Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors is proud to announce that Marcela Salter, (front centre of team picture), Criminal Defence Solicitor, has been named Crime Legal Associate of the Year at The Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Awards.
The award recognises Marcela’s outstanding contribution to criminal defence and her dedication to supporting clients through some of the most serious and complex cases.
Marcela brings more than three decades of experience in criminal law, having built a reputation for her resilience, compassion and depth of courtroom experience.
Since joining Bell Lamb & Joynson in September 2021, she has become a highly respected member of the firm’s Criminal Defence Team, known for her unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients. Her recognition follows another milestone for the firm, after Bell Lamb & Joynson’s Crime Team was ranked in Tier 3 in the Legal 500 earlier this year, reflecting the strength and reputation of the firm’s criminal defence work across the region.
Originally from Chile, Marcela came to the United Kingdom as a refugee in 1975. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she brings a culturally aware and empathetic approach to her work, particularly when supporting vulnerable individuals and those facing language barriers. She began her career in criminal law in 1989, initially working as an office junior beforeprogressing through roles including Magistrates’ Court Clerk and caseworker across both the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts.
While working full time, she undertook her legal studies at Liverpool John Moores University, completing both her LLB (Hons) and Legal Practice Course, before qualifying as a solicitor in February 2016. Throughout her career, Marcela has worked on a wide range of serious and complex
criminal matters, including cases involving serious violence, homicide, sexual offences, complex conspiracies, organised crime and prison law. Her experience also includes involvement in several high-profile cases that have attracted national attention, including the
nationally reported Brianna Ghey case. She is widely recognised for her calm and determined advocacy and her ability to build trust with clients during periods of significant stress and uncertainty.
Marcela holds Police Station Accreditation, is a Mental Health First Aider, and is currently awaiting the results of her Higher Rights of Audience examinations with the University of London, which will allow her to undertake advocacy in the higher courts.
Speaking about the recognition, Marcela said: “Criminal defence work can be incredibly challenging but also deeply rewarding. Every client deserves to feel heard, supported and properly represented, regardless of their circumstances. I feel very fortunate to be able to do this work and to be part of such a dedicated team.”
Outside of work, Marcela has been married for over 27 years and has two adult sons. She often credits the support of her family as the foundation that has enabled her to build such a long and demanding career in criminal defence.
