Solicitor at PCD Solicitors Ltd
Marcus Johnstone
Solicitor - Managing Director & Solicitor
SRA ID: 11973
Marcus Johnstone is managing director of PCD Solicitors, a nationwide criminal defence firm that specialises in defending false allegations of sexual crimes. An experienced criminal defence solicitor of over 20 years, Marcus has represented thousands of clients accused of some of the most serious crimes, including rape, sexual assault, and historic abuse. Prior to founding PCD, Marcus was head of MAJ Law, an award-winning motor offences defence firm headquartered in Cheshire. He is registered and accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Law Society.
The Maltings, 100 Wilderspool Causeway, WA4 6PU
Licensed for 21 years
Practice Areas
Crime/ Criminal Defence
- Crime/ Criminal Defence 6%
- Driving offences 94%
25 Client Reviews
Overall experience
- Value For Money
- Communication
- Initial Impressions
- Approachability
- Documentation Accuracy
- Legal knowledge
About Marcus Johnstone
Marcus Johnstone is managing director of PCD Solicitors, a nationwide criminal defence firm that specialises in defending false allegations of sexual crimes. An experienced criminal defence solicitor of over 20 years, Marcus has represented thousands of clients accused of some of the most serious crimes, including rape, sexual assault, and historic abuse. Prior to founding PCD, Marcus was head of MAJ Law, an award-winning motor offences defence firm headquartered in Cheshire. He is registered and accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Law Society.
Languages Spoken: English
Contact Marcus Johnstone
Address
PCD Solicitors Ltd
The Maltings
100 Wilderspool Causeway
WA4 6PU
Phone 0151 422 8020
WebsiteResume
LICENSE
Country
Status
Acquired
Updated
United Kingdom
Currently Registered
01/08/03
13/11/24
Personal Conference
I was arrested for images. I didn't have a solicitor at the police station because I was confused. I then contacted a couple of firms advertising online but they didn't give me confidence. I was recommended to PCD. I contacted PCD and had an almost immediate call back. Marcus spent about 90 minutes with me discussing everything. I was surprised he would spend this amount of time without any cost.
I agreed a fixed fee. I wanted a conference in person to discuss my case. A date was arranged quickly and I met with Marcus and Hannah at their offices. I have been terrified about the allegations and what might happen to me. I wa made to feel at ease and they spent lots of time with me going through everything. I feel much better and less stressed.
Every option and possible out come was explained to me. Marcus gave me lots of examples of other cases he has worked on so he know exactly what was likely to happen. I can't thank them enough for the help so far.
Whilst at their office I met the other staff who were there. Everyone was pleasant and nobody made me feel awkward. It does feel like a very friendly firm. I feel really confident with them on my side.
I know it may be 6 months or so before the police and the CPS decide what to do. It will be a difficult time ahead but I know I can call PCD at any time and they will be there for me. Thank you all for your help so far.
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
Just Thank You.
In 2022, I was falsely accused of abuse, and it ruined my life. The allegation was made by my ex partner. We had been separated 7 years and the rumours began spreading when I met my current wife. I couldn't understand why this was happening or why she would do this. When I finally got to the bottom of it, someone had told her that I had met my current wife whilst I was still with my ex, and that we had an ongoing affair for a number of years. This was completely untrue, but even if it were true, it shouldn't warrant that type of malicious behaviour where you could potentially send somebody to jail. I knew I had to seek legal advice as I have seen too many of these stories on the news, and innocent men being sent down for life sentences. I had to protect myself and my family.
I researched online and found PCD Solicitors, which was handy as it was also a local firm. I first met with Marcus a week after our initial phone call and instantly I was put at ease knowing his high success rate with cases similar to mine. The evidence all came to light when my ex wife phone was sent to forensics and messages were recovered between her and a few friends with their 'take down' plan. Although this took a harrowing 6 months and I was on pins the whole time, not knowing what was going to happen or whether I was going to be going to prison for something I hadn't done. Throughout the entire case, Marcus was never more than a phone call away, he ensured that I was promptly updated with any progress on the case and was there for reassurance when the panic really set in.
I honestly cannot thank you enough for getting me through this awful time. You are a truly remarkable person. Thank you.
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
Words just aren't enough
I cannot thank Marcus enough for the tremendous support he has provided for myself and my wife through this extremely difficult time. Finally after what seems like a lifetime, the charges against me were dropped and no further action is being taken. This is all down to Marcus and his relentless efforts in making sure I got the verdict I deserved. Again, words just are not enough to express how much you have helped us. I will always be eternally grateful.
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
100% Recommend
Just wanted to give a huge thank you to Marcus for all your help and support throughout what has been an extremely difficult time. You have been so understanding throughout the whole process and extremely supportive with my entire family. I am eternally grateful.
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
Excellent
I appointed Marcus after reading about the work he did in the Daily Mail. Marcus and his team represent people charged with serious offences. Unfortunately I fell into that category.
PCD solicitors got to work right away. My case had already been under investigation for over 9 months with little to no progress. During that time I had another local firm dealing with the police. I assumed they were doing their best to get the case dropped but I was wrong. Marcus explained that most cases are won before suspects are charged. I didn’t think there was anything that could be done but Marcus explained that we could contact the police and get a head start.
Exactly 8 weeks after I instructed PCD my case was discontinued by the police. I was not charged and did not need to attend court. I dread to think what would have happened had I done nothing.
Thank you to Marcus and his team!
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
Great Representation
I had previously instructed another criminal solicitor who was local to my area (North Yorkshire) who told me that there wasn’t enough evidence to support a not guilty plea. A charge of this nature would have affected my employment and would have had massive consequences. I felt as though my case was not being taken as seriously as it should, and that it was too much work to take on so they were just telling me to go guilty. It just didn’t feel right in my gut so I went back and did some more research and found PCD. I had a completely difference experience even from the initial phone call. Straight away Marcus but my fears at ease and spoke to me like a normal human being, rather than belittling me and making me feel like I had no hope. Marcus did an incredible job and I have nothing but respect for him. The closed with no further action. 5 stars isn’t enough!
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
MAJ Law are excellent
I didn’t know if I needed a solicitor for my drink driving case. I did some research and looked online. I came across some YouTube videos from MAJ Law about how to avoid a driving ban (I would recommend watching them). I called and spoke to Marcus Johnstone. He was clear and convincing, didn’t speak down to me and put me at ease. I instructed MAJ to handle my case. A couple of month in I received a call from David (I think I got his name right!). David told me my case had been dropped to due a ‘procedural irregularity’ which they’re seeing more and more of due to pressures on the police. No need to go to court and I’ll get some money back. Thank you MAJ Law!!
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
A representative from MAJ Law Limited responded to this review on 26 January, 2021
Thank you for your review. We appreciate the positive feedback you have given us and look forward to working with you in the future.
Was this review helpful? Yes
Friendly
A friendly company that obviously understand the importance of communication. Not your usual firm of solicitors and not what I was expecting. I accidentally called Marcus one Sunday afternoon and ended up chatting to him for half an hour! Where else would that happen! I would without hesitation recommend this firm.
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
In charge under the influence of drugs
This is the second time I have used MAJ Law for my grandson. They are absolutely brilliant, not cheap, but you certainly get what you pay for. The solicitors , Marcus and his team, are amazing, knowledgable, professional, and so kind and supportive. The admin staff are equally amazing. Communication is perfect, by phone or email. They do all the preparation required, and that is one of the keys to success. First case was won at magistrates court, thanks to John Dove. Second case was won at appeal, with the support, and kindness of Marcus, and the expertise of Barrister Ashley Barnes. Great family run business, and I would certainly recommend this firm, if you want to keep your licence. Thank you all so much,
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes
Thank You MAJ Law
I had been charged with a in Charge offence and advised by the Police to plead guilty to get it over with as quickly as possible. This would have meant ten points on my license (which as a new driver meant it would be immediately revoked) and and a criminal record and things looked very bleak. MAJ Law talked me through the options, advised me of how i could defend myself and gave me the confidence to challenge the charge. The team supported me throughout the process, and at the trail Conor in particular was excellent. Ultimately I was acquitted and kept my license and my clean record and I know that without MAJ Law's intervention guidance and support this would not have been the case.
Lawyer named in this review: Marcus Johnstone
Was this review helpful? Yes