Background
Sonia Lawrence is a highly experienced solicitor who has specialised in criminal defence since qualifying in 2000. Sonia is based in Cartwright King’s Derby office, and brings over two decades of expertise to the firm. Whether representing clients at the police station, in Magistrates' Court, or preparing cases for Crown Court, Sonia is committed to protecting her clients’ rights and securing the best possible outcomes.
Known for her client-focused approach, Sonia ensures that individuals under immense pressure receive the best advice and legal representation. Her reassuring manner and attention to detail make her a sought after advocate in complex and sensitive cases.
Throughout her career, Sonia has consistently upheld the highest professional and ethical standards in her work. She plays a key role in Cartwright King’s nationally recognised criminal defence team, which is ranked in the Legal 500 for its excellence in general crime and fraud.
Sonia went back into education after having had two children as a way of keeping her brain active. She enjoyed it so much she undertook the Law Degree then the LPC. Sonia is now a Grandmother of four and enjoys spending time with them as well as watching lots of sport either live or on the TV. She has two Labradoodles that she says "have taken over my house but are a lot of fun."
Advises on Following Areas of Law
- General crime
- Motoring
Career History
- Smith Partnership 1997 to 2020
- Eddowes Waldron 2020 to 2024
- Cartwright King 2024 to date
Reported Cases
R v G; R v J [2009] UKHL 13
Detailed explanation of elements of, and defences to, s57 and s58 Terrorism Act 2000. It was not a "reasonable excuse" for G to possess terrorist material to wind up prison guards; he was responsible for his actions (applying M'Naghten's case [1843] UKHL J16) and his schizophrenia could not make reasonable what was unreasonable.
Sonia represented G who was detained in a secure psychiatric hospital during the proceedings. The case was very interesting as the defendant at the time of the offending was an undiagnosed schizophrenic. The case progressed through the Court system on the above interlocutory point from the Crown Court, via the Court of Appeal to the House of Lords. Once they had handed down their judgement he pleaded guilty.
Here to help. Contact Sonia.
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