David Baird
David is a highly skilled legal professional specialising in serious crime, fraud and financial crime, asset recovery under POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act), and military law.
He defends and prosecutes in some of the most serious and legally complex cases, including murder, attempted murder, firearms offences, sexual assault, rape, modern slavery, death by dangerous driving, and drug conspiracies. David is frequently instructed as both leading and led junior counsel in large, multi-handed cases involving organized crime groups, where he represents either the lead defendant or acts for the prosecution.
With experience in handling sensitive material, David is adept at making PII applications. He is also accustomed to working with vulnerable individuals, including young defendants and witnesses with mental health issues or learning difficulties. David works closely with intermediaries to ensure that vulnerable witnesses and complainants understand court procedures and are able to provide their best evidence. His experience also includes conducting Ground Rules Hearings and sensitive cross-examinations under section 28, ensuring that vulnerable witnesses are treated with care and respect.
David’s expertise extends to fraud and financial crime, where he advises both corporate clients and government agencies on complex matters such as money laundering, bribery and corruption, and fraud.
In military law, David represents members of the armed forces both in the UK and internationally, providing specialised legal advice and representation.
Outside of his legal practice, David is passionate about Newcastle United and motorcycles, interests that offer a well-rounded balance to his professional life.
Cases
Asset Forfeiture & Confiscation
Mr Baird has experience of dealing with contested POCA hearings. He keeps his legal knowledge up to date in this fast-moving area.
Criminal Defence
R v N – Multiple rapes on partner whilst she slept. Acquitted
R v M – 1 of 4 defendants charged with Arson with intent to endanger life. Acquitted
R v D – defendant charged with a series of armed robberies. Acquitted of some offences
R v P – elderly defendant charged with possession of a firearm with intent. Acquitted
R v L – Dwelling burglaries. Acquitted after re-trial
R v N – Cultivating Cannabis. Acquitted
R v L – Charged with s18 Grievous Bodily Harm with intent. Convicted of s47 ABH
R v D – Youth, charged with s18 Wounding with intent. Convicted of s20 Wounding
R v H – Stalking. Acquitted
Criminal Prosecution
R v A – Attempted Murder. Convicted s18 OAPA
R v D & others – Conspiracy to Murder. Convicted
R v B & others – 5-handed Conspiracy to Supply Class A drugs. All convicted
R v N – Arson with Intent. Defence of Insanity raised. Convicted
R v W – Multiple allegations of Sexual Activity with a child. Convicted
R v O – Bomb Hoax. PII applications. Acquitted
R v A – Child Cruelty. Complainant hostile. Acquitted
Fraud & Financial Crime
R v F – Prosecuted significant benefit fraud where defendant did not agree any evidence. Convicted
R v J – Defended a client who had recently arrived in the UK and had claimed a range of benefits. Acquitted of some offences
R v K – Prosecuted a defendant accused of fraudulently applying for a large number of loans. Convicted
R v W – Prosecuted complex fraud spanning years involving selling funeral plans. Convicted
R v P – Defended a client accused of fraudulently obtaining substantial sums from her mother. Acquitted
R v G – Prosecuted defendant who fraudulently obtained money from elderly people in her care. Convicted
Military & Courts Martial
Mr Baird has represented a number of members of the Armed Services both in the UK and in Germany
Professional Memberships
- CBA
Awards, Qualifications & Other
- LLB (Hons)
- MSc Management Studies
- BVC
- Grade 4 CPS Counsel
- CPS Rasso Panel