Jacqui Appleton won Senior Lawyer of the Year at the Cambridgeshire Law Society Legal Excellence Awards 2026 for her exceptional work in criminal defence and client care skills.
Jacqui has specialised in criminal defence work since 2008, giving her almost two decades of experience helping people facing the full range of criminal allegations. She has been a Partner at Shelley & Co since 2012.
Jacqui represents clients in both the Magistrates’ Court and the Crown Court, as she holds Higher Rights of Audience. This allows her to run serious and complex trials herself, ensuring her clients receive consistent and expert representation from the first interview through to the end of their case.
Her caseload covers the most serious allegations including murder, serious violence, sexual offences, fraud, and large‑scale drug conspiracies. She is known for her calm and determined approach, clear advice, and thorough preparation, which has led to success in cases others believed were unwinnable. She is a passionate defence lawyer dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for her clients.
Jacqui also has significant experience working with vulnerable clients, including those with mental health difficulties and young people who have been exploited. Her specialist training and knowledge of the law in these areas has contributed to several successful outcomes.
Jacqui is known for being approachable, straightforward and completely committed to protecting her clients’ rights. She is regularly thanked by clients for her support during what is often the most stressful period of their lives.
In addition to her defence work, Jacqui was appointed a Deputy District Judge (Magistrates’ Courts) in 2024, a role she carries out alongside her work at the firm.
Outside of work Jacqui enjoys spending time with her family, walking her three labradors, carriage driving and horse riding.
