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I've been charged with a Crime - what do I do now?
If you have been charged with a crime, it pays to act fast. At the first opportunity after you have been arrested or cautioned and charged, you should seek the help of an expert local criminal lawyer. This should be done before entering any plea in court. If you are worried about the consequences of being found guilty, see our guide to criminal sentences in Scotland.
In many cases, you will be entitled to legal aid.
Criminal Prosecution in Scotland
Scottish criminal law is largely contained in the 'common law'. That is to say that there is no Act of Parliament which defines criminal offences. There is no 'Murder Act' for instance. Instead, the definition of many crimes in Scots law are contained in the decisions of similar cases. The practical impact of this for you is that a wide range of potential acts can constitute a particular crime.
Scottish Criminal Procedure is largely contained in the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995. While the acts which can constitute any particular crime can be wide (Breach of the Peace, for instance, can be committed by any number of acts) the procedure for prosecuting crime is largely the same for every offence.
The most serious crimes are prosecuted in the High Court of Justiciary and less serious cases are prosecuted in the Sheriff court. Appeals from both courts are heard in the Court of Criminal Appeal which sits in the High Court in Edinburgh. If you have been charged with a criminal offence, call us now.
Legal Aid Solicitors Glasgow
We are members of The Law Society of Scotland and are registered to provide Legal Aid by The Scottish Legal Aid Board. Legal Aid may be available in many cases.
24 Hour Help
We understand that being accused of a crime is a stressful experience. That’s why we provide 24 hour assistance for emergencies and effective representation should you require to appear before any court.
Call or visit us to discuss your case. We have offices in Baillieston, Cambuslang, Muirhead, Barmulloch, and Glasgow City Centre.
Criminal Defence Lawyers Glasgow
Contact Us Now - It’s never too soon to get in touch. Call us today on 0141 552 9193 or use our online enquiry form. Our solicitors will deal with your enquiry in the strictest of confidence.