Ben Holt is a specialist criminal barrister, with a reputation for skilful handling of complex cases, astute tactical decision-making and attention to detail. His relaxed and unstuffy manner in court appeals to juries and judges alike though he can be ferocious in cross-examination where appropriate.
Ben has been instructed as leading and led junior for the prosecution and defence in the full range of criminal cases and has extensive experience dealing with homicide cases and allegations involving organised crime groups. He was appointed Junior Treasury Counsel, based at the Central Criminal Court, in April 2024 by the Attorney General.
Ben regularly receives instructions from the full range of specialist units within the CPS; both as led and leading junior. He is frequently instructed by the Homicide Unit, Special Casework Units [London and the South-East], the Serious Economic, Organised Crime and International Directorate and the Counter Terrorism Division.
He has been instructed in a number of murder, attempted murder and road-fatality cases. In addition, Ben is instructed in substantial cases involving fraud and international money laundering; both for the prosecution and defence.
Ben has specific experience in dealing with complex disclosure issues. These have included the handling of particularly sensitive material and reviewing cases that have involved evidence from Covert Human Intelligence Sources and RIPA warrants. He has been instructed by the CPS to review disclosure on various matters and has worked together with the NCA and specialist units of the Metropolitan Police in this regard.
Ben has also advised on a wide range of cases pre-charge, including homicide, road fatalities and large-scale fraud investigations. Advice has included matters relating to Legal Professional Privilege (LPP) material.
As Treasury Counsel, Ben regularly advises the Attorney General’s Office in relation to unduly lenient sentences. He frequently appears in the Court of Appeal; instructed by the AGO to argue the Reference.
Ben has spent a nine-month period of secondment with HSBC conducting a past-business review into mis-sold interest-rate hedging products.
As Treasury Counsel Ben regularly advises the Law Officers on unduly lenient sentences. Examples of cases he has appeared in the Court of Appeal on behalf of the SG/AG:
