Being Charged with a Crime

Contact our criminal defence solicitors today

If you have been charged with a criminal offence, are due to attend the police station for interview which could lead to a charge, or require any urgent specialist advice or immediate representation, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

You can contact a member of our dedicated team of criminal defence solicitors in London, Birmingham, and Manchester by telephone on:

• Brent & Camden London Office: 020 7624 7771
• Manchester Office: 0161 835 1638
• Birmingham Office:  0121 614 3333
• City of London: 0207 624 7771, our senior Solicitors and Partners can meet by appointment in the City.

Or email: solicitors@jdspicer.co.uk

Alternatively, you can fill out our quick online enquiry form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

The types of crimes you may be charged with that we can support you with include:

• Drug Offences (from simple possession to possession with intent to supply, drug conspiracies, cultivation and production)
• Sexual Offences and images
• Serious and Violent Crime (including Common Assault, ABH, and GBH)
• Murder & Manslaughter
• Firearms & Knife Offences
• Terrorism
• Serious Fraud
• Driving Offences
• Theft, Burglary and Robbery

What does it mean to be charged with a crime?

If you are charged, it means that a decision has been made to prosecute you for a crime.

There is often some confusion between being charged and being convicted. Being charged does not mean that you are considered to be guilty of committing a crime, only that you will be required to attend court for your case to be heard.

What happens when you are charged with a crime in the UK?

When you are charged with a crime, you will be issued with a charge sheet. A police charge sheet sets out the details of the crime you are being charged with.

Depending on your circumstances, and the crime you are being charged with, you could receive notice of a charge in a number of ways.

What is the police charge procedure in the UK?

If you have been previously released under investigation or attended an interview under caution, you will likely receive notice of a charge via a postal requisition.

If you are in police custody when being charged, the police will decide whether to retain you until you are taken to court for a hearing, or if they will release you on bail until the court hearing.

After being charged, it is essential that you pay close attention to the information regarding the court you will be attending and the time and date a hearing will take place. Failing to attend court in relation to a criminal charge could lead to a warrant being issued for your arrest.

Does charged mean guilty?

Being charged is not the same as being found guilty of a crime. You can only be found guilty and convicted after a court hearing.

Do I have to tell my employer if I am charged with a crime in the UK?

If your employment contract states that you need to disclose any criminal charges received during your employment, failing to do so could amount to a breach of contract and result in your dismissal.