Rebecca Smart is a Legal Director in the Criminal Litigation team at Payne Hicks Beach, specialising in complex and high-profile criminal matters.
Recognised in both Chambers and Partners and Legal 500, Rebecca has a strong reputation for acting in complex and sensitive cases involving serious criminal allegations, with a focus on serious sexual offences and controlling and coercive behaviour. Her practice focuses on advising individuals facing investigation and prosecution in cases that often attract significant public and media attention, including matters involving reputation risk and regulatory issues.
She has particular experience representing ultra-high-net-worth individuals, professionals, celebrities, politicians, and individuals in public office. She provides strategic, discreet, and commercially aware advice from the earliest stages of an investigation through to trial. Rebecca’s previous experience as a court advocate gives her unique insight into the strategies and decision-making processes of investigative bodies. She is known for her meticulous case preparation, sound judgement under pressure, and ability to navigate the complex intersection of criminal law, media scrutiny, and personal reputation.
Alongside her practice, Rebecca is actively involved in the wider legal community. She serves as treasure of the London Criminal Courts solicitors ‘ Association (LCCSA) and sits on the committee for Women in Criminal Law (WICL). She has also contributed to policy work, previously advising on the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Private Prosecutions Oversight Panel.
Chambers and Partners note Rebecca as “a fantastic lawyer”, she “thinks about every single aspect of the tactical issues” is “incredibly thorough” and “pays attention to every single detail in the case”, “clients really trust her”.
Rebecca joined Payne Hicks Beach in 2026.
