Pre-Charge
Criminal Defence
Pre-Charge Support and Proactive Defence
Joe Rawlings takes a proactive approach to representation for clients under criminal investigation. Joe focuses on pre-charge engagement, working tirelessly to prevent charges from being brought against our clients, which can stop an investigation in its tracks.
Joe recognises the anxiety and uncertainty that accompanies a criminal investigation. His work goes well beyond attending a police station interview; he dedicates extensive effort to reducing the chances of clients’ facing charges. From pre-charge engagement to challenging the prosecution’s case, he leaves no stone unturned to secure the best possible outcome.
Pre-Charge Strategy
Joe places significant emphasis on the pre-charge stage, including early pre-charge engagement with investigators and scrutinising whether the standards outlined in the 2018 Code for Crown Prosecutors are met. He strives to argue that there is no realistic prospect of conviction, or that it’s not in the public interest to prosecute.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1 / The Police Want to Interview Me. What Should I Do?
If you’re asked to attend a police interview, obtaining immediate legal representation is crucial. I represent clients nationwide and meticulously prepare for each police interview. With advance notice and access to a summary of allegations, I tailor the approach, whether through a ‘no comment’ interview, a prepared statement, or direct responses to police questions.
2 / I’ve Been Released Under Investigation. What Happens Next?
If released on bail or ‘under investigation’, I don’t adopt a passive approach. Instead, I evaluate all aspects of the interview and consider next steps to counter allegations. I will actively pursue pre-charge engagement with investigators to gather supporting evidence in favour of my client.
3 / How Do the CPS Decide to Charge?
The Code for Crown Prosecutors provides the Charging Standard, and the Director of Public Prosecution’s Guidance on Charging 2020 outlines the requirements for material submitted to prosecutors. My comprehensive knowledge of these procedures enables me to secure the best outcomes for my clients.
4 / How Can JR Criminal Defence Prevent a Prosecution?
Pre-charge engagement is often the most effective way to avoid prosecution. This voluntary dialogue occurs after the initial interview and can include:
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Providing the opportunity to comment on further lines of enquiry
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Identifying new lines of enquiry
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Offering access to digital records
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Assisting in evidence-gathering, including keyword searches of digital material
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Providing consent for accessing medical records
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Supplying potential witness information
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Clarifying key points around expert or forensic evidence
Even if formal representations aren’t possible, I'll present sufficient material to investigators to prevent charges, often highlighting:
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Relevant texts, emails, and social media activity
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CCTV footage
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Internet searches and research
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Medical evidence
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Timelines supportive of the defence
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Witness statements supportive of the defence case
In some cases, I may provide insight into why a complaint was made, helping to bring the investigation to a close before the matter even reaches the stage of a charging decision.
Request a Legal Consultation
If you are facing criminal charges or require legal advice, don't hesitate to reach out to Joe. Request a confidential legal consultation with an experienced criminal defence lawyer to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
