Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne

Before you’re formally charged, ordinarily you will most likely be requested to partake in a record of interview. You have the right to communicate with a lawyer, you should exercise this right immediately. If you are unable to communicate with a lawyer, then here’s what you should do– –

• Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent or to respond to any questions put to you with a simple “no comment”.
• Connect with criminal defence lawyers in Melbourne. They will advise you on how to respond to the charges, strategise, and represent you in court.

Based on the circumstances, evidence and legal defence presented, there could be several outcomes –

• Case Dismissal or Withdrawal of Charges: If there’s insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or violations of your rights, the case will be dismissed by the court.
• Acquittal (Not Guilty): If the case goes to trial and the prosecution cannot prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, you will be found not guilty and acquitted.
• Plea Bargain: If you plead guilty to the charges, you can negotiate for a reduced sentence.
• Conviction: If the charges against you are proven, you will be convicted for the crime.
• Reduced Penalties: Even after you have been convicted, your lawyer can advocate for reduced penalties or a lighter sentence.
• No Conviction Recorded: If it’s a minor criminal charge, the court might only impose penalties without recording a conviction, allowing you to avoid a criminal record.
• Retrial: If you are dissatisfied with the case’s outcome, you can submit an appeal for a retrial.

For more information about these outcomes, contact our criminal lawyers in Melbourne today.

You can exercise your legal rights in case you are arrested. Here’s a breakdown –

• The right to be informed of the reason for your arrest.
• The right to remain silent. You are not obligated to answer any questions related to the case without consulting a lawyer.
• The right to legal representation.
• The right to contact a support person and inform them of your situation.
• The right to be released or taken to court promptly (within 24 hours of your arrest).
• The right to request a bail. You can submit it either at the police station or in court.

In case of terrorism or serious organised crime, your rights might be restricted. Irrespective of the nature of the case, access your right to legal representation and get the right legal advice.

There are two categories – summary offences (less serious crimes) and indictable offences (serious crimes).

Summary offences include –

• Common assault, disorderly conduct.
• Shoplifting (less-value items) or vandalism.
• Use of drugs or possession for personal use.
• Traffic and driving offences like speeding, running a red light, etc.
• Public intoxication or trespassing.

Indictable Offences include –

• Murder, manslaughter, aggravated assault, sexual offences, kidnapping.
• Armed robbery, burglary, arson.
• Drug trafficking and manufacturing.
• Hit and run, high-range drunk or drug driving.
• Large-scale fraud embezzlement or money laundering.
• Terrorism-related crimes, possession of illegal firearms.

Yes, if you avail yourself of the services of a skilled criminal defence lawyer, they can help you avoid conviction. However, the exact outcome will always depend on the facts of your case, the charges, and the available evidence. Here are a few factors that determine whether you can avoid conviction –

• The severity of the charge.
• Your criminal history.
• Circumstances of the offence.
• Legal representation (how strong your case is)

As experienced criminal defence lawyers in Melbourne, we will help ensure a valid representation and help you achieve the best possible outcome.