Criminal Law Specialists
Our criminal law solicitors are highly skilled in representing individuals with mental health conditions facing criminal charges. We take a sensitive and informed approach to these complex cases.
24/7 Criminal Law Advice
Legal issues can arise at any time, which is why our team is available around the clock to provide legal advice. We also offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and your options moving forward.
Top-Tier Team
Led by a former police officer and senior prosecutor, our criminal law team has firsthand knowledge of how the justice system operates. This insight allows us to craft effective defence approaches for every client.
Extensive Experience
With years of experience advocating for clients in court, we can handle most summary matters without the need for a barrister. This helps keep legal costs reasonable while maintaining strong legal representation.
Here to Help You
If you have a mental health condition and are facing criminal charges, the criminal lawyers at Kells can assess whether your condition may be considered as part of your defence or eligibility for diversionary options.
How Can Our Criminal Lawyers Help?
The criminal justice system acknowledges that mental illness can be a crucial factor in both trial proceedings and sentencing.
Courts are required to consider a defendant’s mental health when determining criminal responsibility and imposing penalties, particularly in cases where the condition has directly contributed to the alleged offence.
If your mental health condition was a significant factor in the incident, the mental health lawyers at Kells are ready to advocate on your behalf. We provide practical legal advice to ensure your rights are protected while dealing with the complexities of the legal system.
Where applicable, we will argue for alternatives to conviction and leverage mental health defences to seek outcomes that prioritise rehabilitation over punitive measures.
Get Expert Criminal Law Advice
If you would like to discuss your matter with our criminal law team, please get in touch. We are available 24/7 to help you and offer a free initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mental health can influence how the court assesses responsibility and sentencing in criminal cases. In some instances, an ongoing or temporary mental illness may reduce liability, leading to alternatives to standard penalties.
Instead of a conviction, a court may order a structured treatment plan under section 3A of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, managed by a mental health professional. For this to be considered, the Magistrate must review detailed medical evidence showing how the condition relates to the alleged offence. A properly documented treatment plan is also required to argue that the matter should be handled under the Mental Health Act 2007 rather than traditional sentencing.
An experienced lawyer can present the necessary medical and legal evidence to support this approach. Given the complexities involved, strong legal representation can significantly influence the outcome.
Speak to a Criminal Lawyer
We’ll stand by you and protect your rights every step of the way—no matter the charge.