MC Solicitors · Criminal Defence

About Us

At MC Solicitors, we are committed to one principle above all others: protecting your rights. Whatever the allegation or charge, our priority is your liberty, your reputation, and your future.

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At the heart of Michelle’s approach is the principle upon which MC Solicitors was founded:

Because you matter.

These three words are more than a slogan. They reflect Michelle’s belief that every client deserves personal attention, respect and the highest standard of criminal defence, whatever the allegation.

We understand how distressing it is to face a police investigation or criminal proceedings. The uncertainty, the potential impact on your family and livelihood, and the prospect of court can feel overwhelming. That is why we work with determination and care, offering both expert legal knowledge and reassurance throughout the process.

Specialists in Criminal Defence

We are dedicated criminal defence solicitors with decades of experience. We act in cases ranging from the most serious allegations — including murder, sexual offences, and large-scale fraud — to less serious matters such as driving offences. No case is too complex or too minor to receive our full attention and expertise.

We have a proven track record of success across the full spectrum of criminal law. We have secured acquittals, reduced sentences, and, in many cases, prevented prosecutions from proceeding altogether. Each case is unique, and we tailor our defence strategies to the facts, evidence, and circumstances surrounding your situation.

Accessible Legal Support

We believe that skilled representation should be available to everyone. That’s why we offer both Legal Aid and private funding options, making expert defence accessible whatever your financial situation. From the very first meeting, we provide clear, transparent advice on costs so you know exactly where you stand.

Support at Every Stage

From the moment of arrest or voluntary interview, having the right solicitor by your side can make all the difference. We are available 24/7 to provide immediate advice and representation at the police station. Should your case proceed to court, we will guide you through each stage — hearings in the Magistrates’ Court, complex trials in the Crown Court, and appeals where necessary.

We work closely with leading Barristers, forensic specialists, and investigators to ensure every possible defence is explored and every weakness in the prosecution’s case is challenged.

Why Choose MC Solicitors?

Client-focused approach – every case is handled with care, discretion, and determination.
Specialist expertise – decades of experience in criminal defence.
Accessible representation – Legal Aid and competitive private funding available.
Proven results – acquittals, reduced sentences, and withdrawn charges.
24/7 availability – immediate support at police stations across the UK.

Murder & Serious Crime

Serious Crime Defence — Proven Results in 2026

At MC Solicitors, we understand that facing an allegation of murder or another serious criminal offence can be one of the most difficult and life-changing experiences an individual will ever encounter. Our commitment is to provide formidable legal representation, strategic advice and an unwavering determination to protect our clients’ rights and interests.

In 2026, MC Solicitors represented clients in two separate murder prosecutions, neither of which resulted in a conviction for murder.

In one case, MC Solicitors secured a unanimous jury acquittal following a three-week murder trial at the Crown Court. The case concerned a fatal stabbing, with self-defence central to the proceedings. Following detailed examination of the evidence, rigorous case preparation and robust representation, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of Not Guilty.

The successful acquittal attracted BBC news coverage, reflecting the significance of the proceedings and their outcome.

In a separate murder prosecution during 2026, MC Solicitors successfully negotiated a plea to manslaughter, resulting in a conviction for manslaughter rather than murder.

These outcomes demonstrate the firm’s experience in dealing with the most serious criminal allegations and its commitment to ensuring that every available avenue is explored in the pursuit of the best possible outcome.

Led by Michelle Canagasuriam LL.B, LL.M, Solicitor, Founder and Director, MC Solicitors approaches every case with meticulous attention to detail, sound legal strategy and an uncompromising commitment to its clients.

We leave no stone unturned in the preparation of our cases. We recognise that every allegation carries potentially life-changing consequences and that every client deserves to be heard, supported and robustly defended throughout the criminal justice process.

Here for You

Being accused of a criminal offence can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. At MC Solicitors, we are here not just as a legal representative, but as committed defenders of your rights and your future.

About

MC SOLICITORS – Because you matter

MC Solicitors was established by Michelle Canagasuriam. Michelle spent over 20 years working in criminal defence. This is her passion. Her academic journey began with a dual honours degree in Law and Criminology (LL.B), followed by a master’s degree in Criminal Litigation (LL.M). Her early interest in criminal law and its complexities has shaped her entire career.

Michelle qualified as a Barrister in 2004, initially working on serious fraud before moving into general crime and running her own cases. Her next step took her to London, where Michelle gained invaluable experience at some of the country’s top-ranked firms. At top London firms, Michelle worked on high-profile human trafficking cases as well as general criminal matters before moving on to other leading firms across the UK. There, Michelle cross-qualified as a Solicitor, became Duty Solicitor and Police Station Accredited, and joined the Serious Crime Team handling cases involving murder, rape, large scale drug conspiracies, firearms and robbery cases. Michelle was later promoted to Head of the Police Station Department, overseeing teams across London and ensuring clients received fast, effective, and high-quality legal advice.

After relocating, Michelle continued as a Duty Solicitor, supervising teams, and representing clients in Magistrates’ Courts and at police stations every day. Michelle went on to become Practice Manager and Legal Aid Agency Crime Category Supervisor, ensuring compliance, managing audits and maintaining the highest standards of client care. Michelle has also worked on a consultancy basis.

Her academic background along with two decades of defending criminal cases at every level, from serious fraud and human trafficking to murder and large-scale drug conspiracies, brings not just knowledge and experience, but commitment, tenacity, and a genuine passion for justice to every case she takes on.