If you are arrested or asked to attend a police interview anywhere in London, you are entitled to free and independent legal advice at the police station, whatever your income. Use it. What you say in the first interview shapes everything that follows, and a criminal defence solicitor will make sure you understand the allegation, the evidence and your options before you answer any questions.
London's criminal courts are the busiest in the country. Less serious cases are dealt with by magistrates' courts across the capital, while serious offences are tried at Crown Courts such as the Central Criminal Court, better known as the Old Bailey, Southwark, Snaresbrook, Inner London and Kingston. Criminal law solicitors in London prepare the defence, instruct barristers where needed, challenge the prosecution evidence and represent clients at every stage, from the first hearing to sentencing and appeal. Many firms also handle motoring offences, fraud and regulatory investigations, and some deal with extradition and interviews under caution for bodies such as HMRC and the Serious Fraud Office.
Legal aid is available for most people facing criminal charges, subject to a means test in the magistrates' court and possible contributions in the Crown Court, and many London firms hold a legal aid contract. If you do not qualify, or prefer to instruct a solicitor privately, ask for a clear estimate of the fees for each stage of the case.
The solicitors listed below offer criminal defence services within 20 miles of central London, with verified featured firms shown first and the rest ordered by distance. Read our guide to what criminal law involves and how criminal law solicitors work, or find out whether you can get legal help for free.
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