Jo Hooper is a Team Leader in our Bristol Magistrates Department. She is an experienced Duty Solicitor and Higher Court Advocate, with extensive expertise in criminal law. Since qualifying in 2014, she has provided expert legal advice and representation to clients at all stages of the criminal justice process, including the Police Station, Magistrates’ Court, Crown Court, and Court of Appeal for both legal aid and private clients.
With a strong commitment to delivering clear, honest, and tailored legal advice, Jo helps her clients fully understand their options, empowering them to make informed decisions. She is particularly dedicated to protecting vulnerable individuals throughout the Criminal Justice System, always going the extra mile to ensure that her clients feel secure and supported in what is often an overwhelming and intimidating environment.
Jo has extensive experience specializing in a wide range of criminal law cases, from minor offences to complex, high-profile matters. In Magistrates’ Court proceedings, Joanna regularly represents clients in various cases, including trials in both adult and youth courts. Her expertise extends to handling Civil Police Orders related to domestic violence and sexual offences, as well as Criminal Behaviour Orders and Football Banning Orders. As a Higher Court Advocate, she advocates in the Crown Court, handling trials, sentencing, and appeals from the Magistrates’ Court.
Joanna has earned a strong reputation as a lead solicitor for her meticulous approach and strategic insight in high-stakes criminal cases. Her expertise includes successfully defending clients in some of the most serious criminal offences, such as murder, serious assaults, drug conspiracies, and sexual offences. Her broad experience in criminal law allows her to effectively navigate all levels of court proceedings, offering expert legal representation across a wide range of criminal cases. Whether working in the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court, Joanna is committed to delivering clear, honest, and tailored legal representation to all clients, ensuring they feel supported and confident throughout their legal journey.
Known for her exceptional communication skills, Jo combines a professional, empathetic approach with strong organizational abilities. Her approachable and compassionate demeanor ensures that clients feel comfortable and reassured throughout their legal proceedings, regardless of the complexity or seriousness of the case.
Jo completed her A-Levels at St Brendan’s Sixth Form College in Bristol before pursuing a degree in Law at King’s College London. She went on to complete her Legal Practice Course at the University of the West of England (UWE), where she now lectures in Criminal Advocacy, Criminal Litigation, and Evidence on the Bar Training Course.
With a strong background in both practice and teaching, Joanna brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clients, ensuring they receive clear, strategic, and informed legal representation. Her role as a lecturer also allows her to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in criminal law, which enhances her ability to provide the highest level of service to those she represents.