Whether you have just been arrested, are due to be interviewed under police caution, have been released on bail, released under investigation, or are worried that you may be accused of committing an offence, our experienced and highly qualified criminal law solicitors are on hand to remain by your side and represent you throughout every stage of the proceedings.

If you’re in trouble, Simon Bethel Solicitors can help.

Our specialist team of criminal law solicitors do all that is necessary to guide you through the legal process, using our significant skill and experience to seek the most beneficial outcome for you.

We deal with all aspects of criminal law, and we can, and will, defend you against any charge. We apply the same standards to all our criminal law cases, and our vast range of expertise covers everything from road traffic offences and assault to complex fraud and white-collar crime. We will also assist individuals being interviewed by any prosecuting authority.

We understand how frightening criminal investigations and prosecutions can be, but rest assured, our highly specialist team have a strong track record of successfully representing clients subject to investigation by the police, or prosecution by the Crown Prosecution Service, Local Authority, Serious Fraud Office or Trading Standards.

Our top priority is to protect your legal rights and give you the best chances of achieving a positive outcome.

Legal Aid

At a police station, everyone requiring advice and assistance will be entitled to free legal representation under the legal aid scheme except, if the client declines representation.

Simon Bethel Solicitors are proud to own a Legal Aid Agency [LAA] franchise in Crime, amongst others and are holders of LEXCEL quality mark .

At the Magistrates Court, Crown Court and other appellate Courts, you may qualify for legal representation under legal aid as well, or you may be required to make contributions towards your defence costs subject to LAA’s interest of justice test and your means.

What is Criminal Law?

Criminal law “is the body of the law that deals with conduct considered so harmful to society as a whole, that it is prohibited by statute, prosecuted and punished by the government.”

This area of the law outlines what conduct Acts of Parliament deem to be acceptable or unacceptable in the UK. It comprises a complex system of laws and rules that define criminal offences, set the procedures that may apply when the police investigate you for an offence, and what might happen if you are required to appear in criminal court, including sentencing and parole.

Criminal law primarily concerns those that are accused of, or convicted for, committing a crime. If a person breaches criminal law, they become subject to prosecution by the state. Proceedings are typically brought by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the name of the Crown and will be heard in a Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

If convicted, the offender will receive a penalty, laid out in relevant legislation and sentencing guidelines. This is usually in the form of fines, imprisonment, or community orders.

To be found guilty of a criminal offence, an individual must be proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt. Defendants are considered to be innocent unless they are proven guilty.

What is a crime?

A crime is a deliberate act, omission or neglect that constitutes an offence. The act causes physical or psychological harm, damage or loss of property and is punishable by law.

A person who has disobeyed a law, or has breached a rule, is said to have committed a criminal offence.

What is the definition of a criminal?

A criminal is the term widely used for a person who has committed a crime or been legally convicted of a crime. Anyone who breaks a law and is convicted of this act can be a criminal.

Our Criminal Law Solicitors

Our dedicated team of criminal law solicitors will help you if you are a suspect or accused of a crime. We will represent you to ensure your legal rights are protected, and that you get a fair hearing, should your case go to court.

Whether the allegation is relatively minor, or extremely serious, our criminal law solicitors understand that being under investigation, under arrest, charged or facing prosecution can be a distressing time. They are well regarded as being highly astute, unrelenting, and supportive.

From the police station to the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, we are committed to providing you with the best advice and to always protect your interest. We are motivated to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

If you have found yourself in trouble with the law, get in touch with our team of criminal lawyers today.

Our Criminal Law Services:

• General Crime • Corporate Crime • Youth Crime • Motoring Offences • Fraud and Money Laundering • Sexual Offences • Assaults • Conspiracy to supply drugs • Importation of controlled drugs • All types of conspiracies • Murder • Homicide, • Theft, robbery and burglary • Kidnapping

Talk to one of our friendly family law solicitors today by calling 020 8297 7933 or emailing info@simonbethel.co.uk.