Criminal Law
Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) Solicitors in Brighton
If you’ve been charged with grievous bodily harm, you’re facing one of the most serious assault offences in UK law. You’ll need experienced legal representation from a criminal defence solicitor immediately to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Criminal Defence
Expert Defence Against GBH Charges
Our Brighton-based solicitors have extensive experience defending clients against these allegations and understand the life-changing impact these charges can have.
Whether you’re facing charges with intent or without intent, we’re here to provide expert legal advice and robust representation throughout the entire process. We don’t judge. We look at the facts, and we fight for you.
Our solicitors are not only outstanding legal minds, but also proficient advocates so that you have the right voice speaking for you, both with the Police and in Court, throughout the whole Court process.
Why choose our GBH solicitors
- Extensive experience defending GBH allegations
- Non-judgmental - we look at the facts
- Expert advocates at all court levels
- 24-hour emergency police station representation
- Martin Cray holds Higher Courts Advocacy Certificate (Criminal)
The Law
Understanding GBH Charges
Grievous Bodily Harm means “really serious harm” to another person. It’s a much more serious offence than common assault or ABH, and the consequences reflect that.
Section 20 - Unlawful Wounding or Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm
Charged under Section 20 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. Applies when someone has unlawfully and maliciously wounded or inflicted grievous bodily harm on another person, but without intent to cause really serious harm. Maximum sentence: five years’ imprisonment.
Section 18 - Wounding or Causing Grievous Bodily Harm with Intent
Charged under Section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. One of the most serious violent offences – applies when someone has unlawfully and maliciously wounded or caused grievous bodily harm with intent to do so (or with intent to resist arrest). Maximum sentence: life imprisonment.
The key difference? Intent. The more serious charge requires proof that you intended to cause really serious harm. The lesser charge doesn’t require that intent, just that you acted unlawfully and maliciously.
Injuries that may constitute GBH include
- Broken bones or fractures
- Injuries requiring substantial medical treatment or surgery
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Psychiatric injury amounting to serious harm
- Loss of a sensory function
- Injuries that are dangerous to life
How We Help
How Our GBH Solicitors Can Help
Facing GBH charges can be frightening and overwhelming. Our criminal defence team will work closely with you from the moment you contact us to build a strong defence strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
Martin Cray holds a Higher Courts Advocacy Certificate (Criminal) and regularly represents clients in Crown Court jury trials, giving you the advantage of continuity and expertise throughout your case.
We will
- Provide immediate advice if you are arrested or questioned by police
- Attend police station interviews with you to ensure your rights are protected
- Thoroughly review all evidence, including witness statements, medical reports, and CCTV footage
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case
- Explore all possible defences, including self-defence and lack of intent
- Challenge the medical evidence and severity of injuries where appropriate
- Represent you in court with confidence and expertise
- Work to secure an acquittal, a reduced charge, or minimal sentencing
Police Interviews
Police Station Representation
Please do not think that just because you have “nothing to hide” it is appropriate to face a professional detective, in a recorded interview, alone. What you say (or don’t say) during a police interview can significantly impact whether you are charged and how the prosecution builds their case against you.
We offer 24-hour emergency representation at police stations throughout Brighton and the wider Sussex area. Call our emergency number on 07395855445 to secure immediate legal advice and representation.
Please note that we do not offer legal aid and a payment on account of £1,000 + VAT will be required to secure the attendance of a qualified solicitor outside business hours.
Warning - police interviews
If you have been arrested or asked to attend a police interview in connection with a GBH allegation, it is vital, in our opinion, that one of our criminal defence solicitors attends with you. What you say (or don’t say) during a police interview can significantly impact whether you are charged and how the prosecution builds their case against you.
Our Credentials
Why Choose Martin Cray & Co?
We regard ourselves as “Trial Lawyers” with extensive experience at the highest level of criminal defence. Our firm has successfully defended clients against a wide range of assault charges, from common assault to the most serious allegations of violence.
When you choose Martin Cray & Co, you are choosing a firm that will fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome in your case. Call us on 01273 673 226 or email [email protected] to arrange a confidential consultation.
We pride ourselves on
- A client-focused approach that puts your needs first
- Clear, honest advice at every stage of the process
- Thorough case preparation and meticulous attention to detail
- Strong advocacy in court, including Crown Court jury trials
- A non-judgmental approach: we are here to defend you, not to judge you
- Competitive pricing and transparent fee structures