Criminal Law

Criminal law in England and Wales is under the legal framework of The Criminal Act,1967. This Act explains the definitions of criminal offences and the rules that are applied while police investigation and charges imposed by prosecuting authorities.

If a person has committed an offence and admit it or found guilty, the court imposes punishment that can be fines, commercial orders and imprisonment.

CRIMINAL OFFENCES

It includes various offences such as murder, manslaughter, sexual offences and non-sexual offences. Dishonesty offences like fraud, theft, offences against property. Crime against justice such as perjury, false evidence under oath and perverting court of justice.

Road traffic offences including drinking and driving, speeding and dangerous driving. Road traffic offences are only experienced with police and courts. Minor road offences can get a person a fine or points. However, perilous road offences including loss of a driving licence can get a person into jail.

NEED OF SOLICITOR IN COURT

A criminal law solicitor will advise you about details of the case that the prosecuting authority alleges against you, and your options to plead guilty or not guilty to the charge. They will advise you about the likely sentence you may face if you plead, or are found, guilty. If you are pleading not guilty, your solicitor will assist you to understand the legal procedures and help you prepare your side of the story, so that you can have a fair trial. Your solicitor will help you to understand the evidence that the police and prosecution are presenting against you and will gather evidence that supports your case. Solicitors can help by contacting witnesses or seeking expert reports to challenge the evidence against you. They may in some cases suggest instructing an advocate – a barrister or solicitor advocate – who will present your case in the court. If you plead or are found guilty, your solicitor can help you by gathering and presenting material to the court pointing out any mitigating circumstances and explanations to persuade the court to reduce any sentence of imprisonment or fine.

At Reading Law solicitors, we understand that facing criminal charges can be a daunting and stressful experience. Our dedicated team of criminal law experts is here to guide you through every step of the legal process with professionalism and compassion.

Criminal law in the UK encompasses the rules and statutes that define conduct prohibited by the state because it threatens and harms public safety and welfare. It includes the prosecution of individuals who are accused of committing crimes, ranging from minor offences to serious felonies.

ASSAULTS

Reading law Solicitors have been providing successful defence for clients accused of assault for many years. As a specialist practice, focussing on criminal defence, our solicitors have a strong knowledge of the law surrounding assaults and have a robust reputation for achieving positive results. Once we are instructed, we will meticulously examine your case from all perspectives. We will provide you with comprehensive advice on all potential defences and assist in formulating a robust case strategy aimed at achieving the best possible outcome. Our expert criminal defence solicitors will construct your defence, ensuring every possible aspect is thoroughly considered.

Types of Assault:

Our criminal lawyers have extensive experience advising and representing clients facing various assault charges. These can be categorized as follows:

A. Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) - Section 18, Offences Against the Person Act 1861

B. Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) / Unlawful Wounding - Section 20, Offences Against the Person Act 1861

C. Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) - Section 47, Offences Against the Person Act 1861:

COMMON ASSAULT AND BATTERY

Assault and battery are the most frequently charged and least severe offences. "Assault" is often used to encompass both assault and battery, which can cause confusion. Battery, or assault by beating, is committed when someone applies unlawful force, such as slapping or punching. Common assault is committed when someone either applies unlawful force or puts another person in fear of immediate force, such as by raising a fist aggressively. Common assault is usually tried in the Magistrates' Court but can be tried in the Crown Court if connected to an indictable-only offence under certain conditions of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

Assault with Intent to Resist or Prevent Arrest:

Under Section 38 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, this type of assault occurs when someone assaults a person attempting to lawfully apprehend or detain them. The victim does not need to be a police officer; they could be a private citizen assisting a police officer or a store detective making a citizen's arrest. The prosecution must prove that the victim had a lawful right to apprehend or detain the accused.

Maximum Sentences for Common Assault, ABH, and GBH:

  1. Common Assault: Maximum sentence of 6 months' imprisonment and/or a fine or community order.
  2. Actual Bodily Harm (ABH): Maximum sentence of 5 years' imprisonment and/or a fine or community order, typically imposed on a first offence.
  3. Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH): Maximum penalty of life imprisonment, with most sentences ranging from 3 to 16 years. We can advise on the likely sentence if found guilty.

What to Do if Arrested for Assault:

If arrested, you will likely be taken to a police station, held in a cell, and questioned. You have the right to speak to a solicitor. As the police will begin building a case against you immediately, obtaining quality legal advice and support is crucial. At Reading Law Solicitors, we offer 24-hour police station support, ensuring you receive the best advice and representation, and a strong case for bail will be presented on your behalf if charged.

HOW WE CAN HELP?

RLC Solicitors are experts in handling cases related to criminal offences. As soon as you become aware that you have been accused of an offence, contact us. You need the advice and support of an expert in criminal law. We assure you that we offer the advice which is best for you. Don't worry about getting a good solicitor because you have reached at the right platform. RLC Solicitors are here to help. We know what is best for you and will offer you our best legal advice. RLC Solicitors are here, to assist and guide you at every step of the process.

If arrested, you will likely be taken to a police station, held in a cell, and questioned. You have the right to speak to a solicitor. As the police will begin building a case against you immediately, obtaining quality legal advice and support is crucial. At Reading Law Solicitors, we offer 24-hour police station support, ensuring you receive the best advice and representation, and a strong case for bail will be presented on your behalf if charged. We assure you that we offer the advice which is best for you. Don't worry about getting a good solicitor because you have reached the right platform. RLC Solicitors are here to help. We know what is best for you and will offer you our best legal advice. RLC Solicitors are here, to assist and guide you at every step of the process.

Our team is located in Reading and Hounslow. To find out more, please get in touch with us.

You can contact us via:

Telephone: 07830970711

E-mail: gl@rlcsolicitors.co.uk

Address: REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS:

10 Wychelm Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 9DJ

THEFT

Being arrested or charged with theft can be extremely confusing and distressing. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain the right legal advice and representation promptly to protect your rights and ensure the strongest possible defence. Reading Law Solicitors is the preferred legal firm for individuals facing serious criminal allegations, including theft and other offenses related to dishonesty or fraud. Securing sound advice from seasoned lawyers at the outset is paramount to the case's outcome. Whether you've undergone police interrogation or are dissatisfied with prior legal representation, we're here to assist you. The process of investigating and prosecuting theft cases can be lengthy. At RLC, we guarantee top-tier representation of the utmost quality at every phase of criminal proceedings. We meticulously construct and present your defence to optimize your chances of avoiding charges, obtaining an early acquittal, or achieving the most favourable outcome possible during trial.

Our expert criminal defence solicitors and lawyers are highly experienced in cases of:

  1. Conspiracy to Steal
  2. Theft
  3. Theft from Employer
  4. Handling Stolen Goods
  5. Deception

Get in touch with our theft defence lawyers today. When dealing with theft charges or prosecution, it's crucial to seek expert legal guidance from the beginning to safeguard your rights and begin constructing an effective defence strategy promptly. Our esteemed criminal defence solicitors are available to support you from the initial police interview stage to all subsequent court proceedings, ensuring you have the best opportunity for a favourable outcome. We assure you that we offer the advice which is best for you. Don't worry about getting a good solicitor because you have reached the right platform. RLC Solicitors are here to help. We know what is best for you and will offer you our best legal advice. RLC Solicitors are here, to assist and guide you at every step of the process.

Our team is located in Reading and Hounslow. To find out more, please get in touch with us.

You can contact us via:

Telephone: 07830970711

E-mail: gl@rlcsolicitors.co.uk

Address: REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS:

10 Wychelm Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 9DJ

SEXUAL OFFENCE

RLC Solicitors possess extensive expertise in representing individuals accused of sexual offences. Specializing predominantly in criminal defence law, our firm boasts a dedicated team of lawyers specifically focused on sexual offences defence. This guarantees that our clients receive top-tier, specialized representation from seasoned professionals.

If you're facing accusations of a sexual offence, it's not just your reputation, personal relationships, career, and freedom that are on the line—it's your entire life. You can rely on us to offer expert guidance and unwavering representation while providing support for you and your loved ones every step of the way. Early engagement with a specialized sexual offences solicitor is crucial to safeguarding your interests and potentially resolving the investigation before it escalates to criminal proceedings. Led by experienced solicitors, our sexual offences defence team is equipped to efficiently navigate investigations and construct a strong defence on your behalf.

At RLC we will be able to work with you to put your case forward in the best possible way. Our expert criminal defence solicitors and lawyers are highly experienced.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

Seeking expert legal advice is vital if facing sexual offence charges, as convictions can have severe consequences, including imprisonment and placement on the Sexual Offences Register. Our legal team specializes in defending individuals accused of sexual offences, offering comprehensive analysis, advice, and representation to secure the best possible outcome for our clients. We assure you that we offer the advice which is best for you. Don't worry about getting a good solicitor because you have reached the right platform. RLC Solicitors are here to help. We know what is best for you and will offer you our best legal advice. RLC Solicitors are here, to assist and guide you at every step of the process.

Our team is located in Reading and Hounslow. To find out more, please get in touch with us.

You can contact us via:

Telephone: 07830970711

E-mail: gl@rlcsolicitors.co.uk

Address: REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS:

10 Wychelm Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 9DJ

DRIVING/ROAD OFFENCE

RLC boasts a skilled team of top Motoring Offence Solicitors, committed to safeguard your driving privileges. With years of experience and a proven track record, we are confident in providing the best legal counsel for any driving offences. Our extensive history of successful cases underscores our capability to consistently deliver favourable outcomes.

OUR PRACTICE AREAS

SPEEDING OFFENCE

Speeding offences are among the most common road traffic violations in the UK. Under UK law, speeding is defined as exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for the conditions of a specific road. These offences range from minor infractions to serious violations that carry severe penalties.

Types of Speeding Offences:

In the UK, drivers can be charged with various types of speeding offences.

  1. Common offence is exceeding the speed limit on a motorway or dual carriageway. The legal speed limit on these roads is typically 70 mph, though it may vary in certain areas.
  2. Another type of offence involves driving over the posted speed limit on a single-carriageway road, where the maximum legal speed limit generally ranges from 30 to 60 mph, depending on the specific area.

PUNSIHMENT FOR SPEEDING OFFENCE

In the UK, the minimum penalty for a speeding offence is 3 points on your license and a £100 fine. Accumulating 12 or more points within 3 years can result in disqualification from driving for up to 6 months.

If convicted of dangerous driving due to excessive speeding or causing an accident because of speeding, you may face serious criminal charges, including imprisonment. Additionally, insurance companies often increase rates or refuse coverage upon renewal due to these offences.

Being caught speeding can have serious legal and financial implications. Therefore, it is crucial to seek our expert advice immediately from speeding ticket solicitors who specialize in handling such offences with excellence.

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MOBILE PHONE OFFENCES

Mobile phone offences pertain to the use of a mobile phone or any handheld electronic device while driving a motor vehicle. These violations pose a significant risk to road safety as they distract the driver, slow reaction times, and diminish the driver's ability to control the vehicle.

Using a mobile phone or similar device in a handheld capacity while driving a mechanically propelled vehicle is an offence in the UK.

Using a mobile phone while driving diverts the driver's focus away from the road, resulting in slower reaction times and reduced situational awareness. This is a common allegation made by the police against motorists. Often, the police may mistakenly believe that a handheld device has been used, and such cases are decided based on the evidence presented in court.

Applicability:

The prohibition on using mobile phones while driving extends to all drivers, including those holding a provisional license, as well as motorcyclists.

Exceptions:

There are specific circumstances under which drivers are permitted to use their mobile phones while driving:

A. Emergency Calls:

Drivers are allowed to make emergency calls to 999 or 112 if stopping the vehicle is unsafe or impractical.

B. Hands-Free Devices:

The use of hands-free devices, such as a Bluetooth headset or a car's built-in system, is permitted. However, it is crucial that the driver's attention is not compromised, and they must maintain full control of the vehicle at all times.

Penalties for Mobile Phone Use While Driving in the UK:

Standard Penalty

Being caught using a mobile phone while driving results in an automatic fixed penalty notice, which includes a £200 fine and 6 penalty points on the driver's license.

New Drivers

A newly qualified drivers who accumulate six or more penalty points within the first two years of passing their driving test will have their licenses revoked.

Court Proceedings

For more serious offences or cases that proceed to court, the penalties can become significantly harsher. Courts have the authority to impose driving disqualifications, fines of up to £1,000 (rising to £2,500 for drivers of goods vehicles, buses, or coaches), and can also require an assessment for driving disqualification.

Adhering to these regulations and avoiding mobile phone use while driving are essential for maintaining road safety.

Drinking and Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious criminal offence in the UK. If a police officer suspects you are intoxicated while driving, they may administer a Breathalyzer test. Should this test reveal that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds the legal limit, you are likely to be arrested and face charges.

Penalties and Punishments for Drunk Driving Offences in the UK:

Driving while intoxicated is a serious offence in the UK, and there are severe penalties in this regard. The severity of the punishment you get depends on a number of things, just as:

  1. How much you were over the legal limit
  2. Whether it was your first offence or not
  3. Whether anyone was hurt.

Found guilty of this offence then:

  1. You could spend up to 6 months in jail.
  2. You may have to pay a fine of up to £5,000.
  3. Driving ban of at least 12 months can also be imposed on you.

However, if someone is caught drink-driving while already being banned due to prior convictions then they might have to serve jail time ranging from 3 months to 2 years with an unlimited fine charge.

Before obtaining their license restored, criminals might also need to participate in a rehabilitation program. These sanctions were put in place as a form of punishment as well as to act as barriers to future offences.

If you're tempted by having 'just one more' before getting behind the wheel - don't! The consequences simply aren't worth it.

The Impact of Drunk Driving on Insurance and Driving Privileges:

Drunk driving offences have significant and far-reaching consequences. One immediate effect is the increase in car insurance rates. Insurers consider drunk driving to be highly risky behaviour, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents, which results in significantly higher premiums.

NEED OF SOLICITOR IN COURT

A criminal law solicitor will advise you about details of the case that the prosecuting authority alleges against you, and your options to plead guilty or not guilty to the charge. They will advise you about the likely sentence you may face if you plead, or are found, guilty. If you are pleading not guilty, your solicitor will assist you to understand the legal procedures and help you prepare your side of the story, so that you can have a fair trial. Your solicitor will help you to understand the evidence that the police and prosecution are presenting against you and will gather evidence that supports your case. Solicitors can help by contacting witnesses or seeking expert reports to challenge the evidence against you. They may in some cases suggest instructing an advocate – a barrister or solicitor advocate – who will present your case in the court. If you plead or are found guilty, your solicitor can help you by gathering and presenting material to the court pointing out any mitigating circumstances and explanations to persuade the court to reduce any sentence of imprisonment or fine.

HOW WE CAN HELP?

RLC Solicitors are experts in handling cases related to criminal offences. As soon as you become aware that you have been accused of an offence, contact us. You need the advice and support of an expert in criminal law. We assure you that we offer the advice which is best for you. Don't worry about getting a good solicitor because you have reached at the right platform. RLC Solicitors are here to help. We know what is best for you and will offer you our best legal advice. RLC Solicitors are here, to assist and guide you at every step of the process.

Our team is located in Reading and Hounslow. To find out more, please get in touch with us.

You can contact us via

Telephone: 07830970711

E-mail: gl@rlcsolicitors.co.uk

Address; REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS:
10 Wychelm Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 9DJ

CYBER CRIME

Cyber-crime is a broad term encompassing two main types of criminal activity:

Cyber-dependent crimes:

Offences committed exclusively through the use of information and communications technology (ICT) devices.

Cyber-enabled crimes:

Traditional crimes that are amplified in scale or reach through the use of computers, computer networks, or other forms of ICT, such as cyber-enabled fraud and data theft.

Cyber-crime includes a wide variety of offences. The most common in the UK are:

  1. Bank account fraud.
  2. Non-investment fraud.
  3. Computer viruses.
  4. Hacking.
  5. Advance fee fraud.
  6. Conveyancing fraud.
  7. Harassment and stalking.
  8. Terrorism-related publications
  9. Child sexual offences
  10. Blackmail

Penalty for Online Fraud:

Online fraud is a prevalent type of offence in the UK, with the Fraud Act 2006 covering a wide array of cyber-frauds, emphasizing dishonesty and deception.

If found guilty, the Crown Court can impose a maximum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment for fraud by false representation, fraud by abuse of position, and fraud by failing to disclose information.

In the Magistrates Court, the maximum penalty for these offences is 12 months' imprisonment and/or a fine.

For possessing an article for use in a fraud, the maximum penalty upon conviction on indictment is 5 years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. For summary convictions, the maximum penalty is 12 months' imprisonment and/or a fine.

HOW WE CAN HELP?

RLC Solicitors are experts in handling cases related to cyber crime. As soon as you become aware that you have been victim of cyber crime, contact us. You need the advice and support of an expert in cyber law. We assure you that we offer the advice which is best for you. Don't worry about getting a good solicitor because you have reached at the right platform. RLC Solicitors are here to help. We know what is best for you and will offer you our best legal advice. RLC Solicitors are here, to assist and guide you at every step of the process.

Our team is located in Reading and Hounslow. To find out more, please get in touch with us.

You can contact us via

Telephone: 07830970711

E-mail: gl@rlcsolicitors.co.uk

Address; REGISTERED OFFICE ADDRESS:
10 Wychelm Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 9DJ

Get the Legal Support You Deserve

At RLC Solicitors, we're committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of your legal journey. Reach out today and let us help you find peace of mind and justice.

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