Meet The Teams

Suzanne works as a Crown Court clerk and Office Manager for our York branch following our merger with DMT Solicitors.

Suzanne has been married to her husband for nearly 27 years and has two grown up boys and  a cavapoo called Charlie.  She likes watching old and new horror films, love old 70/80’s cop series (Starskey & Hutch etc!) and watching the rugby, England men’s and women’s. She swims three times a week and likes to have a glass of rose at the weekend either socially or at home.

Zahir is an Accredited Police Station Representative within our Criminal Law department, having over 20 years’ experience specialising in defending clients at police stations across the country.

Zahir is approved by the Legal Aid Agency to defend clients at the police station.

Zahir has a wealth of experience in complex and serious crime and regularly represents clients who have been arrested on suspicion of gang related crimes  drug offences , serious assaults, murder and Terrisom offences.

His in-depth knowledge of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and the law  means Zahir is  able to provide his clients with excellent legal advice during what is the most crucial part of the investigation .

Zahir has the skill to instil confidence in clients, supporting and advising them when they are most vulnerable who find themselves being questioned by the police.

Lauren’s legal career started in 2016 as an office junior at Tates Criminal Defence Solicitors where she gained her first insight into criminal law. She then worked as a legal secretary for 3 years in childcare law, before joining Grahame Stowe Bateson in 2023.

During her first month at GSB, Lauren enrolled on her police station accreditation course, and has since been accredited since October 2024. Lauren deals with either way and indictable offences at the police station whilst working full time in our Crown Court department. Lauren works alongside barristers preparing cases for trial and or sentencing at the Crown Court dealing with the most serious offences, ensuring the best possible outcome is achieved for our clients.

Lauren prides herself on being understanding and approachable, knowing the difficulty and stress that comes with criminal proceedings.

Jayne started her legal career at Jordans Solicitors in 1985 as an office junior.  There she developed an interest for working in criminal law and was soon promoted to legal secretary.   

In 1989, Jayne became employed by William Tate and Co as a partner’s secretary.  The role came with more responsibility, attending Crown Court hearings, police station interviews and prison appointments.   

Jayne became a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Secretaries (FILS) and is a life time member.  After working for the company for 33 years in both the crime and prison law department, Jayne joined GSB in 2021 as a Crown Court Clerk in the criminal department. 

Jayne enjoys meeting new clients and assisting instructed Barristers in taking instructions and preparing cases for plea/trial/sentence.  Jayne is well regarded for her caring towards clients and being attentive to their needs. 

In her spare time, she enjoy reading and travelling (who doesn’t!!). 

Byron joined Grahame Stowe Bateson in early 2023. He successfully completed his training contract with GSB in January 2025 having gained experience in both our Crime and Mental Health departments. He looks forward to continuing his development in these areas, however, Byron will be predominantly practising in criminal law. 

Byron studied at University College London before completing a Post Graduate Diploma in Law and a Master of Laws in Legal Practice.