You Deal Directly With Your Barrister

There is no call centre and no junior handling your file behind the scenes. From your first call to the final hearing, you speak directly with the barrister running your case. That means faster answers, clearer strategy, and someone who genuinely knows the detail of what happened to you.

Direct Access instruction also removes an unnecessary layer of cost — you are not paying a solicitor simply to pass your case on to a barrister.

For clients who already have a solicitor in place, Astons Law Chambers is equally comfortable working alongside them at any stage of proceedings.

Whichever route you come through, the commitment is the same: a barrister who is personally accountable for your outcome.

Nearly Two Decades of Criminal Litigation

Ghulam Humayun was admitted as a solicitor in 2007, going on to hold the SRA's accreditations in both Criminal Litigation and Higher Courts Advocacy.

That litigation background underpins the chambers' Bar Standards Board authorisation to conduct litigation directly — a status that allows cases to run end-to-end without a separate solicitor.

Admitted as a solicitor in 2007
SRA-accredited in Criminal Litigation
SRA-accredited in Higher Courts Advocacy
BSB-authorised to conduct litigation directly

Experience that spans the police station, the Magistrates' Court, the Crown Court and the Court of Appeal.

Astons Law in the Courtroom

Every case is prepared as though it will go to trial, from the earliest police station advice through to disclosure review and cross-examination planning.

That preparation gives clients the strongest possible position at every stage — whether the outcome is a discontinued charge, a favourable plea, or a contested Crown Court trial.

London-Based, Nationally Instructed

Astons Law Chambers is based in Central London, with 24/7 availability for police station attendance and the ability to accept instructions from across England and Wales.

The practice also works alongside partner solicitor firms to support clients who are eligible for criminal legal aid.

BSB Direct Access qualified
Authorised Litigator status
Legal aid access via partner solicitor firms

A Different Kind of Defence Practice

Direct Access means you instruct the advocate directly, cutting out unnecessary cost and delay while still getting specialist criminal defence representation.

For clients who already have a solicitor, Astons Law Chambers is equally comfortable providing advocacy and litigation support at every court level.

Prepared For A Fight

Criminal allegations move fast, and the prosecution rarely gives ground without pressure. The evidence is reviewed in detail from day one, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution case early rather than waiting for trial.

As our mission states:

"Fortune favors the brave."

That front-loaded preparation is what allows the practice to challenge charging decisions, argue for case discontinuance, and where necessary, run a full contested trial with confidence.

Fixed-Fee Clarity

Indicative hourly rates are set out clearly from the outset, depending on the complexity of the case, the seniority of the barrister instructed, and the urgency of the instructions — so there are no surprises. Legal aid is available for those who are eligible, arranged through partner solicitor firms.

Beyond The Courtroom

Access to quality criminal defence should not depend on wealth. The practice supports clients through the legal aid system wherever eligible, and takes seriously the responsibility that comes with representing people at the most difficult moments of their lives.

Your Advocate In A Crisis

When you're arrested or under investigation, having the right barrister beside you can make all the difference to what happens next.

Investigate the evidence thoroughly
Advise clearly at every stage
Advocate fearlessly in court

About Astons Law Chambers