Areas of Expertise
Terrorism Offences
Immediate, specialist representation in national security cases. A terrorism arrest brings a different legal environment — extended pre-charge detention, modified disclosure rules and specialist agencies.
Why timing decides outcome
Evidence That Appears Conclusive — Tested in Detail
Terrorism prosecutions are often built on complex digital and intelligence-led evidence — encrypted communications, financial data, internet activity and travel records — presented as a coherent account of intent.
Our role is to examine each component carefully. Evidence that appears conclusive at first reading often depends on assumptions that do not withstand scrutiny when placed in its full context. We analyse the material in detail, identify alternative interpretations, and build a defence grounded in what the evidence actually establishes.
We advise from the point of arrest, throughout extended detention, and at every stage that follows.
Our services
Our Terrorism Offences Services
We act in cases brought under the Terrorism Acts and ancillary legislation, including matters with significant intelligence and national security dimensions.
- Terrorism Act 2000 — membership, support, fundraising, disclosure offences
- Extended pre-charge detention and warrants of further detention
- Financing and facilitation of terrorism allegations
- Closed material procedures and Special Advocate liaison
- Challenges to surveillance and intelligence-derived evidence
- Terrorism Act 2006 — preparation of terrorist acts, dissemination, encouragement
- Possession of information useful to a terrorist and failure to disclose
- Asset freezing orders and financial sanctions linked to designations
- Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) proceedings
- Appeals against conviction and sentence
Why Chess Law
Why Chess Law Solicitors for Terrorism Defence
Trial in mind from day one
Specialist legal framework
Counter Terrorism Policing experience
Defence prepared at investigation stage
Nationwide representation
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a proscribed organisation?
A proscribed organisation is a group formally banned by the Home Secretary on the basis that it is concerned in terrorism. Membership is a criminal offence. Whether the evidence establishes membership depends on the specific facts.
How long can the police detain me without charge?
In terrorism cases, initial detention can last up to 48 hours, with applications made to extend detention up to a maximum of 14 days in the most serious cases. You are entitled to legal advice throughout.
What is encouragement of terrorism?
This offence covers statements likely to be understood as encouraging acts of terrorism, including indirect encouragement or glorification. Whether a statement meets the legal threshold depends on its wording and context.
Can I be convicted if I never planned an attack?
Yes. Some offences do not require evidence of a planned or executed attack. Membership, dissemination of material, or possession of certain information can be charged independently.
What is a closed material procedure?
A closed material procedure allows sensitive evidence to be considered by the court without disclosure to the defendant or their legal team. A Special Advocate is appointed to represent the defendant’s interests.
Can online activity be used as evidence?
Yes. Internet searches, social media activity, private messages and downloaded material are commonly relied upon. Whether that activity establishes criminal intent depends on the full context.
Is holding extreme views a criminal offence?
No. Holding views alone is not an offence. Criminal liability requires conduct that meets the legal definition of a terrorism offence.
Speak to us now.
Terrorism cases require immediate, specialist advice. Early intervention can significantly affect the direction of the case.
