Criminal Defence Lawyers Paisley & Greenock, Scotland
Our Criminal Defence Lawyers based in Paisley and Greenock are widely recognised for their success in defending those accused of any crime in Scots Law. We are no ordinary criminal defence firm. We care about our clients and do more to make sure you are not only fearlessly defended in the face of prosecution but are well informed and supported through your involvement with our criminal justice system.
We defend clients facing allegations in all areas of criminal law including:
We are available for daily appointments at our offices in Greenock and Paisley or in a court nearer to you if that is inconvenient. Our phones lines are open 24 hours per day should you need emergency advice and assistance. We contact you by letter and telephone to make sure you don’t miss court dates! We will visit you in custody at any police station whether you are detained or arrested in Greenock, Paisley, Glasgow, Johnstone, East Kilbride, Giffnock, Hamilton, Govan, Busby, Kilmarnock, Airdrie or elsewhere in Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire or any other area in Scotland.
As Legal Aid lawyers, we will manage your Legal Aid application and advise you of all requirements. Legal Aid is available in most criminal matters and may be available even if you are working or self-employed. Where it is not, we will work with you to make sure your legal fees are fair and manageable and often fixed as we understand this is an unexpected expense at a difficult time.
If you have been charged with an offence, cited to attend court or are worried about a criminal issue in which you may be involved, contact us for free, immediate, expert legal advice. Our feeing structure is up front, transparent and clear.
Criminal Defence Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if I am arrested or charged with a crime in Scotland?
If you are arrested or charged with a crime in Scotland, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. You have the right to free legal assistance from a solicitor, either by asking for the duty solicitor at the police station or contacting a solicitor directly. A criminal defence lawyer can guide you through the process, explain your rights, and help you prepare your case. Acting quickly ensures your rights are protected and that your defence is properly managed from the outset.
2. How does the Scottish legal process work after I am charged with a crime?
Once charged, you will face a series of steps, starting with a police investigation and possible interview under caution. Your case may be heard in a sheriff court or, for more serious offences, in the High Court. Your solicitor will explain each stage, including bail considerations, court appearances, and potential plea negotiations. They will also advise on whether to contest the charges or consider plea options, aiming for the best possible outcome.
3. Can I get legal aid for my criminal case in Scotland?
Legal aid is available in Scotland for eligible individuals facing criminal charges. To qualify, your case must meet certain criteria, such as the seriousness of the offence and your financial situation. Your solicitor can assess your eligibility through the ‘interests of justice’ and ‘means’ tests. If approved, legal aid can cover legal representation throughout your case, including court appearances and plea negotiations.
4. What are my rights during police interviews and court proceedings?
You have the right to legal representation at all stages of the criminal process. During police interviews, you can ask for your solicitor to be present and should be advised to exercise this right. You are not obliged to answer questions without legal advice. In court, your solicitor will represent you, challenge evidence if necessary, and ensure your rights are upheld. Understanding these rights helps protect you from self-incrimination and unfair treatment.
5. What are the possible outcomes if I am found guilty of a crime in Scotland?
If convicted, the court will decide on an appropriate sentence, which could include fines, community orders, or imprisonment, depending on the offence’s severity. Your solicitor can argue for mitigations or alternative sentences to reduce the impact. If you believe there has been an error or new evidence emerges, your lawyer can advise on appealing the decision or sentence. Effective legal representation can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
Contact our Leading Criminal Defence Lawyers Today
Our Leading Criminal Defence Lawyers in Paisley and Greenock have over 100 years combined experience in successfully defending our clients in every kind of criminal case in Scotland. We cover Glasgow, Greenock, Port Glasgow, Kilmacolm, Gourock, Inverclyde, Renfrewshire, Barrhead, Newton Mearns, East Renfrewshire and every police station and court in Scotland.
Contact us immediately for free, initial legal advice 24 hours per day. Call us in Paisley on 0141 280 7098 or Greenock on 01475 600929 or fill out our online form and we will call you back shortly.
Have the police released you to attend court at a later date? We can advise and appear with you.
You have the right to a solicitor if you have been detained for interview. We will attend or advise you.
Get in touch
We represent our clients daily in any court in Scotland. If you have been charged, we can help.
Make your defence our business. Initial expert legal advice is free! Fill out our online form or call us 24/7.
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Existing Clients: 0141 889 6458
Existing Clients: 01475 888 286