Criminal Defence Solicitors Near You

Facing charges? Protect your freedom and future with expert legal support from Green & Associates — serving Cork, Kerry & Southwest Ireland.

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Criminal Defence Solicitors

Facing criminal charges puts your freedom, reputation, and future at risk. In these critical moments, you need more than legal advice — you need a dedicated legal team committed to defending your interests with precision, discretion, and strength.

At Green & Associates Solicitors, we deliver expert criminal defence services to clients across Cork, Kerry, and the wider Munster region, including Southwest Ireland. Whether you’re under investigation or have been charged, our team offers strategic, client-focused support at every stage of the criminal justice process.

We understand the stress and uncertainty that criminal allegations bring. That’s why we take a tailored, results-driven approach — providing clear guidance, honest advice, and robust advocacy in every case.

What is Criminal Defence Law?

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In Ireland, the seriousness of an offence determines which court hears the case:

District Court

Deals with minor or summary offences such as public order breaches, petty theft, or low-level assault. These cases are heard without a jury, and the maximum sentence is 12 months.

Circuit Court

Handles more serious criminal matters, including assault causing harm, certain drug offences, and complex white-collar crimes.

Special Criminal Court

Used for organised crime or terrorism-related cases where the risk of jury intimidation is too high. This court operates without a jury, and verdicts are issued by a panel of judges.

To understand how court selection may affect your case, read our blog
on Electing Circuit vs. District Court for Hybrid Offences.

A Guide to Criminal Defence Law in Ireland with Green & Associates Solicitors

Understanding criminal defence law is essential when you’re facing allegations that could affect your freedom, career, and reputation. The Irish legal system can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time offenders — but with the right solicitor by your side, the process becomes manageable. At Green & Associates Solicitors, we act as trusted legal guides, supporting clients from the earliest Garda involvement through to trial or resolution.

Our experienced team offers clear, strategic advice tailored to your unique circumstances. Whether you’re accused of a road traffic offence or a more serious charge, we help you understand your rights, evaluate your options, and build a strong defence — always with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.

We proudly represent individuals across Cork, Kerry, and the wider Munster region. Our goal is to simplify complex legal procedures while ensuring your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and your case receives the urgent attention it deserves.

Why Engage a Criminal Defence Solicitor?

Criminal cases can be complex and high-stakes — having an experienced defence solicitor ensures your rights are protected from the first interaction with Gardaí.

A solicitor with expertise in Irish courts will

Advise you of your rights

Including your right to remain silent and to have legal representation during questioning.

Assess the evidence

Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and gathering supporting material.

Build a tailored defence strategy

Focused on your unique case and available legal options.

Represent you in court

Presenting your position persuasively before a judge or jury.

Negotiate with the prosecution

To reduce charges, seek a plea deal, or propose alternative sentencing.

The Role of a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Cork & Kerry

A criminal defence lawyer plays a central role in protecting your rights and guiding you through the criminal justice system. Their job begins well before you step into a courtroom and continues through to the final resolution of your case.

Key responsibilities include:

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Their expertise is essential in navigating procedures, challenging evidence, and working toward the most favourable outcome possible

How Green & Associates Solicitors Can Assist

At Green & Associates Solicitors, we provide more than legal representation — we offer practical support, strategic thinking, and personal attention when you need it most. Our team works closely with clients facing a wide range of criminal charges, from minor offences to complex prosecutions.

What you can expect from us:

  • Transparent pricing – We provide clear fee information from the outset, with no hidden costs
  • Consistent legal support – One solicitor will manage your case, ensuring continuity and a clear point of contact
  • Wide-ranging experience – Our solicitors handle both domestic cases and matters involving cross-border legal elements

We pride ourselves on delivering trusted defence with professionalism, care, and discretion.

Our Approach to Criminal Defence

We take a client-first approach to criminal defence, ensuring that every strategy is tailored to your unique circumstances. No two cases are the same — and our advice never is.

Here’s how we support you throughout:

  • Custom legal strategies – We analyse the specific facts of your case and shape a defence around what matters most
  • Ongoing clarity – We explain legal processes and answer your questions at every stage, so you’re never in the dark
  • Case progress updates – You’re kept informed as your case develops, with timely updates and straightforward guidance

Their expertise is essential in navigating procedures, challenging evidence, and working toward the most favourable outcome possible

TESTIMONIALS

What People are Saying

John D.

"Green & Associates Solicitors provided me with exceptional support throughout my case. Their clear communication and tailored approach made a difficult situation much more manageable. I highly recommend them."

Sarah K.

"The team at Green & Associates Solicitors was incredibly professional and knowledgeable. They fought tirelessly on my behalf and achieved a positive outcome for my case. I am truly grateful for their expertise and dedication."

Step-by-Step Criminal Defence Process in Ireland

The process usually begins when Gardaí collect your details and investigate the alleged offence. It’s essential to remain calm, avoid self-incrimination, and request immediate legal representation to protect your rights.

If detained, Gardaí may hold you for questioning for up to 24 hours, with extensions in serious cases. A solicitor should be present to ensure fair treatment and guide you on what to say — or not say.

Following questioning, Gardaí may release you, issue a summons, or formally charge you. If charged, you will receive a court date. A solicitor will prepare you and ensure your side is clearly represented from the outset.

In more serious offences, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) becomes involved. The DPP decides whether prosecution is warranted and what specific charges to pursue, based on evidence and legal thresholds.

If prosecution proceeds, your case enters the Irish court system. The court type — District, Circuit, or Special Criminal Court — depends on the nature and seriousness of the charge. Your solicitor will advise on the implications.

Both legal teams exchange evidence before trial. Your defence solicitor will examine all disclosures, prepare rebuttals, gather supporting evidence, and explore plea negotiations or alternative options if appropriate to your situation.

If a plea is not agreed, the case proceeds to trial. Your solicitor will present your defence, challenge the prosecution’s case, question witnesses, and protect your legal interests at every stage of the hearing.

Where applicable, victims may present a written or oral statement before sentencing, describing how the offence affected them. Your solicitor will guide you or respond accordingly to ensure fair consideration by the court.

If convicted, the judge considers sentencing guidelines, the facts of the case, and personal background. Sentences range from fines to imprisonment, with potential for community service or suspended sentences in some cases.

After sentencing, your solicitor may advise on appeals, sentence reviews, or prison arrangements. Post-trial support is vital to protect your legal interests and identify any grounds for a more favourable outcome.

Examples of Public Order Offences in Ireland

  • Threatening, Abusive, or Insulting Behaviour

Under Section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, it is an offence to use threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour in a public place with the intent to provoke a breach of the peace. This includes actions that could incite violence or aggression — whether directed at an individual or likely to cause a public disturbance. A person found guilty may face a Class D fine or up to 3 months imprisonment. Gardaí also have the authority to confiscate alcohol if it contributes to the offence.

  • Disorderly Conduct in a Public Place

Under Section 5(i) of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, it is an offence to engage in offensive or unreasonable behaviour in a public place that is likely to cause serious annoyance to others. This typically applies between midnight and 7 a.m., or at any time if you refuse to comply with a Garda’s request to stop the behaviour. The penalty is a Class D fine. However, under Section 23A, Gardaí may issue a fixed charge notice of €140 as an alternative to court proceedings, provided certain conditions are met.

  • Distribution or Display of Offensive Material

It is an offence in Ireland to distribute or display threatening, abusive, insulting, or obscene material in a public place if done with intent to provoke a breach of the peace or with reckless disregard for the outcome. This can apply to posters, signs, or written or visual content likely to cause public disturbance or fear. The offence is designed to preserve peace in shared spaces and prevent provocation. A conviction may result in a fine of up to €500 or up to 3 months imprisonment, depending on the seriousness of the conduct.

  • Wilful Obstruction

Under Section 11 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, it is an offence to intentionally obstruct or interfere with the free passage of pedestrians or vehicles in a public place, without lawful excuse or authority. This may include blocking pavements, roadways, entrances to buildings, or access points in a way that causes disruption or inconvenience to others. The provision helps maintain order and accessibility in shared spaces. A person convicted of this offence may face a fine of up to €200.

  • Entering a Building with Intent to Commit an Offence

Under Section 13 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, it is an offence to enter a building or its immediate surroundings (curtilage) as a trespasser with intent to commit a criminal offence. This could involve attempted theft, property damage, or another unlawful act. The law is intended to deter unauthorised entry that threatens property or safety. Penalties include a fine of up to €1,000 or up to 6 months’ imprisonment on conviction.

  • Trespass on a Building

Under Section 13(1)(a) of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, it is an offence to trespass on a building or its curtilage (the area directly surrounding it) without a reasonable excuse, in a manner that causes fear, intimidation, or distress to another person. This offence focuses not just on unlawful entry, but the psychological impact on others. Depending on the severity of the conduct, a conviction can lead to a fine or imprisonment.

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