Working With Us
Facing a criminal allegation or regulatory investigation is a critical moment for any individual or business. As a Legal 500 recognised firm, Central Chambers Law provides specialist defence representation designed to protect your liberty, your reputation, and your livelihood.
You Don't Have to Face This Alone
Time is the most valuable asset in a criminal defence case. Contact our specialist team immediately for a confidential, non-judgmental assessment of your position
Our team is experienced in navigating the complexities of the justice system. We provide confidential, non-judgmental advice to clients facing investigations across the UK.
Our practice areas cover:
Serious Crime: Including murder, attempted murder, and firearms offences.
Organised Crime: Defending against conspiracy, county lines, and drug supply allegations.
Complex Cases: Handling terrorism charges and national security matters.
General Defence: Representation for police investigations and general criminal charges.
Our Recognitions
Trust is not given; it is earned. We are SRA regulated and hold multiple Lexcel Accreditations — the Law Society's quality mark for excellence. When you instruct Central Chambers, you are instructing a firm held to the highest ethical standards.
Don't Leave Your Future to Chance
Many cases can be resolved without court, but only if you act fast. Give us the time to build your strongest possible defence.
Legal Aid Availability
For many criminal matters, from police station interviews to Crown Court trials, public funding (Legal Aid) may be available to cover your legal costs.
Eligibility is determined by the seriousness of the case and, in some instances, a means assessment. Our team will conduct an immediate, confidential assessment of your eligibility to ensure that financial constraints do not stand in the way of a robust defence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Criminal and Civil Law?
This is a common confusion. Criminal proceedings involve the state prosecuting you for an offence, often resulting in a court hearing. The outcome can be a penalty or prison. Civil law involves disputes between individuals or businesses (like a contract dispute). In court cases regarding civil matters, we fight for your rights against other parties to secure damages or injunctions.
Can you stop a case before it goes to court?
Yes. This is our speciality. During a police investigation, we scrutinise witness statements and digital evidence to find flaws. We actively intervene before a charge is brought. If you seek legal advice early, we can often make representations to the CPS to drop the case, arguing that it is not in the public interest to proceed.
What is a 'Voluntary Interview' and do I need a lawyer?
A voluntary police interview is a trap for the unprepared. It is not a casual chat; it is a formal interview under caution. A police officer will ask you to answer questions which are recorded and used as evidence.
If you are asked to attend a voluntary interview, you must seek legal advice immediately. Do not go alone. We provide specialist voluntary interview advice to ensure you do not incriminate yourself. We also negotiate bail terms and bail conditions on your behalf. Please contact our emergency team on 07767 268 607 before agreeing to a date.
What happens if I am invited for a voluntary interview?
A voluntary police interview (often called a "Caution Plus 3") is a trap for the unprepared. Do not be misled by the word "voluntary." It is a formal police investigation.
If you agree to attend a voluntary interview, you will be cautioned, and a police officer will ask you to answer questions under recording. This evidence can be used to prosecute you. You have the exact same rights as someone under arrest, including the right to seek legal advice and have a solicitor present.
Do not go alone. We act as your buffer, advising you on whether to answer or exercise your right to silence. We also ensure that no restrictive bail conditions are imposed on you unnecessarily. Please contact our emergency team immediately if you are contacted by the police.
Do you offer Legal Aid?
Yes. We are experienced legal aid solicitors. We can assess your eligibility for government funding for criminal defence (police station attendance is free) and certain family or housing matters. If you do not qualify, we offer transparent private rates.
Do I qualify for Legal Aid?
Access to justice is a fundamental right. As experienced legal aid solicitors, we hold a contract with the Legal Aid Agency to provide government-funded defence.
- Police Station: Everyone, regardless of income, is entitled to free legal assistance at the police station. This is a statutory right.
- Court Proceedings: For Magistrates' and Crown Court matters, Legal Aid is "means-tested" (based on your income) and "merits-tested" (based on the seriousness of the case).
- Civil & Family: Funding is more restricted but may be available for cases involving domestic abuse, child protection, or housing possession.
During your initial consultation, we will assess your eligibility. If you do not qualify, we provide expert legal advice on a private basis with transparent, fixed fees so you know exactly where you stand.
