Everything You Need to Know About a Restraint Order
In England and Wales, a restraint order is a court order used in criminal...- 01 March 2026
Joined THB Solicitors: 2021
Admitted: 2006
Melanie Williams is an accomplished criminal defence solicitor at THB Ipswich, bringing over 20 years of dedicated experience in criminal law. After qualifying as a solicitor in London in 2006 and progressing to becoming a partner at her previous firm, Melanie quickly became the head of their Criminal Defence department. She has practiced in the City of London for over ten years, until she decided to move to Suffolk to raise a family in the countryside. She came back to the world of criminal defence in 2021, joining THB Ipswich and since becoming an integral member of the Ipswich team. She brings with her extensive experience in representing clients at all stages of the criminal justice process, from police station representation to appearances in Magistrates’ and Crown Courts.
Melanie specialises in criminal defence work, offering robust representation across a broad range of criminal matters and legal settings. She supports clients through all stages of criminal proceedings with experience and commitment tailored to complex individual needs. The vast majority of her case load sees her representing clients in a multitude of matters relating to serious sexual offences. With her extensive experience and exposure to cases of all types – but in particular, sexual offence cases – Melanie is able to offer solid, clear advice at all stages of the criminal justice system. She prides herself on ensuring that her clients stay informed throughout the life of their case, and in ensuring they understand all options before them, including the most appropriate one to choose.
Melanie has a keen interest in representing youths – always striving to get the best possible outcome for them.
London Criminal Courts’ Solicitors Association
Melanie is known for her focused expertise in criminal defence, her calm and clear approach in high-pressure situations, and her commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients. Her background includes leading a criminal defence department and partner-level experience prior to joining THB.
Melanie’s strategy centres on clear communication, thorough preparation, and strategic advocacy. She provides tailored advice at each stage of the legal process, ensuring clients understand their options and are supported through every step of their case. Additionally, in her advocacy work at First Appearance hearings, Melanie prides herself on being able to identify opportunities for cases against her clients to be discontinued at the earliest opportunity. When such a case presents itself, Melanie robustly outlines to the Court whatever her views are as to whether a prosecution is appropriate, and frequently is granted time to make representations for the matter to be discontinued. Melanie’s track record of success in this area is next to none, and is just one of the many ways she ensured she acts in the best interests of her clients.
Melanie keeps a busy schedule outside of work, devoting a lot of her time to helping others. An example of this can be seen in her volunteering work at Essex University where she acts as a mentor to students, advising and preparing them for work in the legal sector whilst offering them the opportunity to ask questions of someone working in the area they wish to be part of following their studies.
She also helps support members of her local community, often providing career advice for her local high school. She is Governor at her local primary school and also volunteers for Homestart, which is a charity supporting families with young children.
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- 01 March 2026
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