ABOUT
Mahwish is a Paralegal at Chess Law Solicitors, assisting with the preparation of serious and complex criminal cases.
She graduated with an LLB in Law from Royal Holloway, University of London, before completing the Bar Practice Course at The University of Law, London, where she achieved a Distinction. She has also served as a Magistrate since 2025, giving her an additional perspective on the practical workings of the criminal justice system.
Serious Case Preparation
Before joining Chess Law Solicitors, Mahwish worked closely with junior counsel in the preparation of serious Crown Court cases.
Her experience includes matters involving murder, terrorism, serious violence, modern slavery and drug offences, as well as cases involving substantial volumes of evidence. She has undertaken detailed evidence reviews, prepared schedules from extensive disclosure, conducted legal research, assisted with defence statements and skeleton arguments, prepared trial bundles and attended conferences and court hearings.
Mahwish has also gained first-hand experience of lengthy and complex criminal trials, including murder and serious sexual offence cases, working alongside and observing experienced junior and leading counsel.
A Different Perspective
Mahwish brings an interesting perspective to her work at Chess Law Solicitors.
Her training for the Bar has given her an appreciation of how cases are ultimately presented and tested in court, while sitting as a Magistrate has developed her understanding of how evidence and legal submissions are considered from the other side of the courtroom.
She brings that experience to the preparation of defence cases — looking carefully at the evidence, identifying the issues that matter and helping the wider legal team prepare each case thoroughly.
A Human Approach
Mahwish is approachable, thoughtful and particularly conscious of the fact that the court process can be unfamiliar and intimidating for clients and their families.
Before joining Chess Law Solicitors, she volunteered with the Citizens Advice Witness Service, supporting witnesses and vulnerable individuals through the court process. She has also provided pro bono assistance in family law matters through The University of Law and volunteered with a scheme supporting litigants in person before the Employment Tribunal.
That experience has reinforced an important part of her approach: good preparation begins with listening carefully to the people involved.
Mahwish is fluent in English and Urdu, allowing her to communicate directly with Urdu-speaking clients and their families where required.
