Assessment and representation in criminal matters within an agreed scope, with attention to chronology, documents, deadlines and client privacy.
Begin with accurate information
An enquiry may concern a complaint, summons, notice or an existing case. In each situation, the firm needs to understand the capacity in which the client is involved, the issuing authority, the date and any approaching appointment or deadline. A general case label is not enough to identify the legal position.
The review begins with available records and an accurate account. Distinguish what was directly observed from what was reported by others, and complete records from extracts. This organisation helps identify the questions that need further investigation and avoids treating assumptions as established facts.
Reviewing the file and agreeing representation
An instruction may involve document review, advice or representation in specified steps, subject to the firm’s ability to accept the matter. Scope, forums, procedures, fees and expenses are discussed before work begins, including any necessary authority to act.
No result or duration is promised. Matters bearing the same description can differ materially because of their facts, evidence and procedural position. The assessment must come from the actual file rather than the name of the allegation or a comparison with another person’s experience.
Records and communication
Keep complete notices, summonses and available decisions or records, together with the date of receipt. Identify previous steps and any lawyer already involved. Sensitive details should be shared through an appropriate direct channel rather than a public comment or brief website form.
Communication arrangements should identify who is authorised to receive updates. This is particularly useful where several people make contact about the same matter. It reduces conflicting instructions and helps avoid sharing details with someone who is not authorised.
Urgent matters
Contact the office directly and explain the urgency and relevant date at the start. The website form is a request for contact, not an emergency service or confirmation that a matter has been accepted. Submission alone should not be relied on to arrange an urgent appearance or procedural step.
This page describes a possible service scope. It does not provide procedural instructions for an individual case. Specific advice requires a review of the relevant facts and documents.
Questions about this service
Can the form be used for urgent cases?
Use direct contact for a summons or approaching deadline and confirm whether the instruction has been accepted.