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Magistrates Court Proceedings

When charged with a crime in England or Wales, your first appearance will be at the Magistrates’ Court. The outcome of this initial hearing will determine whether your case remains here or is referred to the Crown Court for more serious offences.
At Williamsons, our team of experienced criminal defence solicitors is on hand to guide you through this process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

Magistrates Court Proceedings

Benefit fraud involves deceitful actions to obtain benefits you are not entitled to, such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, or Job Seeker’s Allowance (JSA). Common examples include:

  • Providing false information
  • Failing to report changes in personal circumstances
  • Deliberate dishonesty in providing information or evidence

Benefit fraud is a serious offence that can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences for significant overpayments. Cases are increasingly prosecuted and often heard in Criminal Court.

If accused, it is crucial to have professional representation throughout the proceedings. Contact Williamsons immediately for expert legal support.

Facing an investigation or prosecution by the Food Standards Agency can have dire consequences, including hefty fines and damaging publicity. Williamsons has successfully represented many food outlets, takeaways, and restaurants.

Speak to Williamsons’ criminal defence team today to see how we can help you in your Food Standards Agency case.

If your company is prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive, particularly following a workplace injury or fatality, the repercussions can be severe. Williamsons’ criminal defence team, supported by Accredited Police Station Representatives, offers expert representation to safeguard your interests.

Williamsons has extensive experience dealing with HMRC prosecutions, including tax evasion, duty evasion, and VAT fraud. Our professional legal team, including Accredited Police Station Representatives, has a strong track record in achieving acquittals and reducing sentences.

Licensing issues can disrupt livelihoods. We have successfully appealed cases for security personnel and taxi drivers facing suspension or revocation of their licences. Our experienced solicitors can help restore your licence and livelihood.

Accusations of misleading adverts or false claims can lead to severe financial penalties and imprisonment. Williamsons provides robust defence for individuals and companies under Trading Standards investigation or prosecution.

Illegal waste management and fly-tipping carry heavy fines and possible imprisonment. Williamsons’ vast experience in handling Environment Agency prosecutions ensures that individuals and companies receive expert defence against such charges.

Legal Aid, commonly known as Public Funding, is available to those who qualify. There are two main criteria:

  • Financial Eligibility – Your financial situation must meet specific guidelines.
  • Interests of Justice Test – Your case must qualify under certain legal grounds.

Our team can quickly assess your eligibility for Legal Aid. If you do not qualify, we offer competitive private fee arrangements and are happy to discuss our rates.

At Williamsons, your defence is our commitment. For emergency assistance outside of office hours please call 01482 221496. Otherwise, during office hours, please contact 01482 323697.

TRUSTED CRIMINAL DEFENCE

Strong advocacy and advice on Criminal Defence!

Criminal Defence Team

Amelia
Woollen

SOLICITOR

Marc
Pollard

ACTING HEAD OF CRIMINAL DEFENCE

Bill
Waddington

CONSULTANT SOLICITOR

Mike
Farr

SOLICITOR

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