Magistrates’ Proceedings
Castle Solicitors specialist advocates cover Magistrates’ Courts both local and nationwide.
We provide the highest standard of representation, with attention to detail. We know that clients faced with court action are going through a difficult time of their life. Our legal team are here to help guide you through this challenging process.
Call our 24h helpline
07912 784485
When should I contact you?
If you’ve been charged by the police, or summoned to court, we can help defend you. We advise you contact us as soon as possible before your hearing.
We understand that appearing at the Magistrates’ Court can be an overwhelming, scary experience. At troubling times like this, you need the specialist support of an expert solicitor who can guide you through this process and get you the best result.
What type of cases do Castle Solicitors deal with in the Magistrates’ Court?
All criminal offences start in the Magistrates’ Court and come in three categories.
- Summary only offences: these are the least serious offences and include motoring, public order offences, harassment and s.39 assault. Summary only offences can only be dealt with in the Magistrates’ Court.
- Either way offences: these offences can be dealt with in the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court. These offences include drug offences, theft and fraud.
- Indictable only offences: These are the most serious offences and can only be dealt with to conclusion in the Crown Court. These include offences such as rape, robbery, manslaughter and murder.
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Who will represent me at the Magistrates’ Court?
Only qualified solicitors can represent clients at the Crown Court. All our solicitors are recognised by The Law Society and the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Plus, they all have further qualifications to deal with clients at the police station and the Magistrates’ Court. Not all solicitors working at the Magistrates’ Court have these qualifications.
At Castle Solicitors, we insist on the highest levels of qualifications for our criminal litigation solicitors. This means you are guaranteed the best representation.
Before the hearing, your solicitor will be familiar with the allegation you are facing and the facts of your case. Often, we will let you know in advance which member of our team will be representing you at court.
Will I have to pay for my solicitor to attend court and represent me?
At the Magistrates’ Court, we offer representation to clients funded through legal aid and privately. Before the hearing, we will discuss your funding options.
The majority of our clients will qualify for legal aid. Before the hearing, we advise that you attend our office. We can then tell you if you are eligible. The assessment is based on the offence you have been charged with, plus, your financial position.
For privately funded clients, we will advise you throughout the case as to what costs will be involved, plus your running costs throughout the proceedings from start to finish. Our fees are transparent, and we guarantee there will be no nasty financial surprises.
To discuss your funding options, please call Castle Solicitors today on 07912 784485
Remember, the initial chat is FREE of CHARGE.
Will I need to plead guilty or not guilty?
Once your solicitor has looked at the evidence, including the police interview, taking into account of your version of the event, they will explain your options.
Regardless of whether you plead guilty or not guilty, you are guaranteed to have an experienced solicitor with a high level of knowledge and legal skills. They will present your case most positively.
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.