Been accused of such a crime especially falsely and of a sexual nature requires a lot of professional support. If separation from your children becomes an issue not only are you going to need help from criminal solicitors but also from solicitors who specialise in family law. Sadly, there is usually no legal aid available for family solicitors. Ensure you discuss costs with your chosen solicitor.
If you are going to questioned or arrested you need good police station solicitors. They can come from a firm who you will want to represent you. However, you may use the duty solicitor and not wish them to deal with the case any further. Remember all police station interviews entitle you to free police station representation. If you are taking your own solicitor ensure they operate the legal aid scheme if you want them to attend the interview free of charge you and be very clear with them you wish for the free representation.
If you find yourself in a limbo for a long period of time and need to get evidence to the police then solicitors who specialise in pre-charge representation are important. Sadly, there is no legal aid available for pre-charge representation (work conducted between interview and charge). As such ensure that you are clear about any costs you will incur.
Has the decision been made to charge you. Then you need a firm of solicitors who have vast experience in dealing with false accusations and sexual offences. Is it a historic case, then what is your solicitors experience of dealing with such cases. Most people are entitled to free or reduced fee representation on legal aid. When choosing your solicitor ensure they operate the legal aid scheme. All our recommended criminal solicitors are operating legal aid.
Did the worst happen? Were you convicted and sentenced. Sadly, you may need solicitors who specialise in appeals. If you or your loved one is in custody you may need prison solicitors to help with the parole process.
Were there messages on your digital device that can help prove your innocence but the messages have been deleted. Then you may need digital forensic help. Ensure it will be of benefit to you before paying for such services. Consult a solicitor.
