Hare coursing on the Somerset Levels became a far more serious matter in 2022, when new offences brought unlimited fines, possible prison and the power to seize the dogs. Rural crime of that kind, with poaching, theft of quad bikes and machinery, livestock worrying and breaches of firearms certificates, forms a larger part of the work of criminal defence solicitors in Wells than it would in a city. A farmer whose shotgun certificate is revoked after a domestic argument, or a landowner accused of an environmental offence, needs a solicitor who knows both the criminal law and the countryside.
The rest of the caseload has a seasonal rhythm. The festival at Pilton brings drug possession and supply, drink and drug driving on the A37 and A361, thefts and public order, most of it ending in front of the magistrates. Wells has no court, so arrests lead to the custody centres at Bridgwater or Keynsham, magistrates' cases from Wells are heard at Yeovil or Taunton, and the serious ones go to Taunton Crown Court or occasionally Bristol. A local firm is used to the distances and the overnight calls.
Whatever the offence, advice at the police station is free regardless of income and worth taking: a voluntary interview, often used for rural and historic allegations, is still an interview under caution. Motoring work, from speeding on the A39 to totting up and exceptional hardship, is the bread and butter of the magistrates' court and often charged at a fixed fee.
Legal aid covers most criminal cases, means-tested in the magistrates' court, but few rural Somerset firms hold a contract, so ask early if you want a particular solicitor; the duty scheme covers everyone else.
The criminal defence firms serving Wells are listed below, verified ones first. See what criminal law involves, the general page on criminal law solicitors and the guide to getting legal help for free; for the Bath side of the Mendips, see criminal law solicitors in Bath.
