Crown Court Solicitor Birmingham – Representation for Serious Criminal Cases

Birmingham Crown Court

The Crown Court at Birmingham sits at 1 Newton Street, Birmingham, B4 7NA. It is one of the busiest Crown Courts in England and Wales, dealing with serious fraud, violent crime, drug trafficking, and complex regulatory prosecutions. David Roy has acted in Crown Court trials at Birmingham and at courts across the Midlands and nationally.

Why the Crown Court requires an experienced solicitor

Crown Court trials are heard by a judge and jury. The rules of evidence are stricter, the sentences are higher, and the consequences of a conviction are life‑changing. David Roy has represented clients in the Crown Court for over a decade, handling everything from pre‑trial disclosure battles to complex jury trials.

He works with leading barristers (including KCs when needed) and forensic experts to build the strongest defence. His experience includes:

• Successfully arguing for the judge to stop a trial (Kieren Fallon horse race fixing case)
• Challenging restraint orders and confiscation proceedings
• Negotiating with the prosecution to reduce charges or accept a plea

POCA confiscation proceedings

Following a conviction in the Crown Court, the prosecution may apply for a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA). Confiscation proceedings can result in orders requiring the defendant to pay a sum representing alleged criminal benefit. David challenges benefit figures, disputes hidden asset allegations, and argues that the available amount is less than the assessed benefit. More on POCA confiscation →

The Crown Court process

1. First appearance: If your case is sent from magistrates’ court, David will attend the first Crown Court hearing (PTPH) to enter a plea and set a timetable.
2. Preparation: David reviews the evidence, instructs experts, and advises on plea or trial.
3. Trial: David stays with you throughout, instructs counsel, and ensures your defence is fully presented.
4. Sentence or confiscation: If convicted, David argues for the lowest possible sentence and handles POCA proceedings.

See POCA and confiscation page →

Appeals against Crown Court conviction or sentence

Where a client has been convicted or sentenced in the Crown Court and there are grounds of appeal, David advises on applications to the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). Appeals may be against conviction (challenging the safety of the verdict), against sentence (arguing the penalty was manifestly excessive), or both. Early advice is important as there are time limits for lodging applications.