Criminal Law Solicitors

What is Criminal Law?

Criminal law is the legal framework that governs how crimes are investigated and punished in the UK. It covers a broad spectrum of offences, from minor road traffic violations to serious crimes like murder. These crimes are typically classified either by their victim type (crimes against society, person, or justice) or by their seriousness level, which determines how they are handled in the court system.

All criminal cases begin in the Magistrates Court, but their path through the justice system varies based on severity:

• Summary offences (like traffic violations) are handled entirely in the Magistrates Court
• "Either way" offences (such as burglary or theft) may be tried in either the Magistrates or Crown Court
• Indictable-only offences (such as murder or rape) must be tried in the Crown Court after initial hearing

Criminal law cases are unique in that they are initiated by the police on advice from the Crown Prosecution Service, rather than by private individuals. In criminal trials, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, who must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

Criminal Law Solicitors

Criminal law solicitors play a crucial role in protecting their clients' rights and interests throughout the criminal justice process, from initial police questioning through to potential appeals. Their services are valuable even in cases of minor offences or when the client believes they are innocent.

A criminal law solicitor provides essential services including:

• Offering legal advice throughout all stages of criminal proceedings
• Protecting clients' rights during police detention and interviews
• Reviewing police evidence to assess whether it justifies criminal charges
• Advising on plea options and potential consequences
• Developing defense strategies for clients pleading not guilty
• Gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to build a strong defense
• Representing clients in court or arranging appropriate barrister representation
• Managing appeals processes when necessary
• Ensuring maximum sentences in Magistrates Court (6 months for single offences, up to 12 months for multiple offences) are not exceeded
• Guiding clients through the 28-day window for launching appeals