Park Square, Leeds - the legal quarter surrounding David Ake & Co. Solicitors

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A legacy of judicial excellence, defining the standard for criminal defence and mental health advocacy for over three decades in Leeds.

Falk House - the offices of David Ake & Co. Solicitors in Leeds

Since 1993 A cornerstone of the legal community.

Our History

Founded on the principles of unwavering advocacy and meticulous legal craftsmanship, David Ake & Co. has evolved from a boutique practice into a premier legal institution. Our journey began with a single mission: to provide a robust voice for those navigating the complexities of the justice system.

Over the decades, we have successfully represented thousands of clients, earning a reputation for strategic brilliance and ethical rigour. We don’t just practise law. We shape outcomes through decades of accumulated wisdom.

The Mission

"To provide authoritative, compassionate, and uncompromising legal representation, ensuring the rights of every individual are protected with the highest degree of professionalism."

Partner · Mental Health Department Supervisor

Theresa Clark

Theresa Clark is a Partner at David Ake & Co, a Mental Health Accredited Panel Member, and the supervisor of the firm’s Mental Health Department. She joined the firm in 1997, bringing with her already extensive experience in criminal defence, which she has continued to build upon throughout her career.

Theresa became an accredited mental health representative in 2007 and has since developed significant expertise in advising and representing clients before the Mental Health Tribunal. As a Duty Solicitor with Higher Rights of Audience, her dual specialism in criminal and mental health law enables her to deliver clear, strategic, and client-focused representation of the highest standard.

theresa@davidake.co.uk

Partner · Crime Department Supervisor · Complaints Officer

Mark Pritchard

Mark Pritchard is a Partner at David Ake & Co, Supervisor of the Crime Department, Duty Solicitor, and the firm’s Complaints Officer. He joined the firm in 1993 as a trainee and, through his dedication and expertise, progressed to become a Partner.

Mark is a highly experienced criminal defence specialist with Higher Rights of Audience, enabling him to represent clients in both the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court. His depth of knowledge and practical approach ensure that clients receive a professional, reliable, and effective defence, particularly in complex and serious cases.

mark@davidake.co.uk

Criminal Defence Solicitor · Duty Solicitor

Christina O’Connell

Christina O’Connell is a Criminal Defence Solicitor and Duty Solicitor at David Ake & Co. She joined the firm in 2006 and has over 30 years of experience in criminal defence, representing clients at the police station and before the Magistrates’ Court.

Christina has also developed extensive experience as a Crown Court Litigator, supporting clients throughout serious and complex criminal proceedings. She works closely with instructed barristers, ensuring cases are thoroughly prepared and providing continuity and support to clients through conferences, prison visits and attendance at court. Her considerable experience, meticulous preparation and robust approach ensure that clients facing serious allegations receive professional and effective representation throughout every stage of their case.

christina@davidake.co.uk

Solicitor · Mental Health Accreditation Panel

Rachael Charles

Rachael joined David Ake & Co in 2007 and progressed from bookkeeper to Assistant Manager before being promoted to Practice Manager in 2016, where she developed extensive expertise in financial management and HR operations. Demonstrating her ambition and dedication, she went on to qualify as a Solicitor in 2025 and has been a member of the Mental Health Accreditation Panel since 2024.

She now combines her in-depth operational knowledge with her legal skills to provide a well-rounded, practical, and client-focused service.

rachael@davidake.co.uk

Designated Fee Earner · Duty Solicitor

Charles Watson

Charles Watson is a Designated Fee Earner and Duty Solicitor at David Ake & Co. He joined the firm in 2016 and has over 30 years of experience representing clients in criminal matters at the police station and before the Magistrates’ Court.

Charles is a highly experienced criminal defence practitioner with extensive knowledge across a wide range of criminal cases. With his extensive experience in criminal defence, Charles is skilled in advising clients from the earliest stages of an investigation through to court proceedings. His wealth of experience, practical approach and commitment to his clients ensure that they receive clear, professional advice and effective representation throughout every stage of their case.

Mental Health Accredited Panel Member

Paige Newell

Paige Newell joined David Ake & Co in August 2024, bringing with her over 10 years’ experience in mental health law, including 5 years supervising a mental health department. Prior to becoming a Mental Health Representative, she worked within a Mental Health Act department, gaining extensive experience in both the legal and administrative aspects of mental health law.

This background has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the tribunal process and client care, enabling her to deliver a thorough, knowledgeable, and client-focused service to those detained under the Mental Health Act.

paige@davidake.co.uk

Crown Court Paralegal

Brandon Lockwood

Brandon Lockwood joined David Ake & Co in 2025 as a Crown Court Paralegal, bringing with him valuable experience gained from working in other areas of law. He holds a law degree and has successfully completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC), further strengthening his legal knowledge and practical skills.

Brandon is responsible for Crown Court case preparation, working closely with solicitors and counsel to ensure cases are thoroughly prepared, and supporting and advising clients throughout every stage of proceedings.

brandon@davidake.co.uk

Practice Manager

Lisa Aspin

Lisa Aspin is the Practice Manager at David Ake & Co, having been a valued member of the firm since 1995. She began her career as a Legal Secretary and, through her dedication and commitment, has progressed to her current senior role. With extensive knowledge in legal secretarial work and practice management, Lisa plays a central role in the smooth running of the firm.

She oversees and manages support staff, ensuring high standards of efficiency and professionalism across all areas of administration, while providing robust support to fee earners and solicitors.

lisa@davidake.co.uk

Legal Secretary

Libby Metcalf

Libby Metcalf joined David Ake & Co in 2022 as a Legal Secretary Apprentice and has since progressed to fully undertake the role of Legal Secretary. Through her hard work and development within the firm, she has become a valued member of the team.

Libby provides reliable and efficient support to fee earners and solicitors, assisting with the day-to-day management of cases and ensuring the smooth running of administrative processes. Her proactive approach and attention to detail contribute to maintaining the high standards of service delivered by the firm.

libby@davidake.co.uk

Mental Health Legal Secretary

Vanessa White

Vanessa White joined David Ake & Co in August 2026 as a Mental Health Legal Secretary, bringing with her over 20 years of experience working within the legal sector. She also has valuable experience working as a Care Coordinator within a GP practice, providing her with valuable knowledge of both legal and healthcare environments.

As part of the Mental Health Department, Vanessa provides dedicated secretarial and administrative support to our mental health solicitors and fee earners. Her role includes assisting with the day-to-day management of cases, liaising with clients, hospitals and other professionals, preparing correspondence and documentation, and helping to ensure matters are progressed efficiently.

Vanessa’s extensive experience, organisational skills and understanding of both legal and healthcare environments make her a valuable addition to the Mental Health team and enable her to provide a professional and supportive service to both colleagues and clients.

vanessa@davidake.co.uk

"David Ake & Co. provided clarity and strength when I felt most vulnerable. Their attention to detail in my case was nothing short of extraordinary."

Mr. Arthur G. Criminal Defence Client

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