Garda station advice, criminal trials and appeals
Criminal Defence Solicitors in Dublin
Harringtons LLP represents people facing criminal investigations and prosecutions in Ireland. Based on Parkgate Street in Dublin 8, our criminal law department is led by Partner Phelim O’Neill, working alongside Associate Solicitor Matthew Creighton and our wider legal team.
Our work includes Garda station interviews, preparation for criminal trials, representation in the District Court, Circuit Court and Central Criminal Court, and criminal appeals. We also act in Special Criminal Court matters. We approach each case through careful preparation, clear advice and close attention to the client’s instructions and the evidence.
Garda Station Interviews
If Gardaí have contacted you about an interview or statement, tell us the station involved, the investigating Garda’s name and the proposed date. Let us know immediately if you or the person you are calling about is in custody. Our solicitors can discuss the request, the information available about the investigation and arrangements for advice and attendance.
Advice about answering questions or making a statement must be specific to the case. We take time to understand your account and explain the issues before advising on the appropriate approach.
Serious Criminal Allegations and Trial Preparation
Our practice includes the defence of serious allegations, including murder and sexual offences. Preparation involves examining the prosecution material, taking detailed instructions, identifying relevant records and witnesses, and working with counsel on the issues in dispute.
We understand that a criminal allegation can affect family life, employment and reputation long before proceedings conclude. Our role is to provide practical advice and determined representation while keeping clients informed about the progress of their case.
Criminal Appeals
Harringtons handles criminal appeal work, including matters before the Court of Appeal. If you wish to discuss a conviction or sentence, provide the court, case number, relevant dates and details of any existing legal representation. The available options and applicable time limits require individual assessment, so tell us promptly about any deadline already notified to you.
Who Will Handle My Case?
Phelim O’Neill leads the criminal law department. Matthew Creighton is an Associate Solicitor with experience in Garda station interviews and the District, Circuit and Central Criminal Courts. Our trainees and legal executives support file preparation, research and court work. The solicitor responsible for your matter and the scope of the firm’s instructions will be confirmed with you.
What Should I Bring to a Consultation?
Bring any summons, charge sheet, bail document, Garda correspondence or court order you have received. A short chronology and a list of questions will also help. Keep original records and digital material intact and ask us how to share sensitive documents securely.
Can a Family Member Contact the Firm?
A family member can make an initial enquiry and provide practical details, such as the Garda station or court date. We will explain what arrangements are needed to take instructions and communicate about the matter.
How Do I Arrange Advice?
Call Harringtons LLP on 01 539 4747. Our office is at Kingsbridge House, 17–22 Parkgate Street, Dublin 8, D08 NRP2. State any urgent interview, custody situation or court date at the outset. Availability, costs and the scope of representation must be confirmed with the firm.
FAQs
What should I do if Gardaí ask me to attend for an interview?
Seek legal advice before answering questions or making a statement. Tell us which Garda station is involved, the investigating Garda’s name, the proposed interview time and whether you are in custody. Harringtons LLP can advise you on the process and, where appropriate, arrange solicitor attendance at the station.
Can a solicitor attend a Garda station interview with me?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, a solicitor can advise you before interview and may attend while you are interviewed. The advice on whether and how to answer questions must be based on the facts of your individual case.
What criminal courts do Harringtons LLP appear in?
Our criminal defence practice includes District Court, Circuit Court, Central Criminal Court, Special Criminal Court and Court of Appeal matters. We act in cases ranging from Garda investigations and first appearances to serious trials and criminal appeals.
Do Harringtons LLP defend murder and other serious crime allegations?
Yes. Our criminal law department acts in serious criminal cases, including murder and other offences prosecuted on indictment. These cases require early preparation, detailed examination of the prosecution evidence and close work with experienced counsel and relevant experts where necessary.
Do you act in rape and sexual offence cases?
Yes. Harringtons LLP has substantial experience defending allegations of rape and other sexual offences. These cases are highly sensitive and often involve complex evidential issues, so obtaining specialist legal advice at an early stage is important.
Who leads the criminal law department at Harringtons LLP?
Partner Phelim O’Neill leads the criminal law department, supported by Associate Solicitor Matthew Creighton and the wider Harringtons LLP legal team. For legal advice, call us now on +353 1 5394747.