Ria Ashcroft

Head of Crime & Regulatory

Pleasure in the jobs puts perfection in the work.

During her career, Ria has gained the knowledge, ability and a wealth of experience that others can only aspire to. Ria has extensive knowledge and experience in representing clients who face the most serious allegations. She has a friendly, personal, sensitive approach with clients, yet takes a robust and professional approach to the Criminal Defence Work she undertakes.

Having worked at Burton-Copeland for over 12 years as a Senior Caseworker, she has represented Defendants at all levels of investigations and worked alongside senior partners on serious and complex cases.

Ria was a Criminal Clerk for Exchange Chambers for nearly seven years; has worked alongside Criminal Counsel and has assisted KC’s. She has been fully police station accredited since 2002.

Personally, Ria has a passionate interest in crime and the justice system alongside a commitment to providing excellent client care. She describes herself as driven, passionate and loves to work as part of a successful team.In her spare time, Ria enjoys exercise, walking with her family and dog, and reading.

Ria Ashcroft recent cases

Our team tirelessly defends some of the world’s most complex, highest-profile cases. Here is a taste of some of the most recent successful cases we worked on.

Rape, Human Trafficking & Blackmail - No Further Action
No Further Action

Holborn Adams represented a client arrested for serious allegations including rape, human trafficking, and blackmail. Following relentless legal advocacy and the submission of detailed representations, the police made the decision to take no further action.

Police station
May 21, 2025
Indecent Images – Employer Notification Prevented
Police prevented from notifying employer following pre charge representation

Holborn Adams represented a client charged with possession of indecent images. Through effective representations made to the offender manager, the client successfully prevented the police from informing their employer about the offence.

Police station
May 5, 2025
Obscene Publications – No Further Action
No Further Action – Case discontinued at pre-charge stage

Holborn Adams represented a client facing allegations related to obscene publications. Following detailed representations made to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the decision was taken to discontinue the charge, and no further action was pursued against the client.

Pre-charge / Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
March 13, 2025
What clients say about Ria Ashcroft

Our clients praise not only our results, but also the way we treat them. They feel informed, supported, and genuinely cared for. Read their experiences below.

It warms my heart to know that there are humans like yourselves who really care about the people they represent

It has been a long last 2 years with many ups and downs and we are happy that it has finally come to conclusion, especially with the result of the final hearing which meant I was not made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order due to your hard work and expertise arguing against such an order being imposed. It will no doubt make life much easier not having another restriction placed onto me and my family. I cannot thank Ria, Andrew and Tara McCarthy (counsel) enough for all the compassion, caring attitude, expertise and patience over the last 2 years. It warms my heart to know that there are humans like yourselves who really care about the people they represent and you have all fought for me with my interest at heart. Both myself and my wife are most grateful for all your care and expertise over the last 2 years. Once again, a big thank you to you all and there are not enough words to adequately describe our appreciation and gratitude for what you have done for us over the last 2 years.

The defence team
Ria Ashcroft
Andrew Ford

They were incredibly supportive and positive throughout the whole process

I would like to thank Ria for their invaluable assistance when they helped my son who had been falsely accused by his former partner. They were incredibly supportive and positive throughout the whole process and made sure we knew what all the steps would be along the way. Ria was very good at keeping in touch and calming our frayed nerves even if that meant repeating things they had already told us. They always had time for us and always called us back at the earliest opportunity if we didn't get through right away. They were extremely thorough in their preparation and their representations. This combined with their expertise and experience shone through and they managed to clear my sons name before things got to trial. I would happily have them on my side again but I hope that will never be necessary.

The defence team
Ria Ashcroft

Act Now for the Best Outcome

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Excellent
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*We are a private firm and, unfortunately, cannot accept legal aid.
Chris Director

Trusted by clients

Top-rated legal defence and client care

Our clients feel supported, not just in their legal defence, but as individuals facing challenging times. We provide expert representation as well as the guidance, emotional support, and resources they need, which is why we consistently receive glowing reviews.

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