FAQ: Criminal offences

Our crime and defence experts have provided some information and answers here to some frequently asked questions regularly raised by our clients.

Am I entitled to have a solicitor at the police station?

If you are arrested and detained at the police station, or attend voluntarily for an interview, one of your rights is to have a legal representative of your choice present to represent your interests, and to advise you. Police Station advice is funded by the Legal Aid Agency and therefore all representation at the police station is free of charge, irrespective of your means, or the nature of the offence for which you are at the police station.

Do I need a solicitor at the police station?

Yes. The actions you take at the police station can have huge implications on how your matter progresses. Our team can advise you on the police procedures, strengths or weaknesses of the police case, and how to approach your interview. We can also make representations on your behalf in relation to cautions, bail, fixed penalty notices and the amount of time you are detained at the police station. All of our team have undergone years of training, and numerous qualifications to enable them to provide the best possible advice to you.

How long will it take for my case to be concluded?

Each case is different. Some straightforward cases, where a person wishes to enter a guilty plea, could be concluded at the first hearing. Other cases, where a not guilty plea is entered, then a trial set can last longer. It will depend upon the nature of the case, plea entered, and also whether the matter is dealt with in the Magistrates or Crown Court. Our solicitors will be able to advise you of the timescale in your case as the matter progresses.

How much will it cost if I do not qualify for public funding (Legal Aid)?

The cost of the representation will depend upon the nature of your case, as some cases can be concluded in one hearing, others take months of work to complete. Our team will be able to give you a preliminary indication of cost, and in some cases agree a fee with you to undertake your case. We will not charge you any amount without first seeking your approval and agreement to do so. If you are found not guilty, we will apply for as much of your costs to be reimbursed to you as possible.

I did not have a solicitor when I was arrested, and have to return to the police station, can I have a solicitor this time?

If you were not represented initially, you are able to arrange for a solicitor of your choice to attend with you when you answer your bail at the police station. This can be pre arranged by contacting our office, or when you arrive at the police station you can ask for Fosters to be contacted.

What happens if I am arrested outside normal office hours?

Our solicitors are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. If you are arrested, when you are taken to the police station you will be asked whether you want a solicitor. When you ask for Fosters, or one of our solicitors by name, we will automatically be contacted, and will contact the police station, and you immediately. If you have a prearranged time to attend at the police station, by contacting our office we can make sure one of our team is there to meet you upon your arrival and advise you throughout the process.

 What happens if I get charged with an offence?

If you are charged with an offence you will be given a date to attend court. One of our solicitors can attend court with you and represent you throughout your case. The first hearing normally involves entering a plea. Our solicitors would be able to advise you on the strength of the prosecution case, likely outcomes, and the best course of action for you.

What sort of cases do you usually deal with?

We have specialist solicitors who deal with all aspects of criminal law, from murder, rape, robbery, drugs conspiracies and burglary, to first time youth offenders. We have built a strong reputation for complicated cases, especially those involving ‘cold case’ reviews and complex pathology issues.

Will I get public funding (Legal Aid) at court?

Legal Aid is available for many cases but is dependent upon your means and the nature of your case. Our team will be able to advise you whether you qualify for Legal Aid and will complete the necessary forms with you.