What to discuss at the first meeting
Identify whether the issue is an application, condition, refusal, suspension or cancellation. Provide the regulator’s actual correspondence and explain any related proceeding.
A licensing review and defence of a criminal allegation may need separate engagements even if they arise from the same events.
How the engagement may progress
- 01
Send the charge, summons, bail paperwork and hearing dates through the method requested by the lawyer. Identify whether you are enquiring for yourself or someone else.
- 02
Ask what evidence is available and what must be obtained. Decisions about a plea or statement should follow advice on your own circumstances.
- 03
Confirm who will attend the next event, where to meet and what preparation is included. Ask how changes in the case would affect the estimate.
Fees and the scope of work
One mention, a contested hearing and an appeal are different scopes of work. Ask about preparation, barrister fees and additional appearances.
Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.
Dates to raise at first contact
Make hearing dates and bail conditions clear at first contact. If the firm cannot assist in time, ask about an available practitioner or the relevant legal-aid service.
Questions to ask a firearms & licensing matters adviser
- Which review or response process applies?
- What should be done about current licence conditions?
- Can you act before the next interview or hearing?
- Who will appear and is that included in the quote?
- What should I do if police contact me again?
