While not everyone is aware of it, in England and Wales it is a criminal offence to assist an offender. It’s not uncommon that people are accused of assisting an offender with no idea that they’ve committed a crime; while that may be the case, ignorance of the fact is rarely a strong legal defence.
Our legal team here at Ashcott Solicitors have extensive experience in fighting cases involving the assisting of an offender, however, it’s imperative that those facing accusation of such crimes reach out for legal advice as soon as possible. If you’ve been charged with assisting an offender, or believe that you may be charged in the near future, reach out at the earliest opportunity available for expert legal advice.
What is assisting an offender?
Assisting an offender consists of any act that’s carried out with the intention of helping someone escape legal actions such as arrest or prosecution. The act must be carried out with the knowledge that the person being helped has committed a ‘relevant offence’; importantly, not all offences will result in such charges being brought forward. Relevant offences include murder, rape, specific drugs offences and others.
Assisting an offender is a complex crime that often consists of actions which, taken by themselves, are seemingly entirely innocent. This could include washing items of clothes to remove blood stains, or giving someone a lift in your vehicle to another location.
Sentencing for assisting an offender
The sentencing guidelines for assisting an offender are somewhat obscure. Maximum sentencing only applies when another underlying offence has been committed that is punishable with life imprisonment; for example, with murder, the maximum sentence would be 10 years imprisonment.
At the bottom end of the scale, for offences with a sentence of below 10 years, the maximum sentence for assisting an offender is 3 years. Maximum sentences will only be handed out on very rare occasions, however, it’s imperative that you have a watertight legal defence in order to ensure that you receive the best legal result possible.
Ashcott Criminal Solicitors – What we can do to help
It is crucial that you seek legal counsel as soon as possible, as cases involving the assisting of an offender are frequently very complex in nature. With more time, you can prepare your defence to the best of your ability, with less time pressure on your legal team. The following are some ways in which we can assist you:
- Help you to prepare for interviews under caution with the police, remaining with you during the interview to provide further advice
- Help you to prepare for trial and then represent you in court
- Ensure that the law is applied in a just manner throughout the investigation and trial
- Assist with the bail and appeals process, if necessary
When it comes to cases involving assisting an offender, a prompt legal response can significantly alter the outcome; get in touch if you’ve been accused of helping a criminal or think you might be accused soon.
If you’ve been charged with an offence related to assisting an offender and require urgent legal advice, call us now on 0161 234 0020 (Manchester) /0203 053 8625 (London) / 07956 555979 (24 hour).
You can also contact us via our contact form and we will respond to you as soon as possible.
