Criminal defence solicitors based in Plymouth & Exeter

Criminal Law

Less Serious Offences

Magistrates Court offences (summary only offences)

Every offence charged to Court starts here.  Some offences can go no further than the Magistrates Court.  These include minor driving matters, common assaults and public order offences. Magistrates can still send you to prison for 12 months and impose high financial penalties so it is vital you are represented.

Criminal Law

More Serious Offences

Magistrates Court or Crown Court offences (either way offences)

Some offences can be minor or can be very serious and these are called either way offences.  They include theft, fraud, burglary, more serious assaults, drug supply and some sex offences. You will need advice before attending for your first hearing about whether you will have a choice in which court you would like your trial to take place.  If you are pleading guilty to an either way offence, you can still be committed to the Crown Court for sentence.  Some offences even if either way are so serious they must proceed to the Crown Court.

Criminal Law

Very Serious Offences

Crown Court only offences (indictable offences)

These are offences which start in a Magistrates Court but no plea is taken, and they are sent to the Crown Court to be heard.  They include rape, murder, aggravated burglary, most sex offences involving penetration and/or children, pervert the course of justice and kidnap.  These are offences which usually carry an immediate prison sentence on conviction (which means if you plead guilty or are found guilty by a Jury).  It is imperative you are represented if you face an indictable only offence.

Motoring Offences

Although minor in nature, the endorsement of penalty points can lead to catastrophic consequences for anyone who needs to drive for their job, or perhaps to care for a family member. Obtaining advice at an early stage about the case against you can avoid problems in the future.  We pride ourselves on giving honest and frank advice where motoring law is concerned.  We do not, like many national companies, take thousands of pounds from you and make promises we cannot keep.

Armed Forces

Being arrested, charged or summonsed to Court is a frightening experience for anyone. But if you are in the military there is the added concern surrounding your position in the armed forces.