Business Details
Emergency
services
Expert Criminal Defence Services in Exeter
St James Solicitors is a dedicated criminal defence practice with extensive experience representing clients in both Magistrates' and Crown Courts. Our team of expert solicitors specialises in handling complex cases including drug offences, fraud, motoring violations, sexual offences, and violent crimes. We pride ourselves on providing compassionate, client-focused representation while maintaining the highest standards of legal expertise. Our solicitors are available 24/7 for police station interviews and court proceedings, offering immediate support during critical moments.With particular expertise in cases involving mental health considerations, we ensure clients receive appropriate accommodations throughout the legal process. Our proven track record in serious criminal cases demonstrates our commitment to achieving optimal outcomes through strategic defence strategies and clear communication.
Services
Criminal Defence
Motoring Offences
Fraud & Financial Crime
Drug Offences
Sexual Offences
Violent Offences
Highlights and features
- 24/7 emergency legal representation available
- Specialist criminal defence solicitors with Crown Court experience
- Regulated by Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
- Transparent fee structure with legal aid options
- Tailored support for clients with mental health needs
Associations and certifications
- Solicitors Regulation Authority
What people say
Better, more understanding
Approachable and compassionate
Proven track record
Sympathetic mitigation
Expert legal representation
Services
Criminal Defence
Our criminal defence service provides expert legal representation for clients facing criminal charges. We specialise in developing strategic defences for cases ranging from minor offences to serious criminal allegations. Our solicitors work closely with clients to understand case specifics and develop tailored defence strategies that maximise the potential for positive outcomes in both Magistrates' and Crown Courts.
Motoring Offences
We offer specialist defence services for motoring offences including speeding, drink driving, and dangerous driving charges. Our solicitors understand the life-impacting consequences of driving bans and work to preserve clients' licences through strategic mitigation and court representation. We handle cases involving professional drivers and complex motoring law scenarios.
Drug Offences
Our drug offences service handles cases ranging from possession to supply and conspiracy charges. We specialise in complex cases involving digital evidence analysis and mitigation strategies for clients facing drug-related allegations. Our solicitors have experience handling cases with issues of duress, modern slavery, and other special circumstances.
Emergency Call Out
We provide 24/7 emergency legal support for police station interviews and urgent legal matters. This service ensures immediate access to experienced criminal defence solicitors whenever clients face arrest or require urgent legal advice. Our team attends police stations across the South West at any time of day or night.
Sexual Offences
We handle sensitive sexual offence cases with professional discretion and client-focused support. Our solicitors have extensive experience in cases involving consent issues, historical allegations, and complex evidential challenges. We provide strategic defence while ensuring appropriate support for clients throughout the legal process.
People
Jeremy Wickham
Partner
Jeremy Wickham is a partner at St James Solicitors with extensive experience in criminal law. He specialises in serious criminal defence cases and has represented clients in complex Crown Court proceedings.
Rachel Smith
Partner
Rachel Smith, a partner at St James Solicitors, brings significant expertise in criminal defence. She has particular experience handling cases involving mental health considerations and vulnerable clients.
Peter Woodley
Partner
Peter Woodley is a partner with specialist knowledge of serious criminal cases. He has extensive experience in murder, manslaughter, and complex fraud cases across both Magistrates' and Crown Courts.
Lisa McArthur
Solicitor
Lisa McArthur is a solicitor at St James Solicitors with a focus on criminal defence. She provides dedicated client support and has experience in handling various criminal law matters.
Lily Smith
Paralegal
Lily Smith serves as a paralegal at St James Solicitors, supporting the legal team with case preparation and client assistance. She contributes to the firm's commitment to comprehensive legal representation.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialise in?
We specialise exclusively in criminal defence law, handling cases including motoring offences, drug crimes, fraud, sexual offences, and violent crimes.
Do you offer emergency legal services?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency legal representation for police station interviews and urgent criminal matters across the South West.
Which courts do you operate in?
We represent clients in both Magistrates' and Crown Courts throughout England and Wales for all types of criminal proceedings.
How are your legal fees structured?
Police station representation is free. Court representation costs vary by case complexity. We discuss transparent fee structures during initial consultations.
Do you handle cases involving mental health issues?
Yes, we have significant experience supporting clients with mental health needs, including arranging appropriate court accommodations and expert reports.
What happens during the initial consultation?
We'll discuss case details, explain legal options, and develop a tailored defence strategy. This can be done in person, by phone, or online.
