When a relationship involving children breaks down, most parents will immediately think about how this will affect their children; where will they live, who will be the main carer and how will they maintain contact with both parents. How this is decided depends largely on who has Parental Responsibility. What is Parental Responsibility? In England […]
The importance of understanding disclosure in the criminal process
The disclosure of prosecution material has never been a more high profile and hotly-debated topic than it is at the present time. There can be little doubt that both the adversarial system itself and the fundamental premise upon which our justice system has for centuries survived, namely that the prosecution shall bear the burden in […]
Can my ex stop me from seeing my children?
One of the most common questions we are asked is; ‘can my ex stop me from seeing my children?’ In short, your ex cannot legally stop you from having access to your children, unless a court has decided it will be of detriment to your child’s welfare. However, it is important to understand the law […]
Self-Defence – Do you have a defence?
The law in relation to self-defence is not always readily understood. It can be misinterpreted and misapplied and when this happens it can create grave injustice. Under the common law, a person is entitled to use reasonable force against another, or in defence of another. Section 3(1) of the Criminal Law Act 1967 also states […]
How are drink driving fines calculated?
We frequently represent clients facing prosecution for driving with excess alcohol, more usually known as drink-driving, and are often asked: ‘How are drink driving fines calculated?’ Upon conviction for an offence of drink-driving, a period of disqualification will almost always be imposed. A period of disqualification is mandatory in all such cases unless the court […]
Representing yourself in the Magistrates Court
Why would I need to represent myself? In the Magistrates Court, obtaining legal aid in order to be represented by a lawyer is dependent upon your financial means as well as on whether it is felt you should be represented because of the nature of the case (the “merits” test). Unless the case is considered […]
My child has been arrested – what should I do?
If your child has been arrested and/or charged to go to court, or if they have been released under investigation by the police, you should consult solicitors who possess the necessary experience in representing children and young persons. Similarly, if your child has been asked by the police to attend for a voluntary interview under […]
Appealing a Driving Conviction
We advise and assist motorists on a daily basis in relation to a variety of matters concerning motoring law. These issues can include: Assisting a client for interview by the police under caution Assisting clients complete notices of intended prosecution and understanding documents generally relevant to an incident under investigation Representation at court Giving advice […]
Have you been refused legal aid?
Representing yourself in the Magistrates Court? We can help Have you been refused legal aid? Are you facing the prospect of having to appear in court without a lawyer? Do you want some advice on how to conduct yourself in court? Do you want guidance on how to present your case? Legal aid is […]
Update regarding Sexual Harm Prevention Orders
Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPO) are a common additional order imposed by a court following convictions for sexual offences. They may include preventing travel overseas, restrictions on certain forms of employment and limiting internet usage for the offender. A SHPO lasts for a minimum of 5 years and has no maximum length. The purpose of […]
