Direct Access Barrister

Claire Burtwistle

Direct Access Barrister

Claire Burtwistle

I am an independent barrister with 16+ years experience, specialising in corporate and white-collar crime.

I’m based in London and Yorkshire and accept instructions directly under the Public Access scheme.

Called to the Bar in 2008, I specialise in cases involving fraud, bribery, corruption, money laundering, tax offences and other allegations of financial misconduct. I act for individuals, in-house legal teams, corporates and family offices in complex and sensitive criminal investigations and litigations, often where commercial disputes overlap with criminal risk.

My approach is calm, practical and strategic. My advice is clear, realistic and tailored to the client’s specific circumstances and priorities. I focus on what will make a tangible difference to outcome, reputation and cost, helping clients to make informed decisions and navigate investigations and proceedings with confidence.

I am self-employed with low overheads, which allows me to offer flexible and transparent fee structures.






Area of Law

Business and Corporate

Litigation preparedness, internal investigations, whistleblowing, reputation management

Crime

Serious, complex and organised crime

Fraud

Fraud, bribery, corruption, money laundering, tax offences

Tax and Revenue

Tax audits and disputes with linked criminal risk

What sort of work do I do?

I can be instructed by both companies and individuals seeking strategic advice on how to respond to potential criminal exposure. I specialise in complex and high-value financial crime cases, both in an advisory capacity and as an advocate. I am particularly experienced in cases where both individuals and corporates are under investigation simultaneously.

I have advised senior executives and boards on litigation and disclosure strategy in multi-jurisdictional matters, including those with significant regulatory and reputational implications.

My advice and representation are informed by my experience both in independent practice and in-house. I recently spent three years in a senior role within the global litigation team of a major international listed company, managing complex cross-border disputes, coordinating the company’s response to dawn raids, leading e-discovery projects and advising senior management on strategy in international criminal tax matters. Earlier in my career, I was regularly instructed by the UK Serious Fraud Office on some of their largest bribery and corruption investigations, advising on pre-charge strategy, disclosure and evidence management.

I also accept private instructions in serious non-financial criminal cases where discretion and strategy are paramount.

Who do I work for?

Clients who instruct me tend to value a measured, intelligent and direct approach to managing complex legal challenges. I focus on clarity and practicality, recognising that for many clients, especially those unfamiliar with criminal proceedings, early, informed advice can prevent serious problems later. I aim to be approachable, reliable and straightforward, while offering the assurance that comes from real experience in complex and high-stakes cases.

If you think I may be able to help you or your company, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.





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