Violent Offence Solicitors in Middlesbrough

If you've been accused of a violent crime, understanding your options for defence is critical. MMA Law carefully considers all aspects of your situation, building personalised strategies designed to deliver the best possible outcome.

Self-defence or Defence of Others

One of the most common defences used in violent crime cases is self-defence. This applies when you've acted reasonably to protect yourself or someone else from harm or danger. For self-defence to succeed, your solicitor must clearly show that your response was proportionate to the threat faced. MMA Law's self-defence solicitors carefully analyse evidence—such as witness statements, CCTV footage, and medical reports—to prove your actions were justified and necessary.

For example, MMA Law recently represented a client who faced charges of assault after intervening to protect a friend during an altercation. By presenting clear CCTV evidence and multiple eyewitness statements, we demonstrated our client's actions were reasonable and necessary, resulting in a successful acquittal.

Mistaken Identity

Sometimes, individuals are wrongly accused due to mistaken identity. This can occur during chaotic incidents or through unreliable eyewitness accounts. MMA Law thoroughly investigates identification evidence, using CCTV footage, phone location data, and alibi witnesses to challenge incorrect accusations.

In one notable case, MMA Law successfully proved mistaken identity by providing strong alibi evidence from credible witnesses. Our efforts resulted in the prosecution dropping the case entirely before reaching trial.

Consent (in Relevant Cases)

Consent can be a valid defence, particularly in scenarios involving physical contact during sports, certain medical procedures, or specific personal relationships. Consent means the alleged victim willingly agreed to the physical contact that occurred. MMA Law carefully reviews circumstances to present clear evidence that consent was genuine, informed, and freely given.

Lack of Intent to Cause Harm

To convict someone of a violent crime, the prosecution must prove intent to cause harm. MMA Law often argues lack of criminal intent, showing that the injury was accidental or unforeseen. This defence can significantly reduce charges or lead to acquittal.

For instance, MMA Law successfully defended a client accused of causing serious harm (GBH) by clearly demonstrating the injury was accidental, occurring during a struggle where the client had no intention to injure anyone.

Provocation or Loss of Control

Sometimes violent incidents occur in the heat of the moment after provocation. While this doesn't entirely excuse actions, it can significantly reduce charges or sentencing. MMA Law uses detailed evidence, including witness accounts and psychological assessments, to show you reacted instinctively rather than intentionally.

Proven Defence Strategies at MMA Law

MMA Law consistently achieves positive outcomes by applying these proven defence strategies. Our solicitors' detailed case preparation, combined with carefully considered legal arguments, have secured acquittals, charge reductions, and lenient sentencing across numerous violent crime cases.

Domestic violence involves violent, threatening, or abusive behaviour between individuals who are in an intimate or family relationship. Legally, this can include physical harm, psychological abuse, controlling or coercive behaviour, harassment, and stalking.

Examples of Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence allegations cover a range of behaviours, including:

• Physical Assault: Hitting, slapping, pushing, or any form of physical attack.
• Threatening Behaviour: Making threats of violence or intimidation.
• Coercive Control: Manipulating or controlling another person's finances, activities, or relationships.
• Harassment and Stalking: Repeated unwanted contact or monitoring through phone calls, texts, social media, or physical surveillance.

Consequences and Implications of Domestic Violence Allegations

Being accused of domestic violence can have significant repercussions in multiple aspects of your life, such as:

• Criminal Record: Convictions can lead to substantial fines, community orders, or imprisonment.
• Employment Issues: Allegations or convictions can affect your job, especially if you work in healthcare, education, law enforcement, or roles requiring background checks.
• Family and Relationships: Accusations can result in restraining orders or loss of contact with your children, spouse, or partner. Family courts may limit your visitation or parental rights.
• Reputation Damage: Domestic violence charges can harm your personal and professional reputation within your community.

Defence Strategies for Domestic Violence Allegations

MMA Law adopts tailored defence strategies to address domestic violence allegations sensitively yet firmly, including:

• Self-Defence: Demonstrating your actions were necessary to protect yourself or others from immediate harm.
  • Example: If you were physically attacked by your partner and used reasonable force to protect yourself, this defence might apply.
• False Allegations: Presenting evidence that claims are exaggerated, fabricated, or malicious.
  • Example: Providing text messages or witness statements showing accusations were made following a relationship breakdown or custody dispute.
• Lack of Evidence: Challenging unreliable witness testimonies or unclear forensic evidence to weaken the prosecution's case.
  • Example: Highlighting inconsistencies or contradictions in witness accounts or police reports.
• Consent or Misinterpretation: Showing that the behaviour was consensual or misunderstood.
  • Example: Providing evidence (texts or emails) demonstrating that the alleged victim consented to contact or engagement that was later reported as harassment.