Business Details
32 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Criminal Defence Solicitors in Brighton
Established in 1994, Kelly's Solicitors has built a strong reputation as a specialist criminal defence practice. Our ethos of going the extra mile underpins our commitment to robustly defending suspects and defendants across a wide spectrum of criminal cases, from serious offences to minor road traffic matters. With a team of experienced lawyers, we provide clear and sound advice throughout the criminal process, maintaining a focus on client care and tailored services. Our nationally renowned practice specialises in political and protest-related work, representing clients in police stations, Magistrates Courts, Crown Courts, and Higher Courts. We offer flexible appointments, including out-of-hours and remote options, ensuring accessibility for all clients.Our expertise extends to acting for vulnerable defendants, students, and young people, particularly those involved in public order offences and activism. We regularly collaborate with leading barristers and experts to strengthen defence cases. With a deep understanding of the impact legal issues can have on lives, we prioritise confidentiality and dedicated support. Our practice areas include violent crime, internet crime, fraud, drugs, driving offences, sex offences, and cases involving professionals. We are committed to transparency in our fee structure and accessibility of legal aid where applicable.
Services
Criminal Defence
Protest Cases
Violent Crime
Internet Crime
Fraud & Theft
Drugs Offences
Driving Offences
Sex Offences
Legal Aid Cases
Youth Defence
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in criminal defence law
- Our team includes Higher Rights Advocates and Legal Aid specialists
- We offer flexible appointments including out-of-hours services
- Specialists in protest-related and politically sensitive cases
- Proven track record in complex criminal defence cases
Services
Criminal Defence
We provide expert criminal defence representation in police stations, Magistrates Courts, and Crown Courts. Our experienced solicitors offer tailored legal strategies for cases ranging from minor offences to serious criminal allegations. We ensure clients receive comprehensive guidance throughout the legal process.
Protest Cases
Specialist legal support for protest-related charges, including public order offences and political activism cases. Our team has extensive experience defending environmental activists, anti-war campaigners, and student protesters in high-profile matters across England.
Violent Crime
Defence representation for serious violent crime allegations including murder, assault, and robbery. We understand the life-changing impact of such charges and provide strategic legal solutions supported by expert witnesses and barristers.
Legal Aid Cases
Guidance on Legal Aid eligibility and representation for eligible clients. We handle applications for Legal Aid in magistrates' and crown courts, ensuring access to justice for those who qualify under the means and merits tests.
Youth Defence
Specialised legal support for young people facing criminal charges. We provide age-appropriate representation in police stations and youth courts, focusing on rehabilitation and minimising long-term consequences for minors aged 11 and above.
People
Lydia Dagostino
Solicitor/Director
Qualified in 1995, Lydia has over 25 years' experience in criminal defence. Specialises in protest cases and political activism. Featured in 'Taking Liberties' film and regularly contributes to media discussions on civil liberties.
Jenna Dolan
Solicitor Advocate
Qualified in 2010 with expertise in drug offences, public order matters, and terrorism cases. Holds Higher Rights of Audience for court representation. Specialises in complex criminal defence strategies.
Jane Cleasby
Solicitor
Qualified in 2022 after working in hospitality. Focuses on protest matters in magistrates' and crown courts. Combines practical experience with legal expertise in human rights and protest law.
Sophia Dutton
Solicitor
Qualified in 2025 with background in welfare benefits and asylum seeker advocacy. Specialises in complex criminal cases requiring social welfare law intersections.
Rosa Potter
Solicitor
Qualified in 2025 with experience in police accountability and inquest work. Provides specialist support for asylum seekers and refugees facing criminal charges.
Questions
What areas of criminal law do you specialise in?
We specialise in all areas of criminal defence including protest cases, violent crime, internet crime, fraud, drugs offences, driving offences, and sex offences.
Do you offer emergency legal services?
Yes, we provide an out-of-hours emergency service for arrests or urgent legal matters.
Can I get Legal Aid for my case?
Legal Aid is available for most criminal cases subject to eligibility. We can advise you on your specific circumstances.
What experience do you have with protest-related cases?
We have extensive experience in protest-related work, including high-profile cases involving environmental activists, anti-war campaigners, and student protests.
How are your legal fees structured?
Our fees vary by case complexity. We offer transparent pricing with options for fixed fees and hourly rates depending on the matter.
