If you’ve ever been wondering about what a criminal solicitor does, then you may be surprised to learn just how many areas of criminal law they are able to assist with. A solicitor should be available to help when you are being questioned in the police station, right the way through to appearing in court. They will represent you in a magistrates’ court and if your case is then referred to the Crown Court, they will assist your legal team of barristers and QCs, providing information to them as required. They will be with you every step of the way and can be a very reassuring presence when times are stressful and emotionally charged.
The crime
There is no escaping how upsetting it can be to be accused of a crime that you didn’t commit. The ramifications of an accusation can mean loss of employment, emotional distress for you and your loved ones, as well as potentially a loss of your freedom if you are found guilty of the crime you are accused of. In criminal law, a solicitor will be able to support you from the earliest stage with crimes such as murder and manslaughter, terrorism, serious drug offences, money laundering, violent crimes, restraint orders, cash seizure and forfeiture, as well as representing you at the police station.
At the police station
Regardless of the crime that you have been accused of, it is really important to seek the support of a solicitor as soon as possible. They will ensure that the police are following all protocols correctly and that if charges are being made, that there is sufficient evidence for them to do so. They will also be able to advise you on what to say during questioning, so that you can get the best possible outcome for your case. In some situations, your solicitor may be able to prevent charges being brought against you, so it is well worth having their input from the outset. Many solicitors are available 24/7 for support in the police station as the police could take you in for questioning at any time of the day or night. You will be able to find solicitors’ firms online that detail how they can help. Some are endorsed by groups such as Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, so it is worth doing your research, especially when some also support you no matter where you are in the UK!
Proactive
If charges are brought against you, a solicitor will then be able to start building your defence case by interviewing witnesses and expert witnesses. They will also be able to gather other evidence such as CCTV footage to help strengthen your case. A decent solicitor should have access to excellent barristers who can represent you in the Crown Court, so you would be able to have the best team to support you, should your case go that far, to get the best outcome for you.
There can be no denying that it will be a very troubling time for you and you will need to be brave when it comes to going through the legal process, but with a strong legal team behind you, they will be able to explain where you stand legally and put your mind at ease about what can be done to bring the case to a satisfactory close.
