Successful defence in builder ‘rogue trader’ case. Robert Bryan leading Simon Walters for the accused

Standout Legal Victory

Robert Bryan leading Simon Walters obtained a stand-out result for a builder described by the Prosecution and Trading Standards as a ‘Rogue Trader’.

The Prosecution and Charges

The Prosecution commenced in late 2022. Following a series of hearings in which the Defence successfully challenged the appropriateness of the charges and encouraged robust Case Management from the Judge, the Prosecution elected to proceed on Fraudulent Trading Counts relating to four successive businesses operated by Willis-Chambers between June 2020 and June 2024. These businesses had a combined income in excess of £1.3 million.

Allegations and Trial

The Jury heard from more than a dozen complainants who were alleged to have been deceived by Willis-Chambers by charging unfair amounts for the scope and/or quality of the works, failing to carry out work as agreed, making false representations that he intended to use consumers’ money on their particular property, and making false representations that he had spent funds on building materials and/or labour costs.

Trial Outcome and Sentencing

After a trial lasting 10 weeks starting in early November 2024, the Defendant was convicted of a single allegation which had a value of approximately £38,000. Sentencing Willis-Chambers on 28th March 2025 at Portsmouth Crown Court, HHJ Newton-Price KC was persuaded to pass a suspended sentence of imprisonment.

Expertise in Trading Standards Cases

Although often thought of as a Trading Standards Prosecution, Chambers Drystone’s members are equally adept at defending these cases, particularly where strong jury advocacy is necessary. Robert Bryan and Simon Walters were instructed by Natalie Dennington and Tracy Heywood of Wessex Solicitors.

About the Barristers

Robert Bryan was called to the bar in 1992. He is ranked in Band 2 Crime, Chambers UK Bar 2025, and as ‘Leading Junior’ Tier 2 in The Legal 500 2025.  Robert’s practice covers a wide spectrum of serious crime including homicide, sex-offending, serious fraud and drug conspiracies.

Simon Walters was called to the bar in 2010. He prosecutes and defends cases involving complex and expert evidence. Simon is regularly instructed in cases of serious violence, rape and other sexual offences and large conspiracies.

To instruct Robert or Simon, contact their clerks, Steve McCarthy, Ryan Bartlett or Amie Harris on 020 7404 1881.