Approaching 30 Years

Our Team

Our Team

Michael Carroll
Principal Solicitor – Higher Rights’ Advocate
Michael is the founder and Principal Solicitor of the firm, with nearly 40 years’ experience in criminal defence and related areas of law. He has represented clients in serious and complex cases including fraud, violence and multihanded conspiracies.

Michael oversees all cases within the firm, ensuring every client receives clear, strategic advice from the outset. Clients value his calm manner, strategic thinking and practical, straightforward guidance.

He has acted in the full range of criminal matters, including serious violence, sexual allegations, complex domestic cases, largescale dishonesty and reputationsensitive issues involving professionals and individuals in the public eye. Many of his cases have had lifechanging consequences for clients and their families.

Michael has achieved excellent results in highrisk and multihanded cases requiring careful preparation and sound judgement. His ability to manage complex evidence and maintain a steady, focused approach has been consistently recognised.

His client retention is exceptional. In several instances, he has represented three generations of the same family — a reflection of the trust, loyalty and confidence clients place in him. Much of his work comes through personal recommendation, and many clients return to him repeatedly over the years. His practice also includes private client representation, where discretion, judgement and experience are particularly valued.
John Corcoran
Assistant Solicitor – Duty Solicitor
John has over 20 years’ experience in criminal defence. Clients value his ability to get things done, his straightforward approach and his commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. A diligent and reliable representative, John undertakes all matters at the police station and the Magistrates’ Court. As a Duty Solicitor, he is often the first point of contact for clients in urgent situations and is trusted for his calm, direct and reassuring manner.

John frequently conducts Magistrates’ Court trials and is known for his thorough preparation, clear advocacy and practical, resultsfocused approach. His track record includes consistently strong outcomes in contested hearings, early advice work and cases requiring swift, decisive action.

His practice covers all areas of criminal defence, including serious and sensitive allegations, representation for professionals and reputationsensitive matters. Clients appreciate his clarity, availability and ability to explain the process at a time when reassurance is essential.
Edel Speirits
Assistant Solicitor – Higher Rights’ Advocate
Edel has almost 20 years’ experience in criminal defence and private client work. Clients value her patience, strategic thinking and clear, steady advice. As a Higher Rights Advocate, she represents clients in both the Crown Court and the Magistrates’ Court. Edel has significant experience in sensitive and complex sexual matters, including cases involving vulnerable clients and allegations requiring careful handling and discretion.

She has acted as a Junior Advocate in numerous murder trials, contributing to many notguilty verdicts in serious and highprofile cases. Her preparation, attention to detail and courtroom presence have been consistently praised.

As a Crown Court Advocate, Edel has appeared alone in serious matters including attempted murder, kidnapping and highrisk violent offences, achieving strong results for clients facing lifechanging consequences. She regularly represents professionals and individuals whose personal or professional reputation may be at risk.

Support Staff

Umar
Senior Crown Court Litigation Assistant
Umar has worked with the firm for decades, supporting solicitors in preparing clients and cases for Crown Court hearings. His experience, steady approach and detailed preparation make him an invaluable part of the Crown Court team and the firm.
Adela
Senior Administrator
Adela is a highly experienced Senior Administrator who has supported the firm for many years. She oversees daytoday operations, manages client communications, billing and case management, and ensures the smooth running of the office with her calm, organised and reliable approach.
Sansel
Paralegal
Sansel is a dedicated Paralegal who assists the firm’s solicitors with case preparation, client support and daytoday file management. She plays a key role in ensuring cases progress smoothly and efficiently through the criminal justice process.

Equalilty & Diversity

Michael Carroll & Co is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We treat all clients, colleagues and third parties fairly and with respect, and we make reasonable adjustments to ensure our services are accessible to everyone. We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment or victimisation in any form.

Languages Spoken

Our team currently speaks English, Gujarati, Romanian, Turkish and Polish. Where another language is required, we can arrange professional interpreters or translators to ensure you receive clear and accurate advice.

Office Location

We are located at 281 Archway Road, a five minute walk from Highgate Station (Northern Line) with multiple bus routes stopping outside. Buses 43 and 134 stop outside the office door.

The office is easily accessible to all as is located on the ground floor.

There is free on street parking available on nearby residential roads after 12:00pm. There is paid parking bays across the road at Highgate Tube Station.