The interview procedure is an important stage in any investigation, one which will help form the basis of the investigation before the views of the investigator are fully formed. The interview anything you say may be used as evidence against you at a later stage. The solicitor is there to look after your interest, to ensure interviews are conducted fairly and that your rights are upheld. Any damage done in any interview can’t be undone later.

Being given the right advice at this early stage can have a material effect on the outcome of any investigation, our expert legal advisers can advise you as to the right course of action for you. They are there to protect you and advise you.

Imteyaz Ali

Taking legal advice early is important to protect your business. Our expertise will give you the advice and representation you need to defend any such investigation or prosecution by any authority.

We understand how important your licence is to your livelihood. It is becoming more common for taxi drivers being invited for Interviews when their licences may be getting revoked. The Local Licensing Authorities will use their current powers and the law to justify in either suspending your licence or revoke your licence. Our experts can advise you at a very early stage about your position.

Legal advice at an early stage is vital to present your case. We can fight on your behalf, build your case and represent you at the licence committee or the Court if matters go before the Courts.

We can help you in the following matters:

• All taxi licensing appeals
• Driving offences
• Operator’s Licence

We offer a pre charge service and consider whether decisions are in your best interest including preparing detailed letters of representation to the relevant authorities prior to any decision made.

This is an important part of any investigation and receiving legal advice as early as possible will help you make better judgements and can lead to the investigation going any further.

We undertake both private and legal aid work. After the initial consultation, if you decide to use our services, we can determine whether you are eligible for legal aid or if you must pay on a private fee basis. We can agree to a tailored service which you are happy with.

If eligible for Legal Aid you will not be required to pay for your defence. The court will consider both your income and the seriousness of the offence in order to determine whether Legal Aid should be granted.

To acquire Legal Aid you must first make an application to the Magistrates Court. This can be broken down into the following two tests:

• Interests of Justice Test: This is the first test which must be passed. Legal Aid is more likely to be granted if imprisonment is a potential outcome. Other factors which will increase the likelihood of Legal Aid being granted will include: the seriousness of the charges, whether you admit them or not, the complexity of the defence, how easy it would be to challenge the opposition yourself and whether witnesses are needed.
• Means test: The second test will be based on your financial situation. If you are claiming either Job Seekers Allowance (JSA), income support or a guaranteed pension then you will automatically pass this test for Legal Aid.

If you require help applying for Legal Aid or are unsure if you qualify, get in touch with a member of our Criminal Defence team who will be able to work with you to support your claim.