Mr Henry TELEWA

Expertise

In civil litigation, I am regularly instructed in high-value and contentious disputes, including contractual claims, property litigation, and injunctive relief. My approach combines strategic insight with robust advocacy, always focused on securing the most favourable outcome for my clients.

I have particular expertise in personal injury work, acting for claimants in cases involving serious and catastrophic injuries, clinical negligence, and employer liability. I am known for my meticulous case preparation, persuasive advocacy, and a client-centred approach that balances compassion with commercial awareness.

In the criminal sphere, I act in complex and high-profile defence cases, often involving high net worth and prominent individuals facing reputational and legal jeopardy. My work includes defending serious fraud, regulatory breaches, and major criminal allegations, where discretion, strategic acumen, and relentless advocacy are essential.

Clients and colleagues recognise me for my integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence whether in court, at the negotiation table, or advising behind the scenes.

Career History

I qualified as a solicitor in 2006 at Goldkorn Mathias & Gentle, a formidable City-based commercial law firm renowned for taking on Magic Circle heavyweights such as Clifford Chance, DLA Piper, and Lovells. This early grounding in high-stakes litigation provided me with invaluable exposure to complex disputes and refined my commercial instincts from the outset.

At just 29, with two years’ post-qualification experience, I founded my own law firm, armed with a single computer, a mobile phone, and a fax machine in my one-bedroom flat. What began as a solo practice soon flourished into a thriving high street firm with fully staffed offices in both London and Birmingham. Over time, I built a team of 19 dedicated professionals, earning a reputation for tenacious advocacy and exceptional client service.

My litigation record includes several standout cases. Notably, I led a successful class action against Marlborough Tobacco, securing an out-of-court settlement exceeding £10 million for my clients. In another landmark matter, I acted against HSBC in a high-value fraud case where the bank initially alleged that my client was complicit in a sophisticated scam. I secured a seven-figure settlement and a rare formal letter of apology from the bank, recognising the distress and reputational harm caused.

In the criminal defence arena, I played a pivotal role in the high-profile defence of James Ibori, the former Governor of Delta State, Nigeria, charged with embezzlement of over $266 million. The case, described as one of the most complex and costly ever undertaken by Scotland Yard, involved international asset tracing and extradition. I was instrumental in defending the $300 million confiscation proceedings, ultimately saving the client over $200 million that prosecutors sought to recover.

Throughout my career, I have combined strategic litigation expertise with entrepreneurial resilience, building a practice that consistently delivers exceptional results in both civil and criminal spheres. My work continues to attract clients who require sharp legal insight, discretion, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Education & Qualifications

• Upper class second class degree from Keele University College of Law London in 2002
• Solicitor of England and Wales.
• Accredited police station representative 2007
• CLAS Accreditation in 2007
• Higher Rights of Audience civil and criminal divisions 2008

Personal

I’ve always believed that how you treat people matters just as much as what you achieve for them. Whether I’m representing a client in court or mentoring a junior lawyer, I approach every interaction with respect, patience, and empathy. Clients often describe me as approachable and calm under pressure and as someone who listens first and acts with purpose.

I make it a core principle to treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, status, or circumstances. I believe the true test of character is not how we engage with those in positions of power, but how we treat those who have none.

Outside of practice, I’m a father of two, a fitness enthusiast, and a lifelong animal lover, especially when it comes to dogs.

Physical discipline and emotional resilience are important to me, and I believe how you care for your body and mind impacts how you show up for others.

My philosophy is simple: be present, act with integrity, and never take time for granted. I live by values passed down from my parents. Love your mother, respect your father, and carry those values with you in how you treat others. I believe in fearing God, not religion and I am guided by conscience, not dogma.

In leadership, I’m proud to be known as someone who is both hands-on and grounded. I’ve mentored and trained six trainee solicitors, all of whom are now qualified and thriving in their careers. Supporting others’ development is not a duty for me. It’s a privilege.

While I work on serious, high stakes matters, I don’t carry ego into the room. I remain grounded client-focused, values-driven, and committed to outcomes that are not only legally sound but morally grounded.