C&N Defence Lawyers understand the ordeal that an arrest or a court case can create. You, the client, are always our first priority.
With years of experience providing police station visits and court representation across the Lothians, we are on hand to support you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
§ What We Provide
We provide.
I
Friendly, confidential and professional help
We understand how difficult it is to face criminal proceedings. Our approach is always professional and discreet, and you can speak to us with complete confidence. All matters are treated in strict confidence and with genuine personal care throughout your case.
II
Police station assistance, 24hr
Criminal matters do not respect office hours. We provide 24-hour police station assistance for those who have been arrested or detained. Call us 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0131 557 1000 or 07507 559 139 and a solicitor will be available to advise and represent you.
III
Quality legal assistance for any charge
Whether you face a minor charge or the most serious allegations, you deserve the highest standard of legal representation. C&N Defence Lawyers provide quality criminal defence for all offence types, at every level of the court system. No case is too small or too complex.
IV
A high standard of client care
You will always know what is happening with your case and why. We keep you informed at every stage, explain your options clearly, answer your questions honestly, and ensure your voice is heard throughout the proceedings. You are never just a case number.
§ Your Rights
Know your rights.
Being accused of a crime is frightening, but you have important rights that protect you throughout the criminal justice process. Understanding those rights and acting on them immediately can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.
You have the right to remain silent. You are not obliged to answer police questions beyond providing your name and address in certain circumstances. Anything you say can and will be used as evidence. Speaking to a solicitor before any police interview is not optional, it is essential.
You have the right to have a solicitor present at any police interview. You are also entitled to free legal advice from a duty solicitor at the police station regardless of your financial circumstances. You do not need to pass a means test to access this service. Call C&N Defence Lawyers immediately on 0131 557 1000 if you have been arrested.
Your key rights
- The right to remain silent, subject to limited exceptions
- The right to have a solicitor present during police interview
- The right to free legal advice at the police station
- The right to be told why you have been arrested
- The right to have someone informed of your arrest
- The right to a fair trial
- The right to see the evidence against you
What you should do immediately
- Do not answer questions beyond your name and address
- Request a solicitor before any interview takes place
- Call C&N Defence Lawyers on 0131 557 1000, available 24hr
- Do not discuss your case with other detainees
§ Legal Aid & Funding
Access to justice.
C&N Defence Lawyers are registered with the Scottish Legal Aid Board. We believe that access to quality criminal defence should not depend on financial circumstances. We will always advise you on legal aid eligibility at your free initial advice.
Legal aid we can provide
- Advice and assistance at the police station, with no means test required
- Assistance by way of representation for summary proceedings
- Criminal legal aid for solemn proceedings
- Criminal legal aid for summary proceedings where applicable
- Application to the Scottish Legal Aid Board on your behalf
- Advice on eligibility and the means test at no charge
For those who do not qualify for legal aid, we offer competitive fixed fees agreed at the outset. You will know the cost of your defence before we begin, with no hourly rate surprises and no obligation until you are ready to proceed. The first conversation is free.
§ Common Questions
Questions answered.
What should I do if I am arrested?
Stay calm and do not answer any questions beyond your name and address. Immediately request a solicitor and call C&N Defence Lawyers on 0131 557 1000. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Do not say anything further until you have spoken to a solicitor. You have the absolute right to legal advice before any police interview.
Will I qualify for legal aid?
Criminal legal aid is means-tested, but being in full-time employment does not automatically disqualify you. Police station advice is available without any means test at all. We will advise you on your likely eligibility at your free initial advice and apply to the Scottish Legal Aid Board on your behalf if appropriate.
Is my consultation genuinely free?
Yes. Your first interview with C&N Defence Lawyers is completely free of charge and carries no obligation whatsoever. We will assess your position, explain the process, and advise on your options. We will also advise on legal aid eligibility at that same consultation. Call us on 0131 557 1000 to arrange.
Do you advise on all types of criminal offence?
Yes. C&N Defence Lawyers advise on the full range of criminal charges, from road traffic matters and drug offences to fraud and sexual offences. Whatever the nature of the charge, we provide quality legal assistance. No case is too small or too serious. Call us 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
How quickly can you respond in an emergency?
C&N Defence Lawyers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you or someone you know has been arrested and needs a solicitor at the police station, call us immediately on 0131 557 1000 or 07507 559 139. A solicitor will be available to assist at the police station as quickly as possible.
Are matters handled confidentially?
Absolute confidentiality is a core part of our service. All matters discussed with C&N Defence Lawyers are treated in strict confidence and are protected by legal professional privilege. Your information will never be shared with any third party without your express consent. You can speak to us openly and honestly about your situation.
§ Contact