Criminal Defence
If you have been accused of a crime, arrested, being investigated, or asked to attend a police interview, we are here to advise and assist you.
We understand that a criminal conviction can have life-changing consequences for our clients, potentially affecting their visa status in the UK, career, reputation, and family relationships, causing immense stress.
At Duan & Duan UK LLP, we deal with a wide range of criminal offences, including assault, fraud, white-collar and business crime (including money-laundering offences), criminal damage, trading standards, customs and excise offences, and health and safety prosecutions.
Privately funded representation allows us to allocate time and resources to a case that may not be possible under fixed Legal Aid fees. We remain committed to giving Legal Aid and privately funded clients the same standard of professional conduct and client care.
Criminal Defence
Duan & Duan UK LLP has substantial experience of providing robust criminal defence services. We deal with a range of offences, acting for both individuals and organisations. Our approach is client-centred: we understand the pressure our clients face when dealing with criminal allegations. From the initial stages of an investigation, through police interviews, to representation at trial, we remain committed to you.
To anticipate and mitigate potential complications, we regularly engage specialists early on. We explore all options at every stage, aiming to avoid a contested trial where possible. Our team's comprehensive approach to criminal law ensures that every facet of your case is meticulously examined.
Proceeds of Crime (POCA)
With substantial experience of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA), our team handles the varied challenges of POCA proceedings. We frequently liaise with advisers across other jurisdictions to deliver coherent, multi-jurisdictional advice — an approach increasingly necessary in cross-border asset recovery. From confiscation proceedings to cash forfeiture and civil recovery, we work to defend your rights and assets.
POCA matters can cause significant pressure and serious disruption to personal and professional life. We act swiftly to minimise the impact on our clients and to protect their assets where available legal routes allow.
Our POCA practice is led by Jackson Ng MCIArb, Partner & Barrister at Duan & Duan UK LLP, with consultations available in English, Mandarin, or Cantonese. See our detailed POCA guide for Chinese clients.
Food Safety & Hygiene Prosecutions
At Duan & Duan UK LLP, we have significant experience representing businesses across the food industry in matters related to food safety and hygiene regulations. We understand that a prosecution can apply substantial pressure on your business, both financially and reputationally, and we act swiftly to alleviate these stresses.
Whether you're a small local restaurant or a supermarket, we're prepared to act for you at every stage of the process, ensuring compliance and mitigating risk. We routinely engage industry specialists to avoid unnecessary complications and to anticipate potential sentencing issues.
Need help with Criminal Defence?
Contact our team for a confidential discussion about your matter.
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Our Criminal Defence Services
Other Practice Areas
- Dispute Resolution
- Immigration
- Commercial
- Employment
- Reputation Management & Defamation
- Family & Divorce
- Pro Bono
- Children's Law Advice
- Cohabitation & Unmarried Families
- Commercial Contracts
- Consumer Contracts
- Corporate Immigration
- Corporate Reputation
- Data Protection & Compliance
- Defamation, Harassment & Blackmail
- Divorce & Financial Settlement
- Employment Contracts & Agreements
- Contracts, Policies & Benefits
- Employment Disputes & Litigation
- Food Safety & Hygiene Prosecutions
- Hires, Redundancies & Terminations
- Immigration Appeals & Judicial Review
- Joint Ventures & Collaborations
- Online Reputation Management
- Personal Immigration
- Proceeds of Crime
- Settlement Agreements
- Share Purchase Agreements
- Shareholders' Agreements
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested or questioned by the police in the UK?
You have the right to free legal representation at the police station. Contact a solicitor immediately before answering any questions. At Duan & Duan, we provide urgent police station attendance and can advise you in English, Mandarin, or Cantonese to ensure you fully understand your rights and the process.
What types of criminal cases does Duan & Duan handle?
We handle a wide range of criminal matters including fraud and financial crime, assault, theft, drug offences, regulatory prosecutions, driving offences, and serious organised crime. We represent clients at the Magistrates' Court, Crown Court, and on appeal.
How much does a criminal defence solicitor cost?
Many criminal cases qualify for Legal Aid, which can cover some or all of your legal costs subject to the applicable means and merits tests. For privately funded cases, costs depend on the complexity and stage of proceedings. We provide clear fee estimates at the outset and can discuss fixed fees or payment plans where appropriate.
Can you help if I have been charged with a crime as a foreign national?
Yes. We have extensive experience representing foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens, facing criminal charges in England and Wales. We understand the additional complexities including immigration consequences, consular access rights, and language barriers.
What happens if I am found guilty? Can I appeal?
If you are convicted, you may have grounds to appeal against conviction, sentence, or both. Appeals must generally be lodged within specific time limits. We advise on the merits of an appeal and can represent you in the Crown Court or Court of Appeal as appropriate.