Crime & Defence
A E Smith & Son can advise and represent you in a wide range of circumstances from motoring offences to serious crime. We provide publicly funded criminal defence through a contract with the Criminal Defence Service, part of the Legal Services Commission.
The Criminal Defence team consists of two Solicitors Clare Gooding and Simon James, who can advise and represent you at the Police Station, Magistrates Courts and also in relation to Crown Court proceedings and Appeals.
We can:
- Advise you of your rights
- Represent you at the Police Station
- Represent you in Court
- Advise upon and Organise Appeals against conviction or sentence
Whatever your circumstances it is important that you seek legal advice straight away.
Your Case
You will be asked to bring any paperwork that you have in connection with your case to the first appointment. Then, once we have taken your full instructions and considered the evidence we will be able to advise you of your options and advise you upon the merits of your case, and the likely outcome and/or sentence.
Legal Aid
Legal Aid is available for cases in the Police Station, and for cases before the Magistrates' Court, Crown Court and the Appeal Courts. There are some circumstances when Legal Aid will not be available, and we will advise you if Legal Aid will not cover the costs of your case.
If you are arrested and taken into Police Custody, you are entitled to free and independent legal advice. Any person in Police custody is therefore entitled to free legal advice and representation, and we can provide this service.
Legal Aid for cases in the Magistrates Court is now means tested, and depends on the merits of your case. We can make an application for Legal Aid on your behalf.
If you are not entitled to Legal Aid we can advise you on our charges and 'Fixed Fee' appointments.
In addition to criminal cases we have experience in the following areas:
- General and white collar fraud
- VAT
- Benefit fraud
- Drug related offences
- Confiscation issues
- Youth crime
- Human rights challenges
- Trades Description
- Health & Safety
- DTI
Contact
It is always a good idea to contact us at the earliest opportunity following any incident.
Please telephone Clare or Simon on 01453 757444, or complete the email enquiry form to discuss your circumstances.
