What does being charged mean?
A charge is a formal allegation that you have committed a criminal offence. Once charged, you will be given a charge sheet and a date to appear at a magistrates’ court. Your case will then proceed through the criminal justice system.
What happens immediately after being charged?
- You will be bailed to attend court on a set date, or kept in custody for a court appearance the next day
- The police must give you written details of the charge
- You will be given the opportunity to instruct a solicitor for court proceedings
- Any bail conditions imposed at the station continue until your court appearance
Our role from charge to court
- We advise you immediately on the charge and its implications
- We apply for Legal Aid funding for your court case
- We review all prosecution evidence disclosed before your first hearing
- We advise on plea and likely outcome at each stage
- We instruct barristers for Crown Court trials where needed
What if I want to plead not guilty?
You have the absolute right to contest any charge. We will build your defence from the point of charge through to trial, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every stage and ensuring your case is fully and fairly presented.
Frequently asked questions
A charge is a formal accusation that triggers criminal proceedings in court. A caution (simple or conditional) is a disposal short of charge — it is an admission of guilt on record but does not result in a court hearing. Both have consequences for employment and future travel. We advise on which is in your best interest before you accept any disposal.
No. A caution requires your consent and an admission of guilt. You cannot be cautioned without agreeing to it. If you believe you have a defence or the evidence is weak, we can advise on whether refusing a caution and proceeding to trial is the right strategy.
For Magistrates’ Court cases, you will usually receive a postal requisition with your first hearing date. For Crown Court matters, you will have a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH). We represent you at every hearing from the first appearance onwards.
A criminal record is created if you are convicted or accept a caution. Being charged does not itself create a conviction — you are innocent until proven guilty. If the charges are dropped, discontinued, or you are acquitted, no conviction is recorded.