Mahesh Karu


YEAR OF CALL 2016

Mahesh Karu is a dynamic and highly sought-after junior barrister specialising in serious crime and complex financial investigations. He is regularly instructed in cases involving murder, large-scale fraud, drugs conspiracies, modern slavery, and offences under the Companies Act. Known for his ability beyond his call, Mahesh is frequently led by King’s Counsel in major cases and has an outstanding record in trials involving complex disclosure, expert evidence, and multiple defendants. His trial work includes major acquittals in cases involving drugs, human trafficking, and breaches of trust in high-security environments.

His criminal defence practice is complemented by specialist advisory roles with in relation to investigations carried out by organisations such as HMRC, the Bank of England, and the National Crime Agency. He is currently assisting the NCA and the Metropolitan Police in two  major investigations, and provides early-stage strategic advice in cases with millions in alleged fraud losses.

Mahesh carries a wealth of experience in advising on complex, high-profile investigations and has carried out extensive reviews both as independent counsel advising on legal professional privilege (LPP), and for both the prosecution and defence in large-scale disclosure reviews. His legal and technical knowledge and expertise in both the strategic management of extremely large reviews, and of the principles of legal professional privilege enable Mahesh to provide clear and detailed advice for investigators, suspects and third parties in large-scale investigations. Mahesh has significant experience in carrying out reviews using hard-copy material and digital solutions such as Nuix, Relativity and Cellibrite.

Notable Cases

Mahesh Karu

MEMBERSHIPS

CPS Advocate Panel Member, Level 3

Specialist Regulatory Advocates in Health and Safety and Environmental Law, Panel B
Fraud Lawyers Association

PRIZES / AWARDS

Cholmeley Scholarship, Lincoln’s Inn

EDUCATION

BSc, Physics, King’s College
Graduate Diploma in Law, University of Law
Bar Professional Training Course, City Law School