Solicitors

Here you’ll find links to solicitors who are experienced at dealing with cases surrounding police and protest.

You are entitled to free legal advice inside a police station, and can ask for one of the criminal solicitors below.  You do not need to accept the duty solicitor, who may be less experienced with protest. You will not be charged for advice at the police station by the solicitors on this list.

We use the Network for Police Monitoring (Netpol) solicitor list to provide comprehensive cover across the UK, based on the pooled experience of many activists over many years. Each solicitor is graded by an experienced panel.

Green and Black Cross is not a solicitor firm. Our legal support work is carried out independently, and we do not accept any financial support from any solicitor firm.

Choosing the right solicitor

There are a few types of solicitor, take a read to help you decide which type you’ll need. If you’re still unsure of which solicitor you might need, and your situation is related to protest, give us a ring.

Criminal Solicitors

Criminal solicitors help when you’ve been arrested. They can attend interviews at police stations, challenge bail conditions and represent you in court. Advice from all solicitors is free in the police station if you are interviewed face to face. Solicitors on the Netpol list have also committed to giving free telephone advice at the station. You might have to pay for representation at trial if you’re not eligible for legal aid.

» Choose a criminal solicitor

Civil Solicitors

Civil Solicitors help you take a case against the police or another body for wrongdoing. You may have to pay if you’re not eligible for legal aid.

» Choose a civil solicitor

Public Law Solicitors

Public Solicitors help you challenge the lawfulness of legislation or policies.

» Choose a public law solicitor

Prison Solicitors

Prison solicitors provide legal representation to people in prison.

» Choose a prison solicitor

Key Messages

  • No Comment
  • You do not need to answer police questions, so don’t.

  • No Personal Details
  • You don't have to give details under ANY stop and search power.

  • No Duty Solicitor
  • Use a recommended solicitor with protest experience.

  • No Caution
  • They admit guilt for an alleged offence that might never get to court.

  • What Power?
  • Ask "What power?" to challenge a police officer to act lawfully.

Elsewhere