Criminal Law
Criminal Defence Solicitors
If you have been arrested, invited to a voluntary interview or charged, you have the right to legal advice. This guide explains what a criminal defence solicitor does at each stage in England and Wales.
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Overview
What this area covers
Criminal law deals with offences prosecuted by the state, usually by the Crown Prosecution Service. A defence solicitor protects your rights from the first contact with the police through to any trial, sentence or appeal.
Anyone interviewed by the police about an offence in England and Wales has the right to free and independent legal advice at the police station, whether under arrest or attending voluntarily.
Common situations
When you may need a criminal defence solicitor
- You have been asked to attend a police interview.
- You or a family member has been arrested.
- You have been charged or received a court summons.
- You are under investigation for a serious or financial offence.
The solicitor’s role
How a criminal defence solicitor can help
At the police station, a solicitor finds out what the police allege, advises whether to answer questions, and attends the interview. After charge they review the evidence, advise on plea, prepare the defence, and represent you in the magistrates’ court or instruct an advocate in the Crown Court.
The process
The usual stages of a criminal case
- 1
Investigation
Interview under caution, with free legal advice available.
- 2
Charging decision
The police or CPS decide whether to charge, release without charge, or take no further action.
- 3
First hearing
All cases start in the magistrates’ court, where bail and plea are dealt with.
- 4
Trial or sentence
Cases proceed to trial if you plead not guilty, or to sentencing if you plead or are found guilty.
Costs
What does a criminal defence solicitor cost?
Police station advice is free. Legal aid for court proceedings is available subject to an ‘interests of justice’ test and, in most cases, a means test. Private fees are also offered by many firms.
Getting ready
What to prepare before contacting a solicitor
- Any police paperwork, charge sheet or summons
- Bail conditions
- Names of possible witnesses
- Do not discuss the case with anyone else involved
Choosing a solicitor
Choosing a solicitor
For serious cases, look for Crown Court experience and ask who would represent you at hearings.
Every firm listed on Verified Solicitors is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. You can compare firms’ profiles, locations and reviews before getting in touch.
Find criminal defence solicitors
Search Verified Solicitors for SRA-regulated firms that handle criminal defence matters, then compare their profiles.
- Verified solicitors
- Regulated firms
- Free to use
A common question
Should I attend a voluntary interview without a solicitor?
You are entitled to free legal advice. What you say can be used in evidence, so it is generally sensible to take advice first.
Related legal services
The information on this page is general information, not legal advice. The law and procedures can change and how they apply will depend on your circumstances.