Peter McCartney
Barrister
Telephone +44 (0)1782 205000
Practice Areas
Peter is a barrister with many year’s experience of practice at the criminal bar.
He has appeared as leading counsel for the defence in serious criminal cases involving murder, manslaughter and fraud. He has also acted for the defence in many cases involving the evidence of children via video link.
Appointed a Deputy District Judge to the Magistrate’s Court, Peter has substantial experience of dealing with cases brought by the DWP, the Environment Agency, and local authorities Trading Standards, Health and Safety and Consumer Protection Departments.
Specialisms
- Murder and manslaughter
- Sexual offences
- Serious violent and public disorder offences
- Corporate manslaughter
- Fraud
- Drugs offences
- Proceeds of crime
Recent Cases
- During 2011 Peter defended two cases of homicide in both of which Beswicks were found not guilty.
- Acted as part of the defence team in a £80 million drugs importation case
- Defending a £500,000 pyramid fraud case, which resulted in the prosecution unable to prove £330,000 of the claim.
- Acting for the defence in a multiple murder case which attracted national headlines
Other Professional & Pro Bono
- Deputy District Judge – Magistrates Court (2003 - 2010)
Personal
Peter is a former keen football and rugby player, now (reduced to!) refereeing in local Saturday and Sunday League football. He also enjoys watching both sports. He regularly runs to keep fit, and enjoys trips to the theatre.
