Jocelyn Ledward KC Takes the Helm as New Leader of Treasury Counsel

Jocelyn Ledward KC has made history by becoming the first woman to lead the Treasury Counsel team at the Central Criminal Court, following her appointment as First Senior Treasury Counsel to the Crown.

The announcement was made by the Attorney General, Ellie Reeves KC MP, with the appointment set to take effect on 1 April 2027. Ledward succeeds Tom Little KC, who has held the position since April 2024.

Role and Responsibilities of Treasury Counsel

Based at the Old Bailey, Treasury Counsel are responsible for handling some of the most challenging prosecutions in England and Wales. They also provide legal advice and representation on behalf of the Law Officers, government departments, and principal prosecuting authorities.

As First Senior Treasury Counsel, Jocelyn Ledward KC will lead the team and manage the operations of the Treasury Counsel system, while also continuing to prosecute cases herself.

Significance of the Appointment

The Attorney General remarked on the significance of Ledward’s appointment, stating, “Jocelyn Ledward KC will bring considerable experience, leadership, and judgement to one of the most important roles in our criminal justice system. Her appointment is also a significant moment, as it marks the first time a woman will lead the Treasury Counsel team.”

She expressed gratitude to Tom Little KC for his dedicated service during his tenure as First Senior Treasury Counsel.

Jocelyn Ledward’s Career Achievements

In her own words, Jocelyn Ledward KC expressed her honour in being appointed First Senior Treasury Counsel, emphasising the crucial role Treasury Counsel play within the criminal justice system. She stated, “I am proud to be the first woman to lead the team and look forward to collaborating with colleagues across the system to uphold the high standards set by my predecessors.”

Ledward’s legal career began in 1999 at QEB Hollis Whiteman Chambers, where she has specialised in serious and complex criminal law. She was appointed Junior Treasury Counsel in 2014 and advanced to Senior Treasury Counsel in 2022. Additionally, she became a Recorder of the Crown Court in 2022 and was appointed King’s Counsel in 2024.

Understanding Treasury Counsel Appointments

Treasury Counsel are appointed by the Attorney General in consultation with the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the team is divided into Senior and Junior Treasury Counsel. The First Senior Treasury Counsel leads the Treasury Counsel team and is responsible for overseeing the Treasury Counsel system’s operations. This role involves collaboration with the Law Officers, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the judiciary, HM Courts and Tribunals Service, and other key stakeholders. The appointment is for a term of three years.

The title “Treasury Counsel” has its origins in a time when all Crown Counsel at the Central Criminal Court were instructed by the Treasury Solicitor. This practice changed in 1908, after which the Director of Public Prosecutions began instructing the permanent counsel based at the court.