From 1 October 2026, CJCH Solicitors is expanding its criminal and regulatory defence service into Swansea and the South West. Clients in the area can now access the firm’s full criminal offering, including both private and legal aid representation, from its office at 3 Walter Road, Swansea.
The expansion brings CJCH’s established criminal defence team within easy reach of people and businesses across the South West, whether they are facing their first police interview or a serious matter heading to the Crown Court.
A full criminal and regulatory defence service
The team advises and represents clients at every stage of the criminal justice process, from the police station through the Magistrates’ Court, Youth Court and Crown Court to the Court of Appeal. Alongside general criminal defence,(including Fraud, Rape and Serious Sexual Offences, Money Laundering, Offences relating to Cryptocurrency, Serious Violent Offences and Murder) the firm acts in a growing range of regulatory and specialist matters, including:
- Motoring offences, including speeding, totting-up and exceptional hardship, and drink and drug driving
- Investigations and prosecutions brought by the DVLA, HMRC, Companies House and Trading Standards
- RSPCA private prosecutions
- Professional and disciplinary regulatory proceedings
- Contempt of court proceedings
Legal aid and access to justice
A central part of the expansion is the availability of legal aid. Advice and representation at the police station is free to everyone, whatever their means, however, privately-funded representation at the police station is also offered. For cases that reach court, criminal legal aid is available to clients who meet the means test and the Interests of Justice test, and the team can help clients check their eligibility and understand their funding options.
Comment
Matt Ridler, Legal Director for Swansea and the South West at CJCH Solicitors, said:
“Bringing our criminal and regulatory defence service to Swansea and the South West is about access to justice. People facing investigation or prosecution need clear advice quickly, whether they are privately funded or rely on legal aid. Having an experienced team on the ground here means we can be there for them from the very first phone call.”
Available across the CJCH network
The criminal defence service is available across CJCH’s offices in South Wales and the South West, supported by a 24-hour emergency contact for urgent matters. Anyone who needs advice can call 0333 231 6405, or 07967 305949 in an emergency, get in touch through the firm’s website or by emailing crimedept@cjch.co.uk
