A New Partner in Crime for Slater Heelis Solicitors

18th August 2025, 1:32 pm

Slater Heelis Solicitors has strengthened its award-winning crime and regulatory team with the strategic appointment of Michael Sophocleous as Partner, marking a significant expansion for the department.

Michael brings a wealth of experience in defending complex and high-profile criminal and regulatory cases which further bolsters the capabilities of the team which already punches above its weight; and which is currently ranked band two in the Chambers rankings.

Prior to joining Slater Heelis, Michael has acted in some of the largest fraud and serious crime matters, representing clients in prosecutions and investigations brought by the Serious Fraud Office and HM Revenue & Customs as well as representing clients in regulatory matters and defending large-scale conspiracy to supply and money laundering cases, with a particular specialism in the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Commenting on his appointment, Rachel Fletcher, Managing Partner and Head of Crime and Regulatory at Slater Heelis said: “Michael’s arrival is a major boost to our department and I am delighted to have him on board, quite literally, as my partner in crime. His personable approach in hand-holding clients perfectly matches our ethos at Slater Heelis and his proven track record in defending serious and complex cases, combined with his expertise in regulatory matters, further enhances the breadth and depth of services we can offer our clients.”

Although based in Manchester, Michael has built a strong national and international client base, representing individuals and organisations across multiple sectors.  Michael added: “Having had my eye on the incredible work Rachel and the team do for quite some time, I am delighted to be joining them in what is also an exciting time for the firm. The team’s commitment to excellence in criminal and regulatory defence is second to none, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success and growth.”

With its head office in Sale, Greater Manchester and a large office in Manchester, the firm offers a range of legal services to both private and business clients including: Family Law, Wills & Probate, Court of Protection, Personal Injury, Corporate Law, Crime (including Business Crime & Regulatory), Dispute Resolution, Property Litigation, Contentious Probate and Contentious Court of Protection, Employment & HR, Property Law and Construction & Engineering.

To find out more about Slater Heelis and its range of services please visit www.slaterheelis.co.uk.

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