Grievous Bodily Harm
One very serious charge that, if faced with, should be taken very seriously is Grievous Bodily Harm. It carries with it a maximum possible sentence of 16 years in prison.
Therefore, if you are facing GBH charges or arrest then you should contact JD Solicitors right away for expert legal advice and learn what next steps you need to take.
Learn more about what a GBH charge is and how we can help below.
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What is GBH - Grievous Bodily Harm?
Grievous is another way of saying very serious. A jury will determine whether bodily harm is grievous or not. Examples of GBH included instances where bones were broken, there was substantial blood loss and a transfusion was required, or where permanent disfigurement or disability was caused.
What are the sentences for GBH?
For those found guilty of a GBH charge, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment. However, a typical GBH sentence may range from 3 to 16 years in custody. The severity of the sentence will depend on a variety of factors including:
- Religious or racial motivation
- Use of a weapon
- Premeditation
- Targeting vulnerable people
What should I do if arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm?
First of all, if you are arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, it is important to note that you will be taken for an interview with the police. In this interview you do not, by law have to say anything. You should also be cautioned properly beforehand by police during your arrest.
Remember you have the legal right to request a lawyer, either of your own choosing or one that is assigned to you by the state. Answering any police questions without a lawyer present is never advisable.
Once your interview is over you may be released without further charge, released under investigation, charged with an offence and released on bail, or remanded in custody pending your court appearance. It is important to note that if you are either released without charge or pending further investigation you could still be charged in the future at some point.
Defending a GBH charge
At JD Solicitors were experts at crafting effective defence cases for those charged with GBH. The defence we choose will depend on the specifics of your case, but could include:
- Showing you were acting in self-defence – The law states that you have the right to defend yourself or others with reasonable force in two situations. The first is if you are being attacked, while the second is if you fear that an attack is imminent.
- Pleading guilty to ABH instead – By pleading guilty to a lesser charge such as actual bodily harm (ABH) you could see your sentence reduced significantly, or even end up with a caution instead of a court appearance.
- Proving that injuries were not GBH – We’ll use evidence given by independent medical experts to show that the severity of the injuries incurred should not be classified as GBH.
- Demonstrating mitigating circumstances – This defence concerns getting any penalties you might face reduced. It involved demonstrating that there are mitigating or exceptional circumstances that explain the crime such as being provoked or only having a limited involvement.
Choose JD Solicitors' highly respected team for all your GBH allegation needs.
Contact GBH defence lawyers at JD Solicitors right away if you’ve been arrested for and charged with this offence. We will work with you to build a strong defence and achieve the minimum sentence possible.
At J D Solicitors, our professional, knowledgeable, and experienced criminal law solicitors will always support you throughout your GBH case, from start to finish.
Get in touch today and we will help ensure that you are protected and you understand your rights and how to proceed.
