I’ve been accused of conspiracy to commit a crime- what should I do?
March 14, 2023If you’ve been accused of conspiracy to commit a crime it can be a distressing time. As leading criminal defence solicitors, we understand that you may be feeling anxious, which is why it is important that you understand the implications of the accusation, know your rights, and understand what you should do next.
What does ‘conspiracy to commit a crime’ mean?
A conspiracy is an agreement or plan between two or more persons to commit a criminal offence, even if the offence doesn’t take place. Conspiracy offences relate to an agreement to commit a crime and not actually commit it. You can be prosecuted for a conspiracy offence if there is evidence to show that you were involved in the planning of an activity which resulted in – or could have resulted in – a criminal offence taking place.
Examples of conspiracy crimes may include (but are not limited to):
– Conspiracy to murder
– Conspiracy to supply drugs
– Conspiracy to commit a robbery
– Conspiracy to commit fraud
– Conspiracy to launder money
– Conspiracy to supply drugs
– Conspiracy to pervert the course of justice
When compiling evidence in conspiracy cases, police often consider elements such as fingerprint and DNA forensic evidence, mobile phone contact data, and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR).
What are the repercussions if you are charged with conspiracy to commit a crime?
All conspiracy cases go straight to the Crown Court who are able to pass down tougher sentences and longer jail terms than Magistrates courts.
The maximum sentence for a conspiracy offence is based on the maximum penalty for the offence if it had been committed. For example, the sentence for a conspiracy to murder carries the same as that for murder, which is life imprisonment.
What to do if you are accused of conspiracy to commit a crime?
If you have been accused of conspiracy to commit a crime, it’s very important that you seek legal advice from a criminal defence solicitor as soon as possible.
Whether you are under investigation, have been arrested, invited for a voluntary interview, charged, or face proceedings for conspiracy to commit a crime, a criminal defence solicitor can help.
How can a criminal defence solicitor help?
If you have been accused or are facing charges of conspiracy to commit a crime it is vital that you get an experienced defence solicitor to represent you immediately.
Look for a criminal defence solicitor who has expertise and experience of dealing with this type of case. They can assess the evidence against you to ensure that what the prosecution are suggesting is actually correct. Your defence solicitor should also be experienced and proactive when it comes to dealing with the police, and should help you prepare your defence as early as possible.
Seeking the correct legal assistance as soon as possible can help you feel like you’re not alone in what can be a very stressful time. Your defence solicitor can provide invaluable advice and support, and help fight your corner.
Cunninghams are Criminal Defence Solicitors based in Manchester, with over 20 years experience in defending clients facing charges of serious crime. Our team of experienced conspiracy to commit crime solicitors have the expertise to help you build a strong case, and are here to support you at every stage.
It is never too early to seek expert legal advice if you are suspected of any type of crime. Cunninghams initial advice is always free of charge. Contact us on 0800 051 2542 or enquire online.