Q: Will I qualify for legal aid?
Sansbury Douglas holds a contract with the Legal Services Commission to provide a legally aided service to clients with criminal law problems.
More than 95% of our clients qualify for legal aid.
Everyone detained in a police station or interviewed under caution qualifies for legal advice and assistance free of charge, irrespective of means.
A great many people appearing in the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Courts qualify for legal advice and representation free of charge, but there is now a means test.
Unsuccessful defendants in the Crown Court may be ordered to pay all or part of their own legal fees.
We can advise you as to your eligibility for legal aid and help you to apply.
Q: Are there other ways of paying for my case?
You can fix to pay us privately with one payment or by instalments. Ask for a quote or check charging rates during your initial telephone consultation.
Q: Who will look after my case?
The nature of our work means that a small team of lawyers is likely to handle your case. If at any time you feel you would like to see a particular member of the team just ask! There will be a partner supervising your case at all times and you will be provided with their details.
Q: How can I know I will get a good service?
You can read elsewhere on this site the praise we have had from others and the high ranking of the firm in Chambers and Partners respected guide over a period of many years. We know that each client satisfied with the service they receive may recommend us to someone else. We aim to provide a service from start to finish which meets that standard of excellence. A partner will review a sample of every fee earner’s work each month. We aim to answer letters and telephone calls promptly and give clear advice in a language that we all understand. We are governed by the SRA and aim to deal with any concerns or complaints swiftly and to your satisfaction.
Q: How long will my case take?
Inevitably, this depends on the type of the case and the strength of the evidence. Some cases finish in minutes, where we can persuade police officers that evidence is weak and charges can’t be justified. Some cases literally take years where the enquiries are long and the issues are big. Wherever possible we discuss the timetable with you. For some clients, “speed is of the essence”. For other clients a slower, more thoroughly explained, forensic approach is required.
Q: What types of legal work do you carry out?
We specialise in criminal defence work of all types. We do not undertake any other areas of legal work. If we can’t help you with your problem we will be happy to recommend a solicitor to you who can! If you don’t like the person we recommend, come back to us. In our own office you can rest assured that every case will be handled with the expertise it deserves.
Q: What happens if my case is outside the West Country?
Sansbury Douglas can act for you anywhere in England and Wales, and in most cases we will be happy to do so. Where we can’t attend in person we will be happy to instruct recommended local agents to act on our behalf to represent you.