Year of call: 2023
Mercedes joined Chambers as a tenant in April 2026 following successful completion of her pupillage within Chambers. Mercedes enjoys a mixed practice across all areas of crime, prosecuting and defending in the Youth Courts, Magistrates’ Courts, and Crown Courts.
Mercedes accepts instructions in criminal and regulatory law. She has been described by instructing solicitors as “professional and approachable” and a “confident” advocate. She is recognised for her thorough preparation, sound judgment, compassion and client care skills. Mercedes is committed to ensuring that she secures the best possible outcomes for her clients.
Prior to joining the Bar, Mercedes worked as a Paralegal at the Crown Prosecution Service. Mercedes was responsible for providing comprehensive support to solicitors and advocates, drafting legal applications, preparing evidence and assisting victims and witnesses. She has developed a comprehensive understanding of CPS policies and procedures, which is beneficial for both her prosecution and defence work.
Notable cases:
R v S – secured the acquittal of a client charged with domestic violence offences after a successful application to exclude res gestae material under section 78 PACE. The Crown offered no evidence.
R v R – represented a client charged with 2 charges of assault by beating against his daughter. The inconsistencies in the complainant’s account were exposed during cross examination resulting in an acquittal. The client maintained their good character.
R v S – secured the acquittal of a client charged with assault by beating, maintaining their good character. Careful cross examination of prosecution witnesses exposed inconsistencies in their accounts.
R v A – client was charged with a s4 POA offence but following discussions with the Crown, a restraining order upon acquittal was accepted.
R v C – represented a youth convicted after trial of a “phone snatching” theft. Secured a conditional discharge.
R v PH – secured a suspended sentence for a client charged with multiple violence and offensive weapons offences that occurred in prison against prison officers, despite the client having recent previous convictions for similar offences.
R v R – client convicted of an animal welfare offence. Successfully argued that the client’s culpability was lower than their co-defendant’s culpability and the court were persuaded to impose a community order with a single prohibited activity requirement with a fine and no animal disqualification order. The co-defendant was given a suspended sentence order and a 10-year dog disqualification order.
R v B – secured the acquittal of a client charged with 2 charges of assault PC. Following careful examination of the BWV and targeted cross examination of the police officers, the Judge acquitted the client.
Professional Testimonies
“She is always thoroughly prepared for cases and comes to court with a clear and confident approach to the case. Her professionalism and commitment to achieving the best outcome for clients is evident.”
“Miss Pascal was able to build a strong rapport with clients and has a practical approach to matters leading to favourable outcomes. It is clear that she provides sensible and reasoned advice”
“Ms Pascal is conscientious, reliable and professional in her dealings with both clients and those who instruct her”
“Mercedes has consistently demonstrated particularly impressive client care.”
Professional Associations
The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple
Women in Criminal Law (WICL)
Qualifications and awards
LLB Law (2022) – Upper Second Class Honours, Oxford Brookes University
BTC (2023) – Distinction, BPP University