Legal Aid is available in criminal proceedings without a means test in the Magistrates' Court and is also available in the Crown Court, on a means tested basis, provided that the court is satisfied that the interests of justice are served by publicly funding a serious fraud solicitors defence team. This test is likely to be satisfied in the following cases:-

* legal aid will almost always be granted to fund legal representation by a firm of business crime lawyers if the accused is likely to be sent to prison if convicted

* in cases where the accused finds difficulty in understanding legal proceedings due to mental or physical disability or language problems

* if a conviction could lead to job loss

* for appeals against conviction or sentence

* for allegations of contempt of court

These offenses often involve large sums of money coupled with a breach of trust and if more than one person is involved the potential for conspiracy charges arises. The danger to the liberty of the accused, if the defence is inadequate, cannot be underestimated and conviction even in the absence of a previous record often leads to a lengthy sentence of imprisonment. In view of this real risk you need to be absolutely sure that your legal representatives know what they are doing and have the knowledge and experience to ensure that your case is properly presented to the court. Taking pot luck with the local High Street solicitor is an extremely high risk strategy. If you are being investigated or have been arrested or charged or you need to be absolutely certain that your solicitors have the expertise to handle your case.

These cases may be complicated and may involve analysis of thousands of documents or complex accounting records. Business crime lawyers never underestimate the prosecution team as lengthy investigation is often carried out by highly trained police officers with the assistance of professionally qualified specialists. Defendant's legal representatives should have dedicated teams of fully trained lawyers and support staff, working in a modern high tech environment, who will refer complex documentation out to expert witnesses including handwriting experts and forensic accountants for detailed analysis and investigation. A competent and experienced serious fraud solicitor will deal with a wide spectrum of offenses which includes VAT and Inland Revenue investigations, corporate and mortgage frauds, accounting investigations and Department of Trade and Industry cases.

If you are being investigated by the police or have been charged with an offense you will need the help of an expert lawyer to ensure fair treatment. It is in your interests to be represented by a specialist who will give you clear advice on your legal rights.