Insights

October 10th was World Mental Health Day. It is so positive that there is a day for mental health, but I also believe that mental health should be focused on every day. As someone who has diagnoses of EUPD (Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder), anxiety, depression, ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) amongst many others, I believe that […]

If the police have contacted you to request a voluntary interview, it can be an extremely stressful and worrying time, especially given that the outcome can have an enormous impact on your life. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes in voluntary interviews, which can influence the likelihood of being prosecuted. I thought we would briefly summarise […]

The MET police conduct approximately 15,000 voluntary interviews in London each year. If the police have contacted you to request a voluntary interview, it can be an extremely stressful and worrying time, especially given that the outcome can have an enormous bearing on your career and reputation. Reeds Solicitors are specialists in dealing with Police […]

The Legal 500 has published it’s United Kingdom 2025 edition. We are proud to announce that Reeds Solicitors has been ranked as a Top Tier criminal law firm, having performed even better than previous years. About the Legal 500 For over 30 years, the Legal 500 has assessed the strengths of law firms in over […]

As a Solicitor in the Mental Health field, I have noticed an increasing amount of scrutiny for requests sought later in Mental Health tribunal proceedings. This occurs even if the timing of those requests is constrained by factors outside of the patient’s control. As a matter of course, directions for expert evidence are waved through […]

It was widely reported this month that several train companies have unlawfully prosecuted individuals by misusing the Single Justice Procedure and up to 75,000 convictions for fare evasion offences have now been quashed. This is shocking news and could have enormous consequences for the train companies involved, especially given that bills could, in theory, run […]

June 10th – 16th marked ‘Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week’. Unfortunately, I was unable to produce an article in line with those dates. However, every day is a good day to speak about mental health and as such I thought it would still be helpful to write an article now. Mental Health, particularly in young […]

We are delighted to announce some exciting developments here at Reeds Solicitors. This year we introduced two new initiatives to Reeds: The Reeds Career Progression Framework, which provides clear objectives to those who wish to progress through our career structure, and The Reeds Academy which provides training in pursuit of that goal, as well as […]

Receiving a Minded to Bar letter from the Home Office’s Disclosure and Barring Service (‘DBS’) can come as a complete shock. The brutal tone in which these letters are worded can also be incredibly upsetting. If you receive a Minded to Bar letter, you must contact our DBS Solicitors immediately as there is a strict time […]

What is Autism? Autism is a lifelong developmental disability which affects how people communicate and interact with the world. There are around 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK.   Is Autism the same as Asperger’s Syndrome? Asperger syndrome is part of the autism spectrum and is no longer considered its own distinct condition. However, some […]

On 12 February 2024, a 39 year old man became the first person in England and Wales to be convicted of cyber-flashing. The Defendant was charged on two counts of sending a photograph or film of genitals to cause alarm, distress, or humiliation. The Court heard how he sent unsolicited photos of his erect penis […]

American XL Bully Ban will begin to come into effect on 31st December 2023. From 1st February owning a Bully without an exemption will be a criminal offence. In response to the growing concerns expressed by Vets, Veterinary professionals, pet shop workers, and XL Bully owners regarding the upcoming ban on the American XL Bully […]

Jennifer Kabała is a Solicitor, working in our Private Crime who specialises in dog law, wild animal legislation and firearms law. Here Jennifer discusses the recently announced XL Bully Ban, the Dangerous Dogs Act, and whether the latter is fit for purpose in her view. To contact Jennifer about this article, the information contained or for […]

The Legal 500 has published it’s United Kingdom 2024 edition. And we are proud to announce that Reeds Solicitors LLP has been ranked as a Top Tier criminal law firm. About the Legal 500 For over 30 years, the Legal 500 has assessed the strengths of law firms in over 150 jurisdictions. The results are […]

At the end of 2023, the government plan to add the American XL Bully Type Dog to the list of banned breeds in the UK. But what does the legislation mean, and what should you do if you own an American XL Bully? If you are an owner of an American XL Bully, here’s what […]

Leading national law firm Reeds Solicitors LLP has launched a service for Court of Protection in Swindon. Sadé Asker, Solicitor and Law Society Accredited Legal Representative, will be leading the expansion into the Swindon Branch, whilst also maintaining her Cardiff practice. Sadé will join the successful criminal and family departments in Swindon at 10 Commercial […]

Recent changes to legislation mean that if you are suspected of committing a criminal offence, you are more likely to be released on pre-charge bail than released under investigation (“RUI”). The changes came into force in November 2022 under Schedule 4 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022. We understand that many people […]

Being arrested following a domestic abuse incident almost always comes at a time of high emotions and stress. You may have no idea that the police have been called and suddenly you find yourself in the back of a police car with the neighbours peering out the window. Alternatively, you may have left the place […]

Obtaining a licence for a firearm or shotgun is not a simple process at the best of times. Most will anticipate that the Firearms Licensing process will be long and arduous and that they will be asked a multitude of questions about their background to determine whether they are suitable to be a licence holder […]

Between 2016 and 2021, over 100,000 child abuse image crimes were recorded by UK police forces. According to the NSPCC, the number of offences related to possessing, taking, making, and distributing child abuse material tipped at 25,281 in 2020/21. This was up 37% from 2016/17 and the total number of offences recorded over the five […]

(A Higher Education Institution Perspective) In April 2022, Lady Margaret Hall College in Oxford agreed to pay damages to a student who reported being raped by another student. The matter was referred to the police, but the alleged perpetrator was not charged. The damages were awarded by the college after the complainant alleged negligence and […]

Firearms, like anything else, are collectables, and valuable ones at that. George Washington’s two saddle pistols went for around $1 million each when they were last auctioned in 2002. Antique firearms are often inherited or may be purchased as part of a historic artefact collection. You may initially think that such relics would be beyond […]

A Reading family solicitor has been named as a finalist in the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards (LALY Awards). Saifalee Doolooa-Collins, Solicitor and Team Leader in the family department at Reeds Solicitors, is one of three named finalists for the Family Legal Aid award. Saifalee launched the firm’s family law team in Reading […]

Jordan Trengove was a typical 18-year-old enjoying a night out with friends on 9 March 2019. He had no idea at the time that his life was about to change forever, thanks to being falsely accused of rape. The false accusations were made against him by Eleanor Williams, who in early January 2023 was found […]

Reeds Solicitors achieves outstanding result in drug exportation case after Newton Hearing success. In June 2019, the police seized two holdalls containing drugs at a stables. One holdall contained 10kg of MDMA. The other contained 5.5kg ketamine, 2kg benzocaine and 48.5g MDMA.   Following this seizure, the police arrested a suspect who was linked to […]

The Guardian today [20/04/2023] reported on the increasing numbers of complaints made by university students to the Higher Education watchdog, the Office of the Independent Adjudicator. This increase in complaints is reflected in the number of clients approaching us for help to assist them. Usually they need advice and assistance with navigating higher education disciplinary […]

You may have been contacted by a police officer, inviting you to a voluntary police interview in Berkshire. This could be at Loddon Valley, Reading, Newbury, Maidenhead, Slough, Bracknell, or Pangbourne police stations. This can be very worrying, especially if you have not been in this situation before. It is crucial to note that you […]

Reeds Solicitors are delighted to announce that our Court of Protection team have been shortlisted for the Tomorrow’s Care Awards 2023. Shortly before Christmas the Tomorrow’s Care Awards 2023 Guide was distributed to more than 40,000 readers. A public vote is now open. The top ten products and services will appear in the April issue […]

Being falsely accused of child abuse (whether physically or sexually), or neglecting their welfare is the stuff of nightmares for parents. Ever since paediatrician C. Henry Kempe published an article entitled ‘The Battered Child Syndrome’ in the Journal of the American Medical Association, in which he observed that it was common practice to offer ‘patently absurd’ […]

Although you may have been arrested or investigated by the police for a criminal offence it does not necessarily follow that you will be charged. In fact, with an experienced criminal defence solicitor on your side, the charges may be dropped before the court date. The problem is most people do not instruct a solicitor […]

There is an Act of Parliament in this country that can turn normal, decent, responsible people into criminals. People who would not otherwise dream of breaking the law. It is called The Road Traffic Act 1988 and it authorises the use of breathalysers. Imagine this. You have been out for a meal with friends. You […]

The revocation of a Firearms Certificate can cause frustration. Those facing the situation for the first time it is important to know that an appeal can be made within 21 days of the date stated on the letter of notification from the Chief Officer of Police. The Chief Officer of Police retains the power to […]

In June 2021, The Hon Sir John Saunders published volume one of the ‘Report of the Public Inquiry Into the Attack on the Manchester Arena on 22nd May 2017’*. This initial report focuses on the findings of the inquiry into the security at the Manchester Arena. Announcing his publication of the report, Hon Sir John […]

You may have been contacted by a police officer, inviting you to a voluntary police interview at Abingdon, Banbury, St Aldates, Cowley Road, Kidlington or Witney police stations. This can be very worrying, especially if you have not been in this situation before. It is crucial to note that you have the right to appoint […]

The distribution of indecent images of children through Social Media is a common allegation we represent clients for. People are regularly accused, sometimes falsely, of viewing and distributing indecent images of children on social media platforms. These platforms include Kik, TikTok, Snapchat, and Telegram. In a freedom of information request made to the Essex Police, […]

The internet has transformed our lives in many positive ways, however, it has also flung open the doors of opportunity for those involved in child abuse, grooming, and trafficking. People are regularly accused, sometimes falsely, of viewing, distributing, and/or facilitating indecent images of children on social media platforms, including Kik, TikTok, Snapchat, and Telegram. If […]

Stealthing is the intentional removing of a condom during sexual intercourse without the consent of the sexual partner. The offence is an example of ‘conditional consent’; a non-consensual act against the conditions of consent given. In 2019, Lee Hogben from Bournemouth was sentenced to 12 years in prison for raping a woman in a hotel. […]

We’ve recently been asked by a number of clients whether there’s a difference between civil and criminal fraud. For most of these clients, they are trying to understand whether a civil case would prevent criminal proceedings, or vice versa. In June 2022, Sir David Calvert-Smith delivered his independent review on the Serious Fraud Office’s (SFO) […]

The Legal 500 has published it’s United Kingdom 2023 edition. Reeds Solicitors LLP has been ranked as a Top Tier criminal law firm once again. For over 30 years, the Legal 500 has assessed the strengths of law firms in over 150 jurisdictions. The results are published in the form of ‘Rankings’ by region and […]

When someone you love loses the mental capacity to make decisions regarding managing their finances and/or their health and welfare, not only must you deal with the grief that comes with that person no longer being who they once were, but you also need to obtain the legal authority to administer certain aspects of their […]

The first thing to do if you are under investigation for possession of indecent images is to seek expert legal advice from a specialist indecent image solicitor. This article provides information and advice to those that are accused of possession, and/or the making of, indecent images. Due to the severe nature of the allegations, and […]

EDIT: This event has now taken place. So far they have raised £375, though we are still open to raising more money. To discuss donation, please contact us or the Eastbourne Office directly. Eastbourne Solicitors Legal Walk On 21st September our Eastbourne Solicitors and Office Team be walking in support of Eastbourne Citizens advice. With […]

The world is only just waking up to the brand new opportunities and challenges posed by cryptoassets and cryptocurrencies; especially those in the legal sector. Entirely new crypto regulation frameworks are being developed from base principles around the world because existing financial approaches are not fit for purpose. Solicitors specialising in the area of asset […]

On 8th August 2022, the trial of ex-Wales football manager and former Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs begins at Manchester Crown Court in relation to alleged controlling and coercive behaviour towards his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville between  2017 and 2020 and the common assault of her sister Emma Greville. Mr Giggs has pleaded not guilty to […]

Striking a balance between free and regulated markets has always been challenging. Left without enforced regulation, how can we be sure that businesses will regulate themselves in the genuine interests of consumers? And on the contrary, to what extent does regulation stifle creativity and competition? These are relevant questions right now in the highly lucrative […]

Unlike the embattled Serious Fraud Office (SFO) the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has achieved considerable recent success in the prosecution of financial crime. This fact should put those organisations regulated by the FCA on alert. The regulator has a wide range of disciplinary and enforcement tools in its armoury including private warnings and public censures. […]

In recent months we have written about how the regulatory approach to cryptocurrencies and cryptoassets in the UK and around the world is starting to mature. Until recently, the regulation of this sector has been disorganised and highly ineffective, but things are beginning to change for the better, albeit slowly, and in different ways in […]

The penalties for fare evasion offences are governed by a framework of Government Statute Law and local Byelaws. They are relevant for both the civil and criminal pathways of a particular matter. A fare evasion allegation will typically start with a conversation between a commuter and a Revenue Protection Officer (RPO). During that conversation, the […]

Jon Wilkins, Partner and Solicitor Advocate based in our Cardiff branch of solicitors, and Peter Rouch QC drafted and filed an Abuse of Process argument in respect of the prosecutions ‘lamentable’ disclosure failings in this case. The case of Daryl Wallis was listed for Trial at Cardiff Magistrates Court, the client faced allegations of obstructing […]

The media frequently features action by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) against finance companies that have breached their regulations, some of which are extremely high-profile. In February 2022, the FCA fined Barclays Bank Plc £783,000, however, this pales into insignificance when compared to the fine of £264,772,619.95 levied on National Westminster Bank Plc in December […]

On 15th March 2022, the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act 2022 received Royal Assent, signalling that the UK intends to get tougher on financial crime. Some of the new pieces of legislation in this Bill have been mooted for many years (at least since 2016 when David Cameron was Prime Minister), but the Russia/Ukraine […]

Reeds Solicitors Nominated for Public Law Award at the LALYs 2022 Reeds Solicitors LLP’s partner and head of court of protection (COP), Sarah Griffiths-Jones has been nominated for Public Law Lawyer of the Year at the prestigious Legal Aid Lawyers of the Year awards. Sarah joined Reeds in 2019 where she set up the firm’s […]

Since the start of the Russia / Ukraine war on 24th February 2022, leaders and politicians around the world have focused on the use of sanctions as a means of bringing an end to the ongoing fighting. With each day, new packages of sanctions are being announced by countries around the world. These have been […]

“Non-Fungible Tokens” (NFTs) have been the subject of considerable discussion and, for many, consternation, in recent months. So what exactly are NFTs, and how does the law apply this burgeoning high-risk digital asset investment class? And are Non-Fungible Tokens legally regulated? NFTs first appeared around 2014 when a video clip was registered on the Namecoin […]

Much has been discussed in the media regarding sanctions in the context of the current war in Ukraine, but the link between crypto currency investment and the risk of breaching sanctions is often less understood. Sanctions remain the predominant tool used by governments around the world as a means of achieving their foreign policy and […]

In recent months the national press has covered many stories relating to the crackdown by the government of those suspected of carrying out Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Audit Office, it is now believed that around 11% of the loans granted went to people who applied […]

In December 2021, the attorney general for England and Wales, Suella Braverman, launched an independent review following the conclusion by three Court of Appeal judges that the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) failed to disclose key information, which led to a businessman being jailed for bribery. The review will be carried out by David Calvert-Smith, a […]

On 4th April 2022, Reeds Solicitors opened the Bristol office of its Court of Protection (COP) department following the success of its team in Cardiff. The COP team, which is a Public Law Sector finalist at this year’s Wales Legal Awards is led by Sarah Griffiths-Jones, one of WalesOnline’s 30 Young Lawyers to Watch in […]

As of January 2022, we are well underway with the high-profile investigation into the Woodford Equity Income Fund (WEIF), who are being Investigated by the Financial Contact Authority (FCA), following the suspension of the fund in June 2019. In a letter from Nikhil Rathi, FCA Chief Executive, to Mel Stride, House of Commons Treasury Committee […]

Society prepares the crime, the criminal commits it. (Anonymous) Now a new type of fraud is making the headlines – the rise of PCR Covid Test fraud. The Coronavirus pandemic has provided the perfect environment for criminal activity, for those so inclined to commit it. The speed at which governments around the world were forced […]

Applications are made to the Court of Protection for lots of different reasons.  If you are an advocate, a family member or a carer and you have received court documentation from a Local Authority or a Health Board/NHS Trust and are not sure what to do next, we can help you. We are frequently asked ‘do […]

The use of social media ‘influencers’ is becoming an ever more commonplace and powerful marketing method used by businesses around the world. With this power, however, comes greater legal responsibility. The challenge for influencers and the businesses that rely on them is that there is a very real risk of inadvertently breaching a range of […]

The Court of Protection can have its own language and something that we are often asked about is the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (which are sometimes known as DoLS). Below we have created a factsheet of the questions we are most frequently asked. What are the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)? The Deprivation of Liberty […]

When someone lacks capacity to make certain decisions, it is important that they have family, friends and/or professionals looking out for them and making sure that decisions are made in their best interests. In some cases, it may be appropriate to appoint a deputy to act on someone’s behalf. This can be a complex process […]

Reeds Solicitors, a Public Law Team of the Year finalist at this year’s Wales Legal Awards, opened another branch for Court of Protection in Bristol on 4th April 2022. Our incredibly close-knit team of COP solicitors is led by Sarah Griffiths-Jones who was one of WalesOnline ‘30 Young Lawyers to Watch’ in 2018. Sarah is also […]

Reeds Solicitors Launches Service for Court of Protection in Bristol Leading national law firm Reeds Solicitors LLP (Reeds) has launched a Court of Protection service from its Bristol office. The Court of Protection team will be led by the firm’s head of Court of Protection and partner Sarah Griffiths-Jones who is currently based in Cardiff.  […]

As many practitioners will know, the Vice President of the Court of Protection, Mr Justice Hayden, published guidance last month on judicial visits to ‘P’*. Judges have long been willing to consider direct visits to P during the course of court proceedings but, as Mr Justice Hayden points out, the advent of remote hearings and […]

Our Court of Protection team are often contacted by advocates, family and/or carers. They may have received court documents from a Local Authority or Health Board/NHS trust and are not sure what they need to do. They might also worry about a friend or family member and are looking for some advice. Since its inception […]

For the family and friends of a deceased person, waiting for an inquest to be carried out and the results released can be an extremely difficult and distressing time. Each year, tens of thousands of inquests are carried out across the UK by Coroners. In 2020, 31,991 inquests were opened, with 239 inquests involving juries. […]

Are Social Media Companies Accountable For the Advertisements They Host? On 8th February 2022, Channel 4 News covered the story of Australian Billionaire Andrew Forrest, who is taking Facebook to court in his home country, alleging breaches of anti-money laundering laws. Mr Forrest alleges that Facebook behaved criminally by refusing to remove cryptocurrency scam adverts […]

This article was published in inCompliance magazine, the member publication of the International Compliance Association, on 24th January 2021. To download the .pdf as it appeared in the magazine to read, print or share please click here. As the economy seeks to recover from the pandemic, the UK has been thrust into ‘Plan B’. Attention […]

As a director, there is often considerable pressure to make decisions in the best interests of the company, its shareholders, and its employees. At the same time, directors have to comply with a strict set of duties under the Companies Act 2006 (CA 2006). This can lead to the potential for allegations against directors of […]

What Should I Do If I Am Accused of Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud? As 2021 draws to an end and we look forward to 2022, we can expect the recent rise in cryptocurrency investment frauds and scams to continue unabated. William E. Quigley,  high-profile investor and co-founder of the WAX blockchain in the US believes that […]

It is fair to say that pressure on company directors and officers has increased considerably in recent years. Greater scrutiny in the wake of corporate scandals, including Carillion, Patisserie Valerie, and BHS, has led to tighter company regulations around the world and a demand for improved corporate governance by investors and shareholders; all of which […]

We are pleased to announce that Mark Abbott has been made a Partner of Reeds Solicitors LLP, with effect from 1st January 2022.   Partner Mark Abbott joined Reeds in 2016 as a solicitor and Crown Court litigator from Blaser and Mills LLP where he had been a partner and head of the crime practice. […]

At some point in your career, you may find yourself with an investigation looming. Maybe you’ve been told that you are going to be interviewed by the service police? Or you have been interviewed and now you’re awaiting a decision? Or perhaps you have been charged and now awaiting a court martial date? Whilst all […]

Reeds Solicitors are pleased to announce the acquisition of the criminal law team of Bray & Bray in Leicester.  This marks the first foray of the firm into the Midlands, and will allow the experienced and dedicated team in Leicester lead by Mike Garvey to continue providing criminal law services to its extensive own client […]

Whether or not the State has the right to demand you take the Coronavirus vaccination, or any other vaccination compulsory for that matter, is one of the most contentious subjects of our times. And it is not only ‘anti-vaxxers’ who are troubled by some Governments across the world stating that citizens will be excluded from […]

Reeds Solicitors has been shortlisted for an HR Excellence Award following their “life-changing” flexible working scheme. To learn more about the HR Excellence Awards, the nomination and our flexible working scheme entry, we’ve interviewed two of our HR team; Faith Bartlett and Lillie Debbage. For a full transcription of the video, see below. For careers […]

A few weeks ago we wrote about the increase in furlough fraud investigations. In tandem with investigating and prosecuting businesses that wrongly claimed funds from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, Bounce Back Loans Fraud is also receiving significant attention and often fraud is uncovered via a probe by another regulator or government body. In October […]

Reeds Solicitors successfully secure a release recommendation for a prison law client. This case highlighted the importance of representation from a Prison Law specialist. Leaving errors unnoticed and unchallenged may have a detrimental effect on the outcome of a parole review.   Parole Review Case  Our client Mr K, who is an IPP sentence prisoner, […]

Reeds Solicitors secure a double acquittal on a two-handed court martial case before the Catterick Court Martial Centre (October 2021). Zoe Heron, Chartered Legal Executive Advocate of our Leighton Buzzard Office litigated the case where two soldiers were accused of assaulting a Major and Sergeant whilst on a night out on an Austrian Skiing Trip, […]

As one of the world’s biggest economic and military powers, the UK has a legal and some would say moral obligation to ensure its ability to implement and support UN sanctions remains strong. Without the introduction of new legislation, Brexit could have resulted in the British Government being unable to fulfil its international obligations after […]

Reports suggest that criminal gangs and fraudsters have swooped in to take advantage of the pandemic turmoil, resulting in a steep rise in Covid-related unemployment benefit fraud (Universal Credit). Although war and pestilence have been the curse of humanity since time began, the Western world has remained relatively free of both since the end of […]

A recent snippet in a London business newspaper provided a clear indication of how much focus HMRC are directing towards investigating major furlough fraud. City AM reported that the number of penalties issued to finance directors at large businesses by HMRC has dropped from 148 to just 20 in a year. With an estimated £3.5 […]

‘Reeds is a professionally run, large organisation but continues to provide a personalised service’ writes The Legal 500 this week as the 2022 edition results are announced. The leading criminal defence and multi-disciplinary firm Reeds Solicitors is recommended as a TOP-TIER FIRM in 2 practice areas and is recommended in a further 3 practice areas. […]

When an individual is stopped by a TFL ticket inspector for fare evasion, they may be lucky enough to be offered an on-the-spot fine. There are times when the inspector decides against offering a fine. Instead you will receive a ‘TFL information request letter’, which TFL call a ‘Verification Letter’. The letter warns that ‘legal […]

The Difference Between Penalty & Prosecution The 4-part series on Channel 5 follows TFL inspectors as they grapple with ‘fare dodgers’. Whilst some may escape with a warning and a fine, others are passed to the Prosecution Team. This can lead to a criminal conviction. Fare Evasion Solicitor Nathan Seymour-Hyde provides his views on how […]

The UK has imposed a “significant new package” of economic sanctions on Belarus. Covering trade, financial and aviation sectors the sanctions have been announced on the one-year anniversary of the fraudulent election of President, Alexander Lukashenko. The UK’s move has been co-ordinated with similar decisions from U.S., Canada and the EU in response to the […]

Reeds secure have secured acquittal for client facing sexual offences. Our client faced a week-long trial on a 13 count indictment for historic sex offences including rape, assault by penetration, and sexual activity with a child. Reeds took conduct of this case in January of 2021 after our client had been charged in January of […]

Our client was facing an attempted murder charge then a S18 and S20 as alternatives on the indictment against his estranged wife at Luton Crown Court, where it was alleged he stabbed her in the neck. He has been acquitted of all counts and instead received a 20 month sentence for breaching his non-molestation order […]

The police applied for an application for a sexual risk order. Tom Brymer, Partner, Solicitor, and Area  Manager based in our Reading branch, successfully argued against the imposition of an Interim Sexual Risk Order at the first hearing before the court listed a contested hearing. On that occasion the police failed to have their case […]

Reeds Solicitors secure a fantastic not guilty verdict for a client accused of burglary of a business where the client had worked. There was forensic evidence in the form of footwear impressions and fingerprints that placed the client at the point of entry. After a considerable amount of time getting the case to trial due […]

Helen Chenery, Barrister in our Milton Keynes Office of Solicitors, had a good result at the Court of Appeal with a sentence being cut almost in half. The sentence of 48 weeks was quashed and substituted with a sentence of 6 months imprisonment, which has already been served.  

12 PENALTY POINTS AND 6 months driving Disqualification “Any driver facing the imposition of 12 penalty points upon their driving licence faces a mandatory 6 months disqualification from driving” This statement is of course true unless you argue and persuade the Court that a 6-month driving ban will cause ‘exceptional hardship’ to you or any […]

The Dangerous Dog legislation has been the cause of much controversy and criticism. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (amended in 1997 and 2014) was introduced due to many high-profile dog attacks on people. In the legislation it lists four banned breeds of dogs, though the law recognise these as ‘types’ rather than specific breed. This […]

Emma Ćojder, Senior Legal Executive based at our Basingstoke branch [now part of our Reading Office], instructs and assists Alistair Grainger and Paul Hynes QC of 25 Bedford Row who secure an acquittal for our client who was charged with murder. Following a hearing at Oxford Crown Court, our client, who was due to stand trial […]

Stuart Matthews, Solicitor-Advocate, Partner & Head of Private Crime at our Oxford branch, successfully represents our client in overturning the DVLA’s decision not to renew his driving licence due to alcohol dependence. Stuart commissioned blood tests and instructed an expert who concluded that our client was neither dependent upon nor misusing alcohol. The DVLA accepted […]

Simon Macfarlane, Solicitor-Advocate, and Jo Hooper, Solicitor, both based in our Bristol office successfully co-defended a case heard at Bristol Magistrates Court on Friday, 8 January. Our clients were both of good character charged with violence to secure entry, assault and two charges of criminal damage. Following a successful trial, both clients were found not […]

On Wednesday, 13 January Tom Brymer, Partner, Solicitor & Area Manager based in our Reading office, represented a young man for a 2-counts of possession with intent to supply cannabis. Despite the Crown Prosecution Service arguing that this was a matter that had a starting point of 12-months in custody, Tom was able to successfully […]

Following a trial at St Albans Crown Court, Mark Abbott, Solicitor and Crown Court litigator based at our Milton Keynes office, successfully secures an acquittal for our client charged with conspiracy to defraud in a £1.2 million ‘crash for cash’ conspiracy spanning a 2-year period involving over 50 staged traffic collisions. Working with Mark Abbott, our client’s […]

Mark Abbott, Solicitor and Crown Court litigator based at our Milton Keynes office, makes a successful application to dismissal at the Central Criminal Court. Our client was one of 2 charged with attempted murder & possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. This was an Operation Trident led investigation into the attempted execution of […]

Mark Abbott, Solicitor and Crown Court litigator based at our Milton Keynes office, successfully defends our client following a trial at Harrow Crown Court. Our client was one of 6 charged with conspiracy to supply significant quantities of class A controlled drugs with regional distribution through vehicles with custom made concealed compartments in vehicles. The advocate […]

Following a 6-day trial at Amersham Crown Court, Reeds successfully secure an acquittal for our client who was facing a 7-count indictment which included attempted arson, threats to kill, common assaults, and possession of a bladed article. Our client had 11 previous convictions for Arson and was initially remanded into custody before being secured bail. […]

Following a 5-day trial at Cambridge Crown Court, Reeds successfully secure an acquittal for our client who was facing a 4-count indictment of indecent assault of a child dating back to 2002, when he was just a youth himself. He was of good character and was acquitted of all counts. Benn Maguire of QEB Hollis Whiteman […]

Emma Ćojder, Senior Legal Executive based at our Basingstoke branch [now part of our Reading Office], instructs and assists Neil Ronan, Junior Counsel of St John Street Chambers, who secures an acquittal for our client who was charged with murder. Our client was one of 5 defendants charged with murder and conspiracy to rob in […]

Clare Galo, Solicitor and Team Leader at our Milton Keynes Office, successfully defends a client at Milton Keynes Magistrates Court on Monday, 16th November. Our client was charged with possession of a bladed article; Clare argued that our client had a reasonable excuse for having a kitchen knife in their car drivers’ door pocket as […]

Clare Galo, Solicitor and Team Leader at our Milton Keynes branch of solicitors, represented a 16 year old on 1st October for taking a motorcycle without the owners’ consent. Our client always accepted presence at the scene but denied participation in the actual taking of the bike, despite the owner stating that he saw all […]

John Lamb, Barrister and Senior Advocate in our Leighton Buzzard Crown Court team, makes a successful application to dismiss at St Albans Crown Court on Tuesday, 17th November. Our client was charged jointly with her father for conspiracy to defraud Hertfordshire County Council after it was alleged they fraudulently conspired together to make a claim […]

First EVER acquittal of a company prosecuted under s.7 of the Bribery Act 2010 Reeds Solicitors acted for the first corporate entity to be acquitted of an offence contrary to section 7 of the Bribery Act 2010 in proceedings before Southwark Crown Court.  Julian Richards, head of the Complex Crime team at Reeds, was initially […]

The Legal 500 results are always hotly anticipated, and Reeds were proud and delighted to have been recognised as a “Top Tier” firm for its crime practice within both the South East and South West regions, as well as having been promoted in the rankings to Tier 3 in the notoriously competitive London region.  In addition, […]

With the Furlough Scheme finished and closed on 30th September 2021, Furlough Fraud Investigation led by the HMRC are likely to continue. At the onset of the Covid19 pandemic the UK government implemented the Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme (CJRS), the Bounce Back Loan Scheme, and the Self Employment Support Scheme. Due to the urgent nature […]

Wigan Lose Points Deduction Appeal sports law   Wigan’s relegation from the Championship to League 1 of the EFL was confirmed yesterday when and independent arbitration panel ruled against their appeal.  Wigan were challenging the 12 point penalty imposed after the club were placed into administration by their owner, Au Yeung, only four weeks after he took control of the club.    Under rule 12.3.2 of […]

Newcastle’s Saudi takeover bid fails Sports Law   It was announced last week that, much to the consternation of Newcastle fans, a proposed takeover by PCP Capital Partners (Saudi Arabia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund) had failed after the fund decided to withdraw their bid.  This will come as a massive blow to those associated with the club who […]

Breaking News – Proceedings commenced against Fifa president   sports law   Swiss prosecutors have launched legal proceedings against FIFA president Gianni Infantino in relation to an alleged secret meeting he had with Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber.  A special prosecutor Stefan Keller was appointed last month to review criminal complaints against the two men and others.  The […]

 Sports Law Financial Fair Play in the City?   Earlier this week the Court of Arbitration for Sport published their detailed reasons for overturning Manchester City’s 2 year ban from European competition and £30m fine. The news that was greeted with great relief in parts of Manchester and with dismay from much of the rest […]

Julian Richards, Partner and Head of Complex Crime, provides information about the Encrochat Hack and what to do if you are caught up in it. BACKGROUND: The beginning of the arms race Our mobile phones: from dusk till dawn they are with us, charting our movements, communications and daily lives. But what is their role […]

If you have recently been charged with a drink driving offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988, you may understandably be deeply concerned about your ability to work and travel, and the possible negative impact on your personal and professional reputation. Being unable to drive can also place huge pressure and stress on your family […]

There are few professions not been impacted by the #MeToo movement which swept the globe following the exposure of Harvey Weinstein’s alleged sexual harassment and assault. Law is no exception; in late 2018, Professor Jo Delahunty QC stated in a public lecture that there is widespread complacency concerning inappropriate sexual behaviour and bullying in Chambers.  […]

Rape trials, along with murder, arson and treason have traditionally been considered capital crimes. This meant they have carried the death sentence. Rape law has always attracted controversy. In the 17th century, Sir Matthew Hale stated rape ‘‘is an accusation easily to be made and hard to be proved, and harder to be defended by […]

The drug culture in the financial sector has often been linked with glamour. From Charlie Sheen, playing a rookie broker, snorting cocaine in the back of a limousine in Wall Street to Leonardo DiCaprio’s wild portrayal of Jordon Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street, working hard and partying harder is seen as a badge […]

It’s hard to believe that it is only just over a year since 15-year-old Greta Thunberg first sat alone outside the Swedish Parliament, refusing to go to school in protest at her government’s inaction regarding climate change.  On the second day of her school strike for climate change, Greta was joined by others.  Skip forward […]

The number of people being caught driving under the influence of drugs is increasing according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Justice. There were 10,215 cases of drug driving brought before the courts in 2018, compared with 5,368 during the previous 12 months. In some areas, such as Suffolk, police state those stopped […]

For any company facing criminal proceedings, especially those involving financial fraud and bribery, it is important to understand the legal options available to mitigate the potential damage. One such route is to pursue deferred prosecution agreements (DPA). Here we outline the purpose of a deferred prosecution agreement, how a company can maximise its chances of […]

Innocent until proven guilty. We all say this without thinking about it. We think we know what it means, and we believe it to be inalienable. There are many ways in which it simply isn’t true. If a court has substantial grounds to believe that you might fail to surrender, interfere with witnesses or commit […]

Natasha’s Law has it’s origin in a tragic case in July 2016. Natasha Ednan-Laperouse boarded a flight from Heathrow Airport to Nice with her father. Prior to departure, she ate an artichoke, olive and tapenade baguette purchased from the main Pret a Manger shop in Terminal 5. Natasha had a severe allergy to sesame seeds […]

Abigail Ashford of our City of London office represented Laura Hughes of the Extinction Rebellion movement; who was today acquitted alongside her Co-Defendant at Uxbridge Magistrates Court; having been charged with an offence of aggravated trespass, following their participation in a protest against the proposed “HS2” project, back in December 2018. Full details of the case […]

In May 2019, the National Crime Agency (NCA) issued an Unexplained Wealth Order (UWO) (the recipient cannot be named for legal reasons). It is the second time the use of this new weapon against anti-corruption has been employed. The suspect is a “politically exposed person” and suspected of being involved with organised crime. He has […]

Reeds wins Regulatory & White Collar Crime Team of the Year Award   We are delighted to have won the “Regulatory & White Collar Crime Team of the Year” award at the Wales Legal Awards! We could not be more proud of our dedicated and hard working staff. The Judges noted that it was our […]

Victims of crime, including those alleging rape and sexual assault, will now be asked to give their consent to the police to access their mobile phones. The police can then look at emails, messages and photographs relevant to the investigation. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Max Hill, has said that the police are limited to […]

In April 2019, we wrote an article about the introduction of the landmark Voyeurism (Offences) Act 2019, which made the crime of “upskirting” punishable by way of a prison sentence of up to 2 years. The Voyeurism Act made changes to the Sexual Offences Act 2003, making it an offence to operate equipment or record […]

I was in our local Magistrates court the other day when I was approached by a young man and his mother. He had been convicted of using a mobile phone whilst driving. He was a probationary driver, and as the offence carries obligatory endorsement of 6 penalty points, his licence had been revoked and he […]

Even though most drivers know about clearing snow and ice from their windscreen, many are unaware of the potential to be penalised even if the covering has no impact on their vision. Here are some areas where a driver may be penalised when driving in adverse weather. Driving in Adverse Weather Guidelines Section 229 of […]

A Review of Short Term Prison Sentences The Ministry of Justice is considering the removal of short term prison sentences – namely those of less than six months – in England and Wales. Exceptions to this would be if the sentence was for violent crime or a sexual offence. The proposals stem from the argument […]

The Assault on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act 2018 (the Act) came into force on 13th November 2018 in response to increasing assaults on emergency workers. The Act does not create a new, freestanding offence, rather it provides that where the offence of common assault or battery is committed against an emergency worker acting in the […]

Solicitor and Team Leader for our mental health department, Sarah Griffiths-Jones, has been named one of Wales Online‘s 30 young lawyers to watch. The newspaper commented, “Sarah is one of just 30 accredited mental health solicitors in Wales, approved by the Law Society to represent patients detained under the Mental Health Act. Sarah has experience in […]

There may be a time when you are interviewed by the police. Whether you request a solicitor to be present during the police interview under caution or not, you should be cautious with what you say in these interviews. Many of us have a great deal of trust towards the police, and believe that justice […]

New Guidelines: Breach of Court Orders The Sentencing Council has published new guidelines which came into effect on the 1st October 2018. Now, if you breach a court order imposed you will be subject to harsher punishment. The guidelines address breaches such as Community Orders and Suspended Sentence Orders and deals with 8 others, including […]

In this day and an age, our most intimate and personal lives are on our phones. Whether that is banking details and apps, texts and emails, dating and relationship apps, photographs of friends and family, and even maybe the odd “personal” photograph of ourselves. It’s not hard to understand why we keep our digital devices […]

The current law on Smacking Children At present parents can ‘smack’ or physically chastise a child so long as it is deemed ‘reasonable’. This defence is not available where the accused is charged with wounding, causing GBH, ABH or cruelty to persons less than 16 years of age. However, its remains available for parents against […]

Abigail Ashford, solicitor-advocate and team leader of our London office, was called upon by The Times to comment on her recent case at the Court of Appeal, concerning a young mother who had been sentenced to immediate custody at the County Court for contempt, without having had the benefit of legal representation.  Abigail instructed Mr Abid Mahmood of Counsel […]

You might have noticed the press writing a lot about police forces undertaking random checks on motorists and revoking licences at the roadside. We thought it might be helpful to have a look at this and provide some accurate information. What power do the police have to conduct a Roadside Eyesight Test? If you are […]

A prima facie case is an early session for a court to determine whether the prosecution can proceed to trial with the defendant fully for the crime. At the end of this presentation it may be possible for the client’s defence to present an argument that there is ‘no case to answer’. The ‘no case […]

The most popular pet owned in the UK is a dog, with nearly 25% of the population owning one. However, many owners are unaware of the potential consequences that can follow from owning a dog. Being accused of failing to keep that dog under control can lead to Dog Control Orders, and in the worst […]

If you are suspected of driving with excess alcohol in your body, you may be asked to provide a specimen of breath or breath sample at the roadside. This will usually be done by breathing into a ‘breathalyzer’. If that sample is positive, you are likely to be arrested and taken to the police station. […]

“HMO” stands for House of Multiple Occupancy. Under the Housing Act 2004 it is a criminal offence to operate an unlicensed HMO, where a licence is required. This can be a confusing area for even experienced practitioners to negotiate, so it is no surprise that an increasing number of people seem to be getting caught […]

The Sentencing Council, responsible for setting sentencing guidelines in England and Wales, has issued a new guideline in relation to manslaughter offences. [Edit: this article was originally published in July 2018, and may not be fully accurate. If you require advice, assistance or reputation for anything related to manslaughter, please contact our solicitors now.] If […]

Clare Fear successfully opposed an AG reference against our client’s sentence at the Court of Appeal on the 25th July, in the case of R v H . Our client was sentenced to a community order for conveying cannabis into prison. The Attorney General referred the sentence to the Court of Appeal, arguing that it […]

When a loved one dies your life can be turned upside down. If your loss is then complicated by the need for an Inquest to establish the cause of death, it can be simply overwhelming.  The Inquest hearing itself can be very daunting, taking place in a formal court room type setting; often with several […]

As reported in the media on a near daily basis, there has been a significant upturn in the use of knives across the country over the past few years. Parliament published their Knife Crime Briefing on 25th June 2018 which gave statistical support to this worrying trend. In the year ending March 2017 there were 34,700 […]

In the wake of recent reports of Prosecution failures to disclose relevant material on the defence, one of our our High Wycombe office successfully persuaded the Prosecution to discontinue a case following an abuse of process argument she raised, after crucial defence evidence was not served by the Prosecution. Evidence Disclosure: Not disclosed to Defence The case […]

In our ever developing technological society, when our daily lives involve us readily accessing the internet, much of our personal information and search history are stored and can be found at the click of a button. “Cybercrime” is understandably therefore, evolving and flourishing. Cybercrime is essentially any crime that is conducted through or using an […]

NOTE: This article is now out of date. Upskirting was made a chargeable offence in 2019. For further information, please consider reading our article “Upskirting Law”. Campaigners are currently calling for urgent changes to be made to the law to criminalise the behaviour frequently referred to as “upskirting”. “Upskirting” is the act of taking a […]

The powers available to Police under section 49 of The Regulatory Investigative Powers Act (RIPA) 2000 were once, only used in the most unique and complex cases; and historically most frequently in relation to allegations of terrorism. It was used as a tool to try and obtain information held on the phone, computer or any […]

The Sentencing Council have today announced new guidelines on domestic abuse, ahead of the extra protection planned for victims of stalking due later in the year. This will in turn, mean an increase in the severity of sentences for those convicted of allegations relating to domestic abuse. The new guidelines, which will take effect in May […]

Reeds are delighted to be able to report three more successes in defending ‘grooming ring’ allegations, following the extraordinary results in “Operation Nautical” 1 and 2. After a 3 month trial, ‘J’, represented by our Oxford based Head of Chambers Lucy Tapper and Lisa Wilding QC of Furnival Chambers, was unanimously acquitted of all charges he faced. […]

A new police watchdog has launched to investigate wrongdoing by police forces across England and Wales. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has replaced the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) and will additionally have strengthened powers. Unlike its predecessor, the IOPC will be able to initiate its own investigations without first relying on the police to […]

The case of Michael Camp, heard in a Lincoln Magistrates Court, is bound to cause significant controversy and indeed likely CPS appeal. District Judge Peter Veits concluded that the Defendant’s drunken state was sufficient to provide him with a “reasonable excuse” for not providing the mandatory second specimen of breath. Reasonable Excuse A reasonable excuse […]

Helen Warren, solicitor advocate at our Milton Keynes Office, was recently led by Craig Harris of Furnival Chambers in the defence of an individual charged as part of Operation Kruse.  Their combined skill, tactical astuteness and determination lead to their client being acquitted following a lengthy trial at Luton Crown Court. The case – Operation Kruse […]

It has long been the case that Defendants appearing in criminal proceedings in Court are required to confirm their identity by way of their name, and usually also their date of birth, at the outset of a hearing. However new identity rules will be imposed from today, 13 November 2017. Defendants will be required to […]

In the recent judgment of Ivey v Genting Casinos Ltd Crockfords, the court stated that the 35-year-old two-stage test defined in R v Ghosh [1982] EWCA Crim 2 has ‘serious problems’ and that it does not correctly represent the law. The court unanimously dismissed an appeal from Phil Ivey to recover winnings from a 2012 […]

We’ve recently discussed diversity issues in the justice system. Further to this Labour MP, David Lammy has recently published a highly critical report stating prosecutions against certain black and minority-ethnic suspects should be deferred or dropped in order to help tackle the bias against them. According to his report, young people are nine times more […]

An important new area of investigation has opened with regard to explaining possible ‘shaken baby’ cases. Richard Wainman, solicitor in our High Wycombe Office, acted on behalf of the child through her Guardian in the case of Buckinghamshire Council Council v Andrews and Stillwell [2017] EWFC B19. Suspicions of Non-Accidental Injury to Infant Child In […]

If you have been charged with a criminal offence your first court appearance will always take place in the Magistrates’ Court. Depending on the seriousness of the charges against you and whether or not you plead guilty or not guilty, your case will be heard in the aforementioned court or transferred to the Crown Court. […]

Citation: [2016] EWCA Crim 1754 Child Abduction Advocate: Tony Bignall Crown Court Annex: Bristol Summary Both these cases which are connected have been referred to the full court by the Registrar. Each involves an offence of child abduction. There is no guidance on sentencing from the Sentencing Guidelines Council or Sentencing Council. The offences can […]

  What is an Alibi? An alibi is a statement by a possible perpetrator of a crime, stating they were ‘elsewhere’ than the scene of the crime at the time the offence was committed. Having an alibi means that there is evidence of the defendant being somewhere else at the time of the crime, and […]

ADVERSE INFERENCES and Remaining Silent Many of us know about the ‘right to remain silent’ when speaking with the authorities. Though in some circumstances, remaining silent can have a negative impact on your case. This is where your silence can lead the court to draw an ‘adverse inference’ (i.e. a negative conclusion or understanding of […]

Notice has been served on any driver tempted to use a mobile telephone whilst driving a vehicle. Two amendments to the law on mobile telephone use while driving come into force on 1st March 2017. The combined effect of The Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 (Penalty Points) (Amendment) Order 2017 and The Fixed Penalty (Amendment) […]

An accomplice to a crime is a person who becomes equally guilty in the crime of another by knowingly and voluntarily aiding in the committing of an offense. Here our solicitors have provided some key information about accomplices in law including where they are used as a witness in the prosecution of the main party. […]

A Guide to submitting a Review against a decision to exclude a child from a school or academy The number of fixed period and permanent exclusions is increasing year by year.  The Education Act 2011 amended the law governing exclusions however exclusion continues to be difficult and emotive for children, parents, and schools. If as […]

The IPP (Imprisonment for Public Protection) sentence was abolished in 2012.  However, those who remain subject to incarceration under the provisions of this sentence will be more than aware of the difficulties encountered in securing progression or release for various reasons such as Parole Board delays, limited resources, poor procedures for managing risk and a […]