Our Team

Tariq Khan LL.B Hons – Director

As a director of the firm and duty solicitor in the UK specialising in serious crime and fraud, Tariq is on call 24/7 to attend police stations, magistrate’s courts, and the crown courts at a moment's notice. It's a demanding role, but one which he finds incredibly rewarding.

When he is called to a police station, his primary goal is to ensure that his client's rights are protected and that they receive the right representation. This can involve advising them on the charges they face, the evidence against them, and their legal options. He also acts as a bridge between the client and the police, ensuring that any interviews are conducted fairly and that his clients understand the process.

At the Magistrates Court, he represents clients facing a wide range of serious crime and fraud charges. This can include everything from drug offences to white-collar crimes such as money laundering and embezzlement. His job is to present the client's case as clearly and persuasively as possible, using his legal knowledge and expertise to challenge the prosecution's evidence and argue for the best possible outcome.

In the Crown Court, he works on some of the most complex and high-profile cases in the UK's criminal justice system. This can include cases involving organised crime, terrorism, and financial fraud, among others. In these cases, he works closely with a team of barristers, experts, and other legal professionals to build a strong defence case and present it to the court.

One of the things he finds most rewarding about his job is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. Many of his clients are vulnerable and facing incredibly challenging circumstances, and being able to support them through the legal process is a privilege to Tariq. Whether it's helping someone avoid a wrongful conviction or securing a fair sentence, he takes pride in knowing that his work has a positive impact on people's lives.

Overall, being a duty solicitor in the UK specialising in serious crime and fraud is an incredibly challenging and rewarding role. It requires a deep understanding of the law, excellent communication skills, and the ability to think on your feet. For those such as Tariq who are passionate about justice and helping others, there's no better career.

 

Azizur Rahman Khan LL.B Hons – Director

Azizur is a director and duty solicitor specialising in serious crime and fraud and is responsible for attending police stations, magistrate’s courts, and the crown courts at any time. It is a demanding job, but one that gives him great satisfaction.

When he attends a police station, his primary focus is to ensure his clients' rights are protected, and they receive a fair interview. This involves advising them on the charges they face, the evidence against them, and their legal options. Additionally, he acts as a liaison between his clients and the police to guarantee that any interviews are conducted fairly, and that his clients are aware of the process.

At the magistrate’s court, he represents clients who are facing serious crime and fraud charges. This includes everything from minor road traffic offences, drug related offences to white-collar crimes, such as money laundering. His role is to present his client's case as clearly and persuasively as possible, utilising his legal knowledge and expertise to challenge the prosecution's evidence and advocate for the best possible outcome.

In the crown court, he works on some of the most intricate and high-profile cases in the UK's criminal justice system. One of the most recent cases of note is the case of the immigrants who had sadly passed away in the back of the lorry when attempting to enter the UK. He defended this high profile case with great skill and care and worked tirelessly to ensure a positive outcome for his client. He works closely with the highly skilled barristers and effectively prepared the case from the police station stage to the final trial at the Old Bailey Crown Court in London. His work also includes cases involving organised crime, terrorism, and serious and complex fraud. He works in close collaboration with barristers, experts, and other legal professionals to build a strong defence case and present it to the court.

The most fulfilling aspect of his job is the opportunity to make a genuine difference. Many of his clients are personal to him and are as always facing incredibly challenging circumstances, and being able to support them through the legal process is an honour to him. Whether it's preventing a wrongful conviction or obtaining a fair sentence, he takes pride in knowing that his work has a positive impact.

Overall, his role as a solicitor to him is a challenging but gratifying that demands a comprehensive understanding of the law, excellent communication skills, and quick thinking.

 

Sabrina Yaqoob (Practice Manager)

Sabrina is the practice manager of the firm and her roles as a practice manager is multifaceted and essential for the efficient functioning of the business. As a practice manager, Sabrina’s main responsibilities is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the firm and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

One critical aspect of her role is the training and supervision of staff, including solicitors. Sabrina is responsible for creating and implementing staff training programs, ensuring that employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively. Additionally, she oversees the performance of solicitors, providing guidance and support to ensure they deliver high-quality legal services to clients.

Sabrina also plays a crucial role in financial management, including preparing budgets, monitoring financial performance, and managing cash flow. She works closely with the firm's accountants to ensure that the business remains financially stable and profitable.

Another critical responsibility is managing the firm's administrative tasks, such as maintaining records and managing client files. Sabrina must ensure that all client information is kept confidential and stored securely, in line with the firm's data protection policies.

In addition to these operational tasks, she is also responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans for the firm. She works closely with senior management to set goals and objectives, establish policies and procedures, and develop marketing and business development plans.

Overall, Sabrina’s role in the firm is complex and challenging, requiring excellent organisational and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. Sabrina effectively manages staff, overseeing financial and administrative tasks, and driving strategic planning. Sabrina plays a vital role in ensuring the success of the firm and she is an asset to the firm.

 

Aliyah Khan – Administrative/billing assistant

Aliyah is the administrative/billing assistant of the firm. She understands the importance of her role in supporting the legal team and ensuring the smooth running of the business. She takes great pride in her work, knowing that her efforts contribute to the successful representation of the firm’s clients.

One of Aliyah’s primary responsibilities is to manage the billing and invoicing process. This involves generating invoices for legal services, tracking payments, and resolving any billing disputes that may arise. She has a keen eye for detail and she is meticulous in her work, ensuring that all bills are accurate the files are approximately archived at the end of a case.

In addition to billing, she also manages the administrative tasks that keep the office running efficiently. This includes maintaining client records, scheduling appointments, and organising court filings and the diary. she understands the importance of confidentiality and takes great care to ensure that all client information is kept secure.

Aliyah’s experience in a criminal law firm has taught her the importance of working as part of a team. She understands that every member of the firm has a critical role to play in ensuring that clients receive the best possible legal representation. Whether it's supporting solicitors in the preparation of cases or providing administrative support to colleagues, she is always willing to lend a helping hand.

She is also committed to ongoing learning and development. she understands that the legal industry is constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with changes in legislation and legal procedures is essential. She is eager to her knowledge and skills and take advantage of any training opportunities available to her.

Overall, she is passionate about working in a criminal law firm and am committed to providing the highest level of support to her colleagues and clients. her attention to detail, organisational skills, and commitment to ongoing learning makes her an asset to the firm.

 

Asim Khan - Administrative assistant

As an administrative assistant in a criminal law firm, Asim plays a vital role in supporting the legal team and ensuring that the firm operates efficiently. Asim’s responsibilities include managing client files, scheduling appointments, and providing administrative support to solicitors.

One of the most critical aspects of his job is maintaining accurate and up-to-date client records. He ensures that all client information is organised, easily accessible, and kept confidential in line with the firm's data protection policies. This helps to ensure that the legal team has access to the information they need to effectively represent their clients.

In addition to record-keeping, he is responsible for scheduling appointments and managing the solicitors' calendars. This requires excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, as he must ensure that appointments are scheduled efficiently and without conflicts.

As an administrative assistant, he also provides general administrative support to solicitors, such as drafting letters, preparing documents, and responding to client enquiries. This requires strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Finally, he is responsible for managing the firm's office supplies and equipment, ensuring that everything is stocked and in good working order. This helps to ensure that the legal team can work efficiently and effectively, without any disruptions or delays.

Overall, as an administrative assistant in a criminal law firm, his role is essential. Through careful record-keeping, efficient scheduling, and excellent administrative support, he helps to ensure that the legal team can focus on representing their clients to the best of their ability.

 

Adil Khan – Administrative assistant

Adil understand that as an administrative assistant within a criminal law firm, he is tasked with managing a wide range of essential duties that are vital to the smooth and efficient operation of the business. His responsibilities encompass various administrative tasks, such as record-keeping, appointment scheduling, and document preparation.

His main objective is to ensure that the firm's administrative tasks are carried out accurately and in a timely manner. This includes maintaining well-organised and up-to-date client files while adhering to the firm's strict data protection policies. He works closely with solicitors and other colleagues to guarantee that confidential client information remains secure.

In addition to scheduling client appointments, he is also responsible for arranging meetings with other legal professionals, including barristers and expert witnesses. As an administrative assistant, he assists solicitors in preparing legal documents, including court forms and correspondence, ensuring that all paperwork is accurate and submitted on time to meet court deadlines.

Adil finds his role as an administrative assistant in a criminal law firm both challenging and fulfilling. He contributions help to support the work of solicitors and other legal professionals, ultimately contributing to the delivery of high-quality legal services to clients.

He is a very ambitious individual and wishes to become an accredited legal representative attending at the police station representing clients and also in the future working as a paralegal, preparing court bundles and attending at the Crown Court.

 

Salma Sharif

As a solicitor, Salma brings a distinct perspective and empathetic approach to her practice. She recognises the challenges individuals face within the criminal justice system and is devoted to offering unwavering support, strategic guidance, and a resolute defence.

Her practice is cantered on personalised attention and tailored solutions for each case. Salma prioritises building trust and fostering open communication, ensuring that her clients feel empowered and well-informed throughout the legal process.

She meticulously examines every detail of a case, aiming to uncover pertinent information and craft a robust defence strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.

At Grays Defence Solicitors, integrity, professionalism, and a client-focused approach are fundamental values that underpin the legal services provided by Salma.