Belfast Solicitors Belfast and Beyond
028 9043 4550Urgent Criminal & Police Station Line: 028 9043 4550
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Common Questions

Answers to common legal questions

General information about contacting a solicitor and the legal processes our teams regularly handle.

Criminal Defence

When should I contact a criminal defence solicitor?

As early as possible. Advice at the investigation stage can affect interview strategy, bail, evidence preservation and the future direction of the case.

Learn about Criminal Defence
Can you represent me at the police station?

Yes. We advise and attend in relation to arrest, detention, voluntary interviews and interviews under caution.

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Do you deal with serious Crown Court cases?

Yes. We prepare and conduct criminal cases with experienced counsel where appropriate.

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Police Station Representation

Is a voluntary interview serious?

Yes. A voluntary interview is normally conducted under caution and may form an important part of a criminal investigation.

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Will asking for a solicitor make me look guilty?

No. Legal advice is a basic safeguard and helps ensure you understand the allegation and your options.

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Is police station advice available urgently?

Urgent criminal matters should be raised by telephone on our urgent criminal and police-station line.

Learn about Police Station Representation

Road Traffic Accidents

Can I choose my own solicitor after an accident?

Yes. You may obtain independent legal advice rather than relying only on a solicitor suggested by an insurer.

Learn about Road Traffic Accidents
What evidence should I keep?

Photographs, witness details, dashcam footage, police information, treatment records and proof of financial loss may all be relevant.

Learn about Road Traffic Accidents
How long will a claim take?

Timescales depend on liability, recovery, medical evidence and whether proceedings are required.

Learn about Road Traffic Accidents

Personal Injury

What is needed to prove a personal injury claim?

A claim normally requires evidence of fault, injury and the losses caused by the accident.

Learn about Personal Injury
Will I need a medical report?

Independent medical evidence is commonly required to describe the injury, treatment, prognosis and future impact.

Learn about Personal Injury
Should I accept an early offer?

Obtain advice before accepting an offer, particularly where recovery is incomplete or future loss is uncertain.

Learn about Personal Injury

Family Law

Can family disputes be resolved without court?

Some matters can be resolved through focused correspondence or negotiation. Court may be necessary where agreement is not possible or protection is required.

Learn about Family Law
What does the court consider in children cases?

The welfare of the child is central. The court considers the individual circumstances and the statutory welfare factors.

Learn about Family Law
Can you act in urgent family proceedings?

Urgent advice may be available where immediate protective or children-related issues arise.

Learn about Family Law

Civil Litigation

Should I write to the other party before court?

A focused pre-action letter may clarify the issues, preserve your position and create an opportunity to resolve the dispute.

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What documents should I bring?

Contracts, correspondence, invoices, photographs, notes and a clear chronology are often important.

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Will the case definitely go to trial?

No. Many disputes resolve through negotiation, admissions, mediation or settlement before trial.

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Judicial Review & Human Rights

What is judicial review?

Judicial review is a High Court procedure used to examine the lawfulness of a public decision or failure to act.

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Are there short time limits?

Yes. Judicial review must be pursued promptly and strict limits may apply, so early advice is essential.

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Can judicial review change the decision itself?

The court usually reviews lawfulness rather than substituting its own decision. The available remedy depends on the case.

Learn about Judicial Review & Human Rights

Conveyancing

When should I instruct a solicitor?

Ideally as soon as you decide to buy or sell so identification, funding and initial documents can be addressed early.

Learn about Conveyancing
What does a conveyancing solicitor check?

Title, searches, contract papers, lender requirements, enquiries and the arrangements for completion and registration.

Learn about Conveyancing
How long does conveyancing take?

Timescales vary with the chain, title, searches, mortgage arrangements and responses from other parties.

Learn about Conveyancing

Clear advice. Practical next steps.

Speak to a Belfast solicitor

Tell us briefly about your matter and we will direct your enquiry to the appropriate team.

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