Crime/Fraud News

In Brief Yes, the police can press charges without the victim’s consent in the UK. In fact, victims do not “press charges” at all under English law. The decision to prosecute belongs to the police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS),...

In Brief The sentence for rape in the UK ranges from 4 to 19 years , with life imprisonment possible for the most serious cases The minimum sentence is typically 4 years for Category 3 offences with lower culpability The maximum sentence is life...

In Brief If the police stop you in the street, they cannot force you to unlock your phone. However, if you are arrested, officers have the power to seize your phone as evidence under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) 1984. Even after arrest, you...

In Brief Being released on bail without formal charges means police have arrested and released you while continuing their investigation. Under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, pre-charge bail has strict time limits—typically starting...

Pornography laws in the UK have changed significantly in recent years, particularly with the introduction of the Online Safety Act 2023 and mandatory age verification requirements that came into force in July 2025. This guide explains what is legal, what is...

Making a threat to kill is a serious criminal offence under UK law. If you or someone you know is facing charges, understanding the sentencing guidelines is essential. This guide explains what sentences courts can impose, how they calculate them, and what...

In Brief A No Further Action (NFA) letter is an official notification from the police confirming that an investigation is closed and a decision has been made that no criminal charges will be brought against you for that matter. Receiving an NFA letter...

If you have been cautioned, convicted, or found not guilty by reason of insanity for a sexual offence in the UK, you may be subject to strict police reporting, or "notification," requirements. Commonly referred to as the sex offenders register,...

A conviction in the UK criminal justice system requires the prosecution to prove the defendant's guilt "beyond reasonable doubt." This is the highest standard of proof in law and is a central pillar of the principle that a person is presumed...

In an era of instant communication, where messages can be sent across the globe in seconds, the law has had to evolve to protect individuals from digital harm. While some communications may be considered merely rude or offensive, a specific category of...