Proactive Lawyers Acting for Those Under Investigation
Put your trust in Clifford Johnston & Co.
- Specialist Criminal Investigation Defence
- Law Society Criminal Litigation Accreditation
- Proactive Criminal Allegations Defence
- Contact our Criminal Investigation Lawyers
Criminal Investigation Solicitors
If you are under investigation following a criminal allegation, your future may feel uncertain. A criminal investigation is often a deeply stressful experience, with potential impacts on your home life, career, and reputation. At Clifford Johnston & Co., we understand the challenges faced, and we are committed to providing expert legal support at every stage of the investigation process.
Over the last 30 years Clifford Johnston & Co’s criminal lawyers have developed an enviable reputation as expert criminal litigators, and our best results often lead to investigations being concluded without court proceedings.
Our front-footed approach guarantees our clients an expert defence representation from the outset. One that is fully engaged with investigating authorities and helps shape the investigation to achieve the best outcomes.
Our lawyers use their extensive knowledge of the law, pre-charge engagement, the code for crown prosecutors, and the charging standard, to minimise the threat faced, and bring investigations to a conclusion, without charge or prosecution.
It is this expertise and approach which sets us apart from other criminal defence teams. Our experienced defence solicitors work tirelessly to protect our clients at all times; whether preparing for a police interview, making representations against charge, or engaging with investigators, our pre-charge strategy is designed to achieve the best result for those we represent. Trust our team to take decisive action to influence a positive result.
Our Criminal Investigation Lawyers obtain results that speak for themselves, having seen us shortlisted as finalists for Crime Team of the year at the Manchester Legal Awards in both 2019 and 2020.
Comprehensive Pre-Charge Strategy
At Clifford Johnston & Co., we place significant emphasis on the pre-charge stage. This critical period provides an opportunity to challenge the evidence, identify weaknesses in the police case, and present material which supports the defence.
Before and During Police Interviews
Preparation for a police interview is critical to ensuring a fair process and protecting your rights. At Clifford Johnston & Co., we will guide you on the best approach, whether to answer questions, provide a prepared statement, or remain silent.
Before the interview, we thoroughly review the disclosure materials provided by investigators to help you understand the allegations and craft a tailored defence strategy.
After the Police Interview
After the police interview, we remain actively involved in your case. Our team meticulously analyses the evidence to identify weaknesses and/or inconsistencies which may undermine the allegations. We also conduct independent investigations to gather critical defence material, such as CCTV footage, digital records, and witness statements.
By maintaining regular communication with investigators, we work to influence the progress and outcome of the case.
Representations Against Charge
Representations against charge is a vital part of our pre-charge strategy, allowing us to present evidence and legal arguments to demonstrate why a case should not proceed to prosecution.
This process is guided by the Charging Standard contained within the 2018 Code for Crown Prosecutors, which underpins the CPS decision-making process. Prosecutors evaluate each case using a two-stage test:
- Evidential Test: Is there a realistic prospect of conviction based on admissible, reliable, and sufficient evidence?
- Public Interest Test: Even if the evidential test is met, does prosecuting serve the public interest, considering factors such as the severity of the offence and the suspect’s circumstances?
Our representations directly engage with these criteria, enabling us to influence the CPS’s decision at this critical stage. By scrutinising every aspect of the case, we identify weaknesses in the evidence and present compelling reasons why a prosecution may not be in the public interest. This proactive approach helps to prevent unwarranted charges and ensures the best possible outcome for our clients.
Proactive Defence Work
At Clifford Johnston & Co., we go beyond traditional representation to actively build a robust defence.
This includes analysing digital evidence such as emails, text messages, and social media activity, as well as securing CCTV footage which may corroborate your account. We locate and interview witnesses who can provide critical testimony and obtain medical records when relevant to the case.
In addition to gathering evidence, we engage with investigators to highlight inconsistencies in the allegations, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and ensure that all relevant material is properly considered before any decisions are made.
Pre-Charge Engagement
Pre-charge engagement is a powerful tool within the broader pre-charge strategy, enabling defence solicitors to influence the investigation and prevent unwarranted charges. This voluntary process involves collaboration between investigators, prosecutors, and defence teams to resolve issues early and focus on key evidence.
During pre-charge engagement, we may:
- Present evidence which supports the defence, such as texts, emails, social media activity, and CCTV footage.
- Suggest new lines of enquiry, including identifying witnesses or providing context for the allegations.
- Assist investigators in overcoming barriers to evidence collection, such as consenting to access to medical records and/or agreeing on keyword searches of digital material.
- Clarify disputed forensic and/or expert evidence to narrow the scope of the investigation.
By drawing attention to material which supports the defence case or sheds light on the motivations behind a complaint, we work to prevent charges from being filed unnecessarily.
To learn more about this process, visit our Pre-Charge Engagement Solicitors page.
Why Choose Clifford Johnston & Co.?
Clifford Johnston & Co. is renowned for its proactive and client-focused approach. With over 30 years of experience, our criminal defence team has a proven track record of resolving cases at the pre-charge stage, sparing clients the ordeal of prosecution.
Our expertise is recognised through accreditations such as the Law Society Criminal Litigation Accreditation, and our results speak for themselves. We are dedicated to protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who might investigate me and do I need legal representation?
If you are suspected of committing a criminal offence, you will be interviewed under caution by the police and/or other relevant authority, including:
- Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
- The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- Trading Standards
- The Environment Agency
When asked to attend an interview by the police or another investigating body, it is essential that you immediately instruct an experienced police investigation solicitor to help you prepare. Thorough and comprehensive planning is key and could make all the difference to the outcome of your case. Our Criminal Investigation Solicitors will be able to advise you on the best way to respond to questioning and whether we advise you to answer questions, submit a prepared statement setting out your case or to remain silent and answer ‘no comment’ to all questions, will be based on your individual circumstances and the specific complexities of your case.
Although these interviews do not always result in criminal charges, it is important to realise that you are still under caution, that the interview will be recorded and that it may be used to gather evidence that could form part of a prosecution against you. It is vital therefore that you take swift and immediate action to ensure that you have a capable and skilled legal representative advising you from the outset.
What should I do if the police want to speak to me?
Contact Clifford Johnston & Co. immediately for legal advice. We will assess your case, advise on the best response, and provide support throughout the interview process.
What happens after a police interview?
You may be released under investigation or on bail. During this time, our solicitors will work to gather evidence, engage with investigators, and influence the outcome of the case. We will examine and present any evidence and supporting material in your defence including:
- Communications such as texts and emails
- Online activity including social media
- Any available CCTV footage
- Medical notes
- Supporting witnesses
- Chronology and timeline of events
This is an essential stage in the work that we carry out on your behalf with the aim of protecting you from prosecution.
How does the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) decide whether to charge someone?
The Code for Crown Prosecutors, issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions, sets out the general principles Crown Prosecutors should follow when they make decisions on cases.
Is there enough evidence against the defendant?
When deciding whether there is enough evidence to charge, Crown Prosecutors must consider whether evidence can be used in court and is reliable and credible, and there is no other material that might affect the sufficiency of the evidence. Crown Prosecutors must be satisfied there is enough evidence to provide a “realistic prospect of conviction” against each defendant.
Is it in the public interest for the CPS to bring the case to court?
A prosecution will usually take place unless the prosecutor is sure that the public interest factors tending against prosecution outweigh those tending in favour.
Clifford Johnston’s involvement from the outset may make the difference between you being prosecuted and not, whether your criminal case may be facing a Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court hearing.
How can I avoid being charged?
Through proactive actions such as gathering evidence, making representations against charges, and engaging in pre-charge discussions, we aim to resolve cases before charges are filed.
What if charges are brought against me?
If charges are filed, our team will provide robust representation in court, building a strong defence to achieve the best possible outcome.
We possess an unrivalled commitment and dedication to ensuring that we build a strong and robust defence. We will liaise with all the relevant authorities on your behalf and will ensure that you are fully informed and updated throughout the process. We take a straight-forward and honest approach providing you with clear advice and a comprehensive understanding of your situation and the potential, subsequent implications.
We will use our in-depth technical knowledge and our impeccable attention to detail to skilfully formulate a strong and robust defence strategy.
We will firmly and vigorously represent you in court, to give you the best possible chance of a successful outcome.
How can I fund legal support for an investigation?
Access to high-quality legal support should not be limited by finances. We believe that everyone should have the right to the expertise of lawyers who can defend your right. Clifford Johnston & Co. offer the same, industry-leading expertise to all clients, whether they choose to use publicly and privately funded legal defence.
Depending on your specific situation, it’s possible we may be able to act for you under legal aid. If you’re unsure whether you are eligible for legal aid, or how to apply, contact us today.
Contact Our Criminal Defence Solicitors
If you are under investigation, take control of your case with the support of Clifford Johnston & Co.’s expert criminal defence solicitors. We provide proactive, results-driven representation to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
With offices in Stockport (Cheshire) and Manchester, our criminal defence lawyers regularly represent clients through the Northwest region, and across England & Wales.
Call us today for a confidential discussion and let us help you take the first step towards resolving your case.
Need some professional advice?
Do you have any issues that you are worried about? Contact our professional team for a free, no-obligation informal discussion, where we can discuss your particular requirements in greater detail.
