Isabella Smerdon

Isabella Smerdon is a dedicated Criminal Law Paralegal at THB Solicitors, based in our Benfleet office. She joined the firm in January 2025 after graduating from the University of Kent with a 2:1 in Advance Legal Practice: MLaw (LLM).

Isabella is currently preparing to undertake the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), working towards qualification as a Solicitor. Her strong academic background, combined with hands-on experience in criminal defence matters, enables her to provide practical and compassionate support to clients facing difficult circumstances.

She plays a key role within our Crime Department, assisting clients across Essex and surrounding areas with a wide range of criminal law matters.

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Legal Area of Expertise

Criminal Law

Qualifications

•  2:1 in Advance Legal Practice: MLaw at the University of Kent

Her MLaw degree provided advanced training in litigation, advocacy, and legal practice skills, giving her a strong foundation in both procedural and substantive criminal law.

Specialist Areas

• Fraud
• Magistrates’ Court
• Military Law
• Police Station Representation
• Private Representation
• Driving Offences
• Sexual Offences
• Youth Court 

Expertise

Isabella specialises in the day-to-day management of criminal case files, ensuring matters are handled efficiently, accurately, and sensitively.

Her role includes liaising directly with clients, counsel, courts and external agencies, preparing court bundles and documentation, drafting correspondence and legal documents, managing deadlines and procedural requirements and supporting solicitors with Trial preparation.

Clients often find criminal proceedings stressful and overwhelming. Isabella ensures that communication remains clear and supportive throughout, helping clients understand each stage of the legal process.

Recent Case Highlights

•  Assisted in preparation of a Crown Court trial involving complex evidential issues.
• Supported successful representation in a Magistrates’ Court motoring offence matter.
• Managed multi-defendant file coordination ensuring timely disclosure and compliance with court deadlines.

Why Clients Choose Isabella

 Isabella is known for her professional and caring approach.  She understands that facing criminal allegations can be daunting and ensures that clients feel supported, informed and reassured throughout their case.

Strategic Approach

Isabella believes in a structured, client-focused approach to criminal defence support. She prioritises clear communication, ensuring that clients fully understand their legal position and the options available to them at every stage of the process. Through thorough preparation, including meticulous file management and careful evidence review, she helps ensure that each case is handled with precision and attention to detail. Isabella works proactively to progress matters efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays, while collaborating closely with solicitors and counsel to support the strongest possible outcome. Her methodical and detail-oriented approach strengthens the wider Criminal Law team’s ability to deliver high-quality representation.

Other Interests

 Outside of work, Isabella enjoys baking, travelling and volunteering at her church. These activities reflect her strong sense of community and personal commitment to supporting others.

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