It is a stressful experience to attend court and face criminal charges, especially if you do not know what to expect and the likely outcome. Reeds Solicitors is nationally recognised for criminal defence, with Tier 1 status in the Legal 500 and Band 1 status in Chambers and Partners. Our London defence solicitors have extensive experience representing people accused of a wide range of offences at Magistrates’ Courts across the city.
Thorough preparation before the first hearing can make a significant difference to the progress and outcome of a case. We seek to obtain the prosecution papers at an early stage and arrange a meeting to advise on plea, the available evidence and what to expect at court. This can also help alleviate some of the understandable anxiety surrounding the hearing.
Where a guilty plea is in your best interests, the sentence can often be reduced through carefully prepared mitigation and supporting material, such as character references or medical evidence. We will identify the factors the court should take into account and present them clearly on your behalf.
If the allegation is denied, preparation should begin well before the trial. This may include identifying defence witnesses, securing relevant evidence, considering whether prosecution evidence is admissible and ensuring that the case is managed effectively from the first hearing.
If you have an upcoming Magistrates court hearing in London, please email us at [email protected] or phone 0333 240 7373 or send a confidential enquiry.
Criminal Offences We Defend in the Magistrates’ Courts
Our London criminal defence solicitors represent clients facing the full range of offences dealt with in the Magistrates’ Courts. We can advise before the first hearing, prepare the case and provide representation throughout the proceedings.
Assault and Violent Offences
- Common assault and assault by beating
- Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
- Grievous bodily harm
- Domestic abuse allegations
- Possession of an offensive weapon
Harassment and Communications Offences
- Harassment and stalking
- Malicious communications
- Controlling or coercive behaviour
- Breach of a restraining order
Sexual Offences
Motoring Offences
- Drink driving
- Drug driving
- Dangerous driving
- Careless driving
- Failure to provide a specimen
- Speeding and exceptional hardship
Drugs, Theft and Public Order Offences
- Drug possession and supply offences
- Theft and handling stolen goods
- Fraud and dishonesty offences
- Criminal damage
- Public order offences
Frequently Asked Questions
This is the most important question to consider and ultimately it is something that a Defendant must decide for themselves, with the help and support of their solicitor. A careful assessment is needed in terms of the circumstances of what happened, the possible defences in law and the strength of the evidence. It is crucial to have a clear idea of the likely sentence and the implications of taking a matter to trial, both in terms of the cost and impact on sentencing.
Criminal offences fall into one of three categories: summary only, either way or indictable only. If you have been prosecuted for a ‘summary only’ offence (eg drink driving, assault or harassment without violence), the proceedings must be heard in the Magistrates’ Court.
If you face an ‘either way’ offence, such as sexual assault, fraud, or assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH), the court must decide whether their sentencing powers are sufficient to hear the case. If the sentence could be in excess of one year in custody, the case is sent to the Crown Court. It is also important to know that a Defendant has the right to elect a Crown Court trial, after a not guilty plea, even if the Magistrates accept the case. We can offer advice about whether this is in your best interests. There are a number of factors to consider, such as cost, time frames and the difference in having a jury rather than three Magistrates to decide the verdict.
If you have been charged with an ‘indictable only’ offence (e.g. rape, s.18 grievous bodily harm with intent, or conspiracy to defraud), the matter can only be tried in the Crown Court.
If you have been charged with one or more offences at the police station, the police may have added bail conditions, such as residence at a particular address, a curfew or a restriction from contacting a particular person, directly or indirectly. The Magistrates are duty bound to reconsider the need for these conditions at every court appearance. We can apply on your behalf to amend or remove a bail condition if it is causing you difficulty or if it is not legally justified.
We understand that facing criminal allegations is immensely stressful and we always seek to offer honest advice, without judgment. We aim to achieve the very highest standards of client care, always keeping you updated and offering direct and responsive contact with your solicitor.
We can offer meetings, in advance of your court appearance in London, either virtually (via Microsoft Teams) or in person.
Please email us at [email protected] or contact us here. Alternatively, you can phone 0333 240 7373
We cover every Magistrates Court and Crown Court in London, including:
- Barkingside Magistrates Court: 850 Cranbrook Road, Ilford IG6 1HW
- Bromley Magistrates Court: London Road, Bromley BR1 1RA
- City of London Magistrates Court: 1 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4N 4XY
- Croydon Magistrates Court: Barclay Road, Croydon CR9 3NG
- Ealing Magistrates Court: The Court House, Green Man Lane, Ealing W13 0SD
- Hendon Magistrates Court: The Court House, London NW9 7BY
- Highbury Corner Magistrates Court: 51 Holloway Road, London, N7 8JA
- Lavendar Hill Magistrates Court: 176a Lavender Hill, Battersea, SW11 1JU
- Stratford Magistrates Court: The Court House 389-397 High Street, E15 4SB
- Thames Magistrates Court: 58 Bow Road, London, E3 4DJ
- Uxbridge Magistrates Court: Harefield Road, Uxbridge UB8 1PQ
- Westminster Magistrates Court: 181 Marylebone Road, London, NW1 5BR
- Willesden Magistrates Court: 448 High Road, London, NW10 2DZ
- Wimbledon Magistrates Court: The Court House, Alexandra Rd, London SW19 7JP
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