I set up the Childcare Law department in 2002, and was made a Partner in 2006. I have over 28 years of experience in practising almost exclusively children's law. I qualified as a Solicitor in 1991 and joined Smith Partnership in 1999, having spent 10 years working for local authorities. These funding issues also apply where defendants admit their wrongdoing by way of a guilty plea. Funding by reference to an agreed hourly rate or a fixed fee would be discussed. Such costs will vary tremendously and will depend on the nature of the charge, the number of witnesses and the level of preparation required. If legal aid is not granted, the defendant would have to pay privately for representation. In the event of a conviction, however, court and prosecution costs are usually imposed. Whilst this can often be substantial, a defendant is entitled to its reimbursement in the event of an acquittal. In Crown Court proceedings, as distinguished from those in the Magistrates Court, legal aid will commonly be granted with a requirement that the defendant pays a contribution towards his/her defence costs. This means that the defence case would be funded by the State. If the defendant is on a low income and the case is sufficiently serious, then “legal aid” is likely to be granted. Evidence is heard by a judge and jury who will consider the appropriate verdict. If a not guilty plea is entered and the case is allocated to the Crown Court, a trial will be necessary. With the right legal guidance on your side, you can rest assured knowing that your case is in safe hands no matter what challenges are faced. For example, there may be issues involving re-trials, appeals and majority jury decisions. It should be noted that not all cases follow such a straightforward process, as obstacles and complexities can arise at any stage. If you are found guilty - or you have entered a guilty plea - the judge will decide on your sentencing. If you are found not guilty, you will be discharged from the court and your case concludes. Once the jury has heard your case, which is presented by your advocate or barrister, they will make their decision. At this point, the judge is there to provide the jury with explanations of the law and procedures. This may include a fixed date or you’ll be advised that your case is on a warned list and you can therefore be called to trial at any time within the following weeks.Īt trial, the case is heard by the judge and 12 members of a jury, who are selected at random from the public. If you plead ‘not guilty’, the Judge will give directions for the next phase, which will be a trial. Corporate and Commercial Law Solicitorsįollowing the initial hearing in the Magistrates’ Court, there are further hearings in front of a judge where you are expected to enter a plea of either guilty or not guilty to the charges you are facing.Medical and Clinical Negligence Solicitors.Criminal Law and Criminal Defence Solicitors.
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