Michael Hinchliffe

Michael graduated with a law degree from the University of Sussex before completing his legal studies at Bournemouth University. After completing his training contract in 2007 with a law firm in Great Yarmouth, he qualified as a solicitor and worked with several law firms in Norfolk and Cambridgeshire.

Since 2007, as a solicitor, he has worked exclusively in criminal defence, providing advice and legal representation to individuals facing criminal investigations and prosecution.

Michael advises and represents clients who are under police investigation and been arrested or attending a voluntary interview. His work covers all areas of criminal law, including allegations of assault, theft, burglary, robbery, fraud, drug offences, public order offences, criminal damage, motoring offences, domestic abuse allegations, sexual offences, and serious violence offences, including murder.

Michael also regularly acts for clients before the Magistrates’ Court. He provides advice and representation from first appearances, where pleas are entered, through to sentencing hearings and trials. As a trial advocate, he understands the importance of thorough preparation, alongside effective advocacy, working diligently to present his clients’ cases clearly and persuasively.

Pre-Charge Engagement Specialist (PCE):

A key area of Michael’s practice is pre-charge engagement. This is a process where he can engage with the police or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) after the initial interview and before a charging decision is made. On his clients’ behalf, he can communicate with the authorities, present relevant information, address issues arising from the investigation, and, where appropriate, challenge allegations before formal charges are brought.

Michael says, “Pre-charge engagement can make a huge difference to the outcome of your case. I can proactively engage with the investigators or the CPS, rather than just waiting for them to make a decision. It allows me, on your behalf, to clarify misunderstandings, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, provide positive supporting evidence, and have communications with the authorities that can influence charging decisions.”

In the best-case scenario, the goal is to bring the case to a close without formal charges. Where this is not possible, Michael may be able to seek alternative resolutions such as a caution or community resolution. If it’s inevitable the matter will be charged, in some circumstances, Michael may be able to liaise with the CPS and negotiate a lesser charge. Ultimately, he pursues the best possible outcome for his clients.

Who does Michael act for in pre-charge engagement matters?

Michael can act for any client who wants to proactively defend their case. Even if he hasn’t represented you in the initial police interview, he can be instructed to defend your case.

His area of specialism is pre-charge engagement for white-collar clients, such as:

• Healthcare professionals
• Business owners
• Finance & banking professionals
• Individuals in the education sector
• IT specialists
• Legal services personnel
• Government and public administration

Michael was born in Beccles and raised in Lowestoft. The first house he lived in as a child was on Old Nelson Street, which is now the location of the police station. When he’s not reading a legal book, you’ll find him down at the gym, tinkering on his boat, or walking his dog, Teddy the Cockerpoo.