Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a solicitor can potentially prevent a case from going to court, but several factors need to be considered. For instance, first-time offenders who have committed low-level offences may be eligible for an out-of-court disposal such as community resolutions or police caution. However, for serious sexual offences or violent crimes, this option is unlikely to be available. Also, UK Policing is not the same all over the country. What is accepted in London may not be accepted in Suffolk. It's crucial to assess the facts of each case thoroughly and consider the CPS threshold test and gravity matrix to determine whether a case could be suitable for out-of-court disposal. Contact Kelly Blake Legal if you would like an assessment of your case and written representations submitted advocating for out-of-court disposal in your case.

It is important to know that you have the right to change representation at any point during their instruction. However, it is always advised that you research and get a second opinion before making any decisions. It’s always advisable to try to discuss the specific issues you feel are not working, or not being addressed with your solicitor before deciding to change. The complexity of criminal defence cases means that the length of cases can vary and it is important to find a criminal defence solicitor that you feel is responsive and qualified to your needs and the best possible outcome for you - empowering you to know what to expect at every stage of your engagement with the police, the courts, or the crown prosecution service.

Wanting to be transparent with employers if you have been taken in for questioning by the police is understandable, however, it is always advisable to speak with your legal representative about any implications of such incidents, so that they have an opportunity to inform you about any industry-specific requirements and orders mandated by the police.

If a referral is made to Social Services, they must safeguard any children at the heart of the referral. Professionals in public services have a duty of care and obligation to report such concerns to the appropriate organisations, and as such the removal of your children is dependent on several factors. Perhaps, the most important to note would be evidence of immediate harm to any children.

Fees to employ legal representation vary, depending on the depth of service required - from voluntary interviews and client letters of representation through to court cases and convictions. You can contact us here, for a free, no-obligation quotation before deciding to choose your criminal defence solicitor.

We are proud to say we can travel across the UK to meet you at a conveniently located office. It’s important for you to feel confident with your solicitor and we value understanding our client’s needs. Please fill in our contact form and once we have had a telephone consultation we can identify the specific nature of your legal needs, and we can arrange the next steps.

Kelly Blake Legal is available to support clients in criminal defence investigations within hours of your enquiry. It is vital that you obtain legal representation as quickly as possible in the event of arrest. We advise all individuals to conduct police interviews with legal counsel in place.

All Solicitors within England and Wales are subject to the SRA (Solicitors Regulations Authority) regulations. Kelly Blake Legal is an unregulated SRA firm, however, should your matter proceed to court your case will be managed by Kelly Blake who is also a director of SRA-regulated firm Liberation Law Associates Ltd. Therefore, you will receive continuous care from the same Solicitor in court.