Expert Defence Against Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) Allegations
This is one of the most serious non-fatal offences against the person in English law, carrying severe penalties, including a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the most serious charges.
A robust defence requires more than standard legal representation; it demands senior judgement and immediate, precise intervention. Our Business Crime and Disputes teams bring a specialist, detail-oriented approach to securing the best possible outcome at the earliest stage.
Understanding the Charges: Section 18 vs Section 20
A key factor in any GBH case is understanding the specific charge you face. Under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861:
- Section 18 GBH with Intent: The more serious charge and is an "indictable only" offence that can only be heard in the Crown Court. The critical element is the intention to cause really serious bodily harm
- Section 20 GBH (Malicious Wounding): Can also be heard in the Crown Court. This requires only the intention to cause some harm, or the foresight that some harm would likely occur
The difference between these two charges, being the mens rea (mental state), is often the decisive battleground in a serious case. Our specialists focus on challenging the prosecution’s interpretation of intent and, where possible, seeking charge reduction or a ‘No Further Action’ decision.
Our Approach: Early, Strategic, and Comprehensive
In a high-stakes investigation of this nature, every decision made from the point of initial arrest or interview under caution is critical to safeguarding your liberty and reputation.
Our approach is proactive and commercially aware, ensuring your rights, assets, and reputation are protected.
- End-to-End Representation: We commit to providing continuity of senior judgement at every stage. Whether the matter is resolved at the pre-charge stage or proceeds to the Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court, our specialists will manage and robustly defend your case, working seamlessly with leading counsel to ensure a consistent and powerful defence strategy
- Pre-Charge Defence: We believe that the best result is preventing a charge entirely. We provide expert representation at the police station and make early, compelling representations to the police or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). These submissions focus on demonstrating that the evidence does not support the necessary level of intent or that the alleged injury does not meet the legal threshold for "Grievous Bodily Harm"
- Evidence Review: We rapidly engage with the full spectrum of evidence including CCTV, complex medical reports, and forensic data ensuring all prosecution materials are rigorously tested and challenged
- The Commercial Reality: GBH investigations, particularly if they involve professionals or high-profile individuals, can lead to device seizures or restraint of assets. We ensure these intrusive measures are managed and challenged to minimise disruption to your professional and personal life
We get to the decisive issues quickly, setting out clear options and delivering practical, commercial answers.
Why Early Legal Advice Matters
The moment you are under investigation, invited to an interview under caution, or seeking a review of ongoing proceedings, early specialist intervention is crucial. Acting promptly can:
- Protect your liberty and reputation
- Influence how the police or CPS approach your case
- Maximise the chances of achieving the best possible outcome
Confidential Consultation
If you or a loved one are facing GBH allegations, our specialist team is ready to provide a confidential discussion about your situation. We advise clients across England & Wales, offering calm, expert guidance when it matters most.
Contact our solicitors today for a confidential discussion. We can assist wherever you are based across England & Wales.
Contact James O’Hara today:
- Call: +44 204 600 9900
- Email: info@culbertellis.com
