Defence.
Charged With a Crime or Worried You Might Be?

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Criminal Defence Solicitors Glasgow

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.

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.

Funding Your Case

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.

Tailored Defence

We have successfully defended many clients, and our criminal defence solicitors will work diligently to build a strong defence strategy tailored to your specific case.

Call us on 0141 471 9088 to discuss your case in confidence

Find out more about your situation in a free 15-minute case evaluation. Click the button below to book a call from Glasgow’s trusted solicitors. Appointments can be by telephone, videocall or in-person appointment with a solicitor.

We’re the lawyers you want to know

I've been charged with a crime - what do I do now?

If you have been charged with a crime, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Here are some general steps you can take:

Contact a Solicitor: Consult with a criminal defence solicitor. They can provide guidance on your specific case and represent you throughout the legal process.

Understand the Charges: Your solicitor will explain the charges against you and help you understand the potential consequences if convicted.

Prepare for Court: Work closely with your solicitor to prepare a defence strategy. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and advise you on the best course of action.

Attend Court Hearings: You will be required to attend court hearings as scheduled. Your solicitor will represent you and advocate on your behalf.

Consider Legal Aid: If you cannot afford legal representation, you may be eligible for legal aid. Your solicitor can assist you in applying for this financial assistance. To find out more, read our Guide to Criminal Legal Aid in Scotland.

Comply with Bail Conditions: If you have been granted bail, ensure that you comply with all the conditions set by the court. Failure to do so can result in further legal consequences.

Remember, this is just a general overview, and the specific steps and procedures may vary depending on your individual case. It is crucial to consult with a qualified solicitor for personalised advice tailored to your situation.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Criminal Defence FAQs

What happens if I am detained or arrested?

If you are arrested or detained for a crime in Scotland, the police must inform you of your rights, such as the right to legal representation. You will be taken to a police station, where you may be detained for up to 12 hours without charge. After this time, you must either be charged or released, or the period extended. If charged, you may be held in custody for up to 24 hours before being brought before a court. The court will then decide whether to grant bail or remand you in custody until your trial.

If I am released on an undertaking, is that the same as bail?

Yes, in Scotland, being released on an undertaking is similar to being released on bail. Undertakings can be issued to individuals who have been arrested or charged, specifying a date and time to appear in court. A bail undertaking typically involves being charged with a crime and then released with a promise to attend a hearing. Both bail and undertakings come with certain conditions that must be met, such as attending all court dates and not committing any further offences. However, breaching bail or undertaking conditions can lead to prosecution and a prison sentence of up to twelve months.

Can I get legal advice while in police custody?

Yes, if you are in police custody in Scotland, you have the right to free legal advice from a solicitor. This advice is available over the phone or at the police station. You should be informed about this right before being questioned, and the police must wait for the solicitor to arrive before questioning begins. However, if you do not want a solicitor present during questioning, you can waive this right, although it is not recommended. If you are under 18 or a vulnerable adult, you must have a solicitor present during questioning.

What happens if my case goes to court?

If your case goes to court, the Procurator Fiscal will decide which court it will be heard in. The court will review the evidence and then make a decision based on the facts of the case and the relevant law. If you are found guilty, you may face penalties such as fines, community service, or imprisonment. If you are found not guilty, you will be acquitted of the charges, and your case will be closed. It is important to seek legal advice and representation if you are facing criminal charges in Scotland.