After more than seven weeks of restrictions, lockdown measures have been eased across England, however in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the lockdown remains in place.
Although lockdown restrictions in England have been eased, you may be confused about what rights you have and how you will be treated legally during this uncertain time.
You should be aware, however, that if you are arrested, you are still entitled to the same legal representation as you were prior to the lockdown.
There are still strict guidelines to be adhered to. Regulation 6 of the Health Protection Regulations has been amended to extend the list of reasonable excuses for which express provision is made, including permitting people to leave their homes to visit public open spaces for open-air recreation with members of their households, and to permit people to exercise or engage in open-air recreation with one member of another household.
However, the updated law has also increased the default fine for those breaking the regulations from £60 to £100.
To address some of the most common concerns about being arrested during the pandemic, the crime department from Paul Crowley & Co have provided answers to the following questions.
Will a solicitor attend police interviews during the COVID-19 lockdown?
Yes, the solicitors at Paul Crowley & Co are still attending every police interview in person where possible.
If a solicitor is unable to physically attend a police interview, whether it is a new or existing client they will be present during the interview via Skype, our solicitors will also attend court hearings in person or on Skype.
“My team and I have worked tirelessly throughout this pandemic to support our clients and will continue to attend every police interview in person or via Skype. Clients are still being represented at court and bailed by courts after our solicitors representations. Our team is available at all times to help you at a crucial time during very challenging days”.
Mike Fogarty,
Head of Crime
“My team and I have worked tirelessly throughout this pandemic to support our clients and will continue to attend every police interview in person or via Skype. Clients are still being represented at court and bailed by courts after our solicitors representations. Our team is available at all times to help you at a crucial time during very challenging days”.
Paul Crowley & Co have been conducting remote interviews successfully since the 23rd of March and will continue to do so until the pandemic is over.
expert legal advice…
If you need to speak directly with one of our lawyers call us on 0151 264 7363 and a member of our team will be happy to assist.
Are solicitors taking on new clients during COVID-19 lockdown?
As solicitors are recognised as key workers, our solicitors from the criminal department of Paul Crowley & Co are able to represent new clients during the lockdown.
To speak with a member of our crime department call 0151 264 7363 and a member of our team will be able to help you?
How are solicitors maintaining communications with their clients?
Due to social distancing guidelines, solicitors may not be able to meet face to face with their clients, this does not mean the communication between solicitors and clients has to decrease in quality.
Through Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime and phone calls, clients will be able to discuss any matters with their solicitor.
Will I be offered any protection in custody?
If you are taken into police custody, the police have a duty to ensure all reasonable steps, where practical, are taken to protect you from risk of infection from Coronavirus.
For example, this may include issuing PPE (personal protective equipment), even where the detainee is not symptomatic of Coronavirus.
It is considered the duty of the police, to also extend this protection to any individuals who may visit you whilst you are in custody, such as a family member, friend or your solicitor.
Do the police support remote interviews/court attendances by solicitors?
Merseyside police have given their full support to remote attendances where necessary, as they have their own rigid set of guidelines to keep their officers and those under their protection safe.
The remote protocol for interviews was agreed on by the Crown Prosecution Service, National Police Chiefs’ Council, Law Society and the Criminal Law Solicitors’ Association, this protocol is welcomed by Paul Crowley & Co’s criminal defence department.
What to do if you have been arrested/suspect you will soon be arrested during the COVID-19 lockdown
If you have been arrested, or suspect you will soon be arrested, it is important you contact Paul Crowley and Co as soon as possible.
Our criminal solicitors are working tirelessly throughout to provide assistance to both existing and new clients, ensuring they are not being disadvantaged legally and have the ongoing support they require throughout the pandemic.
Contact Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors today
At this unprecedented time, our dedicated team at Paul Crowley & Co will continue to provide legal advice and guidance to all existing and new clients.
If you are experiencing a legal issue and are in need of professional advice, you should not suffer because of the lockdown, our solicitors will ensure you have the support you need.
For any legal enquiries, no matter how big or small do not hesitate to contact Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors. Our team of expert solicitors will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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