McGee McGee Agar Law Limited
Email office@mcgeemcgeeagarlaw.co.uk Phone 24 hour helpline: 01642 941440

Historic Sex Offences Solicitors

Discreet, Expert Defence When You Need It Most

Get Your Free 30 minute consultation
Rated Excellent 100% 5 star reviews on reviews.io

MMA Law can represent you for any type of offence

Accused of a historic sexual offence? The police may already be building a case against you, even if the allegation is decades old. Don’t wait to see what happens. At MMA Law, our expert solicitors act fast to protect your rights, reputation, and future with complete discretion.

Get Your Free Consultation

Accused of a Historic Sexual Offence? Don't Fight It Alone

Being accused of a historic sexual offence can feel like your world has collapsed. You may be asking yourself, “Why now?”, “Will anyone believe me?”, or “Can I make this go away?” These are natural, overwhelming thoughts — especially when the allegation span back 10, 20, or even 30 years ago.

At MMA Law, we understand the emotional shock that comes with this kind of accusation. We know the fear of being judged, the stress of keeping it from loved ones, and the terror of seeing your name linked to an allegation that you believe is false, exaggerated, or completely mistaken.

Get Your Free Consultation
Accused of a Historic Sexual Offence? Don't Fight It Alone

Common Situations That Lead to Historic Allegations

Many clients we help are professionals, family members, or retirees who never expected to face the criminal justice system. Allegations often come from:

  • A former partner or spouse
  • A childhood acquaintance or foster child
  • A former student or school connection
  • Someone from a past workplace or community group

These claims can be rooted in misunderstandings, false memories, or even deliberate fabrication. But the emotional and reputational damage can begin the moment police make contact.

You Deserve Support, Not Judgement

Whether the claim is completely false or taken out of context, you have the right to legal representation and a fair defence. Being accused doesn’t make you guilty. Our role is to protect you — calmly, discreetly, and without judgement.

You are not alone. We help people in your position every day.

What to Do If You’ve Been Contacted by Police

What to Do If You’ve Been Contacted by Police

If the police have contacted you about a historic sexual offence — whether through a phone call, letter, or knock at the door — it’s vital to stay calm and take the right steps straight away. Even if you haven’t been arrested, your words and actions now can heavily influence what happens next.

Follow These Steps Immediately:

  1. Do not speak to the police without legal adviceYou have the right to remain silent until a solicitor is present. Never assume you can "clear things up" by explaining yourself — even informal chats can be used as evidence later.
  2. Get pre-charge legal adviceThe earlier you speak to a solicitor, the better. Pre-charge advice helps protect your rights, prepares you for any interviews under caution, and may even prevent charges being brought.
  3. Attend voluntary interviews with a solicitor presentIf police ask you to attend a voluntary interview, it means you’re being treated as a suspect. You still need legal support. A solicitor can attend with you and ensure you're not taken advantage of.
  4. Don’t delete messages, contact the complainant, or post onlineAny action you take can be misinterpreted or used against you. Avoid social media, and don’t try to explain yourself to others before getting legal advice.

Preserve any potential evidenceIf you have messages, emails, records, or anything else relevant to the period in question, save them securely. This may become important later.

Our Historic Sexual Offence Solicitors Can Help With:

Our Historic Sexual Offence Solicitors Can Help With:

If you're facing an allegation from years ago, our team can help protect your rights and your future. We offer strategic, discreet legal support at every stage of the process.

Allegations from Decades Ago

We handle claims dating back 10, 20, or even 30+ years. There’s no legal time limit on prosecution in the UK. These cases are complex — we focus on evidence quality and legal fairness.

False or Mistaken Identity Claims

Old memories can be flawed. We investigate identity issues, timelines, and inconsistencies in the accuser’s account. You deserve a defence based on facts, not assumptions.

Pre-Charge Representation and Advice

Early legal advice can make all the difference. We guide you before any formal charge is made. This stage is critical for shaping how your case is viewed by police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Legal Defence During Police Investigation

If you're under investigation, we’ll help you prepare for interviews and respond to evidence. We ensure your rights are protected from day one.

Court Representation if Charged

Should your case go to trial, we’ll build a robust defence. We cross-examine evidence, challenge inconsistencies, and instruct expert witnesses when necessary.

Defence Against Malicious Accusations

Sometimes, allegations arise from personal disputes or false motives. We know how to challenge malicious or fabricated claims with professionalism and care.

Support With Reputational Risk and Privacy

Being accused can harm your personal and professional life. We act quickly to protect your reputation, including support for employer disclosures and press enquiries.

Applications to Challenge Weak Evidence

We assess the strength of any supporting evidence. Where appropriate, we apply to exclude unreliable or prejudicial material before court proceedings begin.

The Legal Process – What to Expect in a Historic Offence Case

If you're accused of a historic sexual offence, the process can feel long, confusing, and unpredictable. Understanding what happens next can help you stay calm and take control. Here's what to expect.

No Time Limit on Prosecution

In England and Wales, there is no statute of limitations for sexual offences. That means the police can investigate, and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) can bring charges, even decades after the alleged event.

Despite the passage of time, the CPS still carries the burden of proof. They must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Weak or unreliable evidence can and should be challenged. With the right legal strategy, you can push back.

Investigation and Pre-Charge Stage

Most cases begin with a police contact — either an arrest or a voluntary interview under caution. You may not be formally charged at this stage.

The investigation process can take months, sometimes years, depending on the complexity of the case. The police will:

  • Interview the complainant and other witnesses
  • Try to gather supporting statements or physical evidence
  • Request access to historical records or digital files (where available)

You might be Released Under Investigation (RUI) or placed on police bail with conditions.

Do not face this stage alone. Early legal advice gives you the best chance of avoiding charge or shaping how the CPS views your case.

Court Proceedings and Defence

If the CPS decides to prosecute, you will be summoned to appear at court — often starting at a Magistrates’ Court before moving to the Crown Court for trial.

At this stage, your legal team at MMA Law will:

  • Analyse the evidence and witness statements
  • Identify weaknesses or inconsistencies
  • Instruct expert witnesses if needed (e.g. psychologists, forensic experts)
  • Protect your rights at every hearing

You may face a jury trial, where your defence will be presented in full. The credibility of the allegation, the time delay, and your own evidence will all be key.

A strong, early defence can result in dropped charges, reduced penalties, or full acquittal. We are here to protect your future.

Why Choose MMA Law for Historic Offence Allegations?

Why Choose MMA Law for Historic Offence Allegations?

Choosing the right solicitor could be the most important decision you make. At MMA Law, we provide experienced, confidential support tailored to historic sexual offence cases. We do this without judgment or delay.

Decades of Serious Criminal Defence Experience

We have defended clients in complex, sensitive historic sexual offence cases for years. Our team understands how to deal with allegations going back 10, 20, or even 30+ years. We’re familiar with the procedures followed by Cleveland Police, the environment at Middlesbrough Police Station, and how cases progress through the Teesside Combined Court Centre.

This local knowledge matters. It gives us the edge when preparing your defence.

Pre-Charge Advice to Protect Your Future

Most people don’t realise how critical early legal intervention is. Many cases are won — or lost — before charges are even brought.

We work quickly to:

  • Review the facts
  • Prevent weak or malicious charges
  • Engage with the police or CPS early
  • Build a pre-charge defence strategy

Our calm, strategic advice can often prevent escalation — protecting your job, reputation, and mental wellbeing.

Discreet, Non-Judgemental Support

We know how terrifying and embarrassing these allegations can feel. Many of our clients are professionals, parents, or retired individuals who never imagined being in this situation.

At MMA Law, we listen. Everything you tell us is handled with complete discretion. Your dignity and privacy are our priority.

You’ll be treated with the respect and confidentiality you deserve.

National Representation, Local Expertise

While we’re based in Middlesbrough, we help clients across Teesside, the North East, and throughout England and Wales. Whether your case is local or further afield, you’ll get personal attention from experienced solicitors who specialise in historic sexual offence defence.

We combine the depth of a national service with the care of a trusted local firm.

Will My Case Be Kept Private?

One of the biggest fears people have is, “Will anyone find out about this?” The truth is that not all cases are made public.

Will My Name Appear in the Media?

If you haven’t been charged, your case is unlikely to be reported. Voluntary interviews or investigations usually remain private. However, if you are charged, your name may be made public, especially if the case reaches court.

But that doesn't mean it’s inevitable.

We often work with clients to request reporting restrictions or limit press interest where possible. Particularly in sensitive, reputationally damaging cases.

Can the Press Report on a Historic Sexual Offence Case?

Yes, if charges are brought and the case is heard in open court, the press can attend and report details. However, they are legally restricted from naming alleged victims or including identifying information.

If you have particular concerns, we can advise on media handling and privacy protection measures.

How We Protect Your Privacy

Discretion is at the heart of everything we do. From your first call to the final resolution, your case will be handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.

We will:

  • Never share your information without consent
  • Use private consultations — in person, by phone or video
  • Avoid drawing attention to your case unless absolutely necessary

You’ll never be treated like a headline. You’ll be treated like a person who deserves dignity, discretion, and protection.

Historic Sexual Offence FAQs

Can the police really charge me for something that happened 30 years ago?

Yes — there’s no time limit in the UK for prosecuting sexual offences. Historic allegations can be investigated and charged, even decades after the alleged event.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) will assess whether there’s:

  • A realistic prospect of conviction
  • Public interest in proceeding

Time passed doesn’t protect you from prosecution. Legal advice is essential from the start.

What type of evidence do police use in historic abuse cases?

Police don't need physical evidence to bring charges in historic cases. They may rely on:

  • The accuser’s testimony
  • Witness statements
  • Old school, work, or social service records
  • Medical or psychological reports
  • Personal diaries or letters

Patterns of alleged behaviour can also be used. A solicitor can challenge credibility and consistency in this type of evidence.

How long could a historic sex offence investigation actually take?

There’s no fixed timeline. Investigations can take months or even longer. You may be:

  • Released under investigation (RUI)
  • Placed on bail with conditions

Delays happen due to:

  • Evidence gathering
  • Witness availability
  • CPS review times

During this period, you have rights. Get regular legal updates and avoid speaking to police without advice.

I’ve been falsely accused — what should I do first?

Follow these four steps:

  1. Do not contact the accuser.
  2. Keep all evidence — emails, messages, records.
  3. Avoid discussing the case publicly or online.
  4. Speak to a solicitor immediately — even before police interview.

False allegations can spiral quickly. Early advice is your best protection.

If I haven’t been charged, do I still need a solicitor?

Yes — absolutely. A voluntary interview or police contact still carries legal risk. What you say early can affect whether charges are brought. A solicitor helps you:

  • Prepare your statement
  • Avoid self-incrimination
  • Protect your rights

Pre-charge advice can change the entire course of your case.

Will anyone find out I’ve been accused?

It depends on your case status. If you’ve not been charged, the police usually keep things private. If you’re charged, the press may report it, especially for serious allegations. MMA Law handles your defence with total discretion. We help protect your reputation and keep your case as private as possible.

What’s the difference between a caution and being charged?

A caution means:

  • You admit guilt
  • You avoid court
  • It still appears on your record

A charge means:

  • The CPS believes there’s enough evidence
  • You must appear in court
  • You’ll face a full trial

Never accept a caution without legal advice. It can affect jobs, travel, and future allegations.

Speak to a Specialist Historic Offence Solicitor Today

Speak to a Specialist Historic Offence Solicitor Today

Every hour you wait gives the police more time — without challenge — to build a case against you.

You may think it’ll blow over. It won’t.

Even a voluntary interview can end in a criminal charge, a court date, and national press coverage.

Don’t risk it. Speak to MMA Law now — before it’s too late.

We understand the fear. We know the law. And we protect your future. Discreetly, expertly, and without judgement.

With us, you’ll get:

Contact us today.

Funding Your Case

We will assess your eligibility for Legal Aid and if you are not eligible, we will provide you with an agreed fee to represent you to conclusion of your case.

Get Your Free Consultation

Trusted by many others just like you

Your 5 Star Firm

We were supported by McGee McGee Agar Law through a really challenging time, they were not only outstanding at supporting us legally through a really tough time, but we also felt that they were emotionally supportive and invested in our case, and simply put we would have not managed without them....

Thea Zimmermann
Verified Verified

Paul McGee and the team handled my case very well and had all my charges dropped I can’t thank them enough for the outstanding work. They put my mind at ease thanks Hayley Mitchison

Hayley
Verified Verified

Can’t thank Cheryl and marriyah enough for everything they’ve done! I am so pleased with the outcome, best solicitors, thankyou for everything

Megan Gilley
Verified Verified

McGee McGee agar law supported me through both my divorce and child custody arrangements, through this difficult time they were supportive and thorough with their advice and guidance, I feel that the results obtained in both cases would not have been as positive with any other representation, I woul...

Michael Bartliff
Verified Verified

Finding the courage to sieze an opportunity to leave an abusive marriage, I knew I needed a solicitor I could trust. Having know Matthew for a number of years and working alongside him professionally, there was no one else I would have turned to. Matthew and his team were fantastic. I felt supported...

Carly Devon-Brough
Verified Verified

I’d firstly like to thank Paul and team for the support during a difficult time. First class professional who knows his job that good. Fully recommend MMA as they are supportive and really know what to do and the win. Wish you all the very best. 100%.

Michael Thompson
Verified Verified

I would definatly reccomend. They have all been so helpful, understanding and caring throughout. My divorce is now complete and i am really happy with the service i recieved. Thank you.

Zoe Leech
Verified Verified

I can whole heartedly endorse Melissa and the rest of the team at McGee McGee Agar Law. The outstanding professionalism in which my case was handled was second to none. The swift and timely updates to any questions or changes throughout the process of my case was extremely appreciated. But most of a...

Anonymous
Verified Verified

MMA are a fantastic Law firm if you require representation on any matter. Communication is key in all instances and MMA did not fail at all. They have all the resources available to cover any situation you require. Thanks Matthew and team for all your help.

Paul Dilks
Verified Verified

Highly recommend McGee McGee .they took my case on after I had spent a lot of money on a big well known solicitors. Very straight forward to work with and easily contactable.I will be recommending this company to any one who is in need of expert advice and help . Thankyou to you all

Lee Dale

Get your free 30 minute consultation

Speak with one of our Specialist Solicitors in Criminal or Family Law.

Here at MMA Law we strive to offer same day appointments and we will make one of our expert Solicitors available to you.

Please select the type of case you are seeking advice on.

© Copyright 2018 - 2025 McGee McGee Agar Law Ltd