Criminal Defence

Overview

Facing criminal charges or being questioned at a police station is one of the most vulnerable moments a person can go through, and one with potentially serious and lasting consequences. However, our team can afford you or a family member the best protection from a potential miscarriage of justice.

At HHD, we have over 40 years’ experience in defending criminal cases, and provide 24-hour representation at police stations across Northern Ireland, 365 days a year.

Why Choose HHD?

• 24/7 support, 365 days of the year
• Decades of combined experience in criminal law
• Proven track record in defending serious high-profile and complex cases
• Experience in the Court of Appeal, High Court, Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court
• We act on behalf of legally-aided and fee-paying clients
• Assisted by leading barristers, forensic scientists and accountants globally

Representation at the Police Station

Seeking early legal advice can make a crucial difference in the outcome of a criminal case. Unfortunately, being innocent does not protect against the risk of a miscarriage of justice. However, having a skilled solicitor representing you at the police station can influence whether charges are brought, help secure an informal resolution, or even persuade the Public Prosecution Service to take no further action.

At HHD, we can:

• Advise you before a potential arrest or investigation has begun.
• Attend all interviews conducted by the police, National Crime Agency, Financial Conduct Authority and other investigating agencies.
• Ensure you are fully advised and protected from the earliest opportunity.

Defending Sexual Allegations

At HHD, our team of experienced solicitors understands the anxiety and distress that can be caused by allegations of rape, sexual assault or a sexual nature – these allegations can be life changing.

These cases are some of the most complex cases to defend. In many cases allegations can be made years after the event, and inevitably, many cases come down to one word against another. Despite these challenges, our outcome for clients in this area is second to none.

We have handpicked the best defence barristers across the United Kingdom, and will only use the best forensic experts to support our case. We have many years’ experience of representing clients accused of sexual crimes, helping us to take a sensitive and proactive approach to what can be a very complex and emotionally challenging situation.

Indecent Images

In today’s digital age, where the internet and social media are at our fingertips, inappropriate use of the internet is a common way to be drawn into the Criminal Justice System.

Our team has extensive experience in cases of this nature, and we have represented numerous individuals who have faced allegations of distributing, manufacturing or being in possession of indecent images.

A notable success in this area was HHD’s work on Operation Ore, during which hundreds of people worldwide were arrested and accused of downloading indecent images. Our team successfully defended several businessmen who had been wrongly accused, establishing that their credit card details had been used fraudulently.

Have you been accused of being in possession of indecent images? Our legal team will put their expertise to work and help you to achieve the best result possible.

Regulatory and Professional Prosecution

We defend individuals and businesses facing regulatory or disciplinary proceedings, including:

• Health & Safety Executive prosecutions
• Environmental offences
• Professional misconduct investigations
• Trading standards and licensing prosecutions

Our team protects your livelihood and professional standing with robust legal defence.

Magistrates Court

All criminal cases in Northern Ireland begin in the Magistrates’ Court, but the type of offence determines whether it is dealt with there or passed on to the Crown Court.

We are recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s leading Criminal Law firms and should be the first choice for anyone facing a criminal defence investigation. If you are summonsed or charged to appear before a Magistrates’ Court for an alleged offence our expert solicitors will advise you at all stages of your case; and will ensure your case is handled with skill and care from the outset.

Crown Court

We have acted in many of the most high-profile criminal cases in Northern Ireland over the last 40 years, covering offences such as:

• Murder and manslaughter
• Serious assaults and sexual offences
• Drug trafficking and terrorist-related offences
• Armed robbery, aggravated burglary and aggravated vehicle taking
• Fraud, money laundering and breach of trust
• Corporate manslaughter and proceeds of crime proceedings

Judicial Review

hen you deal with the criminal justice system – whether as a victim of crime, a prisoner on remand or sentenced, a witness in a court case or someone charged with an offence – you have the right to be treated fairly and without discrimination.

At HHD, we have a long standing and successful record in the field of Judicial Review, and will use this to ensure that our clients are treated with fairness and respect.