Murray Hughman is proud to announce that the firm and several of our lawyers have once again been recognised in the Chambers and Partners UK Guide 2026 for excellence in criminal law.
Grant Ambridge – Band 2 (Crime, London – Firms)
Our Managing Partner Grant Ambridge has once again been recognised for his outstanding work in criminal litigation. Chambers highlights his expertise in defending clients against serious charges including firearms, drugs, and violent offences:
“Grant Ambridge is Murray Hughman’s managing partner and an experienced criminal litigator. He is adept at defending clients against serious charges related to the supply of firearms and drugs, as well as violent offences and homicides.”
Peers and clients commented:
“He is an exceptional team leader. He gives very good advice and is a go-to for private crime.”
“Grant provides strong and calm counsel in stressful situations.”
“Grant is a class act. His relaxed and friendly demeanour belies a razor-sharp legal brain and excellent tactical instincts.”
Luke Gittos – Band 5 (Crime, London – Firms)
We are also delighted to announce that Partner Luke Gittos makes his debut in the Chambers rankings this year, entering directly into Band 5. Chambers describes him as:
“Luke Gittos is becoming a go-to name in criminal litigation, particularly for clients seeking defence in freedom of speech matters.”
Clients and peers commented:
“Luke is frighteningly clever and approaches his work with a sense of realism but determination to win.”
“Luke is very good. He is very cerebral and bright. An exceptional partner.”
“Luke is an extremely intelligent lawyer who is always three or four steps ahead.”
Melissa Ansah – Associates to Watch (Crime, London – Firms)
For the second consecutive year, Melissa Ansah has been recognised as an Associate to Watch for her dedication and exceptional client care in serious and general crime cases.
“Melissa Ansah represents clients across a broad range of general and serious crime cases, including violent and sexual offences, firearms possession and homicide.”
Testimonials describe her as:
“There is nobody that cares more about her clients than Melissa. She works incredibly hard to provide an exceptional standard of client care.”
“Mel is the go-to for serious crime. She is very hard-working and refuses to give up.”
“An absolutely resolute solicitor, dedicated to putting her clients first and putting all of her energy into case preparation.”
Melissa Ansah – Spotlight (DEI Champions, UK-wide)
In addition to her ranking in crime, Melissa has been recognised as a DEI Champion, highlighting her contributions to diversity, equity and inclusion across the profession. Chambers notes:
“Melissa Ansah is a crime lawyer who has a focus on the treatment of young people in custody. She works closely with the charity Juvenis, which supports young people from vulnerable and disenfranchised communities and those at risk of offending and criminal behaviours.”
Further testimonials add:
“Melissa is loved by local communities and gets involved in local community work. She is a delight to work with: people absolutely love her and she really cares about her clients.”
“Melissa is committed to her clients. She takes calls at all hours and runs from court to court.”
Firm Ranking – Our Crime team has been ranked in Band 3 (London – Firms), reflecting our significant experience and strong reputation in criminal litigation. Chambers notes:
“Murray Hughman demonstrates significant experience in the criminal law domain, including cases involving allegations of serious sexual offences, multi-handed violent crimes and homicide. The team is experienced advising on organised crime cases including firearms and drugs supply, as well as human trafficking and modern slavery charges.”
Clients and peers also praised the team for its dedication and tactical expertise:
“A wonderful firm with dedicated and bright lawyers. They always keep a clear eye on the salient issues of any criminal matter and manage to distil the most complex cases carefully and succinctly.”
“The team brings a savvy, astute and tactically nuanced approach to their cases. They bring their considerable experience to bear in ways that often have a far-reaching positive influence on cases.”
“Every single team member cares so much about their cases and clients. They go above and beyond to prepare their cases.”
“The firm demonstrates really excellent client care and are all very dedicated. They are all excellent lawyers.”
A Message from the Firm
We are proud that our dedication to excellence in criminal defence and our commitment to our clients continue to be recognised by Chambers and Partners. These rankings reflect the skill, care, and commitment of the entire Murray Hughman team.
