Criminal
legal advice from Martin Murray & Associates
is offered through both private and publicly (Legal
Aid) funded casework. Don’t worry: the way
we’re paid makes no difference. You’ll
enjoy the same efficient, professional representation
however we’re remunerated.
How our work for you is funded will depend on
the nature of your case.
If you’re in custody at any UK Police Station,
you are entitled to legal advice and assistance
free of charge.
This includes an appointment (made in advance)
for an interview with a police officer or other
investigating officer e.g. Customs & Excise.
Please contact us in advance of any pre-arranged
appointment so that we can arrange the best representation.
If you’re arrested without prior notice,
ask for Martin Murray & Associates when you
arrive at the Police Station.
Duty solicitor or nominated
firm?
The custody sergeant will ask if you have a preferred
firm of solicitors or if you wish to speak to
a duty solicitor.
Choosing a duty solicitor may not guarantee the
level of specialist expertise you require. We
strongly recommend you nominate Martin Murray
& Associates. You have the legal
right to request we represent you, and
our attendance and advice is completely
free of charge.
If the Police imply anything to the contrary,
note the details, insist on our services, and
tell us what was said when we arrive. We are a
firm with a criminal contract and all Police Station
cases are funded by the Legal Services Commission.
You’re also entitled to speak to a solicitor
on the phone free of charge. If circumstances
warrant a formal police interview, you can speak
to us in person or private before it takes place.
The police can only delay your right to speak
to a solicitor in exceptional circumstances.
Release pending further
enquiries
Your right to free legal advice during a criminal
investigation continues even if you’re released
from the Police Station or other place of interview
and asked to return at a later date. This often
occurs if there’s a need to make further
enquiries.
If, for any reason, were not involved in the initial
arrest/interview, please contact us to ensure
that you are suitably represented on the day you
are due to answer your bail. You won’t normally
need to pay for this.
Cases subject to means
testing (e.g. Benefit Agency)
In some cases, for example, Benefit Agency Interviews,
access to funds for representation will be means
tested. You may still be eligible for free legal
advice if you are on benefits or on a low income.
If you aren’t eligible, you can pay us to
represent you privately. Our rates are competitive
and reasonable and you may not need to pay the
whole sum at once. Please contact us for a quote
or to discuss any aspect of an investigation you
are currently subject to.
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If you’re charged or summonsed with a criminal
offence, it’s often better to be represented
at Court by a solicitor.
A professional lawyer will ensure that you’re
treated fairly by the Court and that your defence
is presented properly. This is particularly important
if you are at risk of losing your liberty, but
also if you want to contest other important matters
– for example, charges that may result in
a driving ban. Whatever your case entails, we
are ready to advise and assist you.
You may be entitled to free representation under
a Representation Order (Legal Aid). To be eligible,
your situation must meet two criteria.
First, the Court must agree your case passes ‘the
Justice Test’. To decide they look at:
• Whether or
not you are at risk of custody.
• If you are
currently subject to a Court Order
• If you are
at risk of losing your livelihood or your reputation
is at risk
• If a substantial
question of law is involved.
• If you do
not speak English or may have difficulty understanding
the
 Court
Procedure for other reasons.
• If witnesses
need to be traced on your behalf or if expert
witnesses
need
to be cross-examined.
Second, unless the case is to go straight to the
Crown Court, your application will be means tested.
If you receive Income Support, Jobseekers’
Allowance or Guaranteed State Pension Credit you
will pass the means test. If you receive any other
types of benefit, or have a low income, your case
will be assessed by the Means Testing Team at
the Court. For further guidance regarding the
means test, please contact us. You’ll find
further information at www.legalservices.gov.uk
If you are not eligible for Legal Aid you can
pay our team of solicitors, solicitor-advocates,
barristers and accredited representatives privately
to assist you and prepare your defence.
Whatever the nature of your case we’re happy
to discuss alternative funding arrangements; our
rates are highly competitive and flexible payment
may be possible. If your case is successfully
defended, it may be possible to recover some or
all of your costs from the Court. We prepare this
application on your behalf and lodge it with the
appropriate Court. To discuss the options open
to you, please contact us for a quotation.
Civil cases may be privately funded or, in certain
circumstances, Legal Aid may be available. For
more details, see the family
law page.
Most prisoners are eligible for free advice and
assistance. For more details, see the prison
law page.
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