Being accused of any crime can be quite stressful. Being accused of a serious crime is even more stressful. Those who are accused of a serious crime can often face many years of prison time or even a lifetime sentence. These types of cases tend to involve a huge process due to the serious nature of the offence. This also means that there are a lot of aspects of the case that need to be defended. Hiring serious crime solicitors in Bradford will often help a person reduce their sentence or possibly even be acquitted.
First Steps
Now the first thing that happens after a person has been charged with a serious crime in Bradford is a person explains to the accused the reason for their arrest. This is required by law. They are then informed of their rights, which includes the right to hire Bradford Criminal Solicitors. Any persons under the age of 17 are also given the right to have their legal guardian with them before any questioning.
After a person has been read all of their rights, they then have the choice of whether they wish to answer any questions or not. Of course if a person refuses to answer the questions (which is within their legal right) this could have a negative effect once the case reaches court. If a person still refuses to answer questions in court, then this act can be used in determining the sentence.
There are two different routes for serious crimes cases. They can either be tried in the magistrates’ court or in the Crown Court. The magistrates’ court is where the judge decides whether a person is guilty or not. In the Crown Court, a jury will decide whether a person is guilty or not.
Legal Advice
Any person who is arrested for a serious crime will be required by law to provide their name and address where they live. Beyond that, they will not be required to say another word. Once the police have been given this information the next thing that a person should do is contact a serious crime solicitor. A solicitor will be able to advise a person on what is safe to discuss.
