What the Crown Court does
The Crown Court tries indictable-only offences (such as murder, rape, and robbery) and either-way offences committed or sent for trial there. Cases are tried before a judge and a jury of twelve, who decide guilt. The judge rules on law and, on conviction, passes sentence. Crown Court sentencing powers are unlimited, subject to the statutory maximum for each offence.
The Crown Court also sentences cases committed from the Magistrates' Court where the magistrates consider their powers insufficient, and hears appeals by way of rehearing from the Magistrates' Court. Because the sentencing powers are so much greater, the consequences of conviction are correspondingly more serious.
How we represent you
- Plea and trial preparation hearings (PTPH) and further case management
- Comprehensive defence case preparation and disclosure review
- Instructing leading counsel and specialist junior counsel
- Cross-examination of prosecution witnesses and presentation of defence evidence
- Expert evidence — forensic, medical, cell-site, and digital
- Sentencing mitigation, including obtaining expert and character evidence
- Appeals to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division)
Trial before a jury
A Crown Court trial involves the prosecution presenting its case, your defence, and the jury's deliberations. The standard of proof is beyond reasonable doubt. We prepare every aspect of your defence — legal arguments on admissibility, defence witness strategy, and clear presentation to the jury of the issues that matter.
Jury trial is a demanding exercise. The defence must identify the real issues early, distil complex evidence into terms a jury can follow, and hold the prosecution to its burden of proof at every stage. We prepare the case methodically and present it clearly, instructing leading or specialist junior counsel where the seriousness of the case warrants.
Disclosure and defence case preparation
The prosecution must disclose material that undermines its case or assists the defence, but in practice disclosure is one of the most contested areas of Crown Court litigation. We pursue disclosure rigorously, schedule unused material, and make targeted applications where the prosecution fails to meet its duties.
Defence case preparation runs in parallel: identifying and serving defence evidence, instructing experts, and preparing the defendant's evidence where they give evidence. Every deadline in the case management system matters, and we manage them to ensure the defence is fully and properly prepared for trial.
Legal Aid and costs
Legal Aid (a Representation Order) is generally available for Crown Court proceedings subject to the Interests of Justice test and a means assessment. Where it is not available, or where you prefer to instruct privately, we provide transparent fee structures and a clear plan of preparation.
Private representation in the Crown Court can be staged, with clear costs agreed for each phase from PTPH through to trial. We set out the likely scope, the experts required, and the fee structure at the outset, so you can make informed decisions about the conduct of your defence.
Frequently asked questions
From charge to trial a Crown Court case typically takes 12–24 months, depending on complexity, volume of evidence, and court listing. We keep you updated at every hearing and manage all deadlines and directions.
Yes. Crown Court trials are heard by a judge and a jury of twelve members of the public. The jury decides guilt; the judge rules on law and sentences on conviction. Some complex or lengthy fraud cases can be tried by a judge alone in limited circumstances.
Yes. Appeals against conviction or sentence are made to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). You need grounds of appeal — for example, a legal error at trial or new evidence. We advise on the merits of an appeal and prepare the necessary applications.
Legal Aid (a Representation Order) is generally available subject to the Interests of Justice test and a means assessment. In the Crown Court a contribution may be required depending on income. Where it is not available, or you prefer to instruct privately, we provide transparent fee structures agreed for each phase of the case.
The Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing is the first substantive Crown Court hearing, where you enter a plea and the court sets directions for trial preparation. We represent you, advise on plea, and ensure all case management deadlines are met. Early, effective case management shapes the whole trial.
The prosecution must disclose material that undermines its case or assists the defence. In practice disclosure is one of the most contested areas of Crown Court litigation. We pursue disclosure rigorously, schedule unused material, and make targeted applications where the prosecution fails to meet its duties.