John Goodwin

John Goodwin is well-known as a fraud and serious crime solicitor, recognised nationally for his exceptional work in criminal law.

He features in both Chambers and Partners (Band 1) and Legal 500 (Hall of Fame) as a leading practitioner.

John undertakes a great deal of fraud and economic crime cases, alongside civil property and asset seizure work.

In addition, he handles complex cases relating to sexual offence and violent crime, including homicide.

He has a niche expertise in animal welfare cases, mainly defending those prosecuted by the RSPCA, as well as the CPS and local authorities.

John was also a Legal Aid costs adjudicator and assessor for 20 years, and has previously been a partner at two law firms.

In pursuit of his cases, he has travelled the world to see witnesses, and even once conducted a court martial in Germany.

The highlight of his career was working with his late business partner, Howard Cohen, in defending Imran Khan, the former test cricketer and former Prime Minister of Pakistan, in a very highly-publicised libel action brought by the cricketing stars Ian Botham and Alan Lamb.

He is currently writing a book on a legal topic, having been approached by a well-known publisher. This is due for final submission by June 2026.

In his spare time, John enjoys the gym, playing the piano and guitar, spending time with his children and grandchildren, plus reading and watching all sports, particularly Leeds Rhinos.