Blog

In recent times, we have noted a marked increase in police applications for a Sexual Risk Order (SRO). This is a Civil Court Order that can be imposed on a person to “protect the public from sexual harm” even without a criminal conviction or caution being in place. The order can come with a range […]

If you have been invited to attend a police interview or are facing arrest, choosing the right legal representation is one of the most important decisions you can make. While duty solicitors are available free of charge, there are significant differences between relying on the duty scheme and instructing a specialist solicitor privately. At Sutton […]

Q. What if I thought it were fantasy role play with the other participant? A. Unless you have taken steps to ensure that the other person is an adult who is engaging in fantasy role play then the court will consider that you had no knowledge that the person was anyone other than the person […]

Section 15A of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 deals with people who communicate with a child who is under the age of 16. It says that any person aged 18 or over commits an offence if that person communicates with another and that communication is for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification and it is […]

With the Crown Courts being overrun with trials and other matters, cases that would normally be referred there for sentencing purposes are now being kept in the Magistrates Court, on a regular basis. One might think that to be sentenced in the Magistrates Court would be better in certain circumstances because the Magistrates Court have […]

Recent Trends in Sentencing Jurisdiction In recent times, there’s a noticeable trend where the Magistrates Court accepts jurisdiction for sentencing on guilty pleas for cases that traditionally would have been directed to the Crown Court. This shift might initially seem beneficial due to the perception of lighter sentencing caps within the Magistrates Court, which stands […]

In recent years, the use of the legal concept of Doli Incapax in cases involving historic sex offences has dwindled following its abolition in 1998. However, the recent case of PF [2017] EWCA Crim 983 highlights its continued relevance as a defence tool for defendants. This article explores the potential historic sex offence defences, with […]

At Sutton Defence Solicitors, we understand the gravity of facing sexual offence allegations while on licence for a previous crime. This article aims to provide you with a clear understanding of what happens legally when you commit a sexual offence while on licence in the UK. It is crucial to seek the right legal support […]

In recent years, there has been a significant rise in convictions related to sexual offences. At Sutton Defence Lawyers, we have witnessed the impact this has on individuals who find themselves accused of such crimes. It is crucial to understand the complexities surrounding consent in sexual offence cases and how to build a strong defence. […]

Multiple difficulties with jurors has led to a trial at Sheffield Crown Court being cancelled, and a new trial being arranged.  The jury for the court case at Sheffield Crown Court was released due to a series of issues that the trial judge referred to as “astounding”. The proceedings of the trial, which involved sexual […]