Being acquitted or receiving a No Further Action (NFA) decision should feel like the end of the nightmare — the moment when everything returns to normal. But for many, that’s not how it feels. Instead of instant relief, there can be exhaustion, anxiety, anger, and a deep sense of loss for the time, trust, and relationships damaged along the way.

This stage is rarely talked about, yet it’s one of the hardest to navigate. The legal process ends, but the emotional fallout often doesn’t. Understanding what’s normal, and where to find support, can make a huge difference.

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Why Relief Isn’t Always Immediate

Spending months — sometimes years — under investigation or facing trial takes a toll on your mental health. By the time you’re cleared, your body and mind are often burned out. You’ve likely been living in survival mode, constantly bracing for the worst. When the case finally ends, it’s common to feel numb rather than overjoyed.

That’s because while the system has moved on, you’re still processing the damage — sleepless nights, reputational harm, strained relationships, and the disruption to work, finances, and family life. None of that disappears overnight, and it’s okay to feel frustrated that “getting cleared” doesn’t magically fix everything.

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Common Feelings After Acquittal or NFA

Everyone reacts differently, but there are some emotional themes we hear time and again:

• Exhaustion and burnout — months of adrenaline finally catch up with you
• Anxiety about the future — worrying if people still believe the allegation
• Anger and resentment — at the police, the accuser, or the system itself
• Isolation — friends or family may have stepped back during the process
• Loss of identity — especially if your job, hobbies, or relationships were affected

These reactions are natural. They don’t mean you’re “not coping” — they’re part of adjusting to life after prolonged stress and uncertainty.

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Rebuilding Your Confidence

When your name has been tied to an allegation, even unfairly, it can affect how you see yourself. Rebuilding confidence takes time, and small steps are important. Some people start by reconnecting with trusted friends and family; others find value in speaking with peer support groups, charities, or counsellors who understand the emotional impact of being accused.

If your case was highly public or affected your job, you may also need practical help managing stigma. Learning how to disclose what happened — and when to stay silent — can make a huge difference to how you move forward.

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Looking After Your Mental Health

The end of the case isn’t the end of the journey. Some people experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or even PTSD after their legal process ends. If you notice flashbacks, panic attacks, or prolonged low mood, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to handle it without help.

You can:

• Ask your GP for a referral to talking therapies or counselling
• Access local NHS mental health teams
• Reach out to organisations like Mind, Samaritans, or the CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub for support
• Consider peer support spaces where you can talk to others who’ve been through the same thing

Asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s part of taking control of your recovery.

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For Families and Supporters

The emotional aftermath affects loved ones too. Parents, partners, and friends often carry their own stress, guilt, and anger after standing by someone accused of a crime. Communication matters here: being open about what you’re struggling with, while respecting each other’s coping styles, helps avoid misunderstandings that can deepen divides.

Supporters may also need their own spaces to talk — whether that’s peer groups, counselling, or connecting with others who’ve walked the same path.

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Final Thoughts

An acquittal or NFA may close the legal chapter, but it doesn’t close the emotional one overnight. You’ve been through something extraordinary, and healing takes time. Surrounding yourself with the right people, seeking out support when you need it, and accepting that recovery is a process — not a switch — can help you start rebuilding.

The CJS Hub is here to offer guidance, resources, and understanding — for you and for those around you.

What Happens When You Plead Guilty

Pleading guilty means you accept responsibility for the offence. There’s no trial—your case moves straight to sentencing. That might be a fine, community order, or imprisonment depending on the offence’s seriousness.

The big trade-off:

• Sentence reduction. You could get up to one-third off your sentence for an early guilty plea. The earlier it is entered, the bigger the discount. If you plead guilty only on the day of trial, reductions are as low as 10%.
• Practical relief. Especially if you’re on remand, a guilty plea can mean immediate release based on time served. That has become more common as court delays force people to spend much longer behind bars unnecessarily.

But rushing to plead guilty can have deep consequences—emotionally, legally, and ethically.

What Happens When You Plead Not Guilty

Pleading not guilty means your case will go to trial, and the court must find you guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

The benefits:

• Defending your innocence. If there’s a chance you didn’t commit the offence or have a defence, you can challenge evidence and push for acquittal.

The risks:

• If convicted, you may face a harsher sentence than if you had pleaded guilty early, because you lose out on the reduction.
• Court delays and uncertainty. Trials can be pushed back for months or years—delays that damage family life, stability, and mental health.

Real Pressures on the System

Lengthy trials, backlogs, and remand overcrowding have led many people—sometimes even innocent—to plead guilty just to escape prison. Some remand prisoners have been told they will be released immediately if they plead guilty, even if evidence is weak. This creates a system that unwittingly makes guilty pleas seem like the easiest path.

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Can You Change Your Plea?

Yes—sometimes.

From Not Guilty to Guilty

Easy enough. You can change your plea to guilty at any point before the verdict. Judges typically allow it, and you may still receive some sentence reduction, depending on timing.

From Guilty to Not Guilty

This is harder—but possible in certain circumstances:

• The court has judicial discretion to allow a plea withdrawal before sentencing, especially if:
  • The plea was equivocal (uncertain, e.g., “Guilty, but…”)
  • You can point to undue pressure or poor legal advice at the time
  • There’s a serious procedural unfairness or new evidence emerges

However, the court treats such requests cautiously. The application must be made promptly and in writing, clearly explaining why keeping the guilty plea would be unjust. You’ll need legal support to make a strong case.

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Compare Your Options

Plea	What It Means	Benefits	Risks
Guilty	Admit offence, go to sentencing	Sentence reduction; quicker release / lower punishment if not prison	Permanent record; loss of trial chance; emotional burden
Not Guilty	Contest the case, proceed to trial	Chance of acquittal; defend rights	Heavier sentence if convicted; long waits; uncertainty
Change Plea	Switch decisions based on counsel/advice	Flexibility if early	Hard to reverse plea; may need court’s say-so

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Choosing your plea is one of the most serious decisions you’ll make in the process. It affects your freedom, your record, and your mental wellbeing—and indirectly affects your family and supporters too. You don’t have to face it alone. Getting specialist legal advice early is vital—they can help you understand your odds, the evidence, and what life on remand could look like while you’re waiting.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

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Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

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Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

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Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

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Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

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You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

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Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

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Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

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Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

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When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

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An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

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Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

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Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

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Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

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Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

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Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

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Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

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Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

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How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

Legal Aid vs Private Solicitors: Pros, Cons & Pitfalls

Legal Aid: What You Need to Know

What it covers: Legal aid in criminal cases is intended to ensure that people who can’t afford representation still have access to legal advice and defence—crucial under Article 6 of the ECHR, which guarantees a fair trial.

It’s administered by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA), and can cover work by both solicitors and barristers.

Qualification is based on two tests:

1. Interests of Justice (IoJ) — ensures legal aid is available if your case could result in a custodial sentence, is serious, or other factors that mean fair representation is needed.
2. Means Test — based on your income, capital, and household circumstances. The figures differ depending on whether it’s Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court.

Quick thresholds:

• Magistrates’ Court: Your gross income must usually be under £22,325. If your disposable income (after allowable deductions) is under £3,398, you qualify. Above that, you may have to pay for your defence yourself, unless you pass a hardship review.
• Crown Court: Broadly, if your disposable annual income is under £37,500, you remain eligible. If it’s very low, you won’t have to contribute at all.

Passporting benefits: You automatically get legal aid if you’re under 18 or on certain benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, or Pension Guarantee Credit.

Pros of Legal Aid:

• Low or no cost for those eligible.
• Access to trained and accredited solicitors and counsel.
• Formal funding structure and standards in place.

Cons:

• Strict eligibility— some are excluded due to financial cut-offs especially in the magistrates court.
• The means test hasn’t kept pace with inflation, cutting more people off.
• Fewer legal aid providers in some areas, and low fees can drive lawyers away from taking cases.

Private Solicitors: What to Consider

Pros of hiring privately:

• More solicitor choice and flexibility.
• Often more time and tailored attention, especially for complex cases.

Cons to watch out for:

• Cost can be very high—some private criminal defence can cost thousands.
• Without proper checks, poor service or overcharging is possible. There was the Glanville Davies case, where a solicitor was fined thousands for inflated fees and misconduct.

How Legal Aid Actually Works — In Practice

• The LAA processes most criminal legal aid applications within 2 days.
• During the application, your income, savings, savings from benefits, you and your partner’s situation, plus any children or dependents, are factored in.
• If you don’t qualify, you can request a hardship review—they may reconsider based on essential expenses or costs of the case.
• Certain areas, like advice at the police station or child protection cases, may be non-means tested—meaning legal aid is available regardless of income.

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Spotting a Poor or Ineffective Solicitor

Your solicitor should help you feel informed, stretched if needed, and confident. But poor representation can mean actual consequences—even wrongful convictions.

Signs of inadequate representation:

• Poor preparation or missing key witnesses (e.g., a solicitor failing to instruct a crucial alibi witness led to a CCRC referral and overturned conviction).
• Late notice to counsel, insufficient pre-trial work, or failure to review police evidence properly.
• If a solicitor ignores core issues or doesn’t explain your options.

Legally, to overturn a conviction, you must prove:

1. The performance was deficient (seriously below standard), and
2. This directly caused a miscarriage of justice.

It’s rare for poor representation alone to succeed as a ground for appeal unless it fundamentally undermined the trial’s fairness

If you need some help identifying solicitors that can help then contact us below.

What Happens When You Plead Guilty

Pleading guilty means you accept responsibility for the offence. There’s no trial—your case moves straight to sentencing. That might be a fine, community order, or imprisonment depending on the offence’s seriousness.

The big trade-off:

• Sentence reduction. You could get up to one-third off your sentence for an early guilty plea. The earlier it is entered, the bigger the discount. If you plead guilty only on the day of trial, reductions are as low as 10%.
• Practical relief. Especially if you’re on remand, a guilty plea can mean immediate release based on time served. That has become more common as court delays force people to spend much longer behind bars unnecessarily.

But rushing to plead guilty can have deep consequences—emotionally, legally, and ethically.

What Happens When You Plead Not Guilty

Pleading not guilty means your case will go to trial, and the court must find you guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

The benefits:

• Defending your innocence. If there’s a chance you didn’t commit the offence or have a defence, you can challenge evidence and push for acquittal.

The risks:

• If convicted, you may face a harsher sentence than if you had pleaded guilty early, because you lose out on the reduction.
• Court delays and uncertainty. Trials can be pushed back for months or years—delays that damage family life, stability, and mental health.

Real Pressures on the System

Lengthy trials, backlogs, and remand overcrowding have led many people—sometimes even innocent—to plead guilty just to escape prison. Some remand prisoners have been told they will be released immediately if they plead guilty, even if evidence is weak. This creates a system that unwittingly makes guilty pleas seem like the easiest path.

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Can You Change Your Plea?

Yes—sometimes.

From Not Guilty to Guilty

Easy enough. You can change your plea to guilty at any point before the verdict. Judges typically allow it, and you may still receive some sentence reduction, depending on timing.

From Guilty to Not Guilty

This is harder—but possible in certain circumstances:

• The court has judicial discretion to allow a plea withdrawal before sentencing, especially if:
  • The plea was equivocal (uncertain, e.g., “Guilty, but…”)
  • You can point to undue pressure or poor legal advice at the time
  • There’s a serious procedural unfairness or new evidence emerges

However, the court treats such requests cautiously. The application must be made promptly and in writing, clearly explaining why keeping the guilty plea would be unjust. You’ll need legal support to make a strong case.

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Compare Your Options

Plea	What It Means	Benefits	Risks
Guilty	Admit offence, go to sentencing	Sentence reduction; quicker release / lower punishment if not prison	Permanent record; loss of trial chance; emotional burden
Not Guilty	Contest the case, proceed to trial	Chance of acquittal; defend rights	Heavier sentence if convicted; long waits; uncertainty
Change Plea	Switch decisions based on counsel/advice	Flexibility if early	Hard to reverse plea; may need court’s say-so

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Choosing your plea is one of the most serious decisions you’ll make in the process. It affects your freedom, your record, and your mental wellbeing—and indirectly affects your family and supporters too. You don’t have to face it alone. Getting specialist legal advice early is vital—they can help you understand your odds, the evidence, and what life on remand could look like while you’re waiting.

Why Preparation Matters

Facing trial is daunting. It can feel like your whole life is on hold while everyone else decides what happens next. While your legal team handles the paperwork, evidence, and arguments, there’s still plenty you can do to stay informed, organised, and ready.

Preparation isn’t about replacing your solicitor — it’s about making sure you understand what’s happening, know what’s coming next, and can support your defence in the best way possible.

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Understanding What’s Ahead

Your trial will follow a structure, and knowing the basics helps reduce some of the fear:

• The prosecution will present their case first.
• Your defence team will challenge their evidence and present yours.
• Witnesses may be called and cross-examined.
• The magistrates or jury will decide if you’re guilty or not guilty.

Your solicitor or barrister will explain the details relevant to your case, but having a rough idea of the process can make things less overwhelming.

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What You Can Do to Prepare

1. Stay Organised

• Keep every document you receive — charge sheets, bail conditions, letters from your solicitor or the court.
• Use a simple folder or binder and keep copies of everything in order.
• Make a note of important dates, deadlines, and hearing times.

Even small slips — like missing a court date — can cause serious problems, so staying organised really helps.

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2. Be Honest and Thorough with Your Legal Team

Your solicitor can only build a strong defence if they know everything. Even if something feels embarrassing, irrelevant, or damaging, tell them. Surprises in court rarely go well, and your team can’t defend what they don’t know about.

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3. Think About Witnesses and Evidence

You don’t have to collect statements or prepare bundles — your legal team will handle that — but you can:

• Make a list of anyone who was there, saw, or heard something relevant.
• Pass on names, phone numbers, and what they might know to your solicitor.
• Flag any texts, emails, or social media messages you think matter. Don’t delete anything.

Your job isn’t to analyse evidence; it’s to make sure your solicitor has all the information they need.

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4. Prepare Yourself Mentally

Trials can be draining. The process is slow, the days are long, and you’ll likely hear things said about you that are upsetting or unfair.

• Get plenty of rest beforehand if you can.
• Bring water and snacks if allowed — trials can run all day.
• Have someone you trust to talk to afterwards — family, friends, or a support group.
• Consider accessing mental health support; the stress of waiting can take a real toll.

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5. Support Your Family and Let Them Support You

If you have children, a partner, or family relying on you, talk to them early about what’s coming. Trials affect everyone — not just the defendant — and having a plan for childcare, bills, and emotional support can make a big difference.

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Common Worries — And What to Do About Them

“I feel like I’m not getting updates.”
It’s okay to check in with your solicitor and ask for a clear breakdown of where things stand.

“I don’t understand what’s happening in court.”
Ask your legal team to explain things in plain English. They’re used to jargon — you’re not.

“I’m worried about what to say if I’m called to give evidence.”
Your solicitor or barrister will explain exactly what’s expected and prepare you before you step into the witness box.

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Quick Checklist for Defendants

• Keep all paperwork safe and organised.
• Share every detail and document with your solicitor.
• Write down witness names and pass them on — don’t contact witnesses yourself.
• Note down all court dates and deadlines.
• Prepare emotionally — trials can be long and stressful.
• Talk openly with family and supporters.
• Ask questions until you understand what’s happening.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Being arrested, questioned, or charged can feel overwhelming, and the choices you make early on can have lasting consequences. Having the right legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest advice at every stage of the process.

A good solicitor will guide you through what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and make sure the police and prosecution follow proper procedure. Without specialist advice, people often make avoidable mistakes — especially in interviews or when making key decisions.

Free Legal Advice at the Police Station

Everyone in England and Wales has the right to free legal advice at the police station. This applies whether you’ve been arrested or are attending voluntarily. You should always ask for a solicitor before answering questions.

If you haven’t arranged your own, the police will provide access to a duty solicitor at no cost. They are independent of the police and there to protect your rights. However, duty solicitors often cover several clients at once and may only become involved just before your interview.

For many people, arranging your own solicitor provides more continuity, personal attention, and the chance to work with someone who already knows your case from the outset.

After Being Charged

If you’re charged with an offence, you’ll usually have access to means‑tested legal aid. This applies whether your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

Even if you qualify for legal aid, you are not limited to the solicitor provided by the duty rota — you can choose your own representation. Some people still choose to fund representation privately at this stage because it can provide additional flexibility, resources, and faster access to senior lawyers or barristers.

Benefits of Private Representation

Private legal representation isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can offer several advantages, particularly in complex or serious cases:

• Time and Focus – Privately funded solicitors often manage smaller caseloads, meaning more time is available to focus on your case.
• Choice of Representation – You can choose a solicitor or firm with proven expertise in cases like yours rather than relying on whoever is available on the day.
• Continuity – You’re more likely to have the same solicitor involved throughout the process, from initial advice to trial preparation.
• Access to Expertise – Private funding gives greater flexibility to instruct highly experienced barristers, independent experts, and investigators where needed.
• Responsive Support – Without the constraints of legal aid budgets, private solicitors can often act more quickly when new developments arise.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Selecting the right solicitor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. When deciding who to instruct, consider:

• Specialism – Do they focus on criminal defence work?
• Experience – Have they handled cases similar to yours?
• Reputation – Are they known for being thorough, proactive, and approachable?
• Resources – Do they have access to skilled barristers, experts, and investigators if your case needs them?

At The CJS Hub, we work alongside reputable firms who understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and provide high‑quality representation when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for a solicitor as soon as possible — ideally before answering any police questions.
• Free legal advice is available to everyone at the police station, regardless of your financial situation.
• After being charged, legal aid may be available, but you can still choose your own solicitor.
• Private representation can offer added focus, faster response times, and more flexibility — particularly useful for complex or high‑stakes cases.
• Choosing a solicitor with the right experience and resources can make a significant difference to how your case is handled.

Being arrested, questioned, or charged can feel overwhelming, and the choices you make early on can have lasting consequences. Having the right legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest advice at every stage of the process.

A good solicitor will guide you through what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and make sure the police and prosecution follow proper procedure. Without specialist advice, people often make avoidable mistakes — especially in interviews or when making key decisions.

Free Legal Advice at the Police Station

Everyone in England and Wales has the right to free legal advice at the police station. This applies whether you’ve been arrested or are attending voluntarily. You should always ask for a solicitor before answering questions.

If you haven’t arranged your own, the police will provide access to a duty solicitor at no cost. They are independent of the police and there to protect your rights. However, duty solicitors often cover several clients at once and may only become involved just before your interview.

For many people, arranging your own solicitor provides more continuity, personal attention, and the chance to work with someone who already knows your case from the outset.

After Being Charged

If you’re charged with an offence, you’ll usually have access to means‑tested legal aid. This applies whether your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

Even if you qualify for legal aid, you are not limited to the solicitor provided by the duty rota — you can choose your own representation. Some people still choose to fund representation privately at this stage because it can provide additional flexibility, resources, and faster access to senior lawyers or barristers.

Benefits of Private Representation

Private legal representation isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can offer several advantages, particularly in complex or serious cases:

• Time and Focus – Privately funded solicitors often manage smaller caseloads, meaning more time is available to focus on your case.
• Choice of Representation – You can choose a solicitor or firm with proven expertise in cases like yours rather than relying on whoever is available on the day.
• Continuity – You’re more likely to have the same solicitor involved throughout the process, from initial advice to trial preparation.
• Access to Expertise – Private funding gives greater flexibility to instruct highly experienced barristers, independent experts, and investigators where needed.
• Responsive Support – Without the constraints of legal aid budgets, private solicitors can often act more quickly when new developments arise.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Selecting the right solicitor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. When deciding who to instruct, consider:

• Specialism – Do they focus on criminal defence work?
• Experience – Have they handled cases similar to yours?
• Reputation – Are they known for being thorough, proactive, and approachable?
• Resources – Do they have access to skilled barristers, experts, and investigators if your case needs them?

At The CJS Hub, we work alongside reputable firms who understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and provide high‑quality representation when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for a solicitor as soon as possible — ideally before answering any police questions.
• Free legal advice is available to everyone at the police station, regardless of your financial situation.
• After being charged, legal aid may be available, but you can still choose your own solicitor.
• Private representation can offer added focus, faster response times, and more flexibility — particularly useful for complex or high‑stakes cases.
• Choosing a solicitor with the right experience and resources can make a significant difference to how your case is handled.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Being arrested, questioned, or charged can feel overwhelming, and the choices you make early on can have lasting consequences. Having the right legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest advice at every stage of the process.

A good solicitor will guide you through what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and make sure the police and prosecution follow proper procedure. Without specialist advice, people often make avoidable mistakes — especially in interviews or when making key decisions.

Free Legal Advice at the Police Station

Everyone in England and Wales has the right to free legal advice at the police station. This applies whether you’ve been arrested or are attending voluntarily. You should always ask for a solicitor before answering questions.

If you haven’t arranged your own, the police will provide access to a duty solicitor at no cost. They are independent of the police and there to protect your rights. However, duty solicitors often cover several clients at once and may only become involved just before your interview.

For many people, arranging your own solicitor provides more continuity, personal attention, and the chance to work with someone who already knows your case from the outset.

After Being Charged

If you’re charged with an offence, you’ll usually have access to means‑tested legal aid. This applies whether your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

Even if you qualify for legal aid, you are not limited to the solicitor provided by the duty rota — you can choose your own representation. Some people still choose to fund representation privately at this stage because it can provide additional flexibility, resources, and faster access to senior lawyers or barristers.

Benefits of Private Representation

Private legal representation isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can offer several advantages, particularly in complex or serious cases:

• Time and Focus – Privately funded solicitors often manage smaller caseloads, meaning more time is available to focus on your case.
• Choice of Representation – You can choose a solicitor or firm with proven expertise in cases like yours rather than relying on whoever is available on the day.
• Continuity – You’re more likely to have the same solicitor involved throughout the process, from initial advice to trial preparation.
• Access to Expertise – Private funding gives greater flexibility to instruct highly experienced barristers, independent experts, and investigators where needed.
• Responsive Support – Without the constraints of legal aid budgets, private solicitors can often act more quickly when new developments arise.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Selecting the right solicitor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. When deciding who to instruct, consider:

• Specialism – Do they focus on criminal defence work?
• Experience – Have they handled cases similar to yours?
• Reputation – Are they known for being thorough, proactive, and approachable?
• Resources – Do they have access to skilled barristers, experts, and investigators if your case needs them?

At The CJS Hub, we work alongside reputable firms who understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and provide high‑quality representation when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for a solicitor as soon as possible — ideally before answering any police questions.
• Free legal advice is available to everyone at the police station, regardless of your financial situation.
• After being charged, legal aid may be available, but you can still choose your own solicitor.
• Private representation can offer added focus, faster response times, and more flexibility — particularly useful for complex or high‑stakes cases.
• Choosing a solicitor with the right experience and resources can make a significant difference to how your case is handled.

Post‑Arrest Procedures

Explore what happens after arrest, including interviews, charges, and court appearances.

1. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody

Once you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station. There, a custody officer assesses whether there’s enough evidence to charge you or whether you should be held any longer. Right from the start, you must be informed of your rights—including the right to inform someone you’re being held and to consult a solicitor—and these must be recorded in your custody documents.

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2. Interview & Right to Legal Advice

Interviews are governed by PACE Code C, which protects your right to legal advice before questioning. You must be cautioned, and your solicitor (or duty solicitor) should be present. If you’re a child or vulnerable, an appropriate adult must also be involved.

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3. Length of Detention

From the moment you’re arrested or arrive at the station—whichever is earlier—the clock starts ticking on how long police can lawfully detain you without charging. The basic limit is 24 hours, but extensions are possible up to 36 or 96 hours, depending on the severity of the offence and authorisation level.

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4. Decision: Charge, No Further Action & Other Outcomes

After interviews and investigation, one of several things can happen:

• No Further Action (NFA): If there’s insufficient evidence, the police may release you without charge and take no further action.
• Charge: You may be formally charged, in which case you’ll be classified as a defendant.
• Alternative Outcomes: Sometimes, you might be offered a caution, fixed penalty, or diversion, depending on the offence and circumstances.

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5. After Charging: Court Appearance

If you’re charged, the police will let you know whether you’ll be released with bail or held in custody until you’re brought before a court.

Your first court hearing will always be at Magistrates’ Court, even if the case is later transferred to Crown Court for serious matters.

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6. Magistrates’ Court: What Happens Next

At the first appearance in Magistrates’ Court, the court will:

• Confirm your identity and the charges;
• Ask if you plead guilty or not guilty;
• Decide whether you should be released on bail, remanded in custody, or proceed under conditional release.

If the case is serious enough, it may stay in or transfer to Crown Court. For less serious matters, the court may deal with or conclude the case itself.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

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Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Post-Charge Court Bail	Released after charge while awaiting court	Set by court, conditions may apply

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Court Bail ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Legal Aid vs Private Solicitors: Pros, Cons & Pitfalls

Legal Aid: What You Need to Know

What it covers: Legal aid in criminal cases is intended to ensure that people who can’t afford representation still have access to legal advice and defence—crucial under Article 6 of the ECHR, which guarantees a fair trial.

It’s administered by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA), and can cover work by both solicitors and barristers.

Qualification is based on two tests:

1. Interests of Justice (IoJ) — ensures legal aid is available if your case could result in a custodial sentence, is serious, or other factors that mean fair representation is needed.
2. Means Test — based on your income, capital, and household circumstances. The figures differ depending on whether it’s Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court.

Quick thresholds:

• Magistrates’ Court: Your gross income must usually be under £22,325. If your disposable income (after allowable deductions) is under £3,398, you qualify. Above that, you may have to pay for your defence yourself, unless you pass a hardship review.
• Crown Court: Broadly, if your disposable annual income is under £37,500, you remain eligible. If it’s very low, you won’t have to contribute at all.

Passporting benefits: You automatically get legal aid if you’re under 18 or on certain benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, or Pension Guarantee Credit.

Pros of Legal Aid:

• Low or no cost for those eligible.
• Access to trained and accredited solicitors and counsel.
• Formal funding structure and standards in place.

Cons:

• Strict eligibility— some are excluded due to financial cut-offs especially in the magistrates court.
• The means test hasn’t kept pace with inflation, cutting more people off.
• Fewer legal aid providers in some areas, and low fees can drive lawyers away from taking cases.

Private Solicitors: What to Consider

Pros of hiring privately:

• More solicitor choice and flexibility.
• Often more time and tailored attention, especially for complex cases.

Cons to watch out for:

• Cost can be very high—some private criminal defence can cost thousands.
• Without proper checks, poor service or overcharging is possible. There was the Glanville Davies case, where a solicitor was fined thousands for inflated fees and misconduct.

How Legal Aid Actually Works — In Practice

• The LAA processes most criminal legal aid applications within 2 days.
• During the application, your income, savings, savings from benefits, you and your partner’s situation, plus any children or dependents, are factored in.
• If you don’t qualify, you can request a hardship review—they may reconsider based on essential expenses or costs of the case.
• Certain areas, like advice at the police station or child protection cases, may be non-means tested—meaning legal aid is available regardless of income.

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Spotting a Poor or Ineffective Solicitor

Your solicitor should help you feel informed, stretched if needed, and confident. But poor representation can mean actual consequences—even wrongful convictions.

Signs of inadequate representation:

• Poor preparation or missing key witnesses (e.g., a solicitor failing to instruct a crucial alibi witness led to a CCRC referral and overturned conviction).
• Late notice to counsel, insufficient pre-trial work, or failure to review police evidence properly.
• If a solicitor ignores core issues or doesn’t explain your options.

Legally, to overturn a conviction, you must prove:

1. The performance was deficient (seriously below standard), and
2. This directly caused a miscarriage of justice.

It’s rare for poor representation alone to succeed as a ground for appeal unless it fundamentally undermined the trial’s fairness

If you need some help identifying solicitors that can help then contact us below.

What Happens When You Plead Guilty

Pleading guilty means you accept responsibility for the offence. There’s no trial—your case moves straight to sentencing. That might be a fine, community order, or imprisonment depending on the offence’s seriousness.

The big trade-off:

• Sentence reduction. You could get up to one-third off your sentence for an early guilty plea. The earlier it is entered, the bigger the discount. If you plead guilty only on the day of trial, reductions are as low as 10%.
• Practical relief. Especially if you’re on remand, a guilty plea can mean immediate release based on time served. That has become more common as court delays force people to spend much longer behind bars unnecessarily.

But rushing to plead guilty can have deep consequences—emotionally, legally, and ethically.

What Happens When You Plead Not Guilty

Pleading not guilty means your case will go to trial, and the court must find you guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

The benefits:

• Defending your innocence. If there’s a chance you didn’t commit the offence or have a defence, you can challenge evidence and push for acquittal.

The risks:

• If convicted, you may face a harsher sentence than if you had pleaded guilty early, because you lose out on the reduction.
• Court delays and uncertainty. Trials can be pushed back for months or years—delays that damage family life, stability, and mental health.

Real Pressures on the System

Lengthy trials, backlogs, and remand overcrowding have led many people—sometimes even innocent—to plead guilty just to escape prison. Some remand prisoners have been told they will be released immediately if they plead guilty, even if evidence is weak. This creates a system that unwittingly makes guilty pleas seem like the easiest path.

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Can You Change Your Plea?

Yes—sometimes.

From Not Guilty to Guilty

Easy enough. You can change your plea to guilty at any point before the verdict. Judges typically allow it, and you may still receive some sentence reduction, depending on timing.

From Guilty to Not Guilty

This is harder—but possible in certain circumstances:

• The court has judicial discretion to allow a plea withdrawal before sentencing, especially if:
  • The plea was equivocal (uncertain, e.g., “Guilty, but…”)
  • You can point to undue pressure or poor legal advice at the time
  • There’s a serious procedural unfairness or new evidence emerges

However, the court treats such requests cautiously. The application must be made promptly and in writing, clearly explaining why keeping the guilty plea would be unjust. You’ll need legal support to make a strong case.

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Compare Your Options

Plea	What It Means	Benefits	Risks
Guilty	Admit offence, go to sentencing	Sentence reduction; quicker release / lower punishment if not prison	Permanent record; loss of trial chance; emotional burden
Not Guilty	Contest the case, proceed to trial	Chance of acquittal; defend rights	Heavier sentence if convicted; long waits; uncertainty
Change Plea	Switch decisions based on counsel/advice	Flexibility if early	Hard to reverse plea; may need court’s say-so

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Choosing your plea is one of the most serious decisions you’ll make in the process. It affects your freedom, your record, and your mental wellbeing—and indirectly affects your family and supporters too. You don’t have to face it alone. Getting specialist legal advice early is vital—they can help you understand your odds, the evidence, and what life on remand could look like while you’re waiting.

Addressing False Allegations Being accused of something you didn’t do can turn your world upside down. Even if you’re later cleared, the stress, uncertainty, and damage to your reputation can linger long after the legal process ends. It’s an incredibly isolating experience — but you are not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself, rebuild trust, and move forward. Understanding the Process When a false allegation is made, the police have a legal duty to investigate. That can mean arrest, interview, and potentially even charges, even when the evidence seems weak. It can be frightening and frustrating, especially if you know you’ve done nothing wrong. Throughout this stage, it’s crucial to: Get proper legal advice early — ideally from a solicitor experienced in these kinds of cases Keep a clear, accurate timeline of events, messages, and evidence Avoid direct contact with the complainant, as this can complicate matters False allegations cases can drag on for months, sometimes years, and the uncertainty is often the hardest part. Knowing your rights and working closely with your legal team can help you navigate the process more confidently. What Happens if You’re NFA’d or Acquitted An NFA (No Further Action) decision or an acquittal at trial should bring closure, but many find that life doesn’t simply return to “normal.” People may still have doubts. Rumours may linger. Employers, schools, or community groups may still need reassurance. This can be painful, but there are steps you can take: Ask the police for written confirmation of the NFA or acquittal — this can help with employment or housing issues Consider requesting your custody records or full case file to keep for future reference Focus on rebuilding your personal and professional reputation gradually, starting with people you trust Reporting a False Allegation It’s natural to want justice if you’ve been wrongly accused, but it’s important to understand that prosecutions for making false allegations are rare. The CPS is cautious about pursuing these cases because of concerns about discouraging genuine victims from coming forward. To succeed, there usually needs to be clear evidence that the allegation was knowingly false — not just mistaken, exaggerated, or unsupported. If you want to explore this route, speak to your solicitor first. They can advise on the chances of success and whether a formal complaint to the police or the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) might be appropriate. Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward Whether or not the system gives you the outcome you hoped for, the work of rebuilding often falls on you and those closest to you. That might mean repairing relationships, focusing on your mental health, and connecting with people who understand what you’ve been through. Trusted friends, family, and peer-support spaces — like those linked through the CJS Hub — can be invaluable here. Rebuilding takes time, but it is possible. False allegations can feel devastating, but they don’t have to define the rest of your life. By understanding the process, seeking the right support, and taking steps to restore your confidence and reputation, you can start moving forward again. If you need help navigating your next steps, the CJS Hub is here with resources, guides, and connections to specialist services.

Why Preparation Matters

Facing trial is daunting. It can feel like your whole life is on hold while everyone else decides what happens next. While your legal team handles the paperwork, evidence, and arguments, there’s still plenty you can do to stay informed, organised, and ready.

Preparation isn’t about replacing your solicitor — it’s about making sure you understand what’s happening, know what’s coming next, and can support your defence in the best way possible.

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Understanding What’s Ahead

Your trial will follow a structure, and knowing the basics helps reduce some of the fear:

• The prosecution will present their case first.
• Your defence team will challenge their evidence and present yours.
• Witnesses may be called and cross-examined.
• The magistrates or jury will decide if you’re guilty or not guilty.

Your solicitor or barrister will explain the details relevant to your case, but having a rough idea of the process can make things less overwhelming.

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What You Can Do to Prepare

1. Stay Organised

• Keep every document you receive — charge sheets, bail conditions, letters from your solicitor or the court.
• Use a simple folder or binder and keep copies of everything in order.
• Make a note of important dates, deadlines, and hearing times.

Even small slips — like missing a court date — can cause serious problems, so staying organised really helps.

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2. Be Honest and Thorough with Your Legal Team

Your solicitor can only build a strong defence if they know everything. Even if something feels embarrassing, irrelevant, or damaging, tell them. Surprises in court rarely go well, and your team can’t defend what they don’t know about.

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3. Think About Witnesses and Evidence

You don’t have to collect statements or prepare bundles — your legal team will handle that — but you can:

• Make a list of anyone who was there, saw, or heard something relevant.
• Pass on names, phone numbers, and what they might know to your solicitor.
• Flag any texts, emails, or social media messages you think matter. Don’t delete anything.

Your job isn’t to analyse evidence; it’s to make sure your solicitor has all the information they need.

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4. Prepare Yourself Mentally

Trials can be draining. The process is slow, the days are long, and you’ll likely hear things said about you that are upsetting or unfair.

• Get plenty of rest beforehand if you can.
• Bring water and snacks if allowed — trials can run all day.
• Have someone you trust to talk to afterwards — family, friends, or a support group.
• Consider accessing mental health support; the stress of waiting can take a real toll.

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5. Support Your Family and Let Them Support You

If you have children, a partner, or family relying on you, talk to them early about what’s coming. Trials affect everyone — not just the defendant — and having a plan for childcare, bills, and emotional support can make a big difference.

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Common Worries — And What to Do About Them

“I feel like I’m not getting updates.”
It’s okay to check in with your solicitor and ask for a clear breakdown of where things stand.

“I don’t understand what’s happening in court.”
Ask your legal team to explain things in plain English. They’re used to jargon — you’re not.

“I’m worried about what to say if I’m called to give evidence.”
Your solicitor or barrister will explain exactly what’s expected and prepare you before you step into the witness box.

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Quick Checklist for Defendants

• Keep all paperwork safe and organised.
• Share every detail and document with your solicitor.
• Write down witness names and pass them on — don’t contact witnesses yourself.
• Note down all court dates and deadlines.
• Prepare emotionally — trials can be long and stressful.
• Talk openly with family and supporters.
• Ask questions until you understand what’s happening.

Understanding Your Charges

How Charges Are Issued

When the police or prosecutors decide there’s enough evidence, a formal charge can be issued in one of three ways:

1. Custody Charge
   If the police have you in custody, a Custody Officer decides whether there’s enough evidence to press charges. If so, you’ll be charged and either released—possibly on police bail or “Released Under Investigation (RUI)”—or kept in custody until your court appearance. Detention must be reviewed regularly and can last up to 96 hours in most cases.
2. Postal Requisition (Postal Charge)
   If you’re not arrested, a Postal Requisition (also called a postal charge) may be sent—especially if you were interviewed under caution or released under investigation. It’s a legal document telling you to appear at a Magistrates’ Court on a specified date. Never ignore one—failing to attend can lead to an arrest warrant.
3. Court Charge—Typically via Solicitor or CPS
   In some cases, particularly more serious ones, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) steps in. Prosecutors apply a full test: (1) is there a realistic prospect of conviction, and (2) is prosecution in the public interest? If not, they may decline to charge or offer an alternative, like a caution.

Once the decision to charge is made, the CPS or police sets your first court date—within days or weeks, depending on how serious the case is and whether you’re in custody or on bail.

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Reading the Charge Sheet

A charge sheet is the document that officially records what you’re being accused of. It should clearly state:

• The offence(s) you’re charged with,
• Where and when the alleged offence happened,
• What laws you’re accused of breaking.

This is your first real window into what you’re facing.

Take it seriously—get legal advice, check the details, and clarify anything you don’t understand.

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What Happens Next—and Who You’ll See First

All criminal cases in England and Wales start in the Magistrates’ Court, even if they eventually go to Crown Court. If it’s a minor offence, the trial may stay here. If it’s more serious—or deemed too complex—the Magistrates will send it up to Crown Court.
Wikipedia

At your first hearing, called a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH), the court clerk will read your charges out loud (called an “indictment”) and ask whether you plead guilty or not guilty.
cps.gov.uk

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What You Can Do Next

• Understand the type of charge—custody, postal, or court-based—and whether it means you’re already in custody or not.
• Read the charge sheet carefully. It defines the case.
• Know where your case starts—most will begin in Magistrates’ Court.
• Seek legal help early. It makes a real difference to how your case is handled.
• Don’t ignore any notifications—especially postal charges.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Being arrested, questioned, or charged can feel overwhelming, and the choices you make early on can have lasting consequences. Having the right legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest advice at every stage of the process.

A good solicitor will guide you through what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and make sure the police and prosecution follow proper procedure. Without specialist advice, people often make avoidable mistakes — especially in interviews or when making key decisions.

Free Legal Advice at the Police Station

Everyone in England and Wales has the right to free legal advice at the police station. This applies whether you’ve been arrested or are attending voluntarily. You should always ask for a solicitor before answering questions.

If you haven’t arranged your own, the police will provide access to a duty solicitor at no cost. They are independent of the police and there to protect your rights. However, duty solicitors often cover several clients at once and may only become involved just before your interview.

For many people, arranging your own solicitor provides more continuity, personal attention, and the chance to work with someone who already knows your case from the outset.

After Being Charged

If you’re charged with an offence, you’ll usually have access to means‑tested legal aid. This applies whether your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

Even if you qualify for legal aid, you are not limited to the solicitor provided by the duty rota — you can choose your own representation. Some people still choose to fund representation privately at this stage because it can provide additional flexibility, resources, and faster access to senior lawyers or barristers.

Benefits of Private Representation

Private legal representation isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can offer several advantages, particularly in complex or serious cases:

• Time and Focus – Privately funded solicitors often manage smaller caseloads, meaning more time is available to focus on your case.
• Choice of Representation – You can choose a solicitor or firm with proven expertise in cases like yours rather than relying on whoever is available on the day.
• Continuity – You’re more likely to have the same solicitor involved throughout the process, from initial advice to trial preparation.
• Access to Expertise – Private funding gives greater flexibility to instruct highly experienced barristers, independent experts, and investigators where needed.
• Responsive Support – Without the constraints of legal aid budgets, private solicitors can often act more quickly when new developments arise.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Selecting the right solicitor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. When deciding who to instruct, consider:

• Specialism – Do they focus on criminal defence work?
• Experience – Have they handled cases similar to yours?
• Reputation – Are they known for being thorough, proactive, and approachable?
• Resources – Do they have access to skilled barristers, experts, and investigators if your case needs them?

At The CJS Hub, we work alongside reputable firms who understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and provide high‑quality representation when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for a solicitor as soon as possible — ideally before answering any police questions.
• Free legal advice is available to everyone at the police station, regardless of your financial situation.
• After being charged, legal aid may be available, but you can still choose your own solicitor.
• Private representation can offer added focus, faster response times, and more flexibility — particularly useful for complex or high‑stakes cases.
• Choosing a solicitor with the right experience and resources can make a significant difference to how your case is handled.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

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Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

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Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

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Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

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Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

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Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

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Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

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Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

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How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

---

Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

---

Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

---

Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

---

Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

---

Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

---

Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

---

Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

---

How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

Post‑Arrest Procedures

Explore what happens after arrest, including interviews, charges, and court appearances.

1. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody

Once you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station. There, a custody officer assesses whether there’s enough evidence to charge you or whether you should be held any longer. Right from the start, you must be informed of your rights—including the right to inform someone you’re being held and to consult a solicitor—and these must be recorded in your custody documents.

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2. Interview & Right to Legal Advice

Interviews are governed by PACE Code C, which protects your right to legal advice before questioning. You must be cautioned, and your solicitor (or duty solicitor) should be present. If you’re a child or vulnerable, an appropriate adult must also be involved.

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3. Length of Detention

From the moment you’re arrested or arrive at the station—whichever is earlier—the clock starts ticking on how long police can lawfully detain you without charging. The basic limit is 24 hours, but extensions are possible up to 36 or 96 hours, depending on the severity of the offence and authorisation level.

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4. Decision: Charge, No Further Action & Other Outcomes

After interviews and investigation, one of several things can happen:

• No Further Action (NFA): If there’s insufficient evidence, the police may release you without charge and take no further action.
• Charge: You may be formally charged, in which case you’ll be classified as a defendant.
• Alternative Outcomes: Sometimes, you might be offered a caution, fixed penalty, or diversion, depending on the offence and circumstances.

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5. After Charging: Court Appearance

If you’re charged, the police will let you know whether you’ll be released with bail or held in custody until you’re brought before a court.

Your first court hearing will always be at Magistrates’ Court, even if the case is later transferred to Crown Court for serious matters.

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6. Magistrates’ Court: What Happens Next

At the first appearance in Magistrates’ Court, the court will:

• Confirm your identity and the charges;
• Ask if you plead guilty or not guilty;
• Decide whether you should be released on bail, remanded in custody, or proceed under conditional release.

If the case is serious enough, it may stay in or transfer to Crown Court. For less serious matters, the court may deal with or conclude the case itself.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Legal Aid vs Private Solicitors: Pros, Cons & Pitfalls

Legal Aid: What You Need to Know

What it covers: Legal aid in criminal cases is intended to ensure that people who can’t afford representation still have access to legal advice and defence—crucial under Article 6 of the ECHR, which guarantees a fair trial.

It’s administered by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA), and can cover work by both solicitors and barristers.

Qualification is based on two tests:

1. Interests of Justice (IoJ) — ensures legal aid is available if your case could result in a custodial sentence, is serious, or other factors that mean fair representation is needed.
2. Means Test — based on your income, capital, and household circumstances. The figures differ depending on whether it’s Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court.

Quick thresholds:

• Magistrates’ Court: Your gross income must usually be under £22,325. If your disposable income (after allowable deductions) is under £3,398, you qualify. Above that, you may have to pay for your defence yourself, unless you pass a hardship review.
• Crown Court: Broadly, if your disposable annual income is under £37,500, you remain eligible. If it’s very low, you won’t have to contribute at all.

Passporting benefits: You automatically get legal aid if you’re under 18 or on certain benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, or Pension Guarantee Credit.

Pros of Legal Aid:

• Low or no cost for those eligible.
• Access to trained and accredited solicitors and counsel.
• Formal funding structure and standards in place.

Cons:

• Strict eligibility— some are excluded due to financial cut-offs especially in the magistrates court.
• The means test hasn’t kept pace with inflation, cutting more people off.
• Fewer legal aid providers in some areas, and low fees can drive lawyers away from taking cases.

Private Solicitors: What to Consider

Pros of hiring privately:

• More solicitor choice and flexibility.
• Often more time and tailored attention, especially for complex cases.

Cons to watch out for:

• Cost can be very high—some private criminal defence can cost thousands.
• Without proper checks, poor service or overcharging is possible. There was the Glanville Davies case, where a solicitor was fined thousands for inflated fees and misconduct.

How Legal Aid Actually Works — In Practice

• The LAA processes most criminal legal aid applications within 2 days.
• During the application, your income, savings, savings from benefits, you and your partner’s situation, plus any children or dependents, are factored in.
• If you don’t qualify, you can request a hardship review—they may reconsider based on essential expenses or costs of the case.
• Certain areas, like advice at the police station or child protection cases, may be non-means tested—meaning legal aid is available regardless of income.

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Spotting a Poor or Ineffective Solicitor

Your solicitor should help you feel informed, stretched if needed, and confident. But poor representation can mean actual consequences—even wrongful convictions.

Signs of inadequate representation:

• Poor preparation or missing key witnesses (e.g., a solicitor failing to instruct a crucial alibi witness led to a CCRC referral and overturned conviction).
• Late notice to counsel, insufficient pre-trial work, or failure to review police evidence properly.
• If a solicitor ignores core issues or doesn’t explain your options.

Legally, to overturn a conviction, you must prove:

1. The performance was deficient (seriously below standard), and
2. This directly caused a miscarriage of justice.

It’s rare for poor representation alone to succeed as a ground for appeal unless it fundamentally undermined the trial’s fairness

If you need some help identifying solicitors that can help then contact us below.

What Happens When You Plead Guilty

Pleading guilty means you accept responsibility for the offence. There’s no trial—your case moves straight to sentencing. That might be a fine, community order, or imprisonment depending on the offence’s seriousness.

The big trade-off:

• Sentence reduction. You could get up to one-third off your sentence for an early guilty plea. The earlier it is entered, the bigger the discount. If you plead guilty only on the day of trial, reductions are as low as 10%.
• Practical relief. Especially if you’re on remand, a guilty plea can mean immediate release based on time served. That has become more common as court delays force people to spend much longer behind bars unnecessarily.

But rushing to plead guilty can have deep consequences—emotionally, legally, and ethically.

What Happens When You Plead Not Guilty

Pleading not guilty means your case will go to trial, and the court must find you guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

The benefits:

• Defending your innocence. If there’s a chance you didn’t commit the offence or have a defence, you can challenge evidence and push for acquittal.

The risks:

• If convicted, you may face a harsher sentence than if you had pleaded guilty early, because you lose out on the reduction.
• Court delays and uncertainty. Trials can be pushed back for months or years—delays that damage family life, stability, and mental health.

Real Pressures on the System

Lengthy trials, backlogs, and remand overcrowding have led many people—sometimes even innocent—to plead guilty just to escape prison. Some remand prisoners have been told they will be released immediately if they plead guilty, even if evidence is weak. This creates a system that unwittingly makes guilty pleas seem like the easiest path.

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Can You Change Your Plea?

Yes—sometimes.

From Not Guilty to Guilty

Easy enough. You can change your plea to guilty at any point before the verdict. Judges typically allow it, and you may still receive some sentence reduction, depending on timing.

From Guilty to Not Guilty

This is harder—but possible in certain circumstances:

• The court has judicial discretion to allow a plea withdrawal before sentencing, especially if:
  • The plea was equivocal (uncertain, e.g., “Guilty, but…”)
  • You can point to undue pressure or poor legal advice at the time
  • There’s a serious procedural unfairness or new evidence emerges

However, the court treats such requests cautiously. The application must be made promptly and in writing, clearly explaining why keeping the guilty plea would be unjust. You’ll need legal support to make a strong case.

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Compare Your Options

Plea	What It Means	Benefits	Risks
Guilty	Admit offence, go to sentencing	Sentence reduction; quicker release / lower punishment if not prison	Permanent record; loss of trial chance; emotional burden
Not Guilty	Contest the case, proceed to trial	Chance of acquittal; defend rights	Heavier sentence if convicted; long waits; uncertainty
Change Plea	Switch decisions based on counsel/advice	Flexibility if early	Hard to reverse plea; may need court’s say-so

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Choosing your plea is one of the most serious decisions you’ll make in the process. It affects your freedom, your record, and your mental wellbeing—and indirectly affects your family and supporters too. You don’t have to face it alone. Getting specialist legal advice early is vital—they can help you understand your odds, the evidence, and what life on remand could look like while you’re waiting.

Addressing False Allegations Being accused of something you didn’t do can turn your world upside down. Even if you’re later cleared, the stress, uncertainty, and damage to your reputation can linger long after the legal process ends. It’s an incredibly isolating experience — but you are not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself, rebuild trust, and move forward. Understanding the Process When a false allegation is made, the police have a legal duty to investigate. That can mean arrest, interview, and potentially even charges, even when the evidence seems weak. It can be frightening and frustrating, especially if you know you’ve done nothing wrong. Throughout this stage, it’s crucial to: Get proper legal advice early — ideally from a solicitor experienced in these kinds of cases Keep a clear, accurate timeline of events, messages, and evidence Avoid direct contact with the complainant, as this can complicate matters False allegations cases can drag on for months, sometimes years, and the uncertainty is often the hardest part. Knowing your rights and working closely with your legal team can help you navigate the process more confidently. What Happens if You’re NFA’d or Acquitted An NFA (No Further Action) decision or an acquittal at trial should bring closure, but many find that life doesn’t simply return to “normal.” People may still have doubts. Rumours may linger. Employers, schools, or community groups may still need reassurance. This can be painful, but there are steps you can take: Ask the police for written confirmation of the NFA or acquittal — this can help with employment or housing issues Consider requesting your custody records or full case file to keep for future reference Focus on rebuilding your personal and professional reputation gradually, starting with people you trust Reporting a False Allegation It’s natural to want justice if you’ve been wrongly accused, but it’s important to understand that prosecutions for making false allegations are rare. The CPS is cautious about pursuing these cases because of concerns about discouraging genuine victims from coming forward. To succeed, there usually needs to be clear evidence that the allegation was knowingly false — not just mistaken, exaggerated, or unsupported. If you want to explore this route, speak to your solicitor first. They can advise on the chances of success and whether a formal complaint to the police or the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) might be appropriate. Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward Whether or not the system gives you the outcome you hoped for, the work of rebuilding often falls on you and those closest to you. That might mean repairing relationships, focusing on your mental health, and connecting with people who understand what you’ve been through. Trusted friends, family, and peer-support spaces — like those linked through the CJS Hub — can be invaluable here. Rebuilding takes time, but it is possible. False allegations can feel devastating, but they don’t have to define the rest of your life. By understanding the process, seeking the right support, and taking steps to restore your confidence and reputation, you can start moving forward again. If you need help navigating your next steps, the CJS Hub is here with resources, guides, and connections to specialist services.

Every criminal case in England and Wales starts at a Magistrates’ Court. Even the most serious offences begin there — though not all will stay there.

• Summary Offences (like minor assaults or motoring offences) are dealt with entirely here.
• Either-way Offences (such as theft or assault causing actual bodily harm) can go to a Crown Court. Magistrates will hold a Plea Before Venue hearing to decide where the case should be heard, unless the defence asks for a jury trial in Crown Court.
• Indictable Only Offences (e.g. murder or serious sexual offences) automatically go to Crown Court — magistrates handle preliminary checks, like bail decisions, before transferring the case.

At your first hearing, the process is typically:

1. The court clerk will ask for your name and address to confirm your identity.
2. Magistrates will read out the charges. You’ll be asked to plead guilty or not guilty — if you’re ready. Otherwise, the plea can be adjourned.

Plea, Venue & Next Steps

• For guilty pleas to summary offences, the court may sentence you immediately — or delay if more information (like a pre-sentence report) is needed.
• For not guilty pleas, the court sets a trial date.
• At the Plea Before Venue hearing for either-way offences, the Crown Prosecution Service and your defence solicitor each make their case about whether the Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court should handle your case.
• Indictable only offences always go to Crown Court, and the Magistrates’ Court handles bail or remand while transferring your case.

Venue Explained

Understanding where your case proceeds is crucial — especially because long delays and remand pressures are an ongoing crisis in the justice system. In particularly overloaded areas, some bail defendants wait years before trial, with severe consequences.

Bail Applications — What You Need to Know

Every time you appear in court, bail is revisited:

• If you’re eligible, unconditional or conditional bail may be granted — open or with restrictions to ensure you:
  • Return to court
  • Don’t re-offend or tamper with evidence
  • Remain available for proceedings or inquiries
• Under the Bail Act 1976 and PACE 1984, bail is presumed unless there’s a risk. However, there are serious offences (like certain sexual crimes) with a strong presumption against bail.
• If bail is refused, the court must explain why.
• If you’re refused bail, legal advice is even more important — and in some cases, you may have the right to appeal that decision.

Due to resource constraints, courts have had to delay bail hearings, keeping some people in police custody longer than they should — this situation continues to put pressure on everyone involved.

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How to Prepare for Your First Court Hearing

1. Bring ID and any papers about your charges.
2. Ask your legal representative what type of offences you’re charged with and where your case is likely to be heard.
3. Be clear on whether your case is summary, either-way, or indictable only — it affects your plea, venue, and timing.
4. Discuss bail conditions with your solicitor and whether you’re likely to be released or remanded.
5. If supporting someone, organise practical things like transport, childcare, and paperwork well ahead.

Why Preparation Matters

Facing trial is daunting. It can feel like your whole life is on hold while everyone else decides what happens next. While your legal team handles the paperwork, evidence, and arguments, there’s still plenty you can do to stay informed, organised, and ready.

Preparation isn’t about replacing your solicitor — it’s about making sure you understand what’s happening, know what’s coming next, and can support your defence in the best way possible.

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Understanding What’s Ahead

Your trial will follow a structure, and knowing the basics helps reduce some of the fear:

• The prosecution will present their case first.
• Your defence team will challenge their evidence and present yours.
• Witnesses may be called and cross-examined.
• The magistrates or jury will decide if you’re guilty or not guilty.

Your solicitor or barrister will explain the details relevant to your case, but having a rough idea of the process can make things less overwhelming.

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What You Can Do to Prepare

1. Stay Organised

• Keep every document you receive — charge sheets, bail conditions, letters from your solicitor or the court.
• Use a simple folder or binder and keep copies of everything in order.
• Make a note of important dates, deadlines, and hearing times.

Even small slips — like missing a court date — can cause serious problems, so staying organised really helps.

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2. Be Honest and Thorough with Your Legal Team

Your solicitor can only build a strong defence if they know everything. Even if something feels embarrassing, irrelevant, or damaging, tell them. Surprises in court rarely go well, and your team can’t defend what they don’t know about.

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3. Think About Witnesses and Evidence

You don’t have to collect statements or prepare bundles — your legal team will handle that — but you can:

• Make a list of anyone who was there, saw, or heard something relevant.
• Pass on names, phone numbers, and what they might know to your solicitor.
• Flag any texts, emails, or social media messages you think matter. Don’t delete anything.

Your job isn’t to analyse evidence; it’s to make sure your solicitor has all the information they need.

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4. Prepare Yourself Mentally

Trials can be draining. The process is slow, the days are long, and you’ll likely hear things said about you that are upsetting or unfair.

• Get plenty of rest beforehand if you can.
• Bring water and snacks if allowed — trials can run all day.
• Have someone you trust to talk to afterwards — family, friends, or a support group.
• Consider accessing mental health support; the stress of waiting can take a real toll.

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5. Support Your Family and Let Them Support You

If you have children, a partner, or family relying on you, talk to them early about what’s coming. Trials affect everyone — not just the defendant — and having a plan for childcare, bills, and emotional support can make a big difference.

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Common Worries — And What to Do About Them

“I feel like I’m not getting updates.”
It’s okay to check in with your solicitor and ask for a clear breakdown of where things stand.

“I don’t understand what’s happening in court.”
Ask your legal team to explain things in plain English. They’re used to jargon — you’re not.

“I’m worried about what to say if I’m called to give evidence.”
Your solicitor or barrister will explain exactly what’s expected and prepare you before you step into the witness box.

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Quick Checklist for Defendants

• Keep all paperwork safe and organised.
• Share every detail and document with your solicitor.
• Write down witness names and pass them on — don’t contact witnesses yourself.
• Note down all court dates and deadlines.
• Prepare emotionally — trials can be long and stressful.
• Talk openly with family and supporters.
• Ask questions until you understand what’s happening.

Understanding Your Charges

How Charges Are Issued

When the police or prosecutors decide there’s enough evidence, a formal charge can be issued in one of three ways:

1. Custody Charge
   If the police have you in custody, a Custody Officer decides whether there’s enough evidence to press charges. If so, you’ll be charged and either released—possibly on police bail or “Released Under Investigation (RUI)”—or kept in custody until your court appearance. Detention must be reviewed regularly and can last up to 96 hours in most cases.
2. Postal Requisition (Postal Charge)
   If you’re not arrested, a Postal Requisition (also called a postal charge) may be sent—especially if you were interviewed under caution or released under investigation. It’s a legal document telling you to appear at a Magistrates’ Court on a specified date. Never ignore one—failing to attend can lead to an arrest warrant.
3. Court Charge—Typically via Solicitor or CPS
   In some cases, particularly more serious ones, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) steps in. Prosecutors apply a full test: (1) is there a realistic prospect of conviction, and (2) is prosecution in the public interest? If not, they may decline to charge or offer an alternative, like a caution.

Once the decision to charge is made, the CPS or police sets your first court date—within days or weeks, depending on how serious the case is and whether you’re in custody or on bail.

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Reading the Charge Sheet

A charge sheet is the document that officially records what you’re being accused of. It should clearly state:

• The offence(s) you’re charged with,
• Where and when the alleged offence happened,
• What laws you’re accused of breaking.

This is your first real window into what you’re facing.

Take it seriously—get legal advice, check the details, and clarify anything you don’t understand.

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What Happens Next—and Who You’ll See First

All criminal cases in England and Wales start in the Magistrates’ Court, even if they eventually go to Crown Court. If it’s a minor offence, the trial may stay here. If it’s more serious—or deemed too complex—the Magistrates will send it up to Crown Court.
Wikipedia

At your first hearing, called a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH), the court clerk will read your charges out loud (called an “indictment”) and ask whether you plead guilty or not guilty.
cps.gov.uk

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What You Can Do Next

• Understand the type of charge—custody, postal, or court-based—and whether it means you’re already in custody or not.
• Read the charge sheet carefully. It defines the case.
• Know where your case starts—most will begin in Magistrates’ Court.
• Seek legal help early. It makes a real difference to how your case is handled.
• Don’t ignore any notifications—especially postal charges.

Supporting Someone During Court Proceedings

When someone you care about is facing court, it’s natural to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to expect. Courtrooms can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve never set foot in one before. You’re there to support them, but you might also be juggling your own fears, confusion, and frustration.

This page is here to guide you through the process — from understanding what’s likely to happen on the day to preparing yourself emotionally and practically so you can be the strongest support possible.

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Understanding the Court Journey

Every case is different, but once someone has been charged, the process generally starts in the magistrates’ court, even for more serious offences. The first appearance often feels rushed, but important things can happen: bail decisions, plea entry, or setting the next hearing date.

After that, the case may stay in magistrates’ or move to the Crown Court if it’s more serious. Crown Court hearings involve judges, barristers, juries, and can stretch over weeks or even months. For families and friends, it can feel like a constant cycle of waiting, worrying, and reacting — especially when hearings are adjourned or decisions get delayed.

Knowing roughly where your loved one’s case sits in the process can make the experience feel less overwhelming.

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How You Can Help Before the Hearing

Practical preparation goes a long way. Being organised and calm can make the day less stressful for both you and the person facing court. Make sure you know where the court is, what time to arrive, and whether there are any documents or forms your loved one needs to bring. If bail conditions apply, double-check they aren’t breached — arriving early or going somewhere restricted can cause problems.

It can also help to talk things through in advance. Discuss whether they want you in the courtroom, where you’ll sit, and how you can best support them on the day. Sometimes just knowing you’ll be there in the building makes a massive difference.

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What to Expect on the Day

Courts can feel tense and confusing. Security checks happen at the entrance, and once you’re inside, the environment can be busy and noisy. You might have long periods of waiting, especially if there are delays in the list.

Inside the courtroom, proceedings are formal, but you don’t need to understand every word — your presence alone can be a powerful source of comfort. Some supporters sit quietly in the gallery; others wait outside if that feels less overwhelming for the person on trial. Both are fine — what matters is showing them they’re not alone.

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Emotional Support Through the Process

Watching someone you care about stand in court can be exhausting. You may hear things said about them — or about events — that are upsetting or hard to listen to. You may feel angry at the system, frustrated by delays, or helpless when you want answers you don’t have. These reactions are completely normal.

Be gentle with yourself as well as with them. Lean on friends, family, or peer support groups if you need to talk it through. Supporting someone through court isn’t just about showing up physically — it’s about managing your own emotional energy so you can keep being there when it matters most.

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After the Hearing

Court outcomes vary. Sometimes your loved one will leave with relief; other times, the process will move forward and there’ll be another hearing to prepare for. Decisions about bail, trial dates, or sentencing can have a massive impact on everyone involved.

Whatever happens, try to focus on what comes next rather than everything at once. Each stage has its own challenges, and getting clear, steady information can make those challenges easier to handle.

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Supporting someone through court is one of the hardest things you can do. It demands patience, resilience, and emotional strength — but it also makes a real difference. Simply being there, understanding the process, and helping with the practicalities can help your loved one feel less alone in one of the most stressful periods of their life.

And remember, your well-being matters too. The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guidance, and community for anyone navigating the court system — whether you’re the one in the dock or the one standing by their side.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

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Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

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Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

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Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

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Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

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Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

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Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

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Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

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How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

When someone is arrested in England and Wales, it unfolds through a number of distinct stages—each one governed by law and designed to protect both your rights and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

1. Grounds for Arrest
A police officer can arrest you without a warrant if they reasonably suspect it’s necessary—for example, if you’ve committed or are about to commit an offence, or to confirm your identity or prevent harm or interference with evidence. These powers are laid out in Section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

2. Informing You of the Arrest
Once arrested, the officer must inform you that you are being arrested, as soon as is reasonably practicable. They must also explain the grounds of the arrest—like referencing the suspected offence.

3. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody
You’ll be taken to a police station where a custody officer takes over. They record and may seize any items you have—if they believe those items may pose a risk or are relevant evidence.

4. Being Questioned and Your Rights
You have the right to legal advice, and to remain silent—there’s no obligation to answer questions. If you’re under 18 or considered vulnerable, an “appropriate adult” must be present to help safeguard your rights and welfare.

5. Detention Time Limits
There are strict time limits during which the police can lawfully hold you before charging or releasing you. These timeframes are set under PACE and follow-up legislation—they’re designed to prevent indefinite detention without charge.

6. Charging, Bail, or Release
Once in custody, police will decide with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) whether to charge you. For serious offences, charging decisions rest with the CPS; for less serious ones, police can proceed without CPS input. You may then be released on bail with conditions or kept in custody until your first court hearing.

When someone is arrested in England and Wales, it unfolds through a number of distinct stages—each one governed by law and designed to protect both your rights and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

1. Grounds for Arrest
A police officer can arrest you without a warrant if they reasonably suspect it’s necessary—for example, if you’ve committed or are about to commit an offence, or to confirm your identity or prevent harm or interference with evidence. These powers are laid out in Section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

2. Informing You of the Arrest
Once arrested, the officer must inform you that you are being arrested, as soon as is reasonably practicable. They must also explain the grounds of the arrest—like referencing the suspected offence.

3. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody
You’ll be taken to a police station where a custody officer takes over. They record and may seize any items you have—if they believe those items may pose a risk or are relevant evidence.

4. Being Questioned and Your Rights
You have the right to legal advice, and to remain silent—there’s no obligation to answer questions. If you’re under 18 or considered vulnerable, an “appropriate adult” must be present to help safeguard your rights and welfare.

5. Detention Time Limits
There are strict time limits during which the police can lawfully hold you before charging or releasing you. These timeframes are set under PACE and follow-up legislation—they’re designed to prevent indefinite detention without charge.

6. Charging, Bail, or Release
Once in custody, police will decide with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) whether to charge you. For serious offences, charging decisions rest with the CPS; for less serious ones, police can proceed without CPS input. You may then be released on bail with conditions or kept in custody until your first court hearing.

Post‑Arrest Procedures

Explore what happens after arrest, including interviews, charges, and court appearances.

1. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody

Once you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station. There, a custody officer assesses whether there’s enough evidence to charge you or whether you should be held any longer. Right from the start, you must be informed of your rights—including the right to inform someone you’re being held and to consult a solicitor—and these must be recorded in your custody documents.

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2. Interview & Right to Legal Advice

Interviews are governed by PACE Code C, which protects your right to legal advice before questioning. You must be cautioned, and your solicitor (or duty solicitor) should be present. If you’re a child or vulnerable, an appropriate adult must also be involved.

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3. Length of Detention

From the moment you’re arrested or arrive at the station—whichever is earlier—the clock starts ticking on how long police can lawfully detain you without charging. The basic limit is 24 hours, but extensions are possible up to 36 or 96 hours, depending on the severity of the offence and authorisation level.

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4. Decision: Charge, No Further Action & Other Outcomes

After interviews and investigation, one of several things can happen:

• No Further Action (NFA): If there’s insufficient evidence, the police may release you without charge and take no further action.
• Charge: You may be formally charged, in which case you’ll be classified as a defendant.
• Alternative Outcomes: Sometimes, you might be offered a caution, fixed penalty, or diversion, depending on the offence and circumstances.

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5. After Charging: Court Appearance

If you’re charged, the police will let you know whether you’ll be released with bail or held in custody until you’re brought before a court.

Your first court hearing will always be at Magistrates’ Court, even if the case is later transferred to Crown Court for serious matters.

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6. Magistrates’ Court: What Happens Next

At the first appearance in Magistrates’ Court, the court will:

• Confirm your identity and the charges;
• Ask if you plead guilty or not guilty;
• Decide whether you should be released on bail, remanded in custody, or proceed under conditional release.

If the case is serious enough, it may stay in or transfer to Crown Court. For less serious matters, the court may deal with or conclude the case itself.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

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Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Post-Charge Court Bail	Released after charge while awaiting court	Set by court, conditions may apply

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Court Bail ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Addressing False Allegations Being accused of something you didn’t do can turn your world upside down. Even if you’re later cleared, the stress, uncertainty, and damage to your reputation can linger long after the legal process ends. It’s an incredibly isolating experience — but you are not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself, rebuild trust, and move forward. Understanding the Process When a false allegation is made, the police have a legal duty to investigate. That can mean arrest, interview, and potentially even charges, even when the evidence seems weak. It can be frightening and frustrating, especially if you know you’ve done nothing wrong. Throughout this stage, it’s crucial to: Get proper legal advice early — ideally from a solicitor experienced in these kinds of cases Keep a clear, accurate timeline of events, messages, and evidence Avoid direct contact with the complainant, as this can complicate matters False allegations cases can drag on for months, sometimes years, and the uncertainty is often the hardest part. Knowing your rights and working closely with your legal team can help you navigate the process more confidently. What Happens if You’re NFA’d or Acquitted An NFA (No Further Action) decision or an acquittal at trial should bring closure, but many find that life doesn’t simply return to “normal.” People may still have doubts. Rumours may linger. Employers, schools, or community groups may still need reassurance. This can be painful, but there are steps you can take: Ask the police for written confirmation of the NFA or acquittal — this can help with employment or housing issues Consider requesting your custody records or full case file to keep for future reference Focus on rebuilding your personal and professional reputation gradually, starting with people you trust Reporting a False Allegation It’s natural to want justice if you’ve been wrongly accused, but it’s important to understand that prosecutions for making false allegations are rare. The CPS is cautious about pursuing these cases because of concerns about discouraging genuine victims from coming forward. To succeed, there usually needs to be clear evidence that the allegation was knowingly false — not just mistaken, exaggerated, or unsupported. If you want to explore this route, speak to your solicitor first. They can advise on the chances of success and whether a formal complaint to the police or the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) might be appropriate. Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward Whether or not the system gives you the outcome you hoped for, the work of rebuilding often falls on you and those closest to you. That might mean repairing relationships, focusing on your mental health, and connecting with people who understand what you’ve been through. Trusted friends, family, and peer-support spaces — like those linked through the CJS Hub — can be invaluable here. Rebuilding takes time, but it is possible. False allegations can feel devastating, but they don’t have to define the rest of your life. By understanding the process, seeking the right support, and taking steps to restore your confidence and reputation, you can start moving forward again. If you need help navigating your next steps, the CJS Hub is here with resources, guides, and connections to specialist services.

Understanding Your Charges

How Charges Are Issued

When the police or prosecutors decide there’s enough evidence, a formal charge can be issued in one of three ways:

1. Custody Charge
   If the police have you in custody, a Custody Officer decides whether there’s enough evidence to press charges. If so, you’ll be charged and either released—possibly on police bail or “Released Under Investigation (RUI)”—or kept in custody until your court appearance. Detention must be reviewed regularly and can last up to 96 hours in most cases.
2. Postal Requisition (Postal Charge)
   If you’re not arrested, a Postal Requisition (also called a postal charge) may be sent—especially if you were interviewed under caution or released under investigation. It’s a legal document telling you to appear at a Magistrates’ Court on a specified date. Never ignore one—failing to attend can lead to an arrest warrant.
3. Court Charge—Typically via Solicitor or CPS
   In some cases, particularly more serious ones, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) steps in. Prosecutors apply a full test: (1) is there a realistic prospect of conviction, and (2) is prosecution in the public interest? If not, they may decline to charge or offer an alternative, like a caution.

Once the decision to charge is made, the CPS or police sets your first court date—within days or weeks, depending on how serious the case is and whether you’re in custody or on bail.

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Reading the Charge Sheet

A charge sheet is the document that officially records what you’re being accused of. It should clearly state:

• The offence(s) you’re charged with,
• Where and when the alleged offence happened,
• What laws you’re accused of breaking.

This is your first real window into what you’re facing.

Take it seriously—get legal advice, check the details, and clarify anything you don’t understand.

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What Happens Next—and Who You’ll See First

All criminal cases in England and Wales start in the Magistrates’ Court, even if they eventually go to Crown Court. If it’s a minor offence, the trial may stay here. If it’s more serious—or deemed too complex—the Magistrates will send it up to Crown Court.
Wikipedia

At your first hearing, called a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH), the court clerk will read your charges out loud (called an “indictment”) and ask whether you plead guilty or not guilty.
cps.gov.uk

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What You Can Do Next

• Understand the type of charge—custody, postal, or court-based—and whether it means you’re already in custody or not.
• Read the charge sheet carefully. It defines the case.
• Know where your case starts—most will begin in Magistrates’ Court.
• Seek legal help early. It makes a real difference to how your case is handled.
• Don’t ignore any notifications—especially postal charges.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Being arrested, questioned, or charged can feel overwhelming, and the choices you make early on can have lasting consequences. Having the right legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest advice at every stage of the process.

A good solicitor will guide you through what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and make sure the police and prosecution follow proper procedure. Without specialist advice, people often make avoidable mistakes — especially in interviews or when making key decisions.

Free Legal Advice at the Police Station

Everyone in England and Wales has the right to free legal advice at the police station. This applies whether you’ve been arrested or are attending voluntarily. You should always ask for a solicitor before answering questions.

If you haven’t arranged your own, the police will provide access to a duty solicitor at no cost. They are independent of the police and there to protect your rights. However, duty solicitors often cover several clients at once and may only become involved just before your interview.

For many people, arranging your own solicitor provides more continuity, personal attention, and the chance to work with someone who already knows your case from the outset.

After Being Charged

If you’re charged with an offence, you’ll usually have access to means‑tested legal aid. This applies whether your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

Even if you qualify for legal aid, you are not limited to the solicitor provided by the duty rota — you can choose your own representation. Some people still choose to fund representation privately at this stage because it can provide additional flexibility, resources, and faster access to senior lawyers or barristers.

Benefits of Private Representation

Private legal representation isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can offer several advantages, particularly in complex or serious cases:

• Time and Focus – Privately funded solicitors often manage smaller caseloads, meaning more time is available to focus on your case.
• Choice of Representation – You can choose a solicitor or firm with proven expertise in cases like yours rather than relying on whoever is available on the day.
• Continuity – You’re more likely to have the same solicitor involved throughout the process, from initial advice to trial preparation.
• Access to Expertise – Private funding gives greater flexibility to instruct highly experienced barristers, independent experts, and investigators where needed.
• Responsive Support – Without the constraints of legal aid budgets, private solicitors can often act more quickly when new developments arise.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Selecting the right solicitor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. When deciding who to instruct, consider:

• Specialism – Do they focus on criminal defence work?
• Experience – Have they handled cases similar to yours?
• Reputation – Are they known for being thorough, proactive, and approachable?
• Resources – Do they have access to skilled barristers, experts, and investigators if your case needs them?

At The CJS Hub, we work alongside reputable firms who understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and provide high‑quality representation when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for a solicitor as soon as possible — ideally before answering any police questions.
• Free legal advice is available to everyone at the police station, regardless of your financial situation.
• After being charged, legal aid may be available, but you can still choose your own solicitor.
• Private representation can offer added focus, faster response times, and more flexibility — particularly useful for complex or high‑stakes cases.
• Choosing a solicitor with the right experience and resources can make a significant difference to how your case is handled.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Being arrested, questioned, or charged can feel overwhelming, and the choices you make early on can have lasting consequences. Having the right legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you receive the strongest advice at every stage of the process.

A good solicitor will guide you through what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and make sure the police and prosecution follow proper procedure. Without specialist advice, people often make avoidable mistakes — especially in interviews or when making key decisions.

Free Legal Advice at the Police Station

Everyone in England and Wales has the right to free legal advice at the police station. This applies whether you’ve been arrested or are attending voluntarily. You should always ask for a solicitor before answering questions.

If you haven’t arranged your own, the police will provide access to a duty solicitor at no cost. They are independent of the police and there to protect your rights. However, duty solicitors often cover several clients at once and may only become involved just before your interview.

For many people, arranging your own solicitor provides more continuity, personal attention, and the chance to work with someone who already knows your case from the outset.

After Being Charged

If you’re charged with an offence, you’ll usually have access to means‑tested legal aid. This applies whether your case goes to the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.

Even if you qualify for legal aid, you are not limited to the solicitor provided by the duty rota — you can choose your own representation. Some people still choose to fund representation privately at this stage because it can provide additional flexibility, resources, and faster access to senior lawyers or barristers.

Benefits of Private Representation

Private legal representation isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can offer several advantages, particularly in complex or serious cases:

• Time and Focus – Privately funded solicitors often manage smaller caseloads, meaning more time is available to focus on your case.
• Choice of Representation – You can choose a solicitor or firm with proven expertise in cases like yours rather than relying on whoever is available on the day.
• Continuity – You’re more likely to have the same solicitor involved throughout the process, from initial advice to trial preparation.
• Access to Expertise – Private funding gives greater flexibility to instruct highly experienced barristers, independent experts, and investigators where needed.
• Responsive Support – Without the constraints of legal aid budgets, private solicitors can often act more quickly when new developments arise.

Choosing the Right Solicitor

Selecting the right solicitor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. When deciding who to instruct, consider:

• Specialism – Do they focus on criminal defence work?
• Experience – Have they handled cases similar to yours?
• Reputation – Are they known for being thorough, proactive, and approachable?
• Resources – Do they have access to skilled barristers, experts, and investigators if your case needs them?

At The CJS Hub, we work alongside reputable firms who understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and provide high‑quality representation when it matters most.

Key Takeaways

• Always ask for a solicitor as soon as possible — ideally before answering any police questions.
• Free legal advice is available to everyone at the police station, regardless of your financial situation.
• After being charged, legal aid may be available, but you can still choose your own solicitor.
• Private representation can offer added focus, faster response times, and more flexibility — particularly useful for complex or high‑stakes cases.
• Choosing a solicitor with the right experience and resources can make a significant difference to how your case is handled.

Being acquitted or receiving a No Further Action (NFA) decision should feel like the end of the nightmare — the moment when everything returns to normal. But for many, that’s not how it feels. Instead of instant relief, there can be exhaustion, anxiety, anger, and a deep sense of loss for the time, trust, and relationships damaged along the way.

This stage is rarely talked about, yet it’s one of the hardest to navigate. The legal process ends, but the emotional fallout often doesn’t. Understanding what’s normal, and where to find support, can make a huge difference.

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Why Relief Isn’t Always Immediate

Spending months — sometimes years — under investigation or facing trial takes a toll on your mental health. By the time you’re cleared, your body and mind are often burned out. You’ve likely been living in survival mode, constantly bracing for the worst. When the case finally ends, it’s common to feel numb rather than overjoyed.

That’s because while the system has moved on, you’re still processing the damage — sleepless nights, reputational harm, strained relationships, and the disruption to work, finances, and family life. None of that disappears overnight, and it’s okay to feel frustrated that “getting cleared” doesn’t magically fix everything.

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Common Feelings After Acquittal or NFA

Everyone reacts differently, but there are some emotional themes we hear time and again:

• Exhaustion and burnout — months of adrenaline finally catch up with you
• Anxiety about the future — worrying if people still believe the allegation
• Anger and resentment — at the police, the accuser, or the system itself
• Isolation — friends or family may have stepped back during the process
• Loss of identity — especially if your job, hobbies, or relationships were affected

These reactions are natural. They don’t mean you’re “not coping” — they’re part of adjusting to life after prolonged stress and uncertainty.

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Rebuilding Your Confidence

When your name has been tied to an allegation, even unfairly, it can affect how you see yourself. Rebuilding confidence takes time, and small steps are important. Some people start by reconnecting with trusted friends and family; others find value in speaking with peer support groups, charities, or counsellors who understand the emotional impact of being accused.

If your case was highly public or affected your job, you may also need practical help managing stigma. Learning how to disclose what happened — and when to stay silent — can make a huge difference to how you move forward.

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Looking After Your Mental Health

The end of the case isn’t the end of the journey. Some people experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or even PTSD after their legal process ends. If you notice flashbacks, panic attacks, or prolonged low mood, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to handle it without help.

You can:

• Ask your GP for a referral to talking therapies or counselling
• Access local NHS mental health teams
• Reach out to organisations like Mind, Samaritans, or the CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub for support
• Consider peer support spaces where you can talk to others who’ve been through the same thing

Asking for help isn’t weakness — it’s part of taking control of your recovery.

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For Families and Supporters

The emotional aftermath affects loved ones too. Parents, partners, and friends often carry their own stress, guilt, and anger after standing by someone accused of a crime. Communication matters here: being open about what you’re struggling with, while respecting each other’s coping styles, helps avoid misunderstandings that can deepen divides.

Supporters may also need their own spaces to talk — whether that’s peer groups, counselling, or connecting with others who’ve walked the same path.

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Final Thoughts

An acquittal or NFA may close the legal chapter, but it doesn’t close the emotional one overnight. You’ve been through something extraordinary, and healing takes time. Surrounding yourself with the right people, seeking out support when you need it, and accepting that recovery is a process — not a switch — can help you start rebuilding.

The CJS Hub is here to offer guidance, resources, and understanding — for you and for those around you.

Post‑Arrest Procedures

Explore what happens after arrest, including interviews, charges, and court appearances.

1. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody

Once you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station. There, a custody officer assesses whether there’s enough evidence to charge you or whether you should be held any longer. Right from the start, you must be informed of your rights—including the right to inform someone you’re being held and to consult a solicitor—and these must be recorded in your custody documents.

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2. Interview & Right to Legal Advice

Interviews are governed by PACE Code C, which protects your right to legal advice before questioning. You must be cautioned, and your solicitor (or duty solicitor) should be present. If you’re a child or vulnerable, an appropriate adult must also be involved.

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3. Length of Detention

From the moment you’re arrested or arrive at the station—whichever is earlier—the clock starts ticking on how long police can lawfully detain you without charging. The basic limit is 24 hours, but extensions are possible up to 36 or 96 hours, depending on the severity of the offence and authorisation level.

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4. Decision: Charge, No Further Action & Other Outcomes

After interviews and investigation, one of several things can happen:

• No Further Action (NFA): If there’s insufficient evidence, the police may release you without charge and take no further action.
• Charge: You may be formally charged, in which case you’ll be classified as a defendant.
• Alternative Outcomes: Sometimes, you might be offered a caution, fixed penalty, or diversion, depending on the offence and circumstances.

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5. After Charging: Court Appearance

If you’re charged, the police will let you know whether you’ll be released with bail or held in custody until you’re brought before a court.

Your first court hearing will always be at Magistrates’ Court, even if the case is later transferred to Crown Court for serious matters.

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6. Magistrates’ Court: What Happens Next

At the first appearance in Magistrates’ Court, the court will:

• Confirm your identity and the charges;
• Ask if you plead guilty or not guilty;
• Decide whether you should be released on bail, remanded in custody, or proceed under conditional release.

If the case is serious enough, it may stay in or transfer to Crown Court. For less serious matters, the court may deal with or conclude the case itself.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

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Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

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Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

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Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

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Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

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You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

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Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

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Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

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Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

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When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

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An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

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Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

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Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

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Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

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Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

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Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

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Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

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Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

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Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

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Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

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Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

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Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

When someone is arrested in England and Wales, it unfolds through a number of distinct stages—each one governed by law and designed to protect both your rights and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

1. Grounds for Arrest
A police officer can arrest you without a warrant if they reasonably suspect it’s necessary—for example, if you’ve committed or are about to commit an offence, or to confirm your identity or prevent harm or interference with evidence. These powers are laid out in Section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

2. Informing You of the Arrest
Once arrested, the officer must inform you that you are being arrested, as soon as is reasonably practicable. They must also explain the grounds of the arrest—like referencing the suspected offence.

3. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody
You’ll be taken to a police station where a custody officer takes over. They record and may seize any items you have—if they believe those items may pose a risk or are relevant evidence.

4. Being Questioned and Your Rights
You have the right to legal advice, and to remain silent—there’s no obligation to answer questions. If you’re under 18 or considered vulnerable, an “appropriate adult” must be present to help safeguard your rights and welfare.

5. Detention Time Limits
There are strict time limits during which the police can lawfully hold you before charging or releasing you. These timeframes are set under PACE and follow-up legislation—they’re designed to prevent indefinite detention without charge.

6. Charging, Bail, or Release
Once in custody, police will decide with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) whether to charge you. For serious offences, charging decisions rest with the CPS; for less serious ones, police can proceed without CPS input. You may then be released on bail with conditions or kept in custody until your first court hearing.

When someone is arrested in England and Wales, it unfolds through a number of distinct stages—each one governed by law and designed to protect both your rights and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

1. Grounds for Arrest
A police officer can arrest you without a warrant if they reasonably suspect it’s necessary—for example, if you’ve committed or are about to commit an offence, or to confirm your identity or prevent harm or interference with evidence. These powers are laid out in Section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

2. Informing You of the Arrest
Once arrested, the officer must inform you that you are being arrested, as soon as is reasonably practicable. They must also explain the grounds of the arrest—like referencing the suspected offence.

3. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody
You’ll be taken to a police station where a custody officer takes over. They record and may seize any items you have—if they believe those items may pose a risk or are relevant evidence.

4. Being Questioned and Your Rights
You have the right to legal advice, and to remain silent—there’s no obligation to answer questions. If you’re under 18 or considered vulnerable, an “appropriate adult” must be present to help safeguard your rights and welfare.

5. Detention Time Limits
There are strict time limits during which the police can lawfully hold you before charging or releasing you. These timeframes are set under PACE and follow-up legislation—they’re designed to prevent indefinite detention without charge.

6. Charging, Bail, or Release
Once in custody, police will decide with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) whether to charge you. For serious offences, charging decisions rest with the CPS; for less serious ones, police can proceed without CPS input. You may then be released on bail with conditions or kept in custody until your first court hearing.

Post‑Arrest Procedures

Explore what happens after arrest, including interviews, charges, and court appearances.

1. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody

Once you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station. There, a custody officer assesses whether there’s enough evidence to charge you or whether you should be held any longer. Right from the start, you must be informed of your rights—including the right to inform someone you’re being held and to consult a solicitor—and these must be recorded in your custody documents.

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2. Interview & Right to Legal Advice

Interviews are governed by PACE Code C, which protects your right to legal advice before questioning. You must be cautioned, and your solicitor (or duty solicitor) should be present. If you’re a child or vulnerable, an appropriate adult must also be involved.

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3. Length of Detention

From the moment you’re arrested or arrive at the station—whichever is earlier—the clock starts ticking on how long police can lawfully detain you without charging. The basic limit is 24 hours, but extensions are possible up to 36 or 96 hours, depending on the severity of the offence and authorisation level.

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4. Decision: Charge, No Further Action & Other Outcomes

After interviews and investigation, one of several things can happen:

• No Further Action (NFA): If there’s insufficient evidence, the police may release you without charge and take no further action.
• Charge: You may be formally charged, in which case you’ll be classified as a defendant.
• Alternative Outcomes: Sometimes, you might be offered a caution, fixed penalty, or diversion, depending on the offence and circumstances.

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5. After Charging: Court Appearance

If you’re charged, the police will let you know whether you’ll be released with bail or held in custody until you’re brought before a court.

Your first court hearing will always be at Magistrates’ Court, even if the case is later transferred to Crown Court for serious matters.

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6. Magistrates’ Court: What Happens Next

At the first appearance in Magistrates’ Court, the court will:

• Confirm your identity and the charges;
• Ask if you plead guilty or not guilty;
• Decide whether you should be released on bail, remanded in custody, or proceed under conditional release.

If the case is serious enough, it may stay in or transfer to Crown Court. For less serious matters, the court may deal with or conclude the case itself.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

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Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Post-Charge Court Bail	Released after charge while awaiting court	Set by court, conditions may apply

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Court Bail ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Legal Aid vs Private Solicitors: Pros, Cons & Pitfalls

Legal Aid: What You Need to Know

What it covers: Legal aid in criminal cases is intended to ensure that people who can’t afford representation still have access to legal advice and defence—crucial under Article 6 of the ECHR, which guarantees a fair trial.

It’s administered by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA), and can cover work by both solicitors and barristers.

Qualification is based on two tests:

1. Interests of Justice (IoJ) — ensures legal aid is available if your case could result in a custodial sentence, is serious, or other factors that mean fair representation is needed.
2. Means Test — based on your income, capital, and household circumstances. The figures differ depending on whether it’s Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court.

Quick thresholds:

• Magistrates’ Court: Your gross income must usually be under £22,325. If your disposable income (after allowable deductions) is under £3,398, you qualify. Above that, you may have to pay for your defence yourself, unless you pass a hardship review.
• Crown Court: Broadly, if your disposable annual income is under £37,500, you remain eligible. If it’s very low, you won’t have to contribute at all.

Passporting benefits: You automatically get legal aid if you’re under 18 or on certain benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, or Pension Guarantee Credit.

Pros of Legal Aid:

• Low or no cost for those eligible.
• Access to trained and accredited solicitors and counsel.
• Formal funding structure and standards in place.

Cons:

• Strict eligibility— some are excluded due to financial cut-offs especially in the magistrates court.
• The means test hasn’t kept pace with inflation, cutting more people off.
• Fewer legal aid providers in some areas, and low fees can drive lawyers away from taking cases.

Private Solicitors: What to Consider

Pros of hiring privately:

• More solicitor choice and flexibility.
• Often more time and tailored attention, especially for complex cases.

Cons to watch out for:

• Cost can be very high—some private criminal defence can cost thousands.
• Without proper checks, poor service or overcharging is possible. There was the Glanville Davies case, where a solicitor was fined thousands for inflated fees and misconduct.

How Legal Aid Actually Works — In Practice

• The LAA processes most criminal legal aid applications within 2 days.
• During the application, your income, savings, savings from benefits, you and your partner’s situation, plus any children or dependents, are factored in.
• If you don’t qualify, you can request a hardship review—they may reconsider based on essential expenses or costs of the case.
• Certain areas, like advice at the police station or child protection cases, may be non-means tested—meaning legal aid is available regardless of income.

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Spotting a Poor or Ineffective Solicitor

Your solicitor should help you feel informed, stretched if needed, and confident. But poor representation can mean actual consequences—even wrongful convictions.

Signs of inadequate representation:

• Poor preparation or missing key witnesses (e.g., a solicitor failing to instruct a crucial alibi witness led to a CCRC referral and overturned conviction).
• Late notice to counsel, insufficient pre-trial work, or failure to review police evidence properly.
• If a solicitor ignores core issues or doesn’t explain your options.

Legally, to overturn a conviction, you must prove:

1. The performance was deficient (seriously below standard), and
2. This directly caused a miscarriage of justice.

It’s rare for poor representation alone to succeed as a ground for appeal unless it fundamentally undermined the trial’s fairness

If you need some help identifying solicitors that can help then contact us below.

Addressing False Allegations Being accused of something you didn’t do can turn your world upside down. Even if you’re later cleared, the stress, uncertainty, and damage to your reputation can linger long after the legal process ends. It’s an incredibly isolating experience — but you are not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself, rebuild trust, and move forward. Understanding the Process When a false allegation is made, the police have a legal duty to investigate. That can mean arrest, interview, and potentially even charges, even when the evidence seems weak. It can be frightening and frustrating, especially if you know you’ve done nothing wrong. Throughout this stage, it’s crucial to: Get proper legal advice early — ideally from a solicitor experienced in these kinds of cases Keep a clear, accurate timeline of events, messages, and evidence Avoid direct contact with the complainant, as this can complicate matters False allegations cases can drag on for months, sometimes years, and the uncertainty is often the hardest part. Knowing your rights and working closely with your legal team can help you navigate the process more confidently. What Happens if You’re NFA’d or Acquitted An NFA (No Further Action) decision or an acquittal at trial should bring closure, but many find that life doesn’t simply return to “normal.” People may still have doubts. Rumours may linger. Employers, schools, or community groups may still need reassurance. This can be painful, but there are steps you can take: Ask the police for written confirmation of the NFA or acquittal — this can help with employment or housing issues Consider requesting your custody records or full case file to keep for future reference Focus on rebuilding your personal and professional reputation gradually, starting with people you trust Reporting a False Allegation It’s natural to want justice if you’ve been wrongly accused, but it’s important to understand that prosecutions for making false allegations are rare. The CPS is cautious about pursuing these cases because of concerns about discouraging genuine victims from coming forward. To succeed, there usually needs to be clear evidence that the allegation was knowingly false — not just mistaken, exaggerated, or unsupported. If you want to explore this route, speak to your solicitor first. They can advise on the chances of success and whether a formal complaint to the police or the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) might be appropriate. Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward Whether or not the system gives you the outcome you hoped for, the work of rebuilding often falls on you and those closest to you. That might mean repairing relationships, focusing on your mental health, and connecting with people who understand what you’ve been through. Trusted friends, family, and peer-support spaces — like those linked through the CJS Hub — can be invaluable here. Rebuilding takes time, but it is possible. False allegations can feel devastating, but they don’t have to define the rest of your life. By understanding the process, seeking the right support, and taking steps to restore your confidence and reputation, you can start moving forward again. If you need help navigating your next steps, the CJS Hub is here with resources, guides, and connections to specialist services.

Understanding Your Charges

How Charges Are Issued

When the police or prosecutors decide there’s enough evidence, a formal charge can be issued in one of three ways:

1. Custody Charge
   If the police have you in custody, a Custody Officer decides whether there’s enough evidence to press charges. If so, you’ll be charged and either released—possibly on police bail or “Released Under Investigation (RUI)”—or kept in custody until your court appearance. Detention must be reviewed regularly and can last up to 96 hours in most cases.
2. Postal Requisition (Postal Charge)
   If you’re not arrested, a Postal Requisition (also called a postal charge) may be sent—especially if you were interviewed under caution or released under investigation. It’s a legal document telling you to appear at a Magistrates’ Court on a specified date. Never ignore one—failing to attend can lead to an arrest warrant.
3. Court Charge—Typically via Solicitor or CPS
   In some cases, particularly more serious ones, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) steps in. Prosecutors apply a full test: (1) is there a realistic prospect of conviction, and (2) is prosecution in the public interest? If not, they may decline to charge or offer an alternative, like a caution.

Once the decision to charge is made, the CPS or police sets your first court date—within days or weeks, depending on how serious the case is and whether you’re in custody or on bail.

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Reading the Charge Sheet

A charge sheet is the document that officially records what you’re being accused of. It should clearly state:

• The offence(s) you’re charged with,
• Where and when the alleged offence happened,
• What laws you’re accused of breaking.

This is your first real window into what you’re facing.

Take it seriously—get legal advice, check the details, and clarify anything you don’t understand.

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What Happens Next—and Who You’ll See First

All criminal cases in England and Wales start in the Magistrates’ Court, even if they eventually go to Crown Court. If it’s a minor offence, the trial may stay here. If it’s more serious—or deemed too complex—the Magistrates will send it up to Crown Court.
Wikipedia

At your first hearing, called a Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH), the court clerk will read your charges out loud (called an “indictment”) and ask whether you plead guilty or not guilty.
cps.gov.uk

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What You Can Do Next

• Understand the type of charge—custody, postal, or court-based—and whether it means you’re already in custody or not.
• Read the charge sheet carefully. It defines the case.
• Know where your case starts—most will begin in Magistrates’ Court.
• Seek legal help early. It makes a real difference to how your case is handled.
• Don’t ignore any notifications—especially postal charges.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

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Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

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Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

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Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

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Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

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Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

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Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

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Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

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How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

Walking into prison for the first time can be overwhelming. Whether you’re going in yourself or supporting someone who is, the reality of day-to-day life can feel very different from what the official leaflets describe. Prisons are meant to provide structure, routine, and access to work or education, but in many local reception prisons, staff shortages and overcrowding mean a lot of time is spent locked in your cell.

Most people start their sentence, or are held on remand, in a local prison. These are busy, high-pressure environments where resources are stretched. Breakfast usually comes in the form of a small “breakfast pack” given to you the night before — often cereal, milk, maybe a juice carton or teabag — so you’ll eat in your cell rather than collecting a fresh meal in the morning. Unlock times vary from prison to prison, but delays are common, and it’s not unusual to still be behind your door well past 8am.

Once unlocked, the day depends on where you are, your sentence, and what activities are available. You might be allocated work, education, gym time, or exercise in the yard, but in many locals, these sessions are frequently cancelled if there aren’t enough staff. For those on remand wings especially, there’s often very little structured activity, and long periods of lock-up are the norm. Association — the short window where you can mix with other prisoners can be as little as an hour in the afternoon or evening, and even that sometimes gets cancelled. By early evening, after the last meal of the day, many wings are locked down for the night, which can be as early as 6pm or 7pm.

For those serving longer sentences, things often improve over time. Many people are eventually moved on from local prisons to training prisons or resettlement prisons, where there are usually more opportunities to work, study, and prepare for release. These prisons tend to feel calmer, with longer association periods, more consistent routines, and better access to education or vocational training. Later still, for those on lower-risk categories, there are open prisons where movement is freer and, in some cases, you may even be able to apply for Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL), which allows short periods outside the prison to work or reconnect with family as part of preparing for life after custody.

Keeping in touch with loved ones is one of the most important parts of prison life. At most prisons, you’ll have access to phones in your room that can call pre-approved numbers, and many establishments also run the “Email a Prisoner” service, where family and friends send messages online that are printed and handed out on the wing. Social visits can be booked in advance, and the number you’re entitled to depends on whether you’re sentenced or on remand. Some prisons also offer video calls, though availability varies.

Work, education, and activities are meant to form part of daily life, but again, what’s offered in reality depends on where you are. Jobs might include cleaning, working in the kitchen, helping in the library, or assisting other prisoners, while some prisons run workshops teaching practical skills. Education ranges from basic literacy to Open University degrees, but accessing these opportunities can take persistence, especially in crowded locals where waiting lists are long.

Religion and chaplaincy also play a big role for many people inside. Every prison has a chaplaincy team, and they’re there for everyone — regardless of faith or belief. You can attend services, have one-to-one support, and speak to chaplains about personal or family difficulties. A lot of prisoners say the chaplaincy team are among the most approachable people in the prison, and you don’t need to be religious to seek their support.

Adjusting to the social side of prison life can take time. You’re sharing space with hundreds of strangers, all coping in different ways, and tensions can sometimes run high. Keeping a low profile, staying respectful, and finding your own small routines usually makes things easier. Support is available if you feel unsafe or overwhelmed — through the safer custody teams, healthcare, peer listeners trained by the Samaritans, and the chaplaincy.

Daily prison life can be tough, especially in the first few weeks while you adjust to the pace, but knowing what to expect helps. For many, the hardest part is the amount of time spent behind the door — finding ways to fill that time makes a real difference. Reading, writing, journaling, planning calls, or setting personal goals can give the days more structure. And while resources can be stretched, there are people and services in every prison whose role is to help you manage, cope, and prepare for what comes next.

Addressing False Allegations Being accused of something you didn’t do can turn your world upside down. Even if you’re later cleared, the stress, uncertainty, and damage to your reputation can linger long after the legal process ends. It’s an incredibly isolating experience — but you are not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself, rebuild trust, and move forward. Understanding the Process When a false allegation is made, the police have a legal duty to investigate. That can mean arrest, interview, and potentially even charges, even when the evidence seems weak. It can be frightening and frustrating, especially if you know you’ve done nothing wrong. Throughout this stage, it’s crucial to: Get proper legal advice early — ideally from a solicitor experienced in these kinds of cases Keep a clear, accurate timeline of events, messages, and evidence Avoid direct contact with the complainant, as this can complicate matters False allegations cases can drag on for months, sometimes years, and the uncertainty is often the hardest part. Knowing your rights and working closely with your legal team can help you navigate the process more confidently. What Happens if You’re NFA’d or Acquitted An NFA (No Further Action) decision or an acquittal at trial should bring closure, but many find that life doesn’t simply return to “normal.” People may still have doubts. Rumours may linger. Employers, schools, or community groups may still need reassurance. This can be painful, but there are steps you can take: Ask the police for written confirmation of the NFA or acquittal — this can help with employment or housing issues Consider requesting your custody records or full case file to keep for future reference Focus on rebuilding your personal and professional reputation gradually, starting with people you trust Reporting a False Allegation It’s natural to want justice if you’ve been wrongly accused, but it’s important to understand that prosecutions for making false allegations are rare. The CPS is cautious about pursuing these cases because of concerns about discouraging genuine victims from coming forward. To succeed, there usually needs to be clear evidence that the allegation was knowingly false — not just mistaken, exaggerated, or unsupported. If you want to explore this route, speak to your solicitor first. They can advise on the chances of success and whether a formal complaint to the police or the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) might be appropriate. Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward Whether or not the system gives you the outcome you hoped for, the work of rebuilding often falls on you and those closest to you. That might mean repairing relationships, focusing on your mental health, and connecting with people who understand what you’ve been through. Trusted friends, family, and peer-support spaces — like those linked through the CJS Hub — can be invaluable here. Rebuilding takes time, but it is possible. False allegations can feel devastating, but they don’t have to define the rest of your life. By understanding the process, seeking the right support, and taking steps to restore your confidence and reputation, you can start moving forward again. If you need help navigating your next steps, the CJS Hub is here with resources, guides, and connections to specialist services.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

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Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

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Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

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Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

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Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

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Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

When you walk into prison for the first time, it can feel like you’ve lost control of everything — but it’s important to know that you don’t lose all your rights. While your freedom is restricted, you’re still entitled to safety, dignity, and proper healthcare. Understanding what you can expect, and what you’re entitled to, can make a huge difference both for you and for the people supporting you.

You have the right to humane treatment, the right to practise your religion, and the right to complain if something isn’t right. You also have the right to healthcare equivalent to what you’d receive outside prison — but the reality is that services inside are under pressure, and things can take time. Knowing how the system works makes it easier to navigate and get the help you need.

When you first arrive at prison, you’ll have a health screening. This is a chance to raise any existing conditions, medications, or ongoing needs. Healthcare inside is usually run by the NHS or an NHS-contracted provider, and in theory the standard should match what you’d get in the community. In practice, things can move slowly, especially in busy local prisons where demand is high and staff are stretched. If you need to see a GP, nurse, dentist, or optician, you’ll normally put in a healthcare request, but waiting times can vary. Urgent issues are dealt with more quickly, and in emergencies, people are taken to hospital under escort.

Mental health support is there, but again, it’s limited and can vary a lot between prisons. Some prisons have mental health nurses on-site and can arrange counselling or assessments if you need them. There’s also the Listener scheme, where trained prisoners work with the Samaritans to support others confidentially, and chaplaincy teams are often a big source of emotional support — you don’t need to be religious to speak to them. If someone is considered at risk of self-harm or suicide, they may be placed on an ACCT plan. That means more regular checks, closer monitoring, and extra input from staff and peers to keep them safe.

If something goes wrong — whether it’s about healthcare, safety, or how you’re being treated — there is a complaints process in every prison. Most issues can be raised directly with wing staff or healthcare first, but if that doesn’t resolve it, there are formal routes. Complaints about healthcare can eventually be taken to the NHS, and unresolved wider issues can be escalated to the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman. Some prisons also have independent advocates and peer mentors who can help you get your voice heard when you’re struggling to make progress.

For families and supporters, it can be frustrating trying to understand what’s happening when someone inside is unwell. Staff usually can’t share information without the prisoner’s consent, but you can encourage your loved one to request help and support them in raising issues. Many prisons also have family liaison officers who act as a bridge between staff and families when someone is particularly vulnerable or in crisis.

Prison life can be stressful, but you’re not without rights and you’re not without options. Knowing what you’re entitled to, what help is available, and how to ask for it can make things easier to manage — both for those serving time and for the people who care about them.

What to Expect When You First Arrive

If you’re sentenced to custody or remanded into prison, your first stop will usually be a local prison — the one nearest to the court. It’s normal to feel anxious, scared, and confused at this stage, especially if you’ve never been inside before.

The first 24 hours are structured to process you, check your welfare, and explain the rules. Knowing what happens can take away some of the fear.

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Reception and Processing

When you first arrive, you’ll go through reception. Here’s what usually happens:

• Identity checks — You’ll give your name, date of birth, and details for verification.
• Property recording — Staff will list, bag, and store your belongings. You’ll usually be allowed some approved items in your cell, and the rest will be stored securely until release.
• Photographs & fingerprints — Standard procedure for everyone.
• Health screening — A nurse or healthcare worker will check your physical and mental health. Tell them about any medication, ongoing treatment, or if you’re struggling emotionally — it matters.
• Risk assessment — Staff ask questions about self-harm risks, vulnerabilities, and potential safety issues with other prisoners.

This information helps the prison decide where to house you and what support you may need.

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Understanding Your Rights

On arrival, you should be told about your rights under the Prison Rules:

• You can ask to contact a family member to let them know where you are.
• You can ask to speak to a solicitor.
• You have the right to healthcare and basic dignity.
• If you feel unsafe, you can raise concerns with staff — you may be placed on a safer custody plan if needed.

Prisons often provide an “induction pack” explaining rules, routines, visiting times, and complaint procedures. If English isn’t your first language, translation services should be offered.

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First Night Procedures

Most prisons have a First Night Centre or dedicated induction wing:

• You’ll be shown your cell and given bedding, toiletries, and basic clothing if needed.
• Staff should explain how things work — using the phone, ordering meals, exercise times, and making requests (“apps”).
• You may get the chance to make a phone call, though some prisons restrict this to one short call on day one.
• If you’re at risk of harm — from others or yourself — you might be placed under closer supervision.

Many people find the first night inside the hardest. If you feel panicked, tell staff — they’ve seen it before and there are safeguards to keep you safe.

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Induction Programme

In your first few days, you’ll go through an induction designed to explain prison life:

• Daily routine: unlock times, meal times, work, education, and association periods.
• Prison rules: what’s allowed, what isn’t, and what happens if you break rules.
• Support services: healthcare, mental health teams, education, and resettlement advice.
• Contacting family: how visits work, adding numbers to your phone PIN, and using Email-a-Prisoner.

Induction usually lasts a few days, but timescales vary depending on how busy the prison is.

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Support and Vulnerability

If you’re struggling emotionally or worried about your safety:

• Tell a member of staff, an officer on your wing, or the safer custody team.
• You may be referred to Listener Schemes — trained prisoners who offer peer support, managed by the Samaritans.
• You can also speak to healthcare, chaplaincy, or independent advocates if you need extra help.

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Contacting the Outside World

Within the first few days, you should be able to:

• Make phone calls to approved numbers once your PIN account is set up.
• Receive letters — your family can find your prison’s address online.
• Apply for visits, though these may take a little time to arrange.

If you’re remanded rather than sentenced, you may have extra rights around visits and contact with legal representatives.

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Things to Expect in the First Week

• Limited movement: You may spend a lot of time locked up at first, especially in busy prisons.
• Structured days: Set times for meals, exercise, and association.
• Meeting key staff: You’ll meet your wing officer and possibly a personal officer assigned to you.
• Settling in: It takes time, but routines start to make things feel manageable.

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Tips for Your First Days

• Ask questions — it’s normal not to know how things work.
• Be polite and respectful with staff; it makes day-to-day life smoother.
• Use your induction to learn the rules and routines — they matter.
• If you feel low, anxious, or unsafe, speak up early.
• Keep your family informed as much as possible; it reassures everyone.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

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Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

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Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

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Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

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Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

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Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

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Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

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Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

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How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

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Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

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Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

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Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

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Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

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Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

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Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

Understand the differences between bail, police bail, and Release Under Investigation (RUI).

Police Bail (Pre‑Charge Bail)

Also known as pre-charge bail, this is used when the police have arrested someone but aren’t ready to charge them yet. Instead of keeping you in custody, they release you with requirements, such as returning to the station or sticking to certain conditions.

Under PACE and updated by the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, these bail periods can now last up to nine months—initially up to three months, then extendable twice by three months each. If more time is needed after nine months, the police must go to court for approval.

Conditions might include:
- Reporting regularly to a police station
- Staying away from certain individuals or locations
- Not interfering with evidence or witnesses.

If you fail to comply with the conditions, it’s not automatically a criminal offence—but you can be re-arrested and potentially denied bail in future.

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Release Under Investigation (RUI)

Released Under Investigation, or RUI, means you’re allowed to go home without any conditions and without a set date to return. The police may still be investigating, but there’s no formal timeline.

This became more common after 2017 reforms that limited the use of bail, although those changes caused frustration because:

• There’s no time limit or oversight on how long it lasts.
• There are no conditions, so nothing stops you from contacting people involved—though you should seek advice before doing so.
• It leaves both the suspect and the alleged victim in limbo, sometimes for months or even longer.

The Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 aimed to correct this by encouraging more use of bail (when necessary and proportionate), to provide more oversight and structure.

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Post-Charge Bail (Court Bail)

Once you’ve been formally charged, you can be released on bail by the court. This might be for your first hearing or while awaiting trial. Conditions can still apply, and you must appear in court on the set date.

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Summary Table

Situation	What It Means	Timeframe & Conditions
Police Bail (Pre-Charge)	Released from custody but with conditions	Up to 9 months, conditions applied. After 9 Month to extend police must apply to the courts
Release Under Investigation (RUI)	Released without conditions or time limits	No time limits, no conditions; can feel indefinite
Charged/Bailed To Court	Released after charge and given a date to attend court. This can be with or without bail conditions.	To attend court on the date the custody officer tells you at point of release.

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Final Thoughts

• Police Bail gives structure and oversight, particularly useful when conditions are necessary.
• RUI avoids restrictions—but can leave you stuck without answers or guidance.
• Charged/Bailed To Court – ensures you avoid unnecessary custody while waiting for your hearing.

If you’re unsure what your status means, or what to do next, getting legal advice early is always a wise move.

Planning Your Next Steps

When an investigation ends or a trial is over, it can feel like you should instantly “get back to normal” — but for most people, life after the criminal justice system isn’t that straightforward. The process may be finished, but the emotional, financial, and practical effects often linger.

Planning your next steps is about taking back control. Whether you’ve received an NFA, been acquitted, or are supporting someone else through this stage, it’s about setting realistic goals, rebuilding stability, and creating a path forward at your own pace.

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Give Yourself Time to Breathe

After months — or sometimes years — of uncertainty, it’s normal to feel lost when the process ends. You may have been living in constant survival mode, focused on getting through each day. Now, the sudden “quiet” can feel unsettling.

Take time to rest and reflect. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. Recovery isn’t a race, and giving yourself space to process what’s happened is a key part of moving forward.

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Getting Practical Foundations in Place

Once you feel ready, focus on rebuilding the essentials:

• Finances — If your income was affected, you may be able to access debt advice, benefits support, or financial planning tools to stabilise your situation.
• Housing — Whether you’ve kept your home or need new accommodation, there are local authorities and charities that can help with housing advice.
• Employment — If your job was impacted, start by understanding your rights. Some people return to previous roles, while others explore new careers or training to make a fresh start.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. Breaking them into manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming.

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Rebuilding Your Wellbeing

The aftermath of legal challenges can leave lasting emotional strain, whether you’ve been accused, investigated, or simply supporting someone through it. Prioritising your mental and physical health is essential.

• Talk to trusted friends, family, or peer-support groups about what you’ve been through
• Explore counselling or therapy to process the stress and anxiety
• Look after your physical wellbeing with sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition — even small steps make a difference

The CJS Hub’s Wellbeing Hub offers resources and links to services that can help you look after yourself while rebuilding.

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Setting New Goals and Finding Purpose

Moving forward often means rediscovering what matters most to you. That might be rebuilding relationships, pursuing education or work, volunteering, or reconnecting with hobbies and passions.

For some, this process brings a renewed sense of strength and clarity about what’s important in life. Others take smaller, steady steps toward regaining stability — both approaches are valid.

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You’re Not On Your Own

The criminal justice system can leave deep marks, but you don’t have to navigate the next chapter alone. The CJS Hub is here to connect you with guides, resources, and services to help you understand your options and regain confidence about the future.

Whether it’s practical advice or emotional support, there are ways forward — one step at a time.

Understanding When People Are Released

One of the hardest parts of going through the criminal justice system — whether you’re serving time or supporting someone inside — is trying to understand when release might actually happen. There isn’t one simple answer, because different types of sentence have very different rules about when someone can leave custody. Knowing how the system works helps you plan, manage expectations, and focus on what you can control along the way.

Fixed-Term (Determinate) Sentences

Most people in prison are serving what’s called a determinate sentence. That simply means the court sets a fixed length, and your release date is calculated from that.

For determinate sentences under four years, the usual rule is that you serve half of the sentence in custody and the rest on licence in the community, under probation supervision. If you’re given four years, for example, you’ll normally spend around two inside, then be released automatically at the halfway point. You don’t need to apply — it’s automatic unless something unusual happens, like being recalled or facing new charges.

For sentences over four years, the process can be slightly different depending on the offence and the level of risk assessed by probation. Some prisoners are still released automatically at the halfway stage, but others may have to wait until they’ve served two-thirds before automatic release kicks in. In certain cases — especially for more serious offences — release at two-thirds is no longer automatic and instead depends on a review by the Parole Board.

Extended Determinate Sentences (EDS)

If someone has been deemed a higher risk to the public, they might be given an Extended Determinate Sentence. These combine a custodial period with an extended period of licence once released. The big difference here is that release is not automatic at halfway — you usually have to serve two-thirds of the custodial part before you’re even eligible to apply for release, and it’s the Parole Board that decides whether you can leave at that point. If they say no, you’ll stay inside until the end of the custodial term before moving onto licence.

Life Sentences

Life doesn’t always mean life — but it does mean the sentence lasts for the rest of the person’s life. When a court hands down a life sentence, it also sets a minimum term (sometimes called the “tariff”), which is the amount of time that must be served before the person can even be considered for release.

Once that minimum term has been served, the case goes to the Parole Board, who look at things like behaviour in custody, completed courses, risk assessments, and any evidence of rehabilitation. There’s no guarantee of release at the tariff point — some people spend many more years inside if the board isn’t satisfied that the risk can be managed in the community. Even after release, people on life sentences remain on licence for the rest of their lives and can be recalled at any time.

IPP Sentences (Imprisonment for Public Protection)

Although IPP sentences were scrapped in 2012, thousands of people are still serving them today. They’re one of the most complex and controversial parts of the system. With an IPP, the judge sets a minimum tariff, but after that, there’s no automatic release.

People on IPP stay in custody until the Parole Board is convinced that the risk can be safely managed in the community. Many people serve far beyond their tariffs, and even after release, the licence period lasts at least ten years before it can be considered for termination. If you or someone you’re supporting is serving an IPP, seeking specialist advice and gathering strong evidence of rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

Home Detention Curfew (HDC) and Early Release

For some people serving determinate sentences of between 12 weeks and four years, there’s a possibility of being released earlier than the halfway point under the Home Detention Curfew (HDC) scheme — often called “tagging.”

Eligibility depends on the sentence length, behaviour in custody, and whether there’s a safe address to go to. If approved, you could leave prison up to 135 days early, but you’ll have strict curfew conditions and electronic monitoring. Not everyone qualifies — violent, sexual, and high-risk cases are often excluded — but it’s worth applying if you meet the criteria.

Preparing for Release

Across all sentence types, your behaviour, engagement with rehabilitation, and willingness to prepare for life outside can affect release decisions — especially where the Parole Board is involved. Completing accredited courses, keeping out of trouble, working or studying inside, and showing progress in managing risk can all strengthen your position when the time comes.

If you’re supporting someone inside, helping them stay on top of sentence planning, encouraging engagement with probation, and being part of their resettlement plans can make a real difference.

What to Expect

For most people leaving prison, the sentence doesn’t end at the gate. Being released doesn’t mean you’re free to do whatever you like — you’ll almost always leave on licence. That means you’re allowed back into the community, but you’re still serving your sentence under specific rules and supervision. Understanding how your licence works, what probation expects, and where the risks lie is the key to staying on track and rebuilding your life.

What It Means to Be on Licence

When you’re released from custody, the rest of your sentence is served in the community under supervision. You’re free from the day-to-day restrictions of prison, but you’re not fully finished with the criminal justice system until your licence period ends. For most determinate sentences, this lasts until the original end date of your sentence. For life sentences and IPP sentences, licence conditions can last for many years — sometimes for life — though there are ways to apply for early termination in certain situations.

Your licence conditions are set by the Probation Service and approved by the Prison Governor before release. They’re designed to manage risk and support your reintegration. Some are standard, while others are tailored to your offence, your background, and the assessment of your risk.

Common Licence Conditions

While the exact rules vary from case to case, most people can expect conditions like:

• Living at an approved address and informing probation of any changes
• Attending regular meetings with your probation officer
• Staying away from certain people, places, or areas if they’re linked to your offence
• Not committing further offences or doing anything that raises risk concerns
• Allowing probation to visit you at home
• Seeking permission before travelling outside England & Wales

For some, especially those convicted of sexual or violent offences, there can be additional restrictions — like not contacting certain people, using the internet in specific ways, or attending treatment programmes. These will be explained in writing before you leave prison, and it’s crucial to make sure you fully understand them before signing anything.

Working with Probation

Probation’s role is to monitor risk, but also to support your resettlement. Some officers are brilliant, others less so — but either way, staying cooperative makes life easier. Missing appointments, ignoring instructions, or being dishonest will almost always cause problems. If you’re struggling with a condition — for example, finding suitable housing, meeting travel restrictions, or attending courses — speak to your probation officer as early as possible. They may be able to adjust things or refer you to other services for support.

The Risk of Recall

One of the hardest parts of being on licence is knowing that you can be recalled to prison. Recall can happen for two reasons: either you’ve been accused of breaching your licence conditions, or probation believes your risk has increased and you can’t be managed safely in the community.

Recalls aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might be returned to custody for a fixed period before being released again, but for more serious breaches, you could stay inside until your original sentence expiry date. If you think a recall is unfair, there are routes to challenge it — but time limits are short, and it’s always better to avoid breaching in the first place if you can.

Balancing Freedom and Responsibility

Life on licence can feel restrictive at times, but it’s also a second chance — an opportunity to start rebuilding your life outside prison walls. Securing stable housing, rebuilding relationships, looking after your mental health, and accessing support for work, education, or training can all make a huge difference.

It’s normal to feel frustrated with the process, especially if conditions feel unfair or overly strict, but engaging with support services and sticking to the rules reduces the risk of recall and gets you closer to the finish line. For families and supporters, understanding how licence works helps you provide the right kind of encouragement without unintentionally making things harder.

Walking out of the prison gates is often described as freedom — but for many, it’s the start of an entirely new challenge. Life after release can feel overwhelming, whether you’re the one coming out or supporting someone who is. There’s relief, yes, but there’s also uncertainty, anxiety, and the weight of rebuilding a life that’s been on hold.

Reintegration isn’t about going back to how things were before — it’s about creating a new way forward. The CJS Hub is here to help you navigate that journey, offering practical advice and pointing you towards the right support.

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Facing the First Few Days

The first days after release are often the hardest. Everything feels fast, noisy, and different, especially if someone’s been inside for months or years. Even small tasks — using a bank card, travelling, or accessing healthcare — can feel daunting.

This is also the stage where licence conditions or probation requirements kick in. There might be curfews, reporting times, or restrictions on where you can live or who you can contact. Understanding these rules early on helps avoid mistakes that could lead to recall.

For family and friends, patience is key. Give your loved one space to process everything, but be ready to step in if they need practical help. Sometimes that’s as simple as helping with paperwork, arranging appointments, or offering a quiet place to breathe.

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Building a Stable Foundation

Rebuilding life after release starts with stability. That usually means securing three essentials:

• Somewhere safe to live — This could be temporary housing, staying with family, or applying for supported accommodation. Probation and resettlement teams can sometimes help, but spaces are limited, so it’s worth exploring multiple options.
• A source of income — Whether through work, benefits, or a mix of both, having financial stability reduces stress and risk. Finding employment can be challenging with a record, but support organisations exist to connect people with second-chance employers.
• Access to healthcare — Many people leave prison with untreated mental or physical health issues. Registering with a GP and getting referrals where needed is an important early step.

Getting these basics sorted doesn’t solve everything — but without them, rebuilding is almost impossible.

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Staying Connected and Supported

For many, release is emotionally messy. There can be shame, anger, anxiety, or even guilt about lost time. Relationships with partners, children, and friends may feel strained or uncertain. Rebuilding trust takes patience and honesty — both ways.

Support doesn’t just come from family. Community groups, peer networks, and mentoring programmes can offer spaces where people don’t have to explain themselves. These networks help with motivation, confidence, and knowing you’re not going through it alone.

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Making Use of Available Help

There are organisations across England and Wales dedicated to helping people rebuild after release. From housing charities and employment projects to mental health services and addiction recovery programmes, there is help out there — though it isn’t always easy to find or access.

The CJS Hub is pulling these resources together in one place to make them easier to navigate. Whether you’re looking for practical support, peer communities, or someone who understands what you’re facing, we’ll point you in the right direction.

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Life after prison can be challenging, but it isn’t hopeless. Rebuilding takes time, persistence, and support — but with the right help, it is absolutely possible to move forward. Every step, no matter how small, is progress.

The CJS Hub exists to guide you through this stage — connecting you with information, resources, and a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Being accused of a crime — even if you’re later acquitted or receive a No Further Action (NFA) decision — changes things. For many people, the legal process ends long before the emotional fallout does. Trust can be shaken, relationships strained, and connections with colleagues, friends, or family may feel fragile.

Rebuilding those personal and professional ties takes time, patience, and understanding — both from you and from the people around you. It’s not always easy, but it is possible.

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Starting with Yourself

Before you can rebuild relationships with others, it often helps to focus on yourself first. The stress of an accusation and investigation can leave you drained, anxious, or even resentful. Taking time to process your own feelings — whether that’s through counselling, peer support, or just having space to breathe — can make you better prepared to reconnect with others in a healthy way.

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Reconnecting with Family and Friends

Family and close friends often go through their own emotional journey during an accusation. Some may have stood firmly by you; others may have stepped back, unsure how to cope or what to believe. Both reactions are common, and healing those divides takes honesty and patience.

Start small — open conversations about how you’ve been affected, listen to their perspective, and acknowledge any hurt or confusion they may have experienced too. Some relationships bounce back quickly; others may take longer, and that’s okay.

Peer support groups, such as those connected through the CJS Hub, can also be valuable spaces to talk to people who’ve faced similar challenges and understand the emotional weight involved.

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Rebuilding Professional Relationships

Allegations can also impact your work life, even if you’re fully cleared. Employers and colleagues may have heard rumours or been directly affected during the investigation. Returning to work — or finding new employment — can feel daunting, but there are practical steps you can take:

• If your case resulted in an NFA or acquittal, request written confirmation from the police or your solicitor. This can reassure employers where needed.
• Be selective about what you share — you don’t need to relive every detail to explain your situation.
• If you were dismissed or suspended, consider asking for advice on your employment rights.

Rebuilding your professional reputation takes time, but focusing on your skills, reliability, and work ethic is often the strongest way to change perceptions.

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When Relationships Don’t Recover

It’s painful, but some connections may not survive. False allegations and prolonged investigations can create divides that are too deep to fully repair. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means some people weren’t able or willing to work through it with you.

In those cases, putting energy into building new healthy relationships, joining supportive communities, and focusing on your own recovery can be a powerful way to move forward.

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An acquittal or NFA decision can lift the weight of the legal process, but rebuilding your life and relationships often takes time. Be patient with yourself, patient with others, and seek out spaces where you feel safe, supported, and understood.

The CJS Hub is here to provide resources, guides, and peer connections to help you navigate this journey — for both you and the people around you.

Coming out of prison can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Whether you’ve been inside for a few weeks or several years, release brings new freedoms — but also new challenges. Securing somewhere to live, finding work, reconnecting with family, and managing your mental health can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the conditions of your licence at the same time.

The good news is that there are systems, services, and organisations designed to help you start again. Understanding what support is available — and knowing how to access it — can make all the difference in rebuilding your life.

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Finding a Place to Live

A stable home is one of the biggest factors in successful reintegration. Before release, probation and resettlement teams should work with you to create a plan for where you’ll live. In some cases, you may be offered a place in approved premises (sometimes called “hostels”), especially if there’s no safe or suitable address to return to. These come with curfews and stricter monitoring, but they also provide a secure base to get back on your feet.

If you have family or friends willing to house you, probation will need to assess the address before approving it. Where that’s not an option, you’ll usually be referred to your local council’s housing team. The reality, though, is that demand is high, and some areas have long waiting lists or limited options. It can help to seek advice early, both from your probation officer and from specialist housing organisations who understand the extra barriers faced by people with criminal records.

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Getting Back Into Work

Employment can play a huge role in reducing reoffending and rebuilding confidence — but it’s not always easy. Some employers are open to giving people a second chance, while others may require you to disclose your conviction depending on the role and when your record becomes “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

Start by checking whether your prison or probation team has links to employability programmes or organisations that support people with convictions. Some charities and training providers specialise in helping you write CVs, prepare for interviews, and understand your rights around disclosure. Even voluntary roles or short courses can help build confidence and show future employers that you’re working towards stability.

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Looking After Your Mental Health

Release can bring unexpected emotions. Relief, anxiety, guilt, frustration — it’s a lot to process, especially if you’ve spent time away from loved ones, lost your job, or feel overwhelmed by the conditions attached to your release. It’s common for people to experience low mood or high stress in the weeks and months after leaving custody.

Support is available, both through prison healthcare teams before release and through the NHS or local mental health services afterwards. Don’t hesitate to speak to your probation officer if you’re struggling — they can refer you to specialist providers and peer support networks. You’re not expected to manage everything on your own.

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Rebuilding Through Support Services

There are a number of services and organisations across England and Wales that can help you get back on track. These range from housing charities to employment schemes and counselling providers. For example:

• Probation Resettlement Teams – Help with housing, benefits, and licence-related support.
• National Careers Service – Free advice on finding work and training opportunities.
• Unlock – A charity supporting people with convictions, especially around employment and disclosure.
• Mind and Samaritans – Support for anyone struggling with mental health or coping after release.
• Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, debt, housing, and legal rights.

Using the right mix of services early on can stop small problems from spiralling into bigger ones and give you a better chance of success outside.

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Reconnecting With Family and Community

One of the biggest hurdles for many people leaving prison is repairing relationships. Time inside can put strain on families, partners, and friendships — and in some cases, rebuilding trust takes time. Some probation teams and charities run family support programmes designed to help everyone adjust and talk openly about expectations after release.

Community reintegration isn’t just about avoiding prison — it’s about finding a sense of belonging again. Joining peer support groups, attending recovery meetings, or connecting with organisations like the CJS Hub can give you the tools and confidence to move forward.

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Reintegration isn’t easy, and it rarely happens overnight. You might face setbacks — housing refusals, job rejections, strained relationships — but every small step forward matters. Understanding the support available, working closely with probation where needed, and accessing the right services gives you the best possible chance of building a stable, fulfilling life beyond custody.

The CJS Hub is here to guide you, your family, and your supporters through this process — helping you find practical answers and pointing you towards services that can really make a difference.

Sentencing Options Explained

Why Sentencing Happens

If you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, the court has to decide what happens next. Sentencing isn’t just about punishment — it also aims to protect the public, rehabilitate offenders, and deter future offending.

Sentences can feel complex, but in most cases, they fall into one of a few main categories. Knowing the basics can make things clearer for you and your family.

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Discharge — No Punishment, But Still a Record

Absolute Discharge:

• The court decides no punishment is needed.
• Rare, but can happen for very minor offences or where blame is minimal.

Conditional Discharge:

• No immediate punishment if you stay out of trouble for a set period (up to 3 years).
• If you commit another offence during that time, you can be sentenced for both.

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Fines

• Fines are common for minor offences, especially in Magistrates’ Court.
• The amount depends on the seriousness of the offence and your ability to pay.
• The court can set payment plans if you can’t afford the full amount up front.
• Not paying fines can lead to enforcement action — even prison in extreme cases.

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Community Orders

Community orders are designed to punish but also rehabilitate. The court can impose one or more “requirements,” such as:

• Unpaid Work (Community Service) — typically 40 to 300 hours, supervised.
• Rehabilitation Activity Requirements (RARs) — meetings, courses, or therapy aimed at addressing offending behaviour.
• Curfews / Electronic Tags — you may have to stay at home during certain hours.
• Exclusion Zones — banning you from certain places.
• Drug or Alcohol Treatment — compulsory testing or programmes if relevant.

Failing to comply can lead to harsher penalties, including custody.

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Suspended Sentences

This is where the court imposes a prison sentence but “suspends” it for a set period (up to 2 years).

• You don’t go to prison straight away, but you must comply with conditions (like attending appointments, doing unpaid work, or following curfews).
• If you commit another offence or breach the order, the sentence can be “activated” — meaning you serve the original prison time plus anything for the new offence.
• A suspended sentence is still a criminal conviction and will show on a DBS check.

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Immediate Custody (Prison Sentences)

If the court decides your offence is so serious that only prison is appropriate, you’ll be sentenced to custody.

How it works in England & Wales:

• Sentence length: Depends on the seriousness of the offence and your previous record.
• Automatic release:
  • Sentences under 12 months → Usually serve half in prison, the rest on licence in the community.
  • Sentences 12 months or longer → Usually serve half to two-thirds in custody, depending on offence type.
  • Extended sentences → For some violent or sexual offences, you may serve more in prison before release.
• Life sentences & IPPs: Special rules apply, and parole decisions are involved.

Even after release, you’ll normally remain on licence — meaning probation supervises you and you must follow strict rules.

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Young People (Under 18)

Sentences for young people are different and aim more at rehabilitation. Options include:

• Referral Orders — meeting with a youth offender panel to agree on a rehabilitation plan.
• Youth Rehabilitation Orders (YROs) — the youth equivalent of community orders, with tailored conditions.
• Detention & Training Orders (DTOs) — a mix of custody and supervised release.

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Victim Surcharges, Costs & Compensation

Whatever sentence you receive, the court may also order:

• A Victim Surcharge — a set amount based on your sentence, used to fund victim services.
• Prosecution Costs — contributing towards the CPS’s costs.
• Compensation Orders — paying money directly to victims.

These are in addition to any fines or other penalties.

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How Courts Decide: Sentencing Guidelines

Judges and magistrates follow official Sentencing Council guidelines. They look at:

• The seriousness of the offence.
• Any aggravating factors (weapons, repeat offending, targeting vulnerable victims).
• Any mitigating factors (genuine remorse, previous good character, mental health issues).
• Whether you pleaded guilty early.

Every case is different, but these rules keep sentences broadly consistent across England and Wales.

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Practical Tips for Defendants & Families

• Ask your solicitor to explain likely sentencing ranges before trial or plea.
• If you’re worried about custody, ask about pre-sentence reports — these can influence whether you get community-based options.
• Make arrangements for children, pets, bills, and work before sentencing day if there’s a chance of custody.
• If you get a community or suspended sentence, stick to the conditions — breaching them makes things much worse.

When someone is arrested in England and Wales, it unfolds through a number of distinct stages—each one governed by law and designed to protect both your rights and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

1. Grounds for Arrest
A police officer can arrest you without a warrant if they reasonably suspect it’s necessary—for example, if you’ve committed or are about to commit an offence, or to confirm your identity or prevent harm or interference with evidence. These powers are laid out in Section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

2. Informing You of the Arrest
Once arrested, the officer must inform you that you are being arrested, as soon as is reasonably practicable. They must also explain the grounds of the arrest—like referencing the suspected offence.

3. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody
You’ll be taken to a police station where a custody officer takes over. They record and may seize any items you have—if they believe those items may pose a risk or are relevant evidence.

4. Being Questioned and Your Rights
You have the right to legal advice, and to remain silent—there’s no obligation to answer questions. If you’re under 18 or considered vulnerable, an “appropriate adult” must be present to help safeguard your rights and welfare.

5. Detention Time Limits
There are strict time limits during which the police can lawfully hold you before charging or releasing you. These timeframes are set under PACE and follow-up legislation—they’re designed to prevent indefinite detention without charge.

6. Charging, Bail, or Release
Once in custody, police will decide with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) whether to charge you. For serious offences, charging decisions rest with the CPS; for less serious ones, police can proceed without CPS input. You may then be released on bail with conditions or kept in custody until your first court hearing.

When someone is arrested in England and Wales, it unfolds through a number of distinct stages—each one governed by law and designed to protect both your rights and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

1. Grounds for Arrest
A police officer can arrest you without a warrant if they reasonably suspect it’s necessary—for example, if you’ve committed or are about to commit an offence, or to confirm your identity or prevent harm or interference with evidence. These powers are laid out in Section 24 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

2. Informing You of the Arrest
Once arrested, the officer must inform you that you are being arrested, as soon as is reasonably practicable. They must also explain the grounds of the arrest—like referencing the suspected offence.

3. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody
You’ll be taken to a police station where a custody officer takes over. They record and may seize any items you have—if they believe those items may pose a risk or are relevant evidence.

4. Being Questioned and Your Rights
You have the right to legal advice, and to remain silent—there’s no obligation to answer questions. If you’re under 18 or considered vulnerable, an “appropriate adult” must be present to help safeguard your rights and welfare.

5. Detention Time Limits
There are strict time limits during which the police can lawfully hold you before charging or releasing you. These timeframes are set under PACE and follow-up legislation—they’re designed to prevent indefinite detention without charge.

6. Charging, Bail, or Release
Once in custody, police will decide with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) whether to charge you. For serious offences, charging decisions rest with the CPS; for less serious ones, police can proceed without CPS input. You may then be released on bail with conditions or kept in custody until your first court hearing.

Post‑Arrest Procedures

Explore what happens after arrest, including interviews, charges, and court appearances.

1. Arrival at the Police Station & Custody

Once you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to a police station. There, a custody officer assesses whether there’s enough evidence to charge you or whether you should be held any longer. Right from the start, you must be informed of your rights—including the right to inform someone you’re being held and to consult a solicitor—and these must be recorded in your custody documents.

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2. Interview & Right to Legal Advice

Interviews are governed by PACE Code C, which protects your right to legal advice before questioning. You must be cautioned, and your solicitor (or duty solicitor) should be present. If you’re a child or vulnerable, an appropriate adult must also be involved.

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3. Length of Detention

From the moment you’re arrested or arrive at the station—whichever is earlier—the clock starts ticking on how long police can lawfully detain you without charging. The basic limit is 24 hours, but extensions are possible up to 36 or 96 hours, depending on the severity of the offence and authorisation level.

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4. Decision: Charge, No Further Action & Other Outcomes

After interviews and investigation, one of several things can happen:

• No Further Action (NFA): If there’s insufficient evidence, the police may release you without charge and take no further action.
• Charge: You may be formally charged, in which case you’ll be classified as a defendant.
• Alternative Outcomes: Sometimes, you might be offered a caution, fixed penalty, or diversion, depending on the offence and circumstances.

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5. After Charging: Court Appearance

If you’re charged, the police will let you know whether you’ll be released with bail or held in custody until you’re brought before a court.

Your first court hearing will always be at Magistrates’ Court, even if the case is later transferred to Crown Court for serious matters.

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6. Magistrates’ Court: What Happens Next

At the first appearance in Magistrates’ Court, the court will:

• Confirm your identity and the charges;
• Ask if you plead guilty or not guilty;
• Decide whether you should be released on bail, remanded in custody, or proceed under conditional release.

If the case is serious enough, it may stay in or transfer to Crown Court. For less serious matters, the court may deal with or conclude the case itself.