Paul Cavin KC

YEAR OF CALL 1995

SILK 2018

"Paul Cavin KC always wants to achieve the best for his client, and therefore sets out so to do from the outset of any instruction."

"Juries and judges love his style, and his cross-examination is devastatingly good. On his feet, taking on a defendant, it is absolutely edge-of-the-seat stuff."

Chambers UK Bar 2026

‘Calmness personified. A go to KC for prosecution cases.'  

The Legal 500 2026

Paul Cavin KC is a leading authority in serious and complex crime, renowned for his sharp advocacy, strategic insight, and commanding courtroom presence. With a practice spanning homicide, organised crime, white-collar crime, serious sexual offences (RASSO), and international criminal conspiracies, Paul is frequently instructed in the most high-profile and sensitive cases across the UK and abroad.

Recognised for his meticulous preparation and incisive cross-examination, Paul is trusted by the CPS, NCA, SEOCID, and specialist units to lead in cases involving multi-handed murders, complex fraud, large-scale money laundering, baby shaking, gang-related violence, and cross-border trafficking. His ability to manage cases attracting intense media scrutiny and his expertise in handling vulnerable witnesses and complex expert evidence sets him apart as a silk of the highest calibre.

Paul’s reputation extends internationally, having secured landmark convictions in extradition and trafficking cases, including the globally reported Operation Hudson, for which he received a joint commendation from the Home Office and NCA.

Frequently instructed at the pre-charge stage, Paul provides strategic advice on investigations of national significance. He is also known for fostering junior talent within teams, often leading members of chambers in heavyweight litigation.

Recent cases include:

MURDER

• R v Atkins and Pereira — Led the prosecution in the notorious "Bournemouth body parts murder", involving the killing and dismemberment of a vulnerable man. The case attracted national media attention. [2024]

• R v Shannon Grant — Prosecuted a gangland murder involving torture and financial motive. The victim was found hidden in an Ottoman bed, with evidence of restraint and burning. [2024]

• R v Hussain & Others — Three-handed attempted murder and conspiracy trial involving firearms, knives, and money laundering, concluding in early 2025.

FINANCIAL CRIME

• Operation Resurge — Leading a complex international prosecution of a South Yorkshire OCG importing over 102 million illicit cigarettes, valued at £38 million. Trial set for 2027.

• Operation Salerno — Instructed in a £59 million international money laundering case involving 29 defendants and cross-border financial crime. Trial listed for 2027.

Paul continues to be the advocate of choice for the most challenging and significant prosecutions in the UK criminal justice system.

MEMBERSHIPS

Treasurer of the South Eastern Circuit
Private Prosecutors Association

‘He is very smooth, calm and an excellent opponent. He exudes charm and has the forensic detail you would expect at the bar.’

‘Paul is very impressive.’ Chambers UK Bar 2025

‘Paul is calm under pressure, able to assimilate vast amounts of information quickly, a smooth communicator, and clever.’ The Legal 500 2025

‘His command of the facts and the law was matched only by his command of the broader situation. He radiated an aura of calmness and competence that immediately put me and my team at immediate ease.’

‘If you’ve got something hidden under a stone, expect to be asked about it because he will find it.’ Chambers UK Bar 2024

‘Paul is an authoritative advocate who has a deft touch with the jury.’
Chambers UK Bar 2023

‘He is very charming and effective in court.’
Chambers UK Bar 2022