An accident in the workplace or a breach of health and safety regulations can lead to investigation and prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive, local authority or police.
Breaking health and safety law can have serious consequences. Under the Health and Safety Offences Act 2008, magistrates’ courts can impose fines of up to £20,000 for most health and safety offences and custodial sentences of up to 12 months, increasing to two years at Crown Court.
In fatal accident cases, businesses may face unlimited fines and other penalties under the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act 2007 while individuals may be charged under existing health and safety offences and gross negligence manslaughter legislation.
At Palmers Solicitors in Essex, we offer comprehensive experience in health and safety prosecutions in the criminal courts, from the earliest stages, during investigations – including interviews under caution – through to final hearings.
With workplace incidents having potentially far-reaching consequences for both businesses and individuals, in the long-term effect of individuals’ lives, cost and reputational damage, our clear advice and wide-ranging expertise is designed to guide and assist you through the process and achieve the best possible outcome for you.
We can also draw on the skills and knowledge of other members of our legal team, including our employment specialists, to provide co-ordinated advice on all aspects of the workplace accident.
For more information on Palmers Solicitors’ health and safety services in Essex, please contact us.
