New firearms sentencing guidelines come into force
From 1st January 2021, judges and magistrates in England and Wales have dedicated guidelines for sentencing offenders who are convicted of firearms offences
Prominent Criminal Defence Lawyer Retires
Prominent Criminal Defence Lawyer, Stefan Hunka from Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd retired from the profession on Wednesday 30th September 2020 after a career spanning over four decades
Penalties for fraudulent furlough claims
Most companies have been utilising the government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) since it launched in March.
What is a Sexual Harm Prevention Order?
A Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) replaces the previous order referred to as a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) from 2014. If you had a SOPO before it will have been converted into a SHPO under the law and the conditions will remain the same.
What is a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP)?
A Notice of Intended Prosecution otherwise known as a NIP can be issued if you have committed a motoring offence and were not given a verbal warning at the scene. It is covered under the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988.
David Beckham avoids driving prosecution
Former England football captain, David Beckham who was facing prosecution for a speeding offence has had the charge dismissed because of a technicality.
Have you been charged with a motoring offence without your knowledge?
Unfortunately, more frequently people are discovering that they have been charged and convicted of road traffic offences without their knowledge. In some cases, people may have been driving whilst disqualified without even knowing, which is an imprisonable offence.
Christmas Crackdown on Drink and Drug Driving
A reminder that police all over the country are getting into the festive spirit with a timely warning against drink and drug driving. Many police forces have released hard hitting videos to demonstrate the deadly consequences of drink or drug driving.
Using Hands-Free Mobile Phone Whilst Driving
Using a hands free mobile phone device whilst driving could land you in prison. Just because it is legal to use a phone hands-free does not mean it is always safe to do so.
‘An Honour Indeed’
Stefan Hunka, Head of Criminal Law and Member of Alsters Kelley LLP attended the Valedictory Ceremony last week to mark the retirement of His Honour the Recorder of Coventry Judge Richard Griffith Jones.