Matthew Claughton looks at the benefits of pre-charge engagement in criminal cases
What happens when someone gets arrested? People tend to believe the arrest is made, there’s an investigation by the police, the Crown Prosecution Service makes a decision and if they’re charged, then they fight their case in court. The truth is, it needn’t and shouldn’t be this straightforward.
When it comes to defending people in serious criminal cases, many lawyers believe in keeping their cards close to their chest for as long as possible, going through the motions as dictated by the police and CPS. However, by taking a proactive approach with a good dose of initiative, criminal lawyers have the power to transform the course of action – sparing a client – and often the referring solicitor &nda...
