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Legal advice regarding Coronavirus offences

The current Coronavirus pandemic has presented all of us with unprecedented challenges, especially whilst under lockdown.

As a direct response, emergency legislation has been passed to ensure compliance with new laws and regulations now in force.

The legislation passed comprises Schedule 21 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 and the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020/350.

There have been reports of inconsistency, and wrongful application and enforcement of the new laws and regulations.

As a result, the CPS announced on 2 May 2020 that they would review every charge brought under the Coronavirus legislation. Likewise, the police and local authorities are also to review every Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) issued to date.

If you find yourself issued with a FPN, arrested on suspicion of committing an offence or convicted of such, you are best advised to seek immediate legal advice.

The Public Defender Service continues to provide a high quality, 24/7 service to its clients. If you have a query regarding the new emergency legislation then please contact one of our four offices.