Criminal charges looming over you and not sure what to do?
How Does Criminal Law Work in the UK?
Criminal law in the UK is the body of law that relates to crime and the punishment of criminal offenders. It encompasses a range of statutes and legal principles that define criminal conduct, the procedures for prosecuting criminal cases, and the penalties imposed upon conviction.
Crimes in the UK are categorized into three main types:
- Indictable offences are serious crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery, which are tried in the Crown Court.
- Summary offences are less serious crimes, such as minor assaults and traffic offences. These are tried in the Magistrates’ Court.
- Either-way offences can be tried either in the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court, depending on the severity and circumstances of the case, with examples including theft and burglary.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Legal representation refers to the assistance and advocacy provided by a lawyer (solicitor or barrister) to a defendant in criminal proceedings. Though often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that the roles of solicitors and barristers differ significantly.
- Solicitors provide legal advice, prepare cases, represent clients in the Magistrates’ Court, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with prosecutors.
- Barristers specialise in advocacy, representing clients in higher courts such as the Crown Court and the Court of Appeal. They present the case in court, cross-examine witnesses, and make legal arguments.
Nevertheless, legal representation is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that defendants understand their legal rights and protections under the law. Secondly, lawyers help defendants navigate the complex processes of criminal law and court procedures effectively. Thirdly, experienced lawyers gather evidence, interview witnesses, and construct a robust defence strategy. Finally, legal representation is crucial for ensuring a fair trial, as lawyers can advocate for the defendant and challenge the prosecution’s evidence and arguments.
We Are Experienced UK Criminal Defence Lawyers
Holborn Adams are expert UK criminal defence lawyers. In fact, we have teams of specialist barristers and solicitors nationwide, including in London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Whatever crime you are accused of, we will work from your very first call to achieve the best possible result.
Whether you are worried about a criminal investigation, have been called for an interview or have already been arrested and charged, Holborn Adams’ criminal defence lawyers can provide you with specialist legal advice to ensure the best possible outcome, no matter the
circumstances.
Holborn Adams acts exclusively for private clients and does not accept cases on Legal Aid. This means that you will receive personal attention from a highly qualified solicitor from the outset of your case and throughout its conclusion. We also retain specialist criminal defence barristers at every level, including King’s Counsel, who are available to provide expert advice and assistance from start to finish.
Your Criminal Defence and Pre-Charge Experts
Holborn Adams’ criminal defence team has a wealth of experience in all areas of criminal law, from sensitive and personal allegations to the most serious cases of fraud and homicide. We know that your reputation, as well as your liberty, are at stake. As such, we will fiercely defend you whilst maintaining complete confidentiality and professionalism to minimise any damage to your reputation.
Beyond our criminal law experience, Holborn Adams are pioneers of what’s known as pre- charge representation. This process involves a solicitor or legal representative engaging with the police and the CPS on behalf of the suspect who has not yet been formally charged with an offence. The ultimate goal of this process is to influence them in deciding whether or not to bring charges against the individual.
At Holborn Adams, we simply do not believe in sitting back and waiting for our clients to be charged before we begin defending them. We take action quickly, quietly, and confidentially.
Take Legal Advice Now
If you’ve been charged or feel you may be charged with a crime, you need to act NOW, as any delay can have serious repercussions. More importantly, you need to never communicate with the police or any criminal investigation agency without speaking to legal counsel.
Remember, even honest and innocent mistakes can be held against you if your case reaches the criminal courts. Contact Holborn Adams and speak to an expert straight away. We can not only advise you, but take over any criminal case on your behalf.
Here are just some of the areas our criminal defence solicitors can assist with:
- White collar crime
- Money laundering
- Homicide
- Sexual offences
- Indecent images
- Assault
- Harassment
- Road traffic law
- Online and computer crime
- Firearms and robbery
- Drugs offences
- Trading standards / business crime
- Blackmail and bribery
- Appeals
- Private prosecution
- Cross border investigations
- Organised crime
