Criminal Defence Solicitors in Bristol

Getting a criminal solicitor in Bristol

Police station advice

Always free, for anyone, at any time. Funded by the Legal Aid Agency. You can ask for a specific firm by name.

Magistrates' Court

Legal aid depends on the seriousness of the case and your income. The firm will complete the means test with you. Many first hearings are covered by the duty solicitor scheme.

Crown Court

Legal aid is usually granted for Crown Court cases but you may be asked to contribute from income or capital. Instruct a firm as early as possible so they can prepare for the Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing.

Paying privately

Ask for a written estimate and whether a fixed fee is available. If you are acquitted you may be able to recover some costs at legal aid rates.

Choosing a firm

Check the firm's SRA record and whether it holds a legal aid contract (marked above). Ask who will actually attend court with you.

Changing solicitor

You can change firm, but on legal aid you need the court's permission once a representation order is in place. Do it early.

General guidance, not legal advice. Inclusion in this directory is free and is not a recommendation. Any paid featured placement is labelled. Firms can claim or correct their listing from the profile page. How we run this directory.