We’ll review what happened in the Magistrates’ Court, advise whether you have realistic grounds and explain the risks before you commit. If you decide to proceed, we’ll prepare the appeal properly, meet deadlines and represent you throughout.
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If you believe your conviction was wrong or your sentence was too harsh, you may be able to appeal to the Crown Court.
Crown Court Appeals
Appealing a Conviction or Sentence from the Magistrates’ Court
If you were convicted or sentenced in the Magistrates’ Court, you may have a right of appeal to the Crown Court.
A Crown Court appeal is not a review of paperwork. It is a full rehearing of the case before a Crown Court Judge and Magistrates. Evidence can be heard again, and witnesses may be cross-examined.
You can appeal against:
- Your conviction
- Your sentence
- Both conviction and sentence
Time limit:
You normally have 21 days from the date of sentence to lodge an appeal.
If you are outside that time limit, the court may allow a late appeal, but you must provide a clear explanation for the delay. Permission is not automatic. Early advice is critical.
Our Approach
Crown Court appeals require strategic judgment and careful preparation. We will:
- Review the trial evidence and sentencing remarks
- Assess whether there are proper grounds of appeal
- Advise on prospects and risk
- Prepare formal grounds of appeal
- Obtain further evidence where appropriate
- Work with specialist counsel where required
- Represent you at the Crown Court
We provide ongoing advice at every stage of the appeal process.
Jack Cooper is a specialist motoring law solicitor with extensive experience representing drivers across England and Wales.
He has defended drivers in every type of motoring offence, including drink and drug driving, speeding, dangerous driving and failing to provide a specimen.
Jack is an experienced court advocate, regularly appearing in the Magistrates’ Courts and preparing complex cases for trial.
John Fairhurst is an experienced motoring law solicitor who has represented hundreds of motorists facing prosecution across England and Wales. He has handled cases from police-station interviews through to trial, working closely with barristers and expert witnesses to develop strong legal strategies.
John also undertakes advocacy in the Magistrates’ Court and is known for his calm, practical approach and clear communication with clients.
What happens at an appeal?
A Crown Court appeal is a full rehearing of the case before a judge and two magistrates. Evidence may be heard again and witnesses can be cross-examined.
If you appeal conviction, the court will rehear the evidence and decide the case afresh. The court court could overturn the conviction or uphold it.
If you appeal sentence, the Crown Court has the power to:
- Reduce the sentence
- Leave the sentence unchanged
- Increase the sentence (uncommon but legally possible)
Because the court can increase sentence, the risks must be assessed carefully before proceeding.
Evidence Reviewed
Properly
Built for Court
No Guesswork
Support Across
England & Wales
Fixed Fees,
Agreed Upfront
Take Advice Before the Deadline
Appeal deadlines are strict. Delay can limit your options.
If you are considering an appeal against conviction or sentence, seek advice as soon as possible.
Call 01942 364493 for initial advice or complete our contact form and we will call you back.
