Mary Westcott

Year of Call: 2007

Education / Qualifications

BA (Hons) Philosophy : University College London

Post Graduate Diploma in Law : BPP School of Law

Bar Vocational Course : BPP School of Law

Specialist practice areas

Crime
Extradition

Profile

Mary joined chambers following an 18 month pupillage at 5 St Andrew's Hill.  She prosecutes, defends and advises in almost all areas of crime.  With regular instructions from the CPS, RCPO, DWP and local authorities, Mary has extensive experience prosecuting a wide range of offences in the Magistrates' and Crown Courts.  Whilst defending, Mary has appeared at the Central Criminal Court as a led junior.  Mary's criminal defence practice includes a large spectrum, including sexual offences, drugs and violence to privately instructed driving matters. 

Having worked as the legal assistant to the DPP's principle legal advisor, Mary has assisted and advised on grave, sensitive and very complex cases encompassing double jeopardy, deaths in custody and contentious charging decisions.

Her secondment with the CPS' Special Crime Division, Extradition Unit lent Mary considerable expertise in Extradition.  Prior to this, she represented requested persons in the High Court.  By mixing her specialist knowledge with well pitched advocacy Mary is developing an excellent reputation in this field, both prosecuting and defending. 

Mary also accepts civil instructions.  She has experience of cash detention and forfeiture; small claims in the County Court; and maintains an interest in Employment and Family law.

Before coming to the Bar Mary worked for Labour MEP's in the European Parliament, based in Brussels and Strasbourg.