I will try to be brief.
I was convicted with a Drink driving offence, and causing seriously injury. The party who was injured is one of my closest friends. I do not excuse my actions, and the guilt wains on me.
However, I have never been in trouble with the police or courts before, and have also never needed the advice from Solicitor's until this even.
I was arrested, and the morning after, I was asked if I would like legal representation, which I said "yes please" to.
My first point of contact was Jonathan Knight. He met me the day after my arrest, and guided me through the initial police interview. If I may (Jonny) was my first and main correspondent. Jonny was wonderful to speak to, encouraged me on how to act and prepare, and gave very good advice.
Moving forward to the (I think) it was the pre-sentence? I received a letter from the police rather quite late, in turn, I called Jonny, and with-in 4 days, a solicitor has been arranged for me.
The solicitor arranged for me on the pre-sentence, was Holly Burton. Holly was very easy to approach, gave incredible detail in response to all my questions (remember, I am very very nervous at this point) - However, from Holly's guidance, and advice, I left the court room that day feeling very calm, and my stress had been contained.
Moving forward-
I had my main sentencing date.
I was greeted by Samir Tahir, who represented me. Bearing in mind this was almost last minute, due to court being very busy that day, and a lack of solicitors.
Samir was an utter joy to meet. I had prepared my own personal statement and character references from family.
While we were in the courtroom. The way Samir had surmised who I was from the references, and the way Samir spoke about me, was really rather touching.
I do apologise for typing for so long, but I think it is a very important thing for people who, like, me, are in a similar situation with dealing with this for the first time. I also think it's good to point out my own experience in detail.
I received Legal Aid for this incident. I have heard from numerous sources as to not accept legal aid, and I quote "you will be ripped off" - However, this is, and has not been the case. I went in to this with legal aid expecting everything people have told me. Oh, how they were wrong. Now I can't say that every case or company, or individuals are the same.
I had, and I want to say "incredible" experience, but considering the gravity of my offence, I can't. My experience with Hine Solicitor's was actually quite captivating.
I would duly like to express my thanks to Jonny, Holly, and Samir. And to Hine.
Politely, I hope I do not have to use you again! But, if I ever got into a situation where I needed legal advice, I would absolutely use Hone once more.
Thank you so much
