Principal Solicitor

Higher Rights of Audience – Criminal Law

Leading Criminal Law Specialist

He is the Principal Solicitor at the firm, widely recognized as a leading criminal law solicitor with a particular expertise in defending clients facing serious criminal prosecution. With years of experience in high-stakes criminal defence, he has built a reputation for his exceptional legal acumen and dedication to protecting the rights of those accused of serious offences.

His legal specialisms include fraud, drug trafficking, regulatory offences, and money laundering. Whether representing clients in complex financial crime cases, high-profile drug-related charges, or intricate regulatory and money laundering investigations, he approaches each case with meticulous attention to detail and strategic insight. He is known for his ability to navigate the most complex cases, offering a robust defence and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for his clients.

As Principal Solicitor, he leads the criminal law department, guiding a team of legal professionals while personally handling the most challenging and high-profile cases. His deep understanding of the intricacies of criminal law, combined with his advocacy skills, makes him a formidable presence in both the courtroom and in negotiations with prosecuting authorities. He is committed to upholding the highest standards of client care, offering clear and pragmatic advice, and ensuring that each client receives the best possible defence, no matter the severity of the charges they face.

His reputation for excellence and his track record of success make him a trusted advisor for clients facing serious criminal allegations, particularly in complex and high-risk areas of criminal law.

Jawad is based at the Manchester office where he has built up a strong reputation for providing first-class client care and extensive legal advice. Previously a partner with the renowned London-based Stokoe Partnership, Jawad led a multitude of high-profile, complex cases involving a vast array of speciality areas, including terrorism, serious organised crime and money laundering.

In September 2016, Jawad progressed to set up BMS Solicitors. Since then he has expanded his client base and area of focus to develop his specialism in criminal law. By taking on more complex and serious criminal cases, he has managed to expand his expertise in this field. He has also developed a dedicated team of lawyers to assist him.

Jawad also has strong links with and instructs the most prominent criminal barristers in the Northwest and Nationally. This ensures that his clients receive the best representation possible when in court, for both legal aid and private clients.

A thoughtful, methodical lawyer, with a finite attention to detail, Jawad consistently provides accurate, critical and conclusive legal advice to ensure the best result possible.

Languages spoken: English, Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi.

Duty Solicitor 

Higher Rights of Audience – Criminal Law

Adil is a highly skilled Duty Solicitor with Higher Rights at the firm, specializing in criminal law. With extensive experience in representing clients at every stage of criminal proceedings, he provides expert legal advice and representation both in and out of the courtroom. As a Duty Solicitor, he is responsible for offering immediate legal assistance to individuals arrested or detained by the police, ensuring that clients understand their rights and receive the best possible legal support during interviews, bail hearings, and charge decisions.

In addition to his role as a Duty Solicitor, he holds Higher Rights of Audience, allowing him to represent clients in the Crown Court and conduct advocacy in more serious criminal cases, including trials and appeals. His in-depth knowledge of criminal law, combined with his advocacy skills, enables him to provide a robust defence for clients facing charges ranging from minor offences to serious criminal allegations.

With a commitment to delivering high-quality, client-focused legal services, he works tirelessly to safeguard the rights of those he represents. His approachable and empathetic demeanour, combined with a sharp legal mind, allows him to handle complex cases with confidence and precision. Whether providing urgent legal advice or leading a courtroom defence, he remains dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients.

Languages spoken: English, Urdu and Hindi.

Duty Solicitor

Marvi is a  Solicitor based at the Manchester branch and her specialisation is in the areas of Criminal Defence, Litigation and Advocacy.

She has previously worked at high-profile commercial firms in the Civil department before she successfully completed her Training Contract at BMS Solicitors.

Since her time at BMS Solicitors, she has gained extensive experience by assisting senior legal staff. She has worked on major Criminal Cases with the Principal solicitor Mr Jawad Babar.

Marvi is a qualified Duty Solicitor and an Accredited Police Station representative. Her caseload covers Murder, serious Criminal Offences including Supply of Drugs, Fraud, Sexual offences and Money Laundering. She is currently applying to attain Higher Rights of Audience to represent clients in the Crown Court.

She has the expertise and knowledge to deal with all serious criminal offences and has a good affinity to understand the needs of her clients be they at the Police Station, Magistrates Court or Crown Court.

Languages spoken: English, Urdu and Hindi.

Associate Solicitor

Waqas is a solicitor based at the Manchester branch and primarily focuses on Criminal Defence work. Since joining BMS Solicitors Waqas has worked on many serious areas of crime vastly consisting of Banking Fraud, Firearms and Drug offences. He has also had significant experience In Public Order offences and most recently was instructed on a high-profile violent disorder attracting the attention of the media.

This area involves advising clients in both the magistrates and Crown Court in addition to the preparation of complex cases for Counsel ensuring that his clients are provided with an exceptional service.

With a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, an exacting standard of service and a willingness to go above and beyond his duty, Waqas ensures that clients are always the priority and are treated as such.

Languages spoken: English, Urdu and Punjabi.

Associate Solicitor

Shahnaz has a Masters Degree in Law specialising in Human Rights Law. She also passed her Legal Practice Course with a Commendation before qualifying as a Solicitor.

Shahnaz undertakes all types of Private Immigration work and has predominantly worked and built up expertise in Family Reunion matters especially Partner, Children and Dependant Relative Applications from both within and outside the Immigration Rules.

She also has a wealth of experience in Spouse Entry Clearance visa applications.

Shahnaz has previously worked in the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, North Greenwich Community Law Centre, Asian Women’s Resource Centre in Harlesden and Non-Profit Charity Organisations. She has strong links with community organisations that work with Refugees such as Rainbow Haven, Unity Community and Rethink, and Rebuild Syrian Community Centre.

Languages spoken: English, Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi.

Office Manager

Edna has worked at BMS Solicitors since the launch of the company as the Office Manager. As one of the original team members, Edna’s knowledge within the organisation makes her integral to the smooth running of the office.

Prior to working at BMS Solicitors, Edna worked for other leading UK law firms, where she has gained expansive experience.

As the first point of contact, Edna is able to empathise with, understand and listen to each individual who contacts the firm and then liaise with the appropriate team member to ensure the enquiry is handled in an efficient and pragmatic manner.

Solicitor Apprentice

Jeminah joined the BMS team in August 2024. As a solicitor apprentice, she works closely with the Principal Solicitor to assist clients facing criminal charges and legal proceedings. Her role involves conducting legal research, preparing case files, and supporting the preparation and presentation of cases in both Magistrates’ and Crown Courts. She provides vital administrative support, including drafting legal documents, managing client communications, and liaising with third parties such as experts, witnesses, and law enforcement agencies.

Under the mentorship of the Principal Solicitor, she is gaining valuable experience in all aspects of criminal law, from initial client consultations to trial preparation and post-conviction proceedings. She is dedicated to developing a comprehensive understanding of criminal law and ensuring that clients receive professional and diligent legal representation. As she progresses through her apprenticeship, she aims to refine her skills in advocacy, legal analysis, and client care, with the goal of becoming a qualified criminal solicitor in the future.

Languages spoken: English, Urdu and Punjabi.

Social Media Manager

Rebekah joined the BMS team in 2024 and has assisted in various duties around the office. She is a highly organized and proactive assistant at the firm, where she plays a dual role in managing the firm’s online presence and ensuring smooth office operations. Her excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask help to ensure that both the administrative and digital aspects of the business run well. She is dedicated to providing high-quality support and fostering a strong, professional image for the firm both online and in the office.