The Criminal Law Department offers a wide range of expert advice in relation to all aspects of criminal law. This includes for example motoring matters and cases involving the DSS, RSPCA, and HM Customs and Excise.

The Criminal Law in England and Wales is basically divided into two court centres, the Magistrates’ Court and the Crown Court. If proceedings are brought, they are always commenced in the Magistrates’ Court. However more serious cases will usually be transferred to the Crown Court.

Ely still has its own Magistrates Court which sits every Tuesday and Thursday. Agency work is undertaken.

Legal Aid is normally available for the more serious allegations or if it is in the “interest of Justice”.

Advice at the police station is always free. Anyone who attends the police station, either voluntarily or otherwise, is strongly advised to seek legal representation under this scheme.