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Criminal Defence Solicitors & Barristers

Violent Crimes

Legal defence for violent crimes, and violence related offences

BSB Approved

Assessed and approved by the Bar Standards Board

Legal Aid Provider

Registered provider of legal aid

What are Violent Crimes?

Violent crimes are legal charges for harming or threatening someone, from minor scuffles to serious injuries. While the law is strict, you still have the right to a fair defence.

A solicitor checks if the police followed the rules and if evidence, like CCTV or witness statements, is reliable. We can also argue self-defence in court to protect your freedom. The main goal is to make sure the court sees the full story before deciding on a penalty.

Book an initial consultation

Facing any kind of charges can be a nervous time, don't sit with the anxiety. Call us for a free initial consultation to better understand your charges, and see how we might be able to help.

Types of violent crimes

Each charge carries distinct consequences and requires a tailored defence strategy. Contact us to understand the charges further, and to work with us on your case.

Common Assault

Threatening someone or touching them without permission

Actual Bodily Harm (ABH)

An assault that causes a clear injury, like a bruise or a cut

Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)

Causing a very serious injury, like a broken bone or a permanent scar

Robbery

Using force or threats to steal something from a person

Harassment and Stalking

Repeatedly bothering someone in a way that makes them feel scared

Possession of Weapons

Carrying a dangerous item in a public place without a good reason

Murder and Manslaughter

Legal charges for causing the death of another person

What You Can Expect

The following steps are a general guidance and not an exact depiction, all cases are unique and will be treated as such. At Astons Law we commit to providing you the best service for your individual case requirements.

1

Initial assessment

We talk about the event in detail. We try to understand whether you acted in self-defence or if there was a misunderstanding. This helps to decide if we should fight the charge or look for a way to reduce it.

2

Evidence scrutiny

If possible, we examine CCTV, police body-worn cameras, and witness stories. In a fight, things happen fast and people often remember them wrongly. Our job is to find those mistakes to support your side.

3

Procedure challenge

We check if the police followed the rules during your arrest. For example, did they use too much force? If they broke the law, we can ask the court to ignore their evidence.

4

Court representation

If you must appear in court, Astons Law will fight to ensure your side is fairly heard. If needed we will work to secure a community-based result or a suspended sentence wherever possible

From investigation to outcome, We're with you every step

From the moment you contact Astons Law, you're no longer facing this alone. We will guide you through every stage with clarity and purpose.

Addressing concerns and common questions

The information below is for educational purposes, and not legal advice, all cases are unique and should be treated as such.

Can I be charged if I was only defending myself?

Yes, but "self-defence" is a full legal defence. If we can prove you used reasonable force to protect yourself, you should be found not guilty.

What is the difference between ABH and GBH?

ABH is for minor injuries like bruises. GBH is for serious injuries like broken bones or deep cuts. GBH carries much tougher penalties.

What happens if the victim wants to drop the charges?

The police can still continue the case even if the victim changes their mind. It is the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) that decides, not the victim.

Can CCTV be used as evidence against me?

Yes, but it can also be used for you. We check if the footage is clear or if it misses the start of the argument where you were provoked.

What if I didn't mean to hurt the other person?

Intent is a big part of the law. If it was an accident, you might be charged with a less serious offence or have the case dropped entirely.

Is carrying a knife always a crime?

Yes, unless you have a good reason (like for work). Carrying a weapon in public almost always leads to a court date and a potential prison sentence.

How does a suspended sentence work?

If you get a sentence of 12 months or less, the judge can suspend it. This means you stay at home as long as you follow strict rules and do community work.