In Brief A community resolution is an informal, non-statutory disposal used by police in England and Wales to deal with low-level criminal offences without taking the matter to court. It is not a conviction and does not appear on your criminal record....
If you or someone you know has been charged with sexual assault, understanding the potential sentence is likely your most pressing concern. This guide explains how UK courts approach sexual assault sentencing, the factors that influence whether you face a...
Being accused of indecent exposure is a serious matter that can result in imprisonment and placement on the Sex Offenders Register. This guide explains the law under Section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, including recent changes under the Crime and...
In Brief Cocaine is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the most serious category Maximum penalty for possession: 7 years’ imprisonment , an unlimited fine, or both First-time offenders with small amounts often receive fines,...
In Brief Attempted murder is one of the most serious criminal offences in England and Wales. The maximum sentence is life imprisonment , and the typical sentencing range runs from 3 to 40 years’ custody depending on the circumstances. Unlike...
UK law takes a serious view of sending inappropriate pictures, whether to adults or minors. The Online Safety Act 2023, which came into force in January 2024, introduced significant new offences including cyberflashing and enhanced penalties for sharing...
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...
