CRIME solicitors london

If you’re arrested, you have several key rights under UK criminal defence law:

• The right to know why you’re being arrested
• The right to remain silent
• The right to free legal advice from a solicitor
• The right to inform someone of your arrest
• The right to medical attention if needed

Police can usually detain you for up to 24 hours without charge (longer for serious offences, with court approval). It’s vital to contact a criminal defence lawyer immediately before answering any questions.

Early legal representation protects you from self-incrimination and ensures you’re treated lawfully during questioning.

During a police interview, you have the right to:

• Legal representation from a solicitor of your choice
• Remain silent until advised to speak
• Know the nature of the allegations against you

Everything you say can be used as evidence. The interview must be recorded and follow legal procedures. Even if you believe you are innocent, having a criminal defence solicitor present ensures that your rights are upheld and that you don’t accidentally weaken your case.

Yes. Even if the accusation is false, you still need a criminal defence lawyer. False allegations can lead to arrest, stress, and long-term reputational damage. An experienced solicitor will:

• Protect your rights during questioning
• Gather evidence to support your innocence
• Challenge the prosecution’s case
• Consider counteraction, such as defamation or malicious prosecution claims

If you’ve been wrongfully accused of a criminal offence, contact Berris Law’s crime solicitors in London for immediate and confidential advice.

An either-way offence can be heard in either the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court. Magistrates first assess the seriousness of the case to decide whether they can handle it. If they decline jurisdiction, or if you choose, the case will move to the Crown Court for trial by jury.

Examples include theft, assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH), and fraud offences. Your criminal lawyer will advise you on which option gives you the best chance of a fair and strategic outcome.

You have the right to self-represent, but UK criminal defence law is complex and procedural. Without legal training, you may miss crucial details or fail to challenge key evidence.

Judges must remain impartial and cannot help you as a solicitor would. A criminal defence solicitor ensures your defence is presented correctly and that you receive fair treatment. If you cannot afford private representation, you may be eligible for Legal Aid to secure professional support.

After an arrest, the police or court decides whether you will be released on bail or kept in custody (remanded). Bail is more likely for minor or summary offences if you are not a flight risk or danger to the public.

Bail conditions may include reporting to a police station, staying at a certain address, or surrendering your passport. Breaching these conditions can result in re-arrest and remand.
A criminal defence solicitor can apply for bail on your behalf and argue for your release by proposing sureties or other conditions.

Bail applications are typically made at your first court appearance. If bail is refused, you may reapply later if there is a change in circumstances.
Courts consider:

• The seriousness of the criminal offence
• Your previous record
• The likelihood of appearing at trial

Your solicitor can improve your chances of success by presenting a strong argument and proposing appropriate conditions for release.

Judges in England and Wales follow Sentencing Council guidelines to ensure fairness and consistency. Sentences are determined based on:

• The seriousness of the offence
• The harm caused
• Your culpability and any mitigating factors

Penalties range from fines and community orders to imprisonment for serious crimes. An experienced criminal defence lawyer can present mitigating circumstances and argue for the most lenient possible outcome.

If you believe your conviction or sentence is unjust, you may have grounds for an appeal.

• Appeals from the Magistrates’ Court go to the Crown Court.
• Appeals from the Crown Court go to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division).

You generally must apply within 21 days of sentencing. Your criminal defence solicitors can review your case, identify procedural errors or new evidence, and handle the appeal process on your behalf.

Yes. You can change your solicitor at any time, though the process depends on how your defence is funded.

Private clients: You can switch freely, but may incur extra costs or delays.

Legal Aid clients: You’ll need approval from the Legal Aid Agency, usually granted for valid reasons such as loss of trust or inadequate representation.

If you’re dissatisfied with your current representation, contact Berris Law’s criminal defence team for confidential, professional advice on transferring your case smoothly.