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Legal Process
Understanding the Criminal Justice Process
Understanding the Criminal Justice Process
From police station to court, we guide you through every stage with clarity, independence, and expert legal support.
Your Rights
Your Rights From the Start
You have the right to free legal advice if you are arrested or asked to attend a police station.
You can choose your own solicitor; you do not have to accept the duty solicitor.
ASL Solicitors & Advocates are completely independent of the police.
You must specifically request ASL Solicitors when speaking to the police
Police Station Stage
What Happens at the Police Station
Arrest or voluntary interview under caution
Arrest or voluntary interview under caution
Police interview and questioning
Possible outcomes: no further action, bail, release under investigation, or charge
How We Help at This Stage
Free, independent legal advice (covered by Legal Aid)
Representation during police interviews
Advice on bail, silence, and disclosure
Early intervention to protect your position
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Magistrates’ Court Stage
First Court Appearance
Most criminal cases begin in the Magistrates’ Court
Decisions on bail or remand
Plea entered (guilty or not guilty)
Case management and directions
Legal Aid & Costs
Court representation is often covered by Legal Aid,
subject to eligibility
subject to eligibility
We assist with Legal Aid applications and assessments
Clear explanation of private funding where applicable
Crown Court Stage
For Serious or Complex Cases
Cases involving serious offences or those sent from Magistrates’ Court
Jury trials, legal arguments, and expert evidence
Sentencing following conviction or acquittal
Our Role
Full preparation and defence strategy
Instructing barristers and expert witnesses
Ongoing client support throughout trial
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How we defend you
A clear path from arrest to outcome.
Who Can Get Legal Aid?
- Police station advice is always free no means test, no exceptions
- Court Legal Aid depends on the Interests of Justice Test (seriousness of the offence) & the Means Test (your financial eligibility)
Why Early Legal Advice Matters
- Protects your rights before you speak to police
- Prevents costly mistakes in interviews
- Can reduce charges, stop escalation & strengthen your case from the outset
How ASL Supports You
- We check your eligibility quickly & accurately
- We complete and submit all Legal Aid applications on your behalf
- We advise on contribution orders and alternatives if full funding isn't granted
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Get legal advice in minutes, not days.
Every hour counts in a criminal case. Speak to a defence solicitor now confidential, no obligation, and available around the clock.
Specialist criminal defence solicitors and higher-court advocates. Serious and complex crime, defended nationwide — 24 hours a day.
Specialist criminal defence solicitors and higher-court advocates. Serious and complex crime, defended nationwide.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
24 hours a day, 7 days a week