Accused of attempted murder? Trust our expert defence team to protect your future.
Being accused of attempted murder is life-altering, leaving you feeling isolated, and overwhelmed by the fear of imprisonment.
Attempted murder accusations are legally complex, and instructing the correct team is crucial.
An experienced lawyer can thoroughly analyse the case, challenge evidence, negotiate with the prosecution, and build a strong defence.
With our team of expert solicitors, barristers and specialists, you’ll feel reassured knowing every effort is made to secure the best outcome.
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Being accused of attempted murder is psychologically challenging
The word 'murder' is one of the most shocking in the English language. Being accused of attempted murder can be a life-altering experience. It can cause feelings of helplessness and despair because you do not understand how or why you are facing such allegations. People can experience sleepless nights worrying about their freedom, reputations and future.
Police interviews and invasive scrutiny can leave you feeling exposed and powerless to do anything. The weight of the accusation can create a sense of fear of imprisonment and confusion as to how you arrived at this point.
An accusation may be completely unfounded or based on false claims, or circumstantial evidence, and therefore the emotional toll of being investigated can feel overwhelming and an uphill battle.
Challenges defending attempted murder cases
Facing an attempted murder accusation can be particularly challenging if someone is accused of attempting to kill a member of their own family. Friends and family might distance themselves, adding to the sense of loneliness. Families tend to rally around the complainant, rather than the accused due to the severity of the alleged crime.
Balancing the demands of defending yourself with daily life can be exhausting, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the legal system. Without the right guidance, the complexity of the case can seem too much, underlining feelings of helplessness.
Anxiety about the outcome of the case can sometimes lead to overthinking and assuming the worst. Even if the accused did not intend to kill, they might consider they deserve to have the book thrown at them when in reality they are innocent or guilty of a lesser crime.
Building a strong defence and undermining the prosecution case
First of all, do not despair, help is available! An experienced lawyer should spend time with you to understand what is going on, and listen with an open mind before beginning to advise regarding next steps.
Expert criminal defence solicitors will carefully examine every aspect of your case and explain the evidence in simple terms. They will analyse the prosecution’s evidence, identify weaknesses and inconsistencies in statements, and gaps in forensic findings.
One thing a skilled lawyer will do, is investigate point by point (like the police should) to show the real context of what was going on. A skilled lawyer will gather evidence to support your defence, and uncover details that the prosecution may have ignored that might assist.
A solicitor should instruct appropriate experts in support of the defence, or negotiate with the Crown Prosecution Service to reduce or dismiss charges. A first class lawyer will ensure all steps possible were taken to undermine the prosecution case.
We have the tools to help attempted murder clients get good results
Our skilled team of criminal defence solicitors can provide a sense of relief that the case is being dealt with professionally and competently. We will provide guidance from the minute we are instructed so that each stage of the process is properly understood, leaving you feeling calmer and more confident in the process. We will take the time to listen to your side of the story, ensuring that your voice is heard. Your frustration will be eased having experts acting on your behalf and advancing the defence in your best interests.
We know how to challenge evidence so that you do not have to. We only instruct the best barristers who are leaders in defending murder and attempted murder cases. We have at the end of the phone medical and forensic experts who are used to drafting and presenting evidence at court in serious criminal matters. Knowing you have an expert criminal defence team fighting your corner will alleviate a lot of anxiety when you are in the best hands.
Taking steps to defend yourself
Do contact an expert lawyer with experience in defending attempted murder charges.
Call us, and speak to one of our specialist lawyers. We are here to help.
Make a note of facts which may help you later. It's a good idea to preserve any emails or texts with the complainant, and any other evidence that supports your defence.
Consider going to your GP if you are not sleeping or suffering severe anxiety. GPs are used to dealing with people who are facing difficult life situations and can often help.
Don't speak to police or investigators without a solicitor present. It's a mistake to assume that officers are on your side, simply because you know you've done nothing wrong.
No-tricks fixed-fee pricing
We can usually offer a fixed fee instalment plan so you can plan for the expense, and so you can fund your case in stages while it is continuing.
Private representation
Once we have an idea of what kind of case you are facing and what work that will be necessary, we will then be able to provide you with a fixed fee quote. This means that you know before you commit how much your case will cost.
What's included?
Frequently asked questions
What is Attempted Murder?
Attempted murder is a serious criminal offence under English law that occurs when someone intends to kill another person and takes steps towards carrying out that intention but ultimately does not succeed in causing death. It is governed by common law and carries severe penalties, including a potential life sentence upon conviction.
To prove attempted murder, the prosecution must establish two key elements:
Intent to Kill
: The accused must have had a clear intention to end someone’s life. This differs from other offences, such as grievous bodily harm (GBH), which involve causing serious harm without necessarily intending to kill.
A Substantial Act
: The accused must have taken actions that go beyond mere preparation and show a direct attempt to commit murder. This could include acts such as attacking someone or setting a trap intended to kill.
Attempted murder cases often involve complex legal arguments about intent and the nature of the acts taken. It’s a charge that requires careful examination of the evidence and expert legal representation to ensure a fair trial.
Will I be held on remand if I am Accused of Attempted Murder?
Whether you will be held on remand after being accused of Attempted Murder depends on the specific circumstances of your case. Attempted murder is a serious charge, and courts often consider the risk factors associated with releasing someone on bail. However, being accused does not automatically mean you will be remanded in custody.
The court will assess several factors when deciding on bail, including:
Risk to the Public
: If the court believes you pose a danger to others, you may be denied bail.
Risk of Fleeing
: If there’s a concern you might leave the jurisdiction to avoid trial, you could be remanded.
Interference with the Case
: Attempting to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence may result in remand.
If the court grants bail, it may impose strict conditions, such as curfews, electronic monitoring, or restrictions on travel. If bail is denied, you will be held on remand in custody until your trial.
Having a skilled solicitor is crucial to presenting a strong case for bail, highlighting factors such as your ties to the community, lack of previous offences, and willingness to comply with conditions. With the right legal support, it may be possible to avoid being held on remand.
Will i go to prison if i am convicted of Attempted Murder?
If you are convicted of Attempted Murder, it is highly likely that you will face a prison sentence. Attempted Murder is one of the most serious criminal offences under English law, and the courts treat it accordingly. The maximum penalty is life imprisonment, but the actual sentence will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
When determining your sentence, the court will consider several factors, including:
Level of Intent. The court will assess whether there was clear intent to kill.
Harm Caused The severity of any injuries inflicted on the victim can influence the sentence.
Aggravating Factors Use of a weapon, planning the act, or acting out of malice may increase the severity of the sentence.
Mitigating Factors Lack of prior convictions, evidence of remorse, or other personal circumstances could lead to a lesser sentence.
Sentencing guidelines for attempted murder often involve substantial prison terms, but they vary based on the individual facts of the case. An experienced criminal defence solicitor can make arguments to challenge the evidence, reduce charges, or present mitigating factors to the court to lessen the potential sentence.
Will i be able to instruct a lawyer to represent me if i am in prison on remand for Attempted Murder?
Yes, you will absolutely be able to instruct a lawyer to represent you if you are in prison on remand for Attempted Murder. Being on remand means you are being held in custody while awaiting trial, not that you have been convicted of a crime. During this time, you have the right to legal representation and access to a solicitor to prepare your defence.
Here’s how it works:
Regular Access - You can meet with your lawyer either in person during prison visits or through secure telephone or video calls, depending on the facilities available.
Confidentiality - All communication with your lawyer is protected and confidential. The prison authorities cannot listen to or monitor these discussions.
Case Preparation - Your solicitor can gather evidence, consult with experts, and prepare your defence while keeping you informed at every stage.
Court Representation - Your lawyer will represent you in all court hearings, including bail applications, pre-trial reviews, and the trial itself.
Being on remand can feel isolating, but your solicitor will ensure you remain fully involved in your case. It’s crucial to choose a lawyer experienced in serious criminal charges like attempted murder, as they will be best equipped to guide you through the legal process.
Will my family and friends be able to visit me in prison whilst i am on remand for Attempted Murder?
Yes, your family and friends will usually be able to visit you while you are on remand in prison for attempted murder, though there are specific rules and procedures they will need to follow. Being on remand means you have not been convicted of any offence, and you retain certain rights, including receiving visits from loved ones.
Here’s what you need to know:
Visits Entitlement - As a remand prisoner, you are generally entitled to more visits than convicted prisoners. The exact number depends on the prison’s policies, but it is typically at least three visits per week.
Visitor Approval - Your visitors may need to be added to an approved list. The prison will conduct basic checks to ensure the visitors meet the requirements.
Booking a Visit - Visits must be booked in advance, and your family or friends will need to provide identification when they arrive.
Security Procedures - Visitors should be prepared for searches and restrictions on what they can bring into the prison. Rules vary depending on the facility.
Special Arrangements - If family members have difficulty visiting in person due to distance or other reasons, some prisons may allow phone calls or video visits as an alternative.
Visits can provide crucial emotional support during a challenging time. Your lawyer can also help explain the visiting process to your family or liaise with the prison to address any concerns. Ensuring regular contact with loved ones can help you stay focused and motivated as you prepare your defence.
Send us a confidential message
We'll get back to you as soon as possible. We are happy to speak to you if you have a query, and either have a free consultation on the phone or in person if necessary.