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Defence
Have you been
accused of a crime?
If you’ve been accused of a crime, you’re likely to feel overwhelmed, lost and alone. With such a stressful, intimidating and complex legal system to navigate, our solicitors will give you clarity, confidence and the best possible defence.
Our experienced criminal defence lawyers and legal specialists are here to help if you’re:
- Facing criminal investigation
- Facing criminal charges
- Preparing for trial
With an in-depth and strategic approach, Ashmans will lead you through your legal difficulties with clarity and confidence.
Our values
Striving to tip the scales of justice in your favour
Founded in 2009, Ashmans Solicitors has been built on the foundations of trust, integrity and compassion. These principles guide everything we do throughout the process of defending our clients.
Why choose Ashmans?
15+
years
Since our founding, we have successfully represented numerous clients, ensuring their voices are heard in the legal system.
10000+
cases handled
We’ve handled over 10,000+ criminal defence cases, demonstrating our deep expertise, strategic precision, and specialist ability to deliver results when it matters most.
85%
success rate
Securing acquittals, dismissals and reduced charges through our knowledge and experience.
Our Testimonials
Real stories. Real results.
Picture a world where you’re free from your fight, your reputation intact. Our clients believed – now hear what fearless defence can truly achieve in their words.
Remarkable Support During a Devastating Ordeal
Reliable and Professional Legal Support
Outstanding Support and Professional Representation
Expert Legal Defence That Turned My Case Around
Relentless Defence Leading to Justice
Outstanding Legal Support in Serious Drug Case
Exceptional Expertise in Complex Criminal Fraud Cases
Relentless Commitment and Professionalism in Complex Cases
Clear and Honest Legal Guidance
Brilliant Representation Leading to Not Guilty Verdict
Above and Beyond Legal Support and Service
Exceptional Legal Support and Top-Tier Service
Top Notch Legal Support and Guidance
Brilliant Legal Assistance Throughout My Legal Battle
Outstanding Legal Assistance in Complex Case
Professional Excellence in Legal Battle
Consistent Excellence in Legal Support
Remarkable Legal Guidance and Genuine Care
Extraordinary Support and Kindness Throughout My Case
Swift and Reliable Support in False Complaint Case
You’re more
than just a case.
Our criminal defence lawyers do more than represent you. We’ll keep you in close communication, clearly explain your rights and options, and offer reassurance – so you can feel confident that we’re building the best strategy for your defence.
- We understand the stress and significance of criminal charges, guiding you all the way.
- Our established firm consistently secures successful results for our thousands of clients.
- We challenge, defend and fight tirelessly for the very best outcome on every case.
3 Simple Steps
to Your Defence
Getting the right legal defence is simple. Follow these three simple steps to protect your rights and future.
Step 1:
Initial consultation
We’ll discuss and assess your case, review evidence and explore your defence options.
Step 2:
Strategic defence planning
We’ll build a sophisticated, custom defence strategy for the best protection possible.
Step 3:
Expert legal representation
We’ll challenge weak evidence, support you and fight for your freedom and your future.
Move quickly
choose wisely
When faced with a legal challenge, failure to act quickly or securing the wrong criminal defence lawyer can lead to distressing negative outcomes:
- A criminal record impacting employment, travel and future opportunities.
- Restrictive bail conditions limiting your freedom and day-to-day life.
- Court orders preventing contact with family or loved ones.
- Custodial sentences that could change your life forever.
- Reputational damage affecting your professional and personal relationships.
You’re not alone. We’ll help minimise and mitigate the outcome for a more positive outlook.
Our Notable Cases
Serious charges, successful results
Our criminal defence lawyers have represented clients across a range of serious charges – see some examples of our work and the outcomes of our support.
Sentence Reduced in Historic Sexual Offences
Historic Sexual Abuse Allegations – Justice Secured
Unanimous Acquittal in Festival Consent Allegation
Credibility Challenged, Charges Reduced in Complex Domestic Case
Strategic Defence Secures Justice for Wrongly Accused Businessman
Revenge Attack Charge Reduced: Successful Defence
Conspiracy to Murder: A Complex Acquittal
Acquittal in High-Stakes Conspiracy to Murder Case
Acquittal in High-Profile Leeds Murder Investigation
Charges Reduced Through Strategic Defence
Wrongly Accused: Armed Robbery Charges Dismissed
Strategic Defence Secures Discontinuation in Fatal Collision Case
Exoneration in High-Stakes Armed Robbery Allegation
Dangerous Driving Allegation Involving Police Officer Successfully Reduced
Exceptional Hardship Defence Saves Doctor’s Driving Licence
Forged Titles and Negotiated Justice
Logistics Fraud Defence: Suspended Sentence Secured
Fraud by False Representation – Local Councillor Case
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud Involving Forged Cheques
Acquittal Secured in £40 Million Mortgage Fraud Case
Urgent legal assistance
Seek immediate
legal support today
- Specialist criminal defence lawyers ready to help
- 24/7 urgent legal support to protect your rights
- Strategic, tailored solutions for optimal outcomes
Our trusted accreditations
Latest insights and updates
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Can Psychological Harm to a Victim Increase a Criminal Sentence?
CPS Complex Casework Unit: How Serious Criminal Cases Are Prosecuted
Encouraging or Assisting Crime in the UK
GPS Tagging Offenders in the UK After Prison Release
Harbouring an Offender or Escapee in UK Law
Modern Slavery Defence in Criminal Cases
Modern Slavery Defence in Criminal Cases (Section 45 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015)
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The Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme: When a Sentence Can Be Increased by the Court of Appeal
Unduly Lenient Sentences in the UK: What the Law Says
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Flawed Identification Evidence in Criminal Cases
Judge Interference in Criminal Trials: When Can You Appeal an Unfair Trial?
Identical Witness Statements in Court: What They Mean in a Criminal Case
When Do You Need a Criminal Defence Solicitor?
Defence
Our History
Defending
since 2009
Since 2009 the Ashmans team has combined technically astute legal defence strategies and a specialist understanding of the law with a deep care for the people involved. Our mission has always been to fight for fairness, truth and the people behind the allegations.
We’ve built our reputation and achieved national recognition for the successful legal defence work we undertake for clients. Our criminal law solicitors are trusted not just by clients, but by barristers, accountants and fellow legal professionals who refer high-stakes cases to us.
Our Vision
Fierce and fearless defence. Unrivalled expertise. Real care
Our vision is to be the most trusted and effective criminal defence firm, delivering expert legal representation with integrity, compassion and relentless commitment to justice.
We’ve built our reputation on our success on behalf of clients, providing strategic guidance for some of the most complex cases – and plenty of straightforward ones too – to secure justice, and our clients’ futures.
Our Mission
Always
on your side
Our mission is to provide strategic, expert and compassionate legal defence for people and businesses facing criminal allegations.
As specialist criminal defence lawyers, clients have confidence they’re getting skilful legal representation from true experts in the field. We minimise adverse impacts, fight for justice, and safeguard our clients’ futures with precision, experience and care.
Our Purpose
Safeguarding
what Matters
Fighting for justice is what gets us out of bed. We know that facing criminal charges can be the most challenging time of your life. Standing between you and the consequences of conviction is what drives all the Ashmans team.
Combining our criminal legal expertise with a deep care for clients, we support you to navigate the complex and confounding system you’re thrown into when charged. We know that knowledge is power, so you’ll feel fully informed at every step.
Our Values
Trust. Integregity. Compassion
At our core, we believe criminal defence should be built on unwavering ethical principles. Our three defining values shape everything about how we operate.
Trust
We need to be trusted by clients at some of your most vulnerable moments. We build that trust through:
- Providing honest, strategic and straightforward legal advice when people need it most.
- Giving clear, transparent guidance, ensuring clients always understand our reasoning.
- Ensuring we’re externally validated – we’re proudly ranked in the Legal 500 and Lexcel accredited.
Integrity
High standards matter. We strive for legal excellence alongside ethical defence and demonstrate our integrity through:
- Hold ourselves to the highest professional standards – validated by SRA regulation.
- Defending with commitment but also fairness, never compromising on ethics.
- Building a reputation on credibility, trust and delivering real results.
Compassion
Behind every case is a person who deserves to be defended and supported. This is evident in:
- Our treatment of clients – with respect, dignity and empathy.
- Providing clear, reassuring guidance at every stage of the legal process.
- Our client-first approach. We listen, create strong strategies and support with the emotional as well as legal challenges.
Why choose Ashmans?
15+
years
Since our founding, we have successfully represented numerous clients, ensuring their voices are heard in the legal system.
10000+
cases handled
We’ve handled over 10,000+ criminal defence cases, demonstrating our deep expertise, strategic precision, and specialist ability to deliver results when it matters most.
85%
success rate
Securing acquittals, dismissals and reduced charges through our knowledge and experience.
Facing Criminal allegations can feel overwhelming. We’re here to listen, advise, and act—swiftly and strategically. Whether you need urgent advice or want to discuss your situation, our team is ready to help.
Tell us how we
can support you
Please complete the form below with as much detail as possible. This helps us understand the nature of your situation and what you’re hoping to achieve, so we can direct your enquiry to the right specialist.
Every case is unique—and the more context you provide, the better equipped we’ll be to support you from the very first step.
Defence
Access with Intent to Commit Offences Defence Specialists
Allegations of access with intent to commit offences can stop you in your tracks: overwhelmed by the stress, reputational damage and uncertainty you’re facing. With the risk of arrest, digital device seizure, restrictive bail conditions, a criminal record or even a custodial sentence, securing a robust defence is essential from the outset.
With a team of skilled cyber crime specialists, Ashmans Solicitors are here to assist, whether:
- You’re under investigation or facing charges for unauthorised access with intent to commit further offences under the Computer Misuse Act 1990
- You want to protect your rights and ensure a fair and lawful investigative process
- You want a strategic legal defence from a strong yet sensitive team of experts
With Ashmans, you never need to feel alone. We’re in your corner at every stage, fearlessly fighting for the best possible outcomes.
Access with Intent to Commit Offences and the Law
Under Section 2 of the Computer Misuse Act 1990, it is an offence to gain unauthorised access to a computer with the intent to commit or facilitate the commission of further offences.
- Using someone else’s credentials or bypassing security systems without consent.
- Accessing data or networks intending to commit fraud, theft, or data misuse.
- Assisting or enabling another person to carry out such unlawful activity.
- Caused a computer to perform a function to obtain unauthorised access.
- Knew that access was unauthorised.
- Intended to commit or enable a further offence once access was obtained.
Agencies such as the National Crime Agency (NCA), Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Serious Fraud Office (SFO), and HMRC often collaborate in cyber investigations. They review forensic logs, IP traces, data capture tools, and server access records. Evidence can include seized devices, intercepted emails, and digital footprints linking a person to an online act.
The legal complexity demands both technological fluency and rigorous defence strategy. Ashmans’ specialist cyber crime defence lawyers in England and Wales ensure that every piece of evidence is lawfully obtained, every procedural step is scrutinised, and your rights are fiercely protected.
Essential actions against accusations
From the moment of accusation or at the start of an investigation, your actions can significantly influence the outcome of your access with intent to commit offences case. Take our advice and follow these steps:
Do NOT contact any alleged victim, system owner or third party, and do not post or comment online about the allegations – this can be used as evidence against you.
Even if you believe you’ve done nothing wrong, do NOT answer police questions or provide explanations about device access, passwords or online activity without your specialist cyber crime solicitor present.
With 24/7 availability, Ashmans is always here to provide urgent legal protection, including advice before interview and representation at the police station.
Do not delete, alter or interfere with devices, accounts or communications. Preserving relevant digital material can be crucial to your defence and demonstrates compliance.
Strictly comply with any bail conditions, including restrictions on internet use or device access, and leave your defence strategy in your lawyer’s hands.
Three simple steps
to your Defence
Getting the right legal defence is easy. Follow these three simple steps to protect your rights and future.
Step 1:
Initial Consultation
We assess your case confidentially and explain your legal position.
Step 2:
Strategic Defence Planning
We gather evidence and formulate a detailed response plan.
Step 3:
Expert Legal Representation
We defend you in interviews, hearings and trials with precision.
Our Testimonials
Real Stories. Real Results.
See how Ashmans has successfully supported previous clients and listen to what they have to say about our Access with Intent to Commit Offences legal support.
Remarkable Support During a Devastating Ordeal
Reliable and Professional Legal Support
Outstanding Support and Professional Representation
Expert Legal Defence That Turned My Case Around
Relentless Defence Leading to Justice
Outstanding Legal Support in Serious Drug Case
Exceptional Expertise in Complex Criminal Fraud Cases
Relentless Commitment and Professionalism in Complex Cases
Clear and Honest Legal Guidance
Brilliant Representation Leading to Not Guilty Verdict
Above and Beyond Legal Support and Service
Exceptional Legal Support and Top-Tier Service
Top Notch Legal Support and Guidance
Brilliant Legal Assistance Throughout My Legal Battle
Outstanding Legal Assistance in Complex Case
Professional Excellence in Legal Battle
Consistent Excellence in Legal Support
Remarkable Legal Guidance and Genuine Care
Extraordinary Support and Kindness Throughout My Case
Swift and Reliable Support in False Complaint Case
Move Quickly,
Choose Wisely
When confronted with an allegation of access with intent to commit offences, failing to act swiftly and secure expert legal defence can expose you to serious consequences:
- A criminal record can damage your career, professional standing and future opportunities.
- Seizure of computers, phones and digital devices can disrupt your business and personal life.
- Prolonged investigations create stress, uncertainty and significant reputational harm.
- Custodial sentences under the Computer Misuse Act 1990 can result in loss of liberty and long-term restrictions.
- A successful cyber crime prosecution can affect your credibility and digital access for years to come.
You’re not alone, we’re here to help.
Access with Intent Allegations
The Ashmans Approach
Our defence methodology is structured, adaptive and evidence-led.
- Ensure your rights are asserted from the first question.
- Prevent self-incrimination and manage information disclosure.
- Prepare clear, consistent statements under legal guidance.
- Negotiate fair terms protecting your freedom of movement.
- Challenge disproportionate digital restrictions.
- Seek early variation where necessary.
- Provide representations to CPS before charge.
- Present exculpatory digital evidence proactively.
- Encourage early resolution or no further action.
- Challenge proposed Restraint or Forfeiture Orders.
- Defend against Proceeds of Crime applications.
- Ensure compliance while safeguarding your privacy rights.
- Engage independent IT experts to interpret logs and metadata.
- Cross-examine technical witnesses effectively.
- Build clear narratives explaining lawful access or mistaken identity.
- Present strong mitigation evidence highlighting intent and character.
- Explore appeal or conviction review options.
- Support rehabilitation and record protection measures.
Why Choose Ashmans?
Proven Record
Successful defence in complex cyber prosecutions.
Experts in Cyber-crime offences
Deep understanding of technology and law.
24/7 Support
Legal advice and representation anytime, anywhere.
Our Notable Cases
Serious Charges, Successful Results
Our Access with Intent to Commit Offences solicitors have represented clients across a range of serious charges – see some examples of our work and outcomes.
Sentence Reduced in Historic Sexual Offences
Historic Sexual Abuse Allegations – Justice Secured
Unanimous Acquittal in Festival Consent Allegation
Credibility Challenged, Charges Reduced in Complex Domestic Case
Strategic Defence Secures Justice for Wrongly Accused Businessman
Revenge Attack Charge Reduced: Successful Defence
Conspiracy to Murder: A Complex Acquittal
Acquittal in High-Stakes Conspiracy to Murder Case
Acquittal in High-Profile Leeds Murder Investigation
Charges Reduced Through Strategic Defence
Wrongly Accused: Armed Robbery Charges Dismissed
Strategic Defence Secures Discontinuation in Fatal Collision Case
Exoneration in High-Stakes Armed Robbery Allegation
Dangerous Driving Allegation Involving Police Officer Successfully Reduced
Exceptional Hardship Defence Saves Doctor’s Driving Licence
Forged Titles and Negotiated Justice
Logistics Fraud Defence: Suspended Sentence Secured
Fraud by False Representation – Local Councillor Case
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud Involving Forged Cheques
Acquittal Secured in £40 Million Mortgage Fraud Case
Urgent Legal Assistance
Seek Immediate
Legal Support Today
Facing an access with intent allegation? Every minute matters. Contact cyber crime defence solicitors now for urgent representation. Your case deserves fearless, informed, and compassionate defence.
- Expert defence against Computer Misuse Act and cyber crime allegations.
- Responsive 24/7 legal support when it matters most.
- Strategic, technology-focused solutions tailored to your case.
Defence
Overview
Our client had a history of committing sexual offences against children, and he pleaded guilty to further offences of a similar nature. Despite the gravity of the charges and the prior definition of our client as ‘dangerous’, we achieved a significant outcome by persuading the court to impose a ‘determinate sentence’, instead of an extended one.
This case underscored our ability to achieve fair and just outcomes, even in highly sensitive and complex scenarios.
The Allegations
Our client faced allegations of committing further sexual offences against children, following a history of similar offending. The Prosecution highlighted the severity and recurrence of his crimes, emphasising the risk he posed.
The allegations carried severe implications, including the possibility of an extended sentence, due to his prior classification as a dangerous person.
Counter Allegations
Text Messages
The Challenges
This case presented several key challenges:
- The client’s criminal history and the extremely serious nature of the charges
- The Prosecution’s focus on our client’s ‘perceived dangerousness’, which added further complexity
- The need to address the court’s previous sentencing findings to ensure a balanced approach.
We needed to overcome these challenges to secure a fair and just outcome for our client.
Our Defence Strategy
From the outset, we took a meticulous and strategic approach to our client’s defence. Our legal team conducted an exhaustive review of all evidence, focusing on:
- Comprehensive review of the case and previous sentencing rulings, to ensure that all relevant legal aspects were addressed.
- Presenting persuasive arguments supported by legal precedents, to demonstrate that a determinate sentence was more appropriate than an extended one.
- Thoroughly addressing the court’s concerns regarding the client’s risk assessment, ensuring fairness in the evaluation process.
- Highlighting mitigating factors, to provide the court with a balanced understanding of the client’s personal circumstances.
Our strategic approach ensured that the Prosecution’s position was rigorously examined and that the court was persuaded to adopt a fair and proportionate outcome.
The Result
The court agreed with our submissions and imposed a determinate sentence, instead of an extended sentence. This outcome was a fair response to the offences and avoided the harsher implications of our client being labelled as dangerous.
This result demonstrated the importance of expert advocacy in navigating sensitive and complex criminal cases.
Why Choose Ashmans Solicitors?
Proven Expertise in Complex Cases
Our team’s ability to address ‘dangerous’ designations demonstrates our expertise in handling sensitive cases such as these.
Persuasive Advocacy
We are skilled in presenting compelling arguments that achieve favourable outcomes for all our clients.
Client-Focused Approach
We provide compassionate and professional support, ensuring that our clients feel ‘heard’ and not pressured in any way.
Need Expert Help?
If you or someone you know is facing historic sexual allegations against children, contact Ashmans Solicitors today for expert advice and representation. We are committed to always delivering outstanding outcomes, even when the allegations are historic, sensitive and emotionally charged. Our highly experienced Sexual Offences defence team is here to help you, 24/7.
How We Defend You in York
- Immediate attendance at police stations in York, including York Police Station and Fulford Road Police Station
- Advising you on your rights and how to respond during questioning
- Ensuring interviews follow correct legal procedures under PACE locally
- Making applications at York Magistrates’ Court to vary restrictive bail conditions
- Securing terms that allow work, travel, and family contact
- Preventing unjustified bail restrictions from local courts or police
- Liaising with the Yorkshire & Humber CPS Office to prevent charges from being brought
- Submitting representations and evidence to close the case early
- Managing the investigation process locally to protect your future
- Defending against all types of criminal law orders made by York courts (e.g. restraining orders, banning orders, confiscation orders)
- Applying to vary, discharge, or remove restrictions where possible
- Ensuring any orders are fair, proportionate, and compliant with the law
- Preparing your defence for trial at York Crown Court or York Magistrates’ Court
- Cross-examining witnesses and challenging prosecution evidence
- Using expert testimony and local court procedure knowledge to your advantage
- Negotiating for fair sentencing outcomes
- Appealing convictions or sentences from York courts
- Seeking alternative penalties to protect your future prospects
Why Clients in York Choose Us
Trusted by Local Courts and Police
Respected by York Magistrates’ Court staff, York Crown Court advocates, and North Yorkshire Police for reliable defence work.
Always Available When You Need Us
Our team provides 24/7 representation for all York police stations and local court hearings.
Accredited Specialists in Criminal Defence
Recognised by Legal 500, Lexcel accredited and SRA-regulated delivering expert defence across England and Wales
Our Notable Cases
Serious charges, successful results
Our criminal defence lawyers have represented clients across a range of serious charges – see some examples of our work and the outcomes of our support.
Sentence Reduced in Historic Sexual Offences
Historic Sexual Abuse Allegations – Justice Secured
Unanimous Acquittal in Festival Consent Allegation
Credibility Challenged, Charges Reduced in Complex Domestic Case
Strategic Defence Secures Justice for Wrongly Accused Businessman
Revenge Attack Charge Reduced: Successful Defence
Conspiracy to Murder: A Complex Acquittal
Acquittal in High-Stakes Conspiracy to Murder Case
Acquittal in High-Profile Leeds Murder Investigation
Charges Reduced Through Strategic Defence
Wrongly Accused: Armed Robbery Charges Dismissed
Strategic Defence Secures Discontinuation in Fatal Collision Case
Exoneration in High-Stakes Armed Robbery Allegation
Dangerous Driving Allegation Involving Police Officer Successfully Reduced
Exceptional Hardship Defence Saves Doctor’s Driving Licence
Forged Titles and Negotiated Justice
Logistics Fraud Defence: Suspended Sentence Secured
Fraud by False Representation – Local Councillor Case
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud Involving Forged Cheques
Acquittal Secured in £40 Million Mortgage Fraud Case
Need a Criminal Solicitor
in York?
Call us now or request a callback. We’re available 24/7 and ready
to act immediately when your future is at risk in York.