Criminal Defence Solicitors & Lawyers in Watford

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Lawtons Criminal Law Solicitors
Croxley Business Park Building 2
1st Floor
Watford
WD18 8YA

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24/7 manned phone line

0333 577 0522

Lines open 24/7. We aim to respond within 30 mins between 9am – 5pm.

Criminal Defence Solicitors in Watford

Are you looking for urgent legal assistance in Watford? Our specialist team of criminal defence specialist are here to provide representation for individuals facing police investigations, criminal charges or court proceedings. We act decisively and strategically, safeguarding our clients’ rights and reputations at every stage of the criminal justice process.

As experienced criminal solicitors in Watford, we regularly represent clients across Hertfordshire, London, and the surrounding areas, offering clear advice and robust defence when it matters most.

We provide comprehensive legal advice and representation across all areas of criminal law, from initial police contact to trial, sentencing, and appeal.

Police Station Representation – Watford & Hertfordshire

If you have been arrested or invited to attend a police interview under caution, early legal advice is critical. Our Watford criminal defence solicitors provide prompt representation at all local police stations, ensuring your rights are fully protected from the outset.

Magistrates’ Court & Crown Court Defence

We represent clients in both the Magistrates’ Court and the Crown Court, defending cases ranging from minor offences to serious and complex criminal allegations. Our approach is meticulous, strategic, and focused on achieving the strongest possible outcome.

Serious & Complex Criminal Offences

Our firm has significant experience defending serious allegations, including:

White‑Collar & Regulatory Crime

We advise professionals and businesses facing criminal or regulatory investigations, including matters involving:

  • Fraud
  • Money laundering allegations
  • Financial investigations
  • Corporate and director‑related offences

Our team works discreetly to manage risk, protect reputations, and challenge enforcement action where appropriate.

A Trusted Criminal Defence Firm in Watford

We understand that being under criminal investigation can be overwhelming. Clients choose our Watford criminal law team because we offer:

  • Clear, practical legal advice at every stage
  • Thorough preparation and attention to detail
  • Discreet handling of sensitive matters
  • Confident and persuasive courtroom advocacy

Every case is handled with professionalism, urgency, and absolute discretion.

Get In Touch With Our Watford Criminal Law Solicitors Today

If you are in urgent need of legal assistance or advice from a Watford criminal lawyer, please get in touch with us to secure the best outcome for your future.

Need urgent advice?

Innocent or guilty, expert representation is a must. Don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Criminal Defence Solicitors based in Watford and the South

Sexual Offence Solicitors

Being accused of a sexual offence can leave your reputation in tatters, even if you are innocent. Our team of specialist solicitors offer expert representation and will examine every aspect of your case to prepare the best defence possible. Protect your future with Lawtons.

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Violent Crime & Serious Assault Solicitors

With decades of experience in defending extremely serious offences, our specialist team of solicitors will work tirelessly alongside you if you are accused of violence or assault. The severity of the punishment depends on the severity of the crime, and whatever the unique circumstances of your case, Lawtons will focus on achieving the best possible outcome.

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Driving & Motoring Offence Solicitors in London

Depending on the circumstances, driving and speeding offences can have very serious implications for your future. We have extensive experience in defending motoring offences, and if you are facing an accusation we will guide you through this extremely stressful time. Could you continue as normal without a vehicle in your life? Get expert advice today, with us.

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Regulatory Offences Solicitors

If you or your business is being investigated for a regulatory offence, the consequences could be far-reaching and do irreversible damage to your reputation. From fire safety breaches to tax offences, our specialist regulatory offence solicitors are up to date on the very latest legal developments and will meticulously examine every detail of your case.

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Drug and Firearm Offence Specialists

The laws around drugs and firearms offences are complex, and sentences can be severe. If you or a member of your family becomes caught up in a case, you need specialist legal advice immediately to guide you through the entire process. We can support you from the first police interview right through to court proceedings.

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Burglary, Criminal Damage & Theft Solicitors

Don’t let a mistake put your future on the line. The punishments for burglary, theft and criminal damage can be severe. If you are accused, contact an expert solicitor at the earliest opportunity to begin building a robust defence to ensure the best possible outcome. At Lawtons we can guide you through this highly stressful experience.

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Our Watford Criminal Defence Solicitors

Nick Titchener headshot

Nick Titchener

Managing Partner

A dedicated defence solicitor and Solicitor Advocate, Nick is one of the founding directors of Lawtons and specialises in complex and serious crime – particularly drug crime, violence and sexual offences. Nick tends to deal with privately funded cases, where clients demand a higher level of service and attention to detail.
Stephen Halloran headshot

Stephen Halloran

Managing Partner

Stephen Halloran is one of the founding directors of Lawtons and is a specialist criminal defence solicitor, with over 25 years’ experience in criminal law. He is a Solicitor Advocate and helps his clients to navigate through complex litigation, presenting the best possible defence.
Dawn McKnight headshot

Dawn McKnight

Partner

Dawn qualified as a solicitor in 2004 and joined the firm in 2006. Dawn has experience in all aspects of Criminal work and regularly appears in the Magistrates Court and Police Station.
Joanne Cestaro headshot

Joanne Cestaro

Partner

Jo is a Partner at Lawtons and one of the longest serving solicitors at the firm. She has specialised in criminal defence work since qualifying in 1997 and has experience dealing with all aspects of criminal litigation.
Paul Dillon headshot

Paul Dillon

Partner

Paul is a senior solicitor and consultant with over 20 years’ experience in all aspects of criminal law and with an increasing emphasis on the private instructed individuals who want to ensure a guaranteed level of service.
Massimo Trebar headshot

Massimo Trebar

Partner

Massimo is a solicitor who has worked in criminal law since 2000, with exceptional skill in all aspects of case preparation and advocacy. He is renowned for his ability to adapt and effectively support each individual client.
Andy Hobdell headshot

Andy Hobdell

Partner

Andy Hobdell is a highly motivated and experienced Criminal Solicitor and consultant. With over 20 years of experience Andy has dealt with a wide range of cases within the Magistrates Court and Crown Court. Andy primarily deals with cases within Hertfordshire and London.
Glen Henry headshot

Glen Henry

Solicitor Advocate

Glen is a Solicitor Advocate and has 25 years experience in dealing with serious and complex criminal cases. He regularly appears in the Crown Court as well as appearing in the Magistrates Court on a range of cases including Proceeds of Crime enforcement.  

Watford Criminal Defence Solicitors FAQs

What areas of crime do Lawtons solicitors represent?

Visit our specialist areas page to see the full list of areas we specialise in. We offer legal representation for a broad range of offences, from minor speeding and road traffic offences to serious crimes including rape, murder and manslaughter.

Can I be represented by Lawtons at a police station?

At Lawtons, we provide police station representation across Bedfordshire. It is crucial that you seek expert legal assistance as soon as you are able to, in the event that you are arrested, whether or not you are guilty of the crime of which you are accused.

Can my solicitor represent me in court?

Our criminal defence solicitors can represent you in every aspect of the law, and right through the process of a case, other than advocacy, which is participation in court proceedings. This falls within the remit of a barrister.

Our Latest Watford Criminal News

Case Dropped for Client Accused of Conspiracy to Steal Motor Vehicles

17th July 2026

Summary Our client was charged alongside two other co-defendants with conspiracy to steal motor vehicles. However, our client had already previously been charged and sentenced regarding theft of motor vehicles. Managing Partner Stephen Halloran argued that it was an abuse of process for our client to be tried for the conspiracy charge due to his […]

Client Not Guilty of Six Sexual Assault Charges

26th June 2026

Summary Our client was facing six charges relating to rape and sexual assault which he completely denied. Partner Paul Dillon represented our client on a privately funded basis, who was ultimately found not guilty of all charges after a 10-day trial. Details of the Case The complainant and our client had been friends as teenagers […]

No Further Action for Fraud Thanks to Pre-Charge Defence

25th June 2026

Summary Our client was facing an allegation of fraud by false representation in connection with funds raised through an online fundraising platform. Our client denied these allegations entirely. After Partner Massimo Trebar carried out pre-charge representations on a privately funded basis, our client’s matter thankfully resulted in no further action. Details of the Case The […]
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