July 31, 2026
Written by Stephen Rose KC
I had the pleasure of being led by Richard in the infamous ‘Colchester Fake Para’ case – a grisly Ipswich murder trial in 2018 that turned out to be one of Richard’s last trials.
Our client, a dishonourably discharged Scots Guardsman, was alleged to have been passing himself off as a Paratrooper in Colchester. Unsurprisingly, that had landed him in the middle of some decidedly unpleasant local disputes. The defence was vigorously cut-throat between the co-defendants, but fortunately it was something of a Red Lion Chambers reunion. Simon Spence KC prosecuted, Graham Parkins KC and Stephen Dyble appeared for the third defendant and HHJ Levett presided.
At one stage, the Judge found the time to calculate the total number of years of experience at the criminal Bar he had appearing before him in court. I conveniently forget the precise number but suffice to say Richard made a significant contribution to it.
As ever, Richard was robust, fair-minded, patient, unflappable and gracious throughout a bruising and sensitive trial. He was never wrong-footed on the law and the jury enjoyed his gladiatorial combat in with the co-defendant and his counsel. Arriving in Colchester for a view of the scene, we alighted the bus to a warm parish welcome. Locals hanging out of the windows yelled some unhelpful, colourful and creative sentencing disposals by way of suggestion. The jury were amused. The Judge pretended not to hear.
Richard politely replied, ‘Thank you, madam. I’m afraid that will be outside the sentencing guidelines…’
Classic Sutton.
Richard’s contribution to Red Lion Chambers extends far beyond his own remarkable practice. Generations of pupils benefited from his generosity, wisdom and eagle eye for advocacy. He was a constant presence at advocacy exercises, a trusted mentor and an uncanny talent-spotter. More than one tenancy discussion has probably been shortened by the familiar question: “Well… what does Sutton say?”
One final correction to the record. We all know Richard as an outstanding criminal silk, a formidable advocate, and a cherished friend and colleague. But let’s not forget another of his many talents: the accomplished gigging guitarist with a passion for rock ’n’ roll.
Away from the courtroom, Richard has entertained audiences with the same confidence and flair he brings to advocacy, performing with his band, the ironically titled “The Dodgy Briefs.” A fitting reminder that, whether in front of a jury or a live crowd, Richard has always known how to command an audience.
Retirement will not mean a life of total relaxation as he has taken the freedom it offers to write – not about his famous cases since, as he will readily admit, he has had precious few of these – but an historical novel which he says, “helps to pass the time”.
Richard, thank you for everything you have given to chambers, to the Bar and to all of us fortunate enough to work alongside you.
We wish you every happiness in your retirement and we look forward to seeing you successfully exchange the advocacy of the courtroom for the written word as you turn your attention to writing your book.
Knowing Richard, we’re sure it will be every bit as engaging, witty and insightful as the stories he’s been telling for the past 35 years.