Expert Historic Sex Offences Barrister
I have assisted clients in the most challenging historic sex offences cases, securing favourable outcomes even where the case seems impossible.
Strategic Approach
I give my clients the best chance to succeed by ensuring each and every avenue is tackled in the right way. I don't just build your case, but a robust strategy for your defence.
Proven Track Record
My job is to ensure my clients get the outcome they need. I do everything in my power to make that happen, and my past cases and experience are testament to that.
Specialist Historic Sex Defence Barrister
If you are facing allegations of historic sexual abuse, it is imperative you seek expert legal representation at the earliest opportunity. Often people make the mistake of assuming their innocence will shine through, and be enough to convince a jury, but this is simply not the case. Strong legal representation will see that your rights are protected from the start will and ensure you the best possible outcome. Typically, in historic sexual offence cases, the prosecution must rely on people’s recollections from decades past and scant evidence, making it an important part of the defence to ensure that all evidence is credible to uphold the accused's human rights (the right to a fair trial). Preparing a robust defence statements is essential, as well as expert advice from the early stages. Many who know they are innocent make the mistake of not instructing the best advice available to them. This can be highly risky, because although you may assume your innocence will show through in the proceedings, this is sadly not always the case. Early advice from a high calibre sexual offences solicitor and expert counsel when the case goes to trial will give you the best chance against serious allegations such as these.
The Law on Historic Sexual Abuse in England & Wales
There is no time limit on when sexual offences may be prosecuted, which means allegations will be investigated by the Police however far back the alleged crime was committed. Because the crime is usually charged under the Act of the time it was committed, most historic sex cases are prosecuted under the Sexual Offences Act 1956. Those occurring after 1 May 2004 will be prosecuted under the Sexual Offences Act 2003. Where there is uncertainty as to the time, the 1956 Act will apply as this will incur a less harsh sentence.
Specialist Sexual Offences Defence
Mark Kelly regularly works alongside specialist sexual offence solicitor, Stuart Sutton. Stuart has extensive experience in the sexual offences field, and his representation is second to none. Stuart has been in practice since 1987 and has throughout most of that time been involved in defending clients accused of sexual offences, be they against individuals or internet crimes. With a nationwide client base, Stuart has acted for clients who have been charged with sexual assaults, rape, offences against children, making pornographic images and related crimes. Stuart has an outstanding record of defending clients charged with sexual offences, with more than 90% of the clients he has defended since November 2000, having been found not guilty. The quality of the documents he has produced for the court, in particular, defence statements, have been commented upon by Judges and Prosecutors alike.
Where expert counsel is required, Mark Kelly’s long-standing experience in the field and outstanding success record is hard to beat. Mark is a leading sexual offences barrister with a strong reputation across England and Wales. As part of one of the largest and most successful chambers in the country Mark has been recognised for his expertise in defence. His dedication and tenacity in every case he represents, his attention to detail and significant experience in the sexual offences specialty can assure his clients they are in excellent hands.
Testimonials
“Stuart and I elected to appoint Mark Kelly (Barrister) to act as my advocate when I was charged with three counts of historical sexual abuse. Between them, they worked tirelessly to build an extremely robust defence case. They were only able to do this by gaining a thorough understanding of me, my answer in relation to the charges and my personal circumstances. More than that, from our very first meeting, they were preparing me for the trial when I would give my evidence and face cross-examination. It was only after the trial that I realised why they had been so thorough, almost pedantic, in the preparation of my defence statement. It was this defence statement, and the subtle way that they ensured I had an intimate understanding of not just the content but the underlying nuances that resulted in me being able to deliver my evidence in such a confident manner.”
“Between them, Stuart and Mark make a formidable team. I have absolutely no hesitation whatsoever in recommending their services to anyone who ever finds themselves in such a position as I did. Whatever the result was to be, I do not believe they, or anyone else, could have done any more. I am, and always will remain, incredibly grateful and indebted to this remarkable pair of professionals.”
Anonymous, historical sexual abuse case
"Mr Kelly was an invaluable source of direction and consistency in a very unpleasant case for us. He was able to prepare thoroughly and through third-party disclosure, he unearthed the complainant's blatant fabrications which undermined the prosecution's position conclusively. I would highly recommend his services, especially in sensitive and emotional cases where you need articulate and decisive counsel."
Anonymous - Sexual Abuse case
"I was recommended and introduced to Mark through our solicitor Stuart Sutton. Throughout the traumatic two years dealing with the false allegations raised, Mark was a stabilising element. Thorough in his analysis of the situations to be handled and reassuring in times of my concerns. I was included at all stages of preparation for the defence and involved in making decisions during the trial. Mark ensures that you are at the centre of preparation work and the pre-trial research. Mark says he needs clients to take on “ownership” of the case and to put in “work” on the case. I would recommend his services without reservation."
Mr P. Gloucestershire
Contact our Historic Sexual Offences Lawyers, Manchester & London
Progressive, innovative and proactive and a reputation and track record that’s second to none, you can be sure you are in safe hands. Serving Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, London, Bristol and the rest of the UK, if you wish to discuss historic sexual offence allegations or other related matters, please do not hesitate to get in touch on 0800 054 1170 or fill out a contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.