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Being falsely accused of domestic violence can be one of the most stressful and damaging experiences a person can encounter. In an instant, a single false accusation can trigger a police investigation, restrict contact with your children, and threaten severe consequences under criminal law. Your personal and professional reputation can suffer, and the emotional toll … Read more

Indecent images offences are taken very seriously under UK law. They involve the possession, creation, or distribution of sexual images of children or other vulnerable people, and are investigated rigorously by law enforcement agencies. Investigations are designed to identify offenders, secure evidence, and protect potential victims. Investigations can begin in several ways. Police may receive … Read more

Voyeurism charges are treated as serious sexual offences under UK law. Even an allegation, before any charge is brought, can have immediate and far-reaching consequences. Police investigations are often intrusive, digital devices may be seized for months, and the reputational damage can be profound. For many people, the stress of a voyeurism investigation is compounded … Read more

Facing allegations of a sexual offence can be extremely stressful. Even at the early stages of an investigation, the impact can be serious. Allegations can affect your employment, professional reputation, family relationships, and social life. Many people experience confusion, anxiety, and fear when contacted by police regarding sexual offences. Understanding your legal rights at each … Read more

Being charged with sexual assault in the UK is one of the most serious and distressing situations a person can face. Allegations involving sexual assault, rape, or other sexual offences carry severe legal consequences, social stigma, and long-lasting personal impact. Whether the allegation involves adults or child sexual abuse, the moment a charge is brought … Read more

Assault by penetration is a grave sexual offence under UK law, carrying severe penalties, including the possibility of life imprisonment. It involves the intentional penetration of the vagina or anus of another person without their consent, using a body part or object, and is treated with the same seriousness as rape. This guide provides a … Read more

In recent years, the term ‘stealthing’ has gained attention in legal and public discourse. While it may sound like a slang term, stealthing refers to a deeply serious act with significant legal implications.  At McArthur Solicitors, our specialist sexual offence defence solicitors are committed to educating the public and supporting individuals facing allegations of stealthing. … Read more

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The short answer is yes – voyeurism, when carried out without consent and for sexual gratification, is recognised as a sexual offence in England and Wales.  The law also makes important distinctions between criminal acts, private sexual interests, and recognised mental disorders. This article explains what voyeurism means in law, how it is prosecuted, what … Read more

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Dealing with offences involving indecent images is one of the most serious areas of criminal law. The consequences can be life-changing for anyone accused or found guilty of possessing, making, or distributing such images. The courts in England and Wales treat indecent images offences as serious sexual offences, particularly where the material involves children. At … Read more

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The issue of consent and alcohol is one of the most debated and complex areas of sexual offence law in the UK. Many sexual encounters involve alcohol to some degree, but when does drinking cross the line into raising questions about whether valid consent was given?  For individuals accused of sexual assault, and for those … Read more

Rape is one of the most serious criminal offences under English law. Convictions carry significant custodial sentences, and the way in which courts determine the appropriate sentence is guided by structured rules. These are known as rape sentencing guidelines, set out by the Sentencing Council for England and Wales.  Rape sentencing guidelines in the UK … Read more

Allegations of rape are among the most serious a person can face in England. While genuine victims deserve protection and justice, false rape allegations also occur and can have devastating effects on the lives of those wrongly accused.  Even before a case reaches trial, an allegation alone can lead to an arrest and police investigation, … Read more

lawyer discussing content and alcohol, representing criminal defence solicitors in london

Being accused of rape or sexual assault is an incredibly distressing experience, and it can be challenging to know what to do.  How your case is handled is vital right from the very start. In this guide, we will explain what these accusations mean, how the legal process works, what to do immediately if you … Read more

Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPOs) are serious legal measures imposed by UK courts to protect the public from individuals who pose a risk of sexual harm. If you have been convicted or even cautioned for certain sexual offences under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, a SHPO may be issued against you, carrying significant restrictions on … Read more

When it comes to sexual consent, it’s vital to understand exactly what is consent and what isn’t. Without this knowledge, sexual offence cases can arise, which can carry severe legal penalties. What Is Sexual Assault? In the UK, sexual assault crimes are defined as the sexual penetration or touching of an individual without reasonably believing … Read more

What Happens If I Drive Under the Influence of Drugs? The United Kingdom regards driving under the influence of drugs as a serious criminal offence along with severe penalties. If convicted, you may receive a custodial sentence, driving bans, fines, in addition to a criminal record. You may be asked to partake in a field … Read more

The Sentencing Council has recently introduced new guidelines on community and custodial sentences. This will assist both judges and magistrates in deciding when to impose a community or custodial (prison) sentence. The specific changes, taking effect on April 1st, will prioritise crime reduction and rehabilitation over existing sentencing guidelines. The purpose of such guidelines is … Read more

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What is a False Memory? False memories are recollections of events that have been distorted or simply did not occur. The occurrence of false memories throughout legal proceedings presents significant challenges regarding the credibility of testimony and confessions. It is important to note the tactics used during interrogation that may involve suggestive or coercive language … Read more

The Home Detention Curfew (HDC) has been a fundamental tool within the United Kingdom’s Criminal Justice System. Its recent reform has expanded the eligibility criteria whilst increasing the maximum duration prisoners can serve under curfew outside of prison. The new adjustments have been implemented via the Sentencing Bill 2023.  The HDC allows prisoners to reintegrate … Read more