We have extensive experience in privately defending individuals accused of a range of serious offences, including sexual offences, domestic abuse, harassment, violence, drug offences, firearms charges, and fraud.

Being investigated or prosecuted for a criminal offence is a serious process with potentially devastating consequences for your life, livelihood, and relationships. It is often an isolating and frightening experience, many of our clients never expected to find themselves involved in the criminal justice system.

Expert Criminal Law Representation at Every Stage

We can provide expert representation and legal advice from the earliest stages of the process, including initial interviews with police or other authorities, court appearances, and appeals.

We can also advise you if you believe you may have committed an offence and are unsure of what to do next.

Seek Legal Advice Early for the Best Outcome

Given the impact a criminal conviction can have on your liberty, employment, and personal life, it is essential to seek legal advice as early as possible. We have experience working with the police, Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and other investigative bodies, and where appropriate, we can arrange for you to attend interviews voluntarily rather than face arrest.

We will ensure you are represented during interviews and make appropriate representations on your behalf to law enforcement and prosecuting authorities.

If you are released under investigation, we will use that time strategically to begin preparing your defence, ensuring you are not disadvantaged by delays should the matter proceed to a formal charge.

Please note: Bennett Oakley Solicitors does not undertake publicly funded (legal aid) criminal defence work.

Our Areas of Expertise in Criminal Law

We can assist with a broad range of criminal matters, including:

• Sexual offences, including historical allegations
• Child abuse and exploitation
• Domestic abuse
• Violent offences (e.g., ABH, GBH)
• Cybercrime, indecent images, and online offences
• Theft and dishonesty offencesDrug offences
• Robbery
• Public order offences
• Fraud and tax evasion
• Harassment and stalking
• Arrest and interview under caution
• Voluntary attendance at the police station
• Representation at Magistrates’ and Crown Court
• Appeals against conviction or sentence
• Submissions to the police and CPS when released under investigation
• Removal of arrest details from the Police National Computer (PNC)

Specialist Defence Against Agency Investigations

We are experienced in defending clients investigated or prosecuted by a wide range of law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including:

• UK police forces and specialist crime units
• City of London Police Economic Crime Unit
• British Transport Police (BTP)
• National Crime Agency (NCA)
• HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
• Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
• Serious Fraud Office (SFO)
• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
• Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)
• Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

Contact Us Early

Early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.

If you suspect an allegation has been made against you, contact us as soon as possible. This gives us the opportunity to support and advise you, and to take immediate action to protect your interests and resolve the matter swiftly and discreetly.