Figures show hate crimes increased by 26% in 2021/22 from the previous year, totalling 155,841 offences. Consequently, we see more arrests and prosecutions where hate crime is a motivating factor.

If you have been arrested for an alleged hate crime, please get in touch with us at Ashman Solicitors. Our criminal defence solicitors represent clients across England and Wales. We also offer free police station representation.

What is a hate crime?

In England and Wales, a hate crime is defined as ‘any criminal offence which is perceived, by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice towards someone based on a personal characteristic.’

There are five personal characteristics that, when targeted, may amount to a hate crime:

  • Race or ethnicity
  • Religion or beliefs
  • Sexual orientation
  • Disability
  • Transgender identity

This definition may include misogyny (hatred directed towards women), misandry (hatred directed towards men), hate based on age and hatred towards gothic subculture.

Who are the victims of hate crimes?

The data shows that 80% of online hate crimes involve violence against the person, predominantly through sending malicious communications. Transgender people were more likely to be victims of this type of offence, whereas race is the least likely to be targeted. The majority of overall hate crimes were related to public order offences.

Regarding impacts on the victims, the data also reveals that 42% of victims felt a loss of confidence or vulnerability following the crime. Also, 29% had difficulty sleeping following the crime, and 34% experienced anxiety or panic attacks.

Have you been accused of a hate crime?

As criminal defence solicitors, we see increased arrests and prosecutions for alleged hate crimes. This is partly due to better police recording methods and greater awareness of reporting hate crimes. Historically, hate crimes have spiked during notable global events such as the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, the 2017 terror attacks and the EU referendum.

If you have been accused of a hate crime, please get in touch with us at Ashmans Solicitors. We are experienced criminal defence lawyers and know how to mitigate the consequences of an alleged hate crime offence.

We can take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We also offer free police station representation.

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Do you need a criminal defence lawyer? Call us on 0333 009 6275. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You can also email us at enquiries@ashmanssolicitors.com or complete our Free Online Enquiry Form, and we will contact you.