Crown Court Proceedings
Some criminal offences are called indictable only offences. These offences can only be dealt with to completion at the Crown Court.
Only the first hearing will be heard at the Magistrates’ Court. The Magistrates will send the case to the Crown Court.
These are the most serious of offences and can receive a lengthy custodial sentence.
I have a case at Crown Court. What do I do now?
Always remember to get Castle Solicitors involved in your case at the earliest opportunity.
Please ring our office and find out how we can help you.
Call our FREE helpline today on 07912 7884485 and speak to a member of our team for more information.
Who deals with the case at Crown Court?
Castle Solicitors handle Crown Court cases regularly. Our team has access to highly experienced Barristers, both locally and nationally.
What type of offences are dealt with at Crown Court?
Due to the high standard of our service, we are highly regarded for providing first-class legal advice and representation in the Crown Court. Many of the offences we deal with are of a highly sensitive and serious nature, such as sexual offences, rape, robbery, drug offences and murder. Plus, highly complex matters such as fraud and white-collar crimes.
Can I get legal aid for legal representation at Crown Court?
You can apply and be granted legal aid in most Crown Court matters. If you applied for legal aid and were refused, you may apply for the recovery of your legal costs if you are found not guilty after trial.
What happens at the Crown Court?
Here is a simplified answer. Your solicitor and barrister with explain the procedure in detail, looking at your options, including benefits and risks.
If you plead guilty, you will be sentenced by the judge.
If you plead not guilty, your case will go to trial. Twelve people selected from the public, known as jurors, will hear the evidence then make a decision as to whether you are guilty or not guilty.
If you are found guilty, you will later be sentenced by a judge.
If you are found not guilty, this is the end of the matter, and you are free to leave.
Timescales
There is no fixed timescale as to how long it will take for a matter to be dealt with as it is all dependant on the seriousness of the matter. Each offence is given an estimate timescale after the initial meeting.
Most straightforward cases at the Magistrates’ Court conclude within 6 months. However cases could take longer depending on various factors including Court Listing and whether any case is sent to the Crown Court for Trial or Sentence.
Why should I choose Castle Solicitors?
We understand
24 hours a day you can contact us if you require legal advice.
We’re experienced
We don’t like losing, so if matters do go to trial, you’re guaranteed a solicitor who has a successful track record.
We win
Our goal is always to get the very best result for our clients, whether that be the police taking no further action, preventing someone from receiving a custodial sentence or clearing a client’s name with an acquittal after trial.
What should I do now?
Contact us by calling on 0121 226 3636, emailing admin@castlesolicitors.co.uk or even sending a message from this website on the contact page. We will call you back as soon as possible (usually within 2 hours) but in any event no later than 24 hours.
For emergencies, you can also contact our 24-hour helpline on 07912 784485
Remember
If you have been arrested to simply ask for Castle Solicitors at the police station and we will receive the call.