Chris Corkindale

Consultant

Chris joined Burton Copeland’s Professional Regulatory and Crime Team in May 2025. He has worked as a consultant since 2022, covering regulatory and criminal matters in the North East, Midlands and London.

He brings a wealth of experience in all aspects of the criminal justice system having been a police officer for over 30 years, latterly in the senior ranks. During this time, he was a Police Federation Representative for 7 years and a qualified legal advocate for misconduct cases.

Chris has defended numerous police officers in gross misconduct hearings, misconduct meetings and supported officers during criminal investigations.

Chris’s passion is seeking the truth and challenging Appropriate Authorities. He has extensive experience in advising and supporting clients from initial allegations being made, through to interview and subsequent trial. He has built a significant network of expert witnesses, junior and Kings Counsel barristers, to ensure that clients receive the very best service.

Notable Cases

• R v A (West Yorkshire Police Officer)

  Successfully secured a no further action decision at Crown Court for an officer accused of an historic sexual assault and rape allegation. Uncovered previously undisclosed material that had been ‘overlooked’ by the prosecution which became central to the clients defence.

  R v AD (West Yorkshire Police Officer)

  – Defended an officer accused of unlawful use of force against a detained person. Officer acquitted on all counts.

  R v SD (South Yorkshire Police Officer)

  Instructed counsel in a 3-day trial for assault during an arrest. Officer was found to have no case to answer following a Galbraith submission at Leeds Magistrates Court.

  West Yorkshire Police v Officer GS

  Defended an officer at a Gross Misconduct hearing following the withdrawal of legal funding. The Appropriate Authority was seeking their dismissal, the officer received a final written warning following submission of medical evidence to the panel.

  West Midlands Police v Officer D

  Successfully argued against an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing on principles of law with the Police Regulations. Conduct eventually reduced to misconduct only and officer received reflective practice advice.