Criminal Law

Expert legal advice when you need it

At IMS Law we understand that being accused of a crime can be life changing, as well as a daunting experience, especially if you have never been in trouble with the police before.

Our Criminal Law team are committed to making sure your legal rights are protected and are available whenever you need them.

If you are in the early stages of an investigation, need assistance with a police station interview or facing a magistrates or crown court appearance, our criminal law solicitors are here to advise you.

Our criminal law specialists provide legal representation on:

• Harassment and restraining orders
• Public order offences
• Drug offences
• Dishonesty offences including theft and fraud
• Benefit fraud
• Burglary
• Anti-Social behavioural orders
• Dangerous dogs
• Assault (read more)
• Arson and Criminal damage
• Motoring offences
• Sexual offences
• Serious crimes

Attending the police station

If you have been arrested or invited to go to a police station to be interviewed, we will:

• Attend the police station with you and be present when you are interviewed
• Explain in detail the process and what could happen in the future
• Discuss the case and the strength of the evidence against you
• Answer any legal questions you may have

Going to court

IMS Law will help you understand the evidence against you and will attempt to gather evidence that supports your case.

If you are charged you will appear before a Magistrates Court. This is where less serious offences are tried and there will be no jury present. However, if your case is more serious or complex, your case could be sent to the Crown Court.

If you need to go to Court, we will:

• Gather and prepare evidence for your case
• Interview witnesses or get experts reports to challenge the evidence against you
• Arrange for you to be represented at Court and present your case

If you plead not guilty, your case will be heard in front of a judge and jury who will determine whether you are innocent after they have heard all the evidence.

If you plead or are found guilty, IMS Law will help gather and present evidence to the Court outlining any mitigating circumstances and explanations to persuade the Court to reduce any sentence of imprisonment or fine.

How cases are funded

At IMS Law we provide Legal Aid funding in relation to any criminal matters you may have.

If you are on a low income and your case is serious, Legal Aid might pay some or all of your legal costs. Contact IMS Law and speak to our Criminal Law solicitors who will explain how the Legal Aid scheme works and whether you are eligible.

IMS Law also offer affordable private legal representation. Our Criminal Law solicitors will provide an initial assessment of your case advising you on your options and possible defences and will confirm the cost of representation at the beginning of your case.

Free initial consultation

At IMS Law we offer a free initial consultation, call 01744 612549 for instant support from our team of criminal law solicitors in St Helens, or get in touch here.