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RSPCA Prosecution

If you’ve been wrongfully accused of animal neglect and are dealing with an RSPCA prosecution case, we’re here to help put things right.

Talk to one of our team members on 0330 111 3131

Dealing with an RSPCA prosecution can often feel like you’re fighting a losing battle.

And if you’ve been wrongfully charged, the results can be devastating – for both you and your pet.

If you are being investigated by the RSPCA, we look carefully at your circumstances before delivering a plan specifically tailored to you.

Not only could you lose ownership of your pet, but you could lose the right to keep another animal in the future, too.

This could be particularly challenging if you have a working animal, such as a guide dog.

Recent RSPCA Prosecution Defence Successes

RSPCA v W

Mr W was arrested for Animal Welfare Act offences and had his 5 dogs seized. He was unrepresented in interview and instructed Hannah upon his release from custody. Due to Hannah’s experience with RSPCA cases, she was immediately able to identify issues with the seizure of Mr W’s dogs as well as the investigation in general. Following one month of correspondence with a member of the RSPCA’s team, Mr W’s case was closed with no further action and his dogs were returned to him. Her understanding of RSPCA procedure and the law enabled her to easily recognise failings by the RSPCA to ensure the investigation was resolved swiftly. Mr W’s co-defendant was represented by a solicitor who did not have RSPCA experience, resulting in the co-defendant signing over his animals to the RSPCA and remaining under investigation. Mr W then instructed Hannah to assist him with a Police complaint.

RSPCA v H

Miss H was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to her dog after a member of the public filmed her hitting him with a riding crop. Unbeknownst to the member of the public, the dog had just bitten Miss H through his muzzle, causing a significant injury, and he had tried to bite her again. She was using the riding crop, which had been found on the car park floor, to protect herself from further injury. Whilst it was accepted that the dog was caused to suffer, Miss H’s defence was that the suffering was necessary, namely to protect herself and others. Hannah Costley, along with Rebecca Penfold from St John’s Buildings, successfully persuaded the RSPCA to withdraw the proceedings and offer no evidence after two adjourned Trial dates and thorough written representations addressing issues with the prosecution case as well as the lack of public interest.

“I contacted Hannah after using a solicitor that wasn’t helpful at all. Hannah helped me from day one. She is caring, compassionate, honest and was just amazing. She defended me throughout an unjust prosecution and finally got them to drop the charges before it went to trial. I wish I could give six stars as she’s worth her weight in gold. Highly recommended from me!”

RSPCA v W

Hannah Costley represented Miss W in an interview following the seizure of her 5 dogs. It was alleged Miss W had caused all of her dogs unnecessary suffering and had failed to provide an adequate environment for them to live. Careful consideration was taken as to the drafting of the prepared statement provided in an interview, as well as the submission of numerous character references and medical records to rebut the allegations. Hannah made sure Miss W’s mental health and OCD (manifesting as hoarding) were taken into consideration, and rehabilitation was the focus of RSPCA involvement rather than punishment. Hannah’s efforts resulted in the return of Miss W’s dogs, and no further action was taken.

RSPCA v D

Miss D was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to her horses. Hannah Costley, along with Rebecca Penfold from St John’s Buildings, were able to draft a basis of plea outlining Miss D’s considerable mitigation and lack of intent to cause any suffering, which resulted in a suspended sentence being given rather than immediate custody.

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We understand how much is at stake

When it comes to animal prosecutions, we know how much is at stake.

We also know how difficult it can be to stand alone against a professional body – especially as the RSPCA win thousands of neglect cases each year.

But you needn’t go through it alone.

By seeking legal help, you’ll stand the best chance of winning your case and keeping your pet by your side. And at Slater Heelis, our solicitors are experienced in dealing with cases involving animals and will do all they can to make sure you succeed.