served: East Midlands · West Midlands · East of England

About Jeanette

"From the outset this was an extremely aggressive prosecution by the CPS due to me once being employed by the CPS myself. My job, legal qualifications and livelihood was at stake because of this wrongful conviction leaving me in tears every night for a year!! The Judge in my appeal was extremely intimidating, however Jeanette's strategic approach, attention to detail, and exceptional advocacy skills were instrumental in achieving a favourable outcome in my case"

"Jeanette is the best lawyer I ever had contact with, is brilliant, highly supportive, helps so efficiently, is highly organised and focused on the issues involved. She truly represents the best interest of her clients and serves justice. I also know I would probably not find my way to justice without her help. I am so grateful for all her hard work, dedication and invaluable support I received. After a long journey, my faith in justice is restored"

Jeanette specialises in Criminal Law both in the Magistrates, Crown Courts and Appeal Courts throughout the UK. She regularly receives cases to defend people in all manner of cases from theft to more serious cases such as serious assaults, sexual offences and people trafficking. Jeanette has been successful in achieving many acquittals for clients and prides herself in her attention to detail. She has the unique insight into how a case should be built by the police and the CPS from her previous years working for the police and the CPS as a Crown Prosecutor. She has a keen eye to spot when things have not been done as they should, and she is quick to take issue and advantage on behalf of her client.

About me

Jeanette was called to the Bar in 2012. She completed her pupillage at a London Chambers in Temple under the supervision of Jerry Hayes. Her pupillage was reduced by the Bar Standards Board due to her previous experience and competence in Law. Before becoming a barrister, Jeanette had a previous career in the Police Force and spent time working as a qualified Investigator for the Home Office Criminal & Financial Investigations National Team. During her time at The Home Office, Jeanette was appointed an Extradition Officer travelling abroad and working in partnership with agencies such as Europol, Interpol & International Police Forces. She has experience in cases involving false and counterfeit identity documents, modern slavery, people trafficking and sham marriages as a consequence of her experience in these areas at the Home Office.

Jeanette has also spent time working for The Crown Prosecution Service as a Crown Prosecutor and so has the unique advantage of the inside working of the Crown when defending criminal cases.

Jeanette is a hardworking, determined individual known for her straight talking and down to earth attitude. Jeanette is able to build excellent working relationships with clients which is evident from her client testimonials and feedback. She frequently receives excellent feedback from the clients she represents.

Jeanette fought hard to qualify as a Barrister and came to the Bar from a non-traditional background without having had the opportunity in her younger years to study A-Levels following being orphaned as a child and being fostered in her childhood. However, in pursuit of her dream, she remained determined in her quest eventually being called to the Bar in 2012. You can read more about her story here: LINK

PERSONAL LIFE In Jeanette's spare time she has a TV consultancy firm ([www.tvcrimeconsulting.co.uk](http://www.tvcrimeconsulting.co.uk)) where she advises writers/production companies who make TV drama and documentaries involving crime. She has produced a number of true crime/police access shows for sky, bbc and c5 as well as TV crime dramas for the BBC, ITV and Netflix. She currently advises Coronation Street legal stories and has worked on Happy Valley and the successful prison Drama 'Time'. You can find Jeanette on Netflix 'Meet, Marry, Murder' as an expert talking about a double murder she was instructed.

My approach

Jeanette, as an ex-detective and crown prosecutor knows the inns and outs of the other side of the fence and approaches all her cases with a fine tooth comb to make sure that everything as it should be - if not Jeanette is quick to inform the prosecution and make arguments for dismissal which has happened on a number of occasions. Jeanette will always treat your case very seriously, put the time in and do all she can to ensure a positive outcome.

Professional & academic

Education:

  • LLB (Hons) with Criminology - The University of Derby 2:1
  • BPTC - Nottingham Law School - Very Competent

SCHOLARSHIPS AND PRIZES:

  • Lord Diplock Scholarship, Middle Temple Major Scholarship
  • Degree of Success Scholarship, The University of Derby in partnership with the Derby Telegraph Newspaper. Major scholarship to cover entire degree fees.

Crown Court Commendation (as an Investigator), Awarded by HHJ Brown sitting at Leicester Crown Court. An investigation into a six-handed conspiracy to breach UK immigration laws by facilitating sham marriages. The Commendation stated: "His Honour Judge Brown commends Jeanette Stevenson for the way in which the case was investigated and the evidence collated. It was a cross jurisdictional complex case and the officer was professional, thorough and impressive throughout"

Home Office Commendation, Award for dedication, commitment and professionalism.

OTHER ACHIEVMENTS & TRAINING

2019 - Appointed Alumni & Mmembership Board Member at The University of Derby.

2018 - Appointed Associate Law Lecturer at The University of Derby

· Professionalising Investigations Programme: College of Policing Level 1 & 2, Volume & Complex Crime

· The Home Office & College of Policing: Award for highest mark achieved for the National Investigators Exam (testing rules of evidence, knowledge of law and procedure), awarded grades "Exceptional"

· The Metropolitan Police: Invited to advise the Modern-Day Slavery and Trafficking Unit in relation to ongoing investigations and ABE interviews. This involved an attachment in London.

· Minute to Win It Gameshow ITV, Applied and took part in a Gameshow to raise extra money needed for Bar School.

· White Collar Boxing: Trained and took part in a fight to raise money for Marie Currie Cancer Care on 20th Anniversary of Mothers Death.

What clients say

Recent feedback from direct access clients in Criminal Law include: I had the privilege of being represented by Jeanette Asholme for my appeal against conviction in the Birmingham Crown Court, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From the outset this was an extremely aggressive prosecution by the CPS due to me once being employed by the CPS myself. My job, legal qualifications and livelihood was at stake because of this wrongful conviction leaving me in tears every night for a year!! Her expertise in criminal law is unmatched, and her dedication to her clients is exemplary. The Judge in my appeal was extremely intimidating, however Jeanette's strategic approach, attention to detail, and exceptional advocacy skills were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome in my case. Her professionalism, empathy, and unwavering commitment to justice make her an invaluable asset to anyone in need of legal representation in criminal matters. I sympathise with anyone who finds themselves on the opposing side of Jeanette Asholme's legal prowess !!! In my humble opinion a future Judge!!! I wholeheartedly endorse Jeanette Ashmole for anyone seeking a highly skilled and compassionate barrister. Words cannot describe my gratitude x Ashad Khan I would like to write my best recommendation for brilliant Barrister, Jeanette. I had previously very poor experiences and I was largely unsupported and even discouraged to pursue my way to seek justice. Due to difficult circumstances, I carried a burden of the backlog issues to be dealt with and was very distressed about it and almost lost hope. When I contacted Mrs Jeanette, I had welcoming advice and right away I was given an immediate, clear view about the course of action to take. It not only made me feel supported but soon resulted in a winning case, where the judge himself was motivated to help. Throughout the case, reading my correspondence, Ms Jeanette quickly saw through the real issues most relevant to claiming justice and prepared all the documents to communicate a clear message in the most effective ways, backed with strong law points. This led to victory. We now had our first success, one more issue to deal with and I found out about the new relevant grounds within the next 24 hours as Ms Jeanette has already done the research about the relevant law. I also learned I can claim back some legal costs. Ms Jeanette is the best lawyer I ever had contact with, is brilliant, highly supportive, helps so efficiently, is highly organised and focused on the issues involved. She truly represents the best interest of her clients and serves justice. I also know I would probably not find my way to justice without her help. I am so grateful for all her hard work, dedication and invaluable support I received. After a long journey, my faith in justice is restored. Thank you, Jeanette. Magdalena Krol

Jeanette was understanding and extremely professional yet always provided an honest view of my chances of success and the various routes a case like mine could take. Which was not good at all. My case was not straight forward however, Jeanette's knowledge and experience was exemplary and fully evident during the trial which resulted in a win. I would like to thank Jeanette for her professional service and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone. I cannot thank Jeanette enough for all her help and support representing me on the day. I would highly recommend her, literally would of been lost without Jeanette there on the day. Amazing defence and I am a very happy person' D.BAYNTON

Jeanette Stevenson is one barrister NOT to be missed! After having previously experienced probably Britains most useless advocate to then be introduced to Miss Stevenson was a complete Godsend. This charming, intelligent and resourceful young woman saved my career and cleared my name completely. She also made sure I was fully reimbursed of all costs. Her ability to listen to reasonably complex information and timeline under pressure is truly remarkable. I understand that Jeanette didn't have the easiest start in life and has worked hard to get where she is today. This is a woman that genuinely cares about the situation you are in and will do EVERYTHING to get justice for YOU' S Hammond (Leicestershire) Recent feedback from instructing solicitor Jeanette regularly receives case from: 'Jeanette is a very articulate advocate that understands the needs of clients and provides detailed advice, whilst reassuring them during difficult times. I have received positive feedback from clients on cases I have instructed Jeanette' Manjinder Kang - Director Kang & Co Solicitors Feedback from a client who took her case to Appeal, Jeanette representing the client at appeal: 'Jeanette Stevenson -what an AMAZING young woman! She recently represented me in Court. My previous Barrister just homed in to one aspect of law and that was it and consequently we lost the original hearing. I decided to take it to the hilt as I was dumbfounded at the appalling system of the courts and the quality of the judge in question. Jeanette showed up with wig and pen and a lovely smile. She had such a small amount of time to absorb a lot of information and i thought as with the previous Barrister she wouldnt be interested anyway. Boy was I wrong. She understood the detail almost immediately. Giving her information at 100 miles per hour- no problem for Jeanette. Straight into court no faffing about just humility and an inner self-assurance. There is no wonder she has commendations etc. What a superb career she has ahead of her. Hopefully a future judge. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Jeanette' SAMANTHA H Jeanette was recommended to me by a friend and from our very first chat I knew we would work together. Jeanette is so down to earth but couldn't be more competent and efficient at the same time. Jeanette was extremely approachable and compassionate to our situation. I would highly recommend her services. A real professional and wonderful lady. Debbie Nelson

S.Hammond Jeanette Stevenson is one barrister NOT to be missed! After having previously experienced probably Britain's most useless advocate to then be introduced to Jeanette was a complete Godsend. This charming, intelligent and resourceful young woman saved my career and cleared my name completely. She also made sure I was fully reimbursed of all costs. Her ability to listen to reasonably complex information and timeline under pressure is truly remarkable. I understand that Jeanette didn't have the easiest start in life and has worked hard to get where she is today. This is a woman that genuinely cares about the situation you're in and will do EVERYTHING to get justice for YOU - charged with driving without due care and attention - Motor offence (hgv driver) Miss Crawford Today I was in court for a road traffic accident that wasn't my fault, I was blamed for being dishonest and lying basically but with the help from this barrister I was able to walk away with a decent claim, I couldn't thank this lady enough she was very helpful, very supportive, very friendly and fantastic at her job, I would definitely use her again, even the conference call we had before the court hearing she was very helpful, she never backed down and gave enough evidence for myself to win the case, very happy with the outcome, also makes you feel like a friend not just a client thank you so much. Jeanette was understanding and extremely professional yet always provided an honest view of my chances of success and the various routes a case like mine could take. Which was not good at all. My case was not straight forward however, Jeanette's knowledge and experience was exemplary and fully evident during the trial which resulted in a win. I would like to thank Jeanette for her professional service and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone. I cannot thank Jeanette enough for all her help and support representing me on the day. I would highly recommend her, literally would of been lost without Jeanette there on the day. Amazing defence and I am a very happy person. Matt Waldheim Excellent Barrister, experienced, professional and knowledgeable. She helped me with a driving case that had been going on for over a year. Within the first week of her taking the case it was all settled in my favour!! Samantha H Jeanette Stevenson -what an AMAZING young woman! She recently represented me in Court. My previous Barrister just homed in to one aspect of law and that was it and consequently we lost the original hearing. I decided to take it to the hilt as I was dumbfounded at the appalling system of the courts and the quality of the judge in question. Jeanette showed up with wig and pen and a lovely smile. She had such a small amount of time to absorb a lot of information and i thought as with the previous Barrister she wouldn't be interested anyway. Boy was I wrong. She understood the detail almost immediately. Giving her information at 100 miles per hour- no problem for Jeanette. Straight into court no faffing about just humility and an inner self-assurance. There's no wonder she has commendations etc. What a superb career she has ahead of her. Hopefully a future judge. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Jeanette. Charged with driving without due care and attention - Motor offence (hgv driver) Jeanette was recommended to me by a friend and from our very first chat I knew we would work together. Jeanette is so down to earth but couldn't be more competent and efficient at the same time. Jeanette was extremely approachable and compassionate to our situation. I would highly recommend her services. A real professional and wonderful lady. Debbie Nelson

Mr Bowen Jeanette is extremely professional and swift with her responses. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Jeanette for all the support and guidance she gave me during a difficult and stressful time which resulted in the outcome I had hoped for. Jeanette Stevenson is an EXCELLENT barrister and I have no reservations in recommending her. Miss Lammie​ I honestly can't thank Jeanette enough for all the hard work she put into my case! I would definitely recommend her! She was compassionate, friendly whilst remaining professional. Mr Binfield I would highly recommend Jeanette from the first meeting to last she has been efficient switched on and communicative at a great speed whilst also having a proactive and dynamic approach to getting results and the job done. I was bewildered by the whole justice system but Jeanette explained everything to me and couldn't have done anymore so for anyone wanting fantastic and a great service from start to finish don't look elsewhere. I wish her all the best. Jeanette was recommended to me by a friend and from our very first chat I knew we would work together. Jeanette is so down to earth but couldn't be more competent and efficient at the same time. Jeanette was extremely approachable and compassionate to our situation. I would highly recommend her services. A real professional and wonderful lady. Debbie Nelson

Areas of practice

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