Criminal Defence Solicitors
Experienced and supportive criminal defence legal support, conveniently located in Bedford, Cambridge & Milton Keynes.
Why Choose Woodfines as Your Criminal Defence Solicitors
Our highly skilled and dedicated team of criminal solicitors bring expertise, commitment and integrity to every case. More than legal experts, we are trusted advisers when you need us most, with discretion and confidentiality at the heart of everything we do.
With a strong local presence and a clear understanding of the regional courts and police stations, we act swiftly and effectively.
We are calm, approachable and measured, providing clear, straightforward advice in plain English so you fully understand your position and the options available to you.
Our aim is to provide the strongest defence and non-judgemental support at every stage, guiding you confidently through the process while managing the legal complexities on your behalf.
We do not undertake legal aid work; instead, we offer robust, discreet, and highly specialised representation.
Complete the form for a no-obligation conversation with a member of our team.
Our Processes and Fees
When you contact Woodfines, you’ll be put through directly to a member of our team. We will take the time to listen carefully and understand your individual circumstances before advising you on the next steps. Clear, practical guidance will be provided so you know exactly where you stand and what happens next.
We understand that legal issues can bring financial uncertainty, which is why we provide clear, transparent fee estimates from the outset, helping you plan with confidence.
To ensure robust continuity of support, we provide bespoke private representation, maintaining a high level of service and personal attention for privately funded clients.
Our Criminal Law Services
Police Station Advice and Representation
We provide immediate legal advice and representation if you are detained or attending a police station, ensuring your rights are protected from the outset.
Interviews Under Caution
We carefully review the evidence and provide clear, strategic advice, ensuring your rights are fully protected throughout the interview process.
Support During Criminal Investigations
We provide early, proactive intervention, challenging prosecution authorities where appropriate to protect our clients from unnecessary stress and disruption.
Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court Representation
We provide robust representation at every stage of proceedings in both the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court. With a thorough understanding of each court’s procedures and complexities, we tailor our approach to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Advice at Pre-charge Stage
We offer early legal guidance and representation, helping protect your position, engage with authorities, and seek to prevent charges where possible.
Bail Applications and Conditions
We provide expert advice and representation to secure bail, challenge unnecessary restrictions, and ensure you understand your obligations.
Representation for a wide range of criminal offences
We specialise in a full spectrum of criminal offences, including, but not limited to, fraud, motoring offences, domestic violence and sexual offences.
Common Criminal Law Situations We Help With
If you’re facing a criminal matter, it’s natural to have questions about what happens next. Here are some of the situations we’re often asked about:
I’ve been asked to attend a police interview — what should I do?
A common mistake is thinking you can handle a police interview alone. Seeking legal advice isn’t an admission of guilt it’s the best way to protect yourself. Getting guidance early helps you navigate the process confidently and avoid mistakes that could affect your case later.
Do I need a solicitor if I’ve not been charged yet?
Even if you haven’t been charged, it’s important to seek legal advice at the earliest stage. A solicitor can help you understand your rights, guide you through any police or enforcement contact, and take steps to protect yourself before the matter progresses.
What happens after an arrest?
If you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station, held in custody in a cell and then questioned. You will have your rights explained to you, including the right to seek free legal advice, tell someone where you are and have medical help if you’re feeling ill.
The police can hold you for up to 24 hours before they have to charge you with a crime or release you.
They can apply to hold you for up to 36 or 96 hours if you’re suspected of a serious crime such as murder.
When can I be released on bail?
If the police don’t have enough evidence to charge you, they may place you on police bail. But you’ll need to come back to the station for more questioning.
If you are charged, they might release you on conditional or unconditional bail. Where it is conditional bail it will be because of concerns you may:
- commit another offence
- miss a court date
- intimidate witnesses
- interfere with the investigation
This means there will be some restrictions on your freedom. For example, you might have a curfew if the offence happened at night.
You may be released under investigation. This means you can go home, but the police can continue looking into the matter and could arrest and charge you later.
Will this go to court?
It depends on the seriousness and type of the offence. If you plead not guilty or the offence is serious, the case may go to the Crown Court. Less serious offences are usually dealt with in the Magistrates’ Court.
Having a lawyer at every stage enables you to maximise your prospects of a favourable outcome.
Why choose us?
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does a criminal law solicitor do?
A criminal law solicitor represents individuals or organisations accused of criminal offences, offering expert guidance from the initial investigation all the way through to court proceedings.
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When should I contact a criminal defence solicitor?
It is best to consult a criminal law solicitor as soon as possible if you suspect you are under investigation, have been arrested, or are facing criminal charges. Early intervention can prevent a case from escalating.
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Will using a solicitor make me look guilty?
No. It ensures you maximise your chances of having the case stopped or minimising the outcome.
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Can you represent me at a police station?
Yes, we have extensive experience in conducting thousands of police station interviews and also assisting individuals facing interviews under caution by regulatory bodies.
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Can you help with motoring offences?
Yes, we can help with motoring offences. Our team provides clear advice and strong representation, whether it’s speeding, driving without insurance, drink driving, or more serious motoring-related matters.
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What areas do your criminal law solicitors cover?
We handle a wide range of criminal offences, from but not limited to minor offences such as traffic violations to serious crimes such as drug offences, domestic allegations, sexual offences, and fraud.
Our expert team
Need us in your corner?
Remember, it's always early enough to seek legal advice. If you or a loved one are facing an investigation or criminal charges, contact our team of specialist solicitors. You don't have to navigate the complex legal landscape alone – we're here to guide, support, and defend you.
Contact us today to start your journey towards the best possible outcome.
