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Howard & Byrne Howard & Byrne
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27 Years
experience
Emergency
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Expert Criminal Defence Solicitors in York
Established in 1999, Howard & Byrne is a distinguished law firm specialising in criminal defence. Our team combines straight-talking professionalism with a client-centred approach, delivering tailored legal solutions across general crime, fraud, regulatory matters, and international cases. Recognised in Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, we pride ourselves on our expertise in complex cases, including multi-million-pound fraud and murder trials.

With offices in York, Scarborough, and London, we serve clients nationally and internationally, maintaining a reputation for excellence through meticulous attention to detail and unwavering client support. Our accolades, including Yorkshire Legal Awards and inclusion in The Times Top 200, reflect our commitment to achieving results while upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
Services
Criminal Defence Fraud Cases Driving Offences International Defence Civil Asset Recovery Regulatory Compliance Military Law Prison Law Private Prosecutions
Served areas
  • National
Details
  • Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
  • We have over 25 years of experience in criminal defence law.
  • Our firm is ranked Tier 1 for general crime by Legal 500.
  • We provide 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters.
  • Our team includes Leading Individuals recognised by Chambers.
  • We maintain transparent communication throughout every case.
Associations and certifications
  • Legal 500
  • Chambers and Partners
What people say
Excellent service Positive result Professional and friendly Kept informed Best solicitors
Website
Services
Criminal Defence
We provide robust criminal defence services for individuals and businesses facing allegations ranging from minor offences to complex multi-jurisdictional cases. Our solicitors combine strategic thinking with courtroom experience to protect clients' rights. We specialise in murder, fraud, and regulatory investigations, ensuring transparent communication and evidence-based strategies to achieve optimal outcomes.
Fraud Cases
Our fraud defence team handles high-value cases involving bribery, money laundering, and corporate misconduct. We offer proactive advice to mitigate risks and defend investigations by bodies like the SFO. With recognition in Legal 500, we combine technical expertise with practical solutions to resolve complex financial crime matters efficiently and discreetly.
Driving Offences
We defend clients facing motoring offences including drink driving, speeding, and disqualification. Our solicitors challenge evidence rigorously while advising on mitigating factors to reduce penalties. We prioritise clear explanations of legal processes and work to preserve clients' livelihoods through tailored representation in magistrates' and crown courts.
International Defence
Our firm represents clients in cross-border criminal matters across the US, Europe, and Middle East. We coordinate with international legal teams to address extradition, mutual legal assistance, and regulatory compliance. With experience in high-profile cases, we ensure culturally sensitive representation while maintaining rigorous defence standards aligned with UK legal frameworks.
Civil Asset Recovery
We defend against confiscation orders and civil recovery claims under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Our solicitors challenge unjustified asset seizures through detailed financial analysis and proportionality arguments. We advise individuals and businesses on compliance strategies to prevent enforcement actions while safeguarding legitimate assets during investigations.
People
Colin Byrne
Founder
Colin Byrne, a Leading Individual in Chambers, has over 30 years' experience in criminal defence. Recognised as Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year, he specialises in complex fraud and serious crime cases. His approach combines strategic legal analysis with compassionate client support, maintaining a strong track record in high-profile trials.
Kevin Blount
Partner
Kevin Blount, a Legal 500-ranked solicitor, focuses on regulatory defence and corporate crime. With expertise in SFO investigations, he advises multinational clients on compliance and risk mitigation. His pragmatic approach balances aggressive advocacy with commercial awareness to resolve matters efficiently.
Questions
What areas of law does Howard & Byrne specialise in?
We focus on criminal defence, including fraud, regulatory offences, driving cases, international crime, and asset recovery. Our expertise extends to military law, prison law, and private prosecutions.
Are your solicitors available outside regular office hours?
Yes, we provide 24/7 legal support for urgent matters, ensuring immediate assistance during police investigations or arrests.
How do you handle international criminal cases?
We coordinate cross-border defence strategies with global legal partners, addressing extradition, mutual assistance, and compliance with international legal frameworks.
What makes Howard & Byrne different from other firms?
Our combination of Legal 500-recognised expertise, client-centred approach, and proven success in complex cases sets us apart in criminal defence representation.
Can I get immediate legal advice for an ongoing investigation?
Yes, contact our 24-hour line for urgent assistance. We prioritise rapid response to protect your rights during active investigations.
Reviews (8)
George York
Jul 13, 2021 Report
Got some good advice over the phone, appreciated. I have used Howard & Byrne in the past and was extremely happy. If needed for Criminal Law I will 100% be using these again.
Lorraine Potter
May 19, 2021 Report
Thay are so great.help me in the most hart braking time of my life.made me feel clam and explained everything to me
Joshua Turner
Jan 30, 2021 Report
Came to york magistrates court today without legal help asked for a duty solicitor and spoke with Caroline Aaron. She was very friendly and professional
G. Heaton
Jun 14, 2019 Report
Was recommended a solicitor Mr. James McGowan and he was great. Professional, dutiful and a very good representative to have/liase with. Would definately further recommended this man!
Daniel Hollinshead
Apr 28, 2019 Report
Caroline arron, absolutly amazing : after our 3rd attempet she got me released. I cant say enough and no superlative can do her justice. Thank you for all your hard work! From daniel hollinshead.
Daniel Hollinshead
Nov 10, 2018 Report
Caroline Arron, absolutly amazing after our 3rd attempet she got me released. I cant say enough and no superlative can do her justice. Thank you for all your hard work !!!!
Adam Burford
Oct 30, 2018 Report
Couldn't have wished for a better solicitor. Lee-anne robin-hicks was a professional but warm lady. Even after the outcome wasn't as planned I still feel the way this professional conducted herself in and out of court was amazing! I would recommend to anyone! Thank you again Lee-anne 10/10.
G. Heaton
Report
Was recommended a solicitor Mr. James McGowan and he was great. Professional, dutiful and a very good representative to have/liase with. Would definately further recommended this man!