Chris Corkindale
Consultant
Chris joined Burton Copeland’s Professional Regulatory and Crime Team in May 2025, bringing with him over 30 years’ experience in policing, including time spent in senior roles. Moving into legal practice was a natural step. Supporting officers and navigating difficult situations had always been part of his career — this simply allowed him to continue that work in a different capacity.
Since 2022, Chris has advised on regulatory and criminal matters across the North East, the Midlands and London. Having spent decades on the inside of policing, he understands how decisions are made, the pressures officers work under and how quickly situations can escalate. Clients value that practical insight. He knows the system — and how it works in reality, not just on paper.
That insight gives his clients something unique and invaluable: perspective, strategy and confidence.
During his service, Chris spent seven years as a Police Federation Representative and qualified as a legal advocate in misconduct proceedings. He has represented officers in gross misconduct hearings, misconduct meetings and criminal investigations, often at moments when their careers and reputations are under real threat.
He is straightforward in his advice and steady under pressure. Where necessary, he will challenge Appropriate Authorities firmly and without hesitation, but always in a measured and professional way. From the first allegation through to interview or trial, Chris makes sure his clients understand the process, feel prepared and know someone is firmly in their corner.
Over time, he has built strong working relationships with trusted expert witnesses and experienced counsel, bringing in the right people for the right case.
With credibility forged from decades inside the system — and the resolve to stand up to it when required, Chris now focuses on helping individuals navigate it when they need support the most — bringing experience, perspective and a calm, practical approach to every case.
Other Roles and Positions
Away from his legal practice, Chris is deeply committed to his local community.
As a Trustee Governor at Oxenhope Primary School, he leads on staff health, wellbeing and welfare. He is passionate about creating supportive working environments and understands the vital role that staff morale and wellbeing play in shaping positive outcomes for children. His approach is practical, supportive and rooted in genuine care for people.
Since 2020, Chris has volunteered with Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, helping with the transport and care of patients receiving end-of-life and respite support. Working alongside families during some of life’s most difficult moments has reinforced the compassion, patience and perspective he brings to both his professional and personal life.
These roles reflect the values that underpin Chris’s work — service, integrity and standing alongside people when they need support the most.
Notable Cases
IOPC v PC I – Acted for a police officer under IOPC investigation for alleged assault of a detainee in custody. Secured a no further action outcome following detailed written submissions and the strategic instruction of expert evidence.
South Yorkshire Police v H – Represented an officer facing gross misconduct proceedings involving allegations of Discreditable Conduct and breaches of Authority, Respect and Courtesy arising from domestic violence claims. Demonstrated that the officer was the victim and that allegations were unfounded. Proceedings discontinued; officer returned to full duties.
Merseyside Police v M – Advised an officer initially subject to a criminal investigation for Perverting the Course of Justice, which was discontinued. Subsequently defended Gross Misconduct allegations concerning Honesty and Integrity, Discreditable Conduct, and Orders and Instructions. Instructed a specialist misperception expert to analyse CCTV and body-worn footage. Officer acquitted of all serious allegations and received a written warning for a technical breach only.
R v A (West Yorkshire Police Officer) – Secured a no further action decision at Crown Court in relation to historic allegations of sexual assault and rape. Identified and relied upon previously undisclosed material that proved central to the defence case.
R v SD (South Yorkshire Police Officer) – Represented an officer charged with assault during arrest. Instructed a leading use-of-force expert. Successfully advanced a Galbraith submission; court ruled there was no case to answer.
West Yorkshire Police v Officer GS – Defended an officer in Gross Misconduct proceedings following withdrawal of legal funding. Despite dismissal being sought by the Appropriate Authority, secured a final written warning following presentation of medical evidence.
West Midlands Police v Officer D – Successfully challenged the lawfulness of an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing under the Police Regulations. Matter reduced to misconduct only, with reflective practice advice imposed.
R v AD (West Yorkshire Police Officer) – Defended an officer charged with unlawful use of force against a detained person. Officer acquitted on all counts.
