The office's main practice. The defence is prepared from the first step: what is said, or not said, at the first questioning shapes the whole case. The lawyer handles every stage personally.
How the process runs
- 01
First contact
The opening conversation establishes what stage the case is at, what has already been served on you and what has to happen in the next few days. Criminal deadlines are short and run from the date of service.
- 02
Investigation
The stage led by the public prosecutor. This is where the choice between charge and dismissal is made, and where the defence can request steps, put forward evidence and prepare for questioning.
- 03
Pre-trial review and trial
If charges are brought, a judge can be asked to review that decision. At trial the defence follows all the evidence and makes its closing submissions.
- 04
After the decision
The judgment can be appealed within the legal deadline. Questions of sentence enforcement, substitution and civil compensation carry on after trial.
What is covered
Formal suspect status and first questioning
Assistance at the first hearing, including the right to silence and the decision on what to say at that stage.
Investigation and pre-trial measures
Applications, evidence and defence at the judicial questioning where pre-trial measures are decided.
Pre-trial review, charges and trial
Requesting judicial review of the charges, the review hearing itself, and defence at trial in the various forms of procedure.
Representing the victim in the case
Joining the proceedings alongside the prosecution, taking part in the investigative steps and claiming civil compensation from the accused.
Offences against people and property
Assault, threats, theft, fraud and criminal damage, and domestic violence offences, which run to their own deadlines.
Regulatory offences
Judicial challenges to fines and ancillary penalties, in road traffic, employment and economic matters, where the time to respond is short and runs from the notice.
Common questions
What to bring to the first conversation
None of this is required to book. The more there is in the first conversation, the more concrete the answer.
- The notice or letter you received, with the date you received it
- The case number and the court or service that sent it
- Identity document
- Contact details for anyone who witnessed the events, if you have them
This page describes the practice in general terms. Every case turns on its own facts and on the stage it has reached, so nothing here replaces looking at the file itself.