Government Initiative

Legal Information You Need to Know

A new Government initiative that comes into effect in many parts of County Durham (Bishop Auckland, Darlington, Shildon, Newton Aycliffe, Crook) from the 14 May 2007 will affect the way the police handle your case if you are arrested. The police will now ask you to name or nominate a solicitor or law firm you wish to represent you after they have read you your rights.

It is vitally important that you tell the police which solicitor/solicitors you would like you to nominate to defend you otherwise you may have to appear in court without adequate legal representation.

From the 14 th of May if you have not chosen a solicitor when you were asked to do so by the police, you will still be able to appoint a solicitor on the morning of your court case but the Court will not adjourn or delay your case. Your solicitor might not then have the necessary time to prepare your case properly.

If you are unfortunate enough to be arrested, inform the police that you nominate or choose Hewitts Solicitors and we will be able to help and advise you.

We are the biggest criminal law firm in County Durham and have many years experience in advising clients in difficult legal situations. Plus we may be able to arrange Legal Aid which means you won't have to pay for our services.

If you are arrested text the word CRIME to 60777 OR RING 01388 604 691 or 0784 334 0871and let us know your name and phone number and we will contact you and advise you.


	Important Information

	Legal Information You Need to Know A new Government initiative that comes into effect in many parts of County Durham (Bishop Auckland, Darlington, Shildon, Newton Aycliffe, Crook) from the 14 May 2007 will affect the way the police handle your case if you are arrested. The police will now ask you to name or nominate a solicitor or law firm you wish to represent you after they have read you your rights. It is vitally important that you tell the police which solicitor/solicitors you would like you to nominate to defend you otherwise you may have to appear in court without adequate legal representation. From the 14 th of May if you have not chosen a solicitor when you were asked to do so by the police, you will still be able to appoint a solicitor on the morning of your court case but the Court will not adjourn or delay your case. Your solicitor might not then have the necessary time to prepare your case properly. If you are unfortunate enough to be arrested, inform the police that you nominate or choose Hewitts Solicitors and we will be able to help and advise you. We are the biggest criminal law firm in County Durham and have many years experience in advising clients in difficult legal situations. Plus we may be able to arrange Legal Aid which means you won't have to pay for our services. If you are arrested text the word CRIME to 60777 OR RING 01388 604 691 or 0784 334 0871and let us know your name and phone number and we will contact you and advise you.