If you have been charged with a criminal offence in East Kilbride, acting quickly to secure specialist legal representation could be the most important decision you make. Charles Ferguson Solicitors provide expert criminal defence for clients across East Kilbride and South Lanarkshire, with solicitors available 24 hours a day for police station attendance, emergency advice, and court representation. Our Hamilton office at Beckford Street places us at the heart of the court area that serves East Kilbride.
Hamilton Sheriff Court — Serving East Kilbride
Criminal cases arising in East Kilbride are prosecuted at Hamilton Sheriff Court, Beckford Street, Hamilton, ML3 0BT. Hamilton Sheriff Court serves the entire South Lanarkshire area including East Kilbride and handles the full range of summary and solemn criminal proceedings. Summary cases are heard by a sheriff sitting alone and cover the majority of common criminal charges. More serious cases, prosecuted on indictment with a jury of fifteen, are also handled here. Our solicitors appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court regularly and have detailed knowledge of its procedures.
Criminal Offences We Defend in East Kilbride
Assault and Serious Assault — from minor altercations to serious assault charges involving injury or weapons. Drug Offences — possession, supply, production, and importation under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Domestic Abuse — charges under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, including bail condition applications and non-harassment orders. Sexual Offences — charges under the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009, with early intervention during police investigation. Fraud and Dishonesty — theft, embezzlement, fraud, and reset of stolen goods. Breach of the Peace and Threatening Behaviour — under section 38 of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010. Weapons Offences — offensive weapons, knife possession, and firearms charges. Road Traffic Offences — drink driving, dangerous driving, careless driving, and all motoring matters.
Why Choose Charles Ferguson Solicitors in East Kilbride?
East Kilbride is South Lanarkshire's largest town with a significant volume of criminal cases at Hamilton Sheriff Court. Our Hamilton-based team understands the local court environment and maintains strong professional knowledge of South Lanarkshire court practice. 24/7 Availability — criminal emergencies do not observe office hours. Legal Aid Specialists — we accept Legal Aid cases and advise on eligibility. Free Initial Consultation. Police Station Attendance — if you are detained by Police Scotland in East Kilbride, we can attend immediately. Experienced Advocacy at Hamilton Sheriff Court and, for serious cases, the High Court of Justiciary.
How the Criminal Process Works in East Kilbride
If you have been charged by Police Scotland in East Kilbride, you will typically receive a citation to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court or be held in custody to appear at the next available custody sitting. Hamilton Sheriff Court has daily custody courts. At your first appearance you will be asked to enter a plea — it is critical that you seek legal advice before doing so. Contact us immediately upon receiving a charge so that we can review the evidence, advise you on your options, and prepare your defence from the outset.
Areas We Serve Around East Kilbride
From our Hamilton office, we serve clients across East Kilbride and the surrounding South Lanarkshire area including Westwood, Hairmyres, St Leonards, Nerston, Calderwood, Mossneuk, The Murray, Lindsayfield, Stewartfield, East Mains, and Claremont. East Kilbride is within easy reach of our Hamilton office, and our solicitors regularly attend Hamilton Sheriff Court on behalf of clients from the area. Call 01698 285885 — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.