Defending your Liberty and Freedom
We help individuals accused of murder by building robust defence and avoid irreparable reputational damage.
Defence
Murder Defence Specialists
Facing a murder allegation is one of the most distressing experiences imaginable. Your freedom, your family, and your entire future may depend on the next steps you take. At Ashmans, our murder defence solicitors understand the immense pressure you face from arrest and police interview to trial and sentencing.
With a team of skilled murder defence specialists, Ashmans Solicitors are here to assist, whether:
- You’re under investigation or facing charges for murder
- You want to protect your rights and ensure a fair legal process
- You want a strategic legal defence from a strong yet sensitive team of experts
With Ashmans, you never need to feel alone. We’re in your corner at every stage, fearlessly fighting for the best possible outcomes.
Murder and the Law
Under the law of England and Wales, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of another person with intent to kill or cause grievous bodily harm. The offence is prosecuted under the Common Law, and sentencing is governed by the Homicide Act 1957 and Criminal Justice Act 2003.
- The unlawful killing of a human being under the Queen’s peace.
- With intent to kill or cause grievous bodily harm.
- Without lawful justification, such as self-defence.
- Caused the death of the victim.
- Intended to kill or inflict serious harm.
- Acted without lawful excuse or mitigating defence.
Agencies that may be involved in a murder investigation include the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Serious Crime Unit, National Crime Agency (NCA), and local police forces. They examine forensic evidence, CCTV, phone records, witness statements, and digital data.
Our criminal defence solicitors ensure that every piece of prosecution evidence is tested, and every potential defence from mistaken identity to lack of intent is fully explored.
Explore serious and complex crimes
Discover related offences, articles, FAQs, and case results within this practice area.
Searching within Serious and Complex Crimes
Essential actions against accusations
From the moment of accusation or upon the launch of a murder investigation, your actions can critically influence the outcome of your case. Take our advice and follow these steps:
Act fast, engage Ashmans, protect your future.
Do NOT contact witnesses, the family of the deceased or comment online it can seriously damage your defence and may amount to further offences.
Even if you maintain your innocence, do NOT answer police questions without your specialist legal team present. Early legal advice is vital in serious cases.
With 24/7 availability, Ashmans is always here to provide urgent legal representation and protect your position from the outset.
Retain clothing, devices, messages or any material that may support your account. Do not alter, delete or interfere with potential evidence.
If granted bail, strictly comply with all conditions. Trust your legal team to manage strategy, expert evidence and all communication with investigators.
How It Works
Three Simple Steps
to Your Defence
01
Initial Consultation
We assess your situation and provide immediate advice
02
Strategic Defence Planning
Our experts prepare a case strategy tailored to your circumstances.
03
Expert Legal Representation
We defend you at every stage, from police station to Crown Court.
Our Testimonials
Real Stories. Real Results.
See how Ashmans has successfully supported previous clients and listen to what they have to say about our Murder legal support.
Remarkable Support During a Devastating Ordeal
During one of the most devastating experiences of my life, Ashmans Solicitors provided unwavering support when I needed it most.…
Reliable and Professional Legal Support
I found Ashmans Solicitors to be completely on-point and highly professional throughout my case. Their expertise and straightforward approach gave…
Outstanding Support and Professional Representation
I couldn’t have asked for a better legal representative. Ashmans Solicitors truly believed in my case and made a difficult…
Expert Legal Defence That Turned My Case Around
I was falsely accused after my ex-business partners staged a blackmail attempt, leading to false allegations of sexual offences and…
Relentless Defence Leading to Justice
I was wrongly charged with conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and sent for trial at Manchester Crown Court.…
Outstanding Legal Support in Serious Drug Case
I turned to Ashmans Solicitors when my sister was charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. From the very…
Exceptional Expertise in Complex Criminal Fraud Cases
As a barrister with over 20 years of experience handling complex and high-value criminal fraud matters, I have worked alongside…
Relentless Commitment and Professionalism in Complex Cases
I have worked with Ashmans Solicitors on several high-profile and complex criminal cases, and their dedication to their clients is…
Clear and Honest Legal Guidance
I really appreciated how Ashmans Solicitors handled my case with clarity and honesty. They spoke to me in a straightforward…
Brilliant Representation Leading to Not Guilty Verdict
I want to express my deepest gratitude to Ashmans Solicitors for their exceptional handling of my fraud by misrepresentation case,…
Above and Beyond Legal Support and Service
I received excellent service from Ashmans Solicitors and couldn’t be more satisfied with the support they provided. Their professionalism and…
Exceptional Legal Support and Top-Tier Service
I can confidently say that Ashmans Solicitors are the best solicitors I’ve worked with. Their professionalism, dedication, and top-quality service…
Top Notch Legal Support and Guidance
I received excellent support from Ashmans Solicitors throughout my case. Their professionalism and dedication made a real difference, and I…
Brilliant Legal Assistance Throughout My Legal Battle
I received excellent service from Ashmans Solicitors during my case. Their professionalism and dedication made a real difference, and I…
Outstanding Legal Assistance in Complex Case
I received exceptional support from Ashmans Solicitors during my case. They guided me through every step and provided the help…
Professional Excellence in Legal Battle
I’ve always received great service from Ashmans Solicitors, and this time was no different. Their professionalism and reliability continue to…
Consistent Excellence in Legal Support
I have turned to Ashmans Solicitors every time I’ve needed legal help, and I’m always amazed by how well they…
Remarkable Legal Guidance and Genuine Care
I’m truly grateful to Ashmans Solicitors for their outstanding service. Their professional advice was invaluable, and I genuinely appreciated the…
Extraordinary Support and Kindness Throughout My Case
I found Ashmans Solicitors to be absolutely brilliant. They were incredibly helpful and genuinely kind throughout the process, always making…
Swift and Reliable Support in False Complaint Case
I had an amazing experience with Ashmans Solicitors when I faced a false complaint against me. They provided immediate support…
Move Quickly,
Choose Wisely
Content
- A conviction for murder carries a mandatory life sentence, with a minimum term set by the court.
- You are highly likely to be remanded in custody while proceedings are ongoing.
- A lengthy investigation and trial can cause immense emotional strain and lasting reputational damage.
- Ancillary orders, licence conditions and lifelong supervision may follow conviction.
- A murder conviction will remain on your record for life and can permanently affect your standing, family life and future opportunities.
You’re not alone, we’re here to help.
Murder
The Ashmans Approach
At Ashmans, we provide expert defence by protecting your rights in serious offences like Murder allegations.
01
Police Interviews
See Details
- Attend all interviews to protect your legal rights.
- Advise when to answer or remain silent.
- Challenge unlawful questioning or pressure.
02
Bail Conditions and Modification
See Details
- Argue for release under fair conditions.
- Apply for bail variation if restrictions harm your livelihood.
- Ensure compliance to avoid re-arrest.
03
Pre-Charge Engagement
See Details
- Engage with police and CPS before charging decisions.
- Present exculpatory evidence and expert reports.
- Seek early case closure or lesser offence consideration.
04
Murder-Specific Evidence Handling
See Details
- Review forensic, DNA, and digital material in detail.
- Commission independent pathologist or scene analysis.
- Identify inconsistencies in witness testimony.
05
Trial Representation
See Details
- Build strong barrister led strategy.
- Prepare defence witnesses and expert testimony.
- Cross-examine prosecution evidence with precision.
06
Sentencing & Post-Conviction Support
See Details
- Seek mitigating factors for reduced sentence.
- Advise on appeals and miscarriage of justice claims.
- Support rehabilitation and family reintegration
Murder
Why Choose Ashmans Defence?
Proven Record
Recognised for success in serious and complex criminal cases.
Experts in Serious & Complex Crimes
Dedicated specialists for life sentence offences.
24/7 Support
Immediate legal help anytime, anywhere in England and Wales.
Our Notable Cases
Serious Charges, Successful Results.
Our Murder solicitors have represented clients across a range of serious charges – see some examples of our work and outcomes.
Sexual Offences
Sentence Reduced
Sentence Reduced in Historic Sexual Offences
R v EW, Sheffield Crown Court
Our client had a history of committing sexual offences against children, and he pleaded guilty to further offences of a similar nature. Despite the gravity…
Read More
Sexual Offences
Not Guilty Verdict
Historic Sexual Abuse Allegations – Justice Secured
R v SH, Newcastle Crown Court
Our client, a gentleman of previous good character, faced ten counts of historic sexual abuse that dated back to the early 1980’s. Due to our…
Read More
Sexual Offences
Not Guilty Verdict
Unanimous Acquittal in Festival Consent Allegation
R v RG, Derby Crown Court
Our client, a university student with no prior convictions, was accused of raping a woman he had just met, at a festival. The key issue…
Read More
Sexual Offences
Charges Reduced
Credibility Challenged, Charges Reduced in Complex Domestic Case
R v WB, Leeds Crown Court
Our client faced serious allegations, including multiple counts of anal and vaginal rape, as well as assault, all within a domestic context and in breach…
Read More
Sexual Offences
Charges Dropped
Strategic Defence Secures Justice for Wrongly Accused Businessman
R v IR, Birmingham Crown Court
Our client, a successful businessman, faced serious allegations including rape by penetration and indecent assault on two separate complainants (also known as: ‘accusers’ or ‘plaintiffs’).…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Sentence Reduced
Revenge Attack Charge Reduced: Successful Defence
R v MD & Others, Old Bailey
We successfully defended our client on a murder charge, which resulted in a reduced verdict of manslaughter and a significantly lower sentence of eight years.…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Conspiracy to Murder: A Complex Acquittal
R v CT, Teesside Crown Court
Our client was among seven defendants who were charged with conspiracy to commit murder, and faced the possibility of a mandatory life sentence. After a…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Acquittal in High-Stakes Conspiracy to Murder Case
R v AJ, Old Bailey
Our client faced a conspiracy to murder charge following a fatal stabbing. Despite significant complexities, the jury unanimously acquitted our client. This particularly complex case…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Acquittal in High-Profile Leeds Murder Investigation
R v AB, Leeds Crown Court
Our client was one of five defendants charged with assisting an offender, in a highly publicised murder investigation. She faced allegations of aiding her son,…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Charges Reduced
Charges Reduced Through Strategic Defence
R v SG, Leeds Crown Court
This case involved a middle-aged lady of previous good character and a professional background, who was accused of the attempted murder of her partner, by stabbing.…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Charges Dropped
Wrongly Accused: Armed Robbery Charges Dismissed
R v YN, Derby Crown Court
Our client faced serious allegations of involvement in Multiple Armed robberies across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, allegedly using firearms to steal high-value vehicles. Despite being…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Charges Dropped
Strategic Defence Secures Discontinuation in Fatal Collision Case
R v TA, Leeds Crown Court
Our client faced serious allegations of conspiring to pervert the course of justice in connection with a fatal road traffic collision. Following strategic representations by…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Charges Dropped
Exoneration in High-Stakes Armed Robbery Allegation
R v LA & Others, Leeds Crown Court
Our client faced two charges of assisting an offender contrary to Section 4(1) of the Criminal Law Act 1967. These charges stemmed from allegations of…
Read More
Motoring Offences
Charges Reduced
Dangerous Driving Allegation Involving Police Officer Successfully Reduced
R v ZM, Bradford Crown Court
Our client, who was previously of good character, faced allegations of Dangerous Driving, amongst other offences. The alleged victim was a fully uniformed police officer,…
Read More
Motoring Offences
Ban Avoided
Exceptional Hardship Defence Saves Doctor’s Driving Licence
R v NG, Bradford Magistrates
Our client, a doctor, faced multiple charges for speeding and failing to comply with statutory notices to provide driver details. We successfully negotiated with the…
Read More
Fraud and Financial Crime
Sentence Suspended
Forged Titles and Negotiated Justice
R v SA & Others, Peterborough Crown Court
Our client, along with a co-defendant, faced serious allegations involving large-scale fraud, money laundering, and related offences. The Prosecution claimed that our client had devised…
Read More
Fraud and Financial Crime
Sentence Suspended
Logistics Fraud Defence: Suspended Sentence Secured
R v CV, Leeds Crown Court
We successfully defended our client, a company owner, who faced charges of fraud by false representation and theft, achieving a suspended sentence. This case underscored…
Read More
Fraud and Financial Crime
Sentence Reduced
Fraud by False Representation – Local Councillor Case
R v SA, Snaresbrook Crown Court
This was a highly publicised case involving allegations of fraud by false representation against our client, a sitting local councillor from the London Borough of…
Read More
Fraud and Financial Crime
Sentence Reduced
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud Involving Forged Cheques
R v ASY, Leeds Crown Court
Our client faced charges of conspiracy to commit fraud involving forged cheques. This was a classic ‘long firm fraud’ (also known as a consumer credit fraud). The…
Read More
Fraud and Financial Crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Acquittal Secured in £40 Million Mortgage Fraud Case
R v TC & Others, Operation Aquamarine, Southwark Crown Court
We achieved a unanimous ‘not-guilty’ verdict for our client who was accused of participating in a £40 million mortgage fraud conspiracy against Barclays Private Client…
Read More
Urgent Legal Assistance
Seek Immediate
Legal Support Today
Don’t waste time worrying. Contact our specialist serious crime defence lawyers for immediate protection and clear, strategic legal guidance.
- Expert defence against murder and serious violent offence allegations.
- Responsive 24/7 legal support when it matters most.
- Strategic, evidence-led defence tailored to the complexities of your case.
Our trusted accreditations
Latest insights and updates
Serious and Complex Crime
How Autism Can Affect Criminal Sentencing in the UK
Autism can play an important role in criminal cases in England and Wales, particularly when courts are deciding an appropriate…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Can Bite Mark Evidence Be Used in Criminal Trials in the UK?
Forensic evidence can play a powerful role in criminal investigations. However, not all forms of forensic analysis are equally reliable.…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Can a Getaway Driver Be Charged With Burglary in the UK?
Being involved in a burglary does not always mean entering a property. In many cases, someone who remains outside the…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Can Prisoners Attend Their Sentencing Hearing in the UK?
When a defendant has been convicted of a criminal offence, the court will usually arrange a sentencing hearing to determine…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Can Psychological Harm to a Victim Increase a Criminal Sentence?
In criminal cases across England and Wales, the courts do not consider only the physical impact of an offence. The…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
CPS Complex Casework Unit: How Serious Criminal Cases Are Prosecuted
When someone is investigated for a serious criminal offence, their case may be handled by a specialist prosecution team within…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Encouraging or Assisting Crime in the UK
Being accused of encouraging or assisting a crime can lead to serious criminal consequences in England and Wales. Even if…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
GPS Tagging Offenders in the UK After Prison Release
GPS tagging offenders in the UK is increasingly used as a tool to monitor individuals following release from prison or…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Harbouring an Offender or Escapee in UK Law
Harbouring an offender is a criminal offence under UK law. The offence involves helping someone who has committed a crime…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Modern Slavery Defence in Criminal Cases
Modern slavery remains a serious issue in the United Kingdom. In many cases, individuals who appear to have committed criminal…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Modern Slavery Defence in Criminal Cases (Section 45 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015)
Being accused of a criminal offence can be overwhelming, particularly where the alleged conduct occurred as a result of exploitation,…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Prison Visit Rules UK: How to Visit Someone in Prison
Visiting a loved one in prison can be an emotional and unfamiliar experience. Understanding the prison visit rules in the…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
The Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme: When a Sentence Can Be Increased by the Court of Appeal
In England and Wales, most criminal cases conclude when a sentence is passed by the court. However, in certain circumstances,…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Unduly Lenient Sentences in the UK: What the Law Says
In the criminal justice system of England and Wales, sentencing is intended to reflect the seriousness of an offence while…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
What Are Your Rights If Arrested in the UK?
Being arrested by the police can be an extremely stressful experience. Many people are unsure what their legal rights are…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Aggravated Trespass During Protest in the UK
Public protest is a fundamental democratic right in the United Kingdom. However, certain forms of protest activity can cross the…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Flawed Identification Evidence in Criminal Cases
Flawed Identification evidence can play a central role in criminal investigations and prosecutions. In many cases, the prosecution relies on…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Judge Interference in Criminal Trials: When Can You Appeal an Unfair Trial?
A criminal trial must be conducted fairly. The judge plays a vital role in ensuring that proceedings follow the law…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
Identical Witness Statements in Court: What They Mean in a Criminal Case
Witness evidence often plays a crucial role in criminal investigations and trials. When several witnesses provide statements describing the same…
Read More
Serious and Complex Crime
When Do You Need a Criminal Defence Solicitor?
If you are being investigated by the police or accused of a criminal offence, understanding when to seek legal representation…
Read More