Private Prosecution Solicitors

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The police and the courts are facing increasing demands on their limited resources. Pursuing a private prosecution is usually faster than civil proceedings. This means that you can achieve a favourable outcome at a lower cost.

Our private prosecution solicitors will guide you through the entire process and ensure that your case has every opportunity for success. We have a proven track record of winning cases since 2014 and can advise on every aspect of private prosecutions, from determining whether you have a strong case to gathering evidence.

For a swift route to justice, speak to one of our prosecuting solicitors in London, Birmingham or Northampton today. Simply call us on 0300 303 2071 or email info@witansolicitors.co.uk to arrange a free, initial consultation.

Please be advised that our criminal law services do not come with a no-win, no-fee arrangement. For details regarding our pricing, contact our team today.

What is a Private Prosecution?

Under Section 6 of the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985, any person or business can bring a private prosecution against another individual or business for any offence committed, including domestic violence, sexual offences, harassment, perjury, criminal damage to property and false allegations.

Generally, prosecutions are brought by the Crown Prosecution Service or other state authorities, such as the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). We have a wealth of experience representing businesses and individuals during proceedings.

We understand that starting the private prosecution process and seeing it through can be daunting. But the good news is that our criminal prosecution lawyers excel at helping businesses and individuals seek appropriate justice for crimes committed, especially in cases where other prosecuting bodies will not. We are not intimidated and will be by your side to ensure that those responsible are held to account.

Who We Can Help

Our prosecuting solicitors have a wealth of experience advising and conducting prosecutions for a range of clients, including:

• Businesses wishing to protect their trade secrets and intellectual property
• Charities who wish to meet and push their objectives
• Companies wishing to take action against employees
• Industry regulators who wish to use criminal enforcement alongside their civil enforcement processes
• Families seeking to bring medical professionals to justice following the passing of a loved one
• Fire authorities bringing proceedings for fire safety failings
• Individuals who have been victims of fraud, forgery or any other criminal offence
• Individuals who have suffered loss as a result of others lying during court proceedings

Benefits of Our Legal Assistance

By seeking advice from our prosecuting solicitors at the earliest stage, we can help you determine the next best course of action. In some cases, a private prosecution may be the most appropriate response; in others, it may be wise to commence civil proceedings. With our expert legal advice, you can be confident in commencing prosecution proceedings. For an open and honest discussion about your case, give us a call on 0300 303 2071 or email info@witansolicitors.co.uk.

How We Can Help

To ensure that your needs are met in the shortest and most cost-effective time frame, we will provide practical and honest advice that is tailored to the facts of your case. Let our multidisciplinary team of criminal defence lawyers help you get justice.

Why Choose Witan Solicitors?

If you do not want to leave the outcome of your case in the hands of the police or the courts, it makes sense to pursue a private prosecution. After all, you can control the speed of the investigation and prosecution. With us as your legal partner, you benefit from:

• More than 100 years of combined practice law experience
• Proven track record of helping businesses and individuals get justice
• Representation from a Legal 500 recognised law firm 
• Unmatched criminal law expertise
• Multilingual legal professionals
• Private prosecution solicitors in Birmingham, London and Northampton

FAQ

Who can pursue a private prosecution?

Any person or organisation can bring a private prosecution against another individual or company.

Why should I commence a private prosecution?

Usually, companies and individuals pursue private prosecutions to:

• Prevent similar behaviour
• Protect the public
• Hold offenders accountable
• Confiscate offender profits
• Get more control over the timing and execution of the proceedings

Not to mention, private prosecutions are suitable alternatives in cases where civil proceedings are infeasible.

Do I need to instruct a lawyer before I start a private prosecution?

To ensure compliance with a statutory disclosure regime, it is wise to seek legal assistance from a solicitor specialising in this practice area.

How much control will I have over your private prosecution?

Generally, you will have more control over the time frame in a private prosecution than you would in civil proceedings.

Is legal aid available?

While legal aid is not available for private prosecutions, we offer a range of funding options to ensure you get the guidance you deserve.

How much does it cost to bring a private prosecution?

It will depend on the facts of your case. Call us on 0300 303 2071 or email info@witansolicitors.co.uk to discuss the potential costs involved.

Are legal costs recoverable after the prosecution?

Regardless of whether your case is successful, it is possible to recover the costs of a private prosecution.

Are there any risks involved in bringing a private prosecution?

The potential risks include:

• Proving the case beyond reasonable doubt
• Defendants can claim that evidence was fabricated
• Defendants can bring a civil claim for malicious prosecution