When the State abuses its power to bring a wrongful prosecution, we can help you get accountability and compensation.

We understand that the emotional toll, financial strain, and damage to your reputation can last long after the case is dropped by prosecutors or you’re found not guilty.

How we can help

Our Actions Against the Police team has many years’ experience bringing claims arising from wrongful prosecutions. This is a complex and highly specialised area of law, and having expert legal representation is essential to give your claim the best chance of success.

Who can claim

To bring a claim for wrongful (or malicious) prosecution, the case must have ended in your favour - for example, where the prosecution was dropped by police or the Crown Prosecution Service, or where you were acquitted at trial or following an appeal. Sometimes receiving a penalty notice can amount to malicious prosecution, if it was clearly issued without good reason.

Claims must usually be started at court no later than 3 years after the prosecution ended if you are claiming for personal injury (including psychiatric injury) or otherwise no later than 6 years.

Other types of claim, such as misfeasance in public office may also apply. Depending on what you want to achieve, we can also advise on the benefits of pursuing a police complaint aimed at holding individual officers to account.

Funding your claim

If you are on a low income or receive a means-tested benefit, you may qualify for legal aid to cover the cost of your claim. If not, we may be able to offer a Conditional Fee Agreement (commonly known as a no-win, no-fee arrangement) or other flexible funding options.

Get expert advice

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully prosecuted, we’re here to help. Please complete our new enquiries form and a specialist solicitor will review your case. We aim to respond within two working days.