Navigating the legal system and criminal justice system is daunting, and being charged with a criminal offence can be life-altering. With so much at stake – your family, your financial future, and your freedom – it is a system that you should not have to navigate alone.
Our experienced criminal lawyers in Melbourne have assisted many clients during some of their most vulnerable and unpredictable moments. We are experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable, and understand that our clients often face multiple challenges. We take a holistic approach to help you get back on track and handle all areas of criminal law.
Common traffic offences include registration and licensing matters (driving unlicensed or whilst disqualified or suspended), refusing to stop at a breath testing station or refusing to provide a breath sample, drink and drug driving offences, speeding, driving dangerously and hoon offences.
A criminal law specialist can explain all about the penalties for a traffic offence, which depend on the seriousness of the offence. They may range from the imposition of fines, loss of demerit points, driver’s licence suspension, and vehicle impoundment, to imprisonment for more serious offences.
For offences incurring a fine and/or loss of demerit points, you may choose to take the matter to court. If you do, you will need to decide if you are going to plead guilty or not guilty, and in such a situation, having legal representation becomes crucial. You are allowed to represent yourself at court, but it is wise to seek legal advice from expert driving offence lawyers in Melbourne before your hearing.
If you have been charged with a more serious traffic offence, you will need to attend court. These types of offences usually include driving while suspended, excessive speeding, dangerous driving, and hoon-related offences.
Most traffic offences are heard in the Magistrates’ Court as summary matters, however, more serious offences such as those causing serious injury or death may be dealt with as indictable matters and heard in the County or Supreme Courts. The court process can be confusing and the strength of answering to a criminal charge may be improved considerably by obtaining timely, dependable advice from specialist Melbourne criminal lawyers.
Competent legal advice can make a big difference to the outcome of a traffic or criminal matter. If you are facing court, it is important to understand the process and to be equipped to answer the charges. In such scenarios, the best criminal defence lawyers can assist you by offering expert advice.
Depending on the circumstances, an imposed penalty may be reduced if there is an appropriate reason to do so. This requires a well-prepared case with supporting evidence. In determining a matter, a court may consider the accused person’s
In some cases, a criminal law firm may assist you in the diversion programs that may be available to people charged with an offence, rather than having the matter proceed through court. Diversion plans will require the person to fulfil certain requirements such as writing a letter of apology to a victim, obtaining counselling or other treatment, attending educational programs, and/or doing community work. Satisfying all conditions of the plan may result in having the charges dropped and having no criminal record.
The Children’s Court of Victoria is a specialised court for children and young persons. It has a family division and criminal division, dealing respectively with matters concerning the care and protection of children and criminal cases involving children and young people (apart from certain excluded criminal matters).
A key feature of proceedings dealt with in the Children’s Court is that there is a primary focus on the rehabilitation of the child when sentencing, as opposed to punishment and deterrence.
Our criminal law specialists are experienced in appearing in the Children’s Court and providing advice tailored to child offenders.
We are experienced criminal lawyers and have hand-picked and built trusted relationships with a network of barristers with the requisite knowledge and expertise to advocate on your behalf should we need to brief counsel.
For dedicated and expert support during challenging times, our Melbourne Criminal Lawyers & Mediators are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcomes for your case. Whether you face traffic offences, serious criminal charges, or matters involving the Children’s Court, our compassionate and experienced team offers personalised legal advice and strong representation tailored to your individual circumstances. Contact us today to ensure your defence is in capable hands and your future safeguarded.
It’s crucial to seek experienced legal advice as soon as you are charged. By seeking early guidance from a leading criminal law firm you can secure your rights and ensure the best possible outcome, whether you have to attend court or deal with the police.
Summary offences are less serious and are usually heard in the Magistrates’ Court (for example, minor traffic matters). Indictable offences are more serious and may be heard in higher courts, such as the County or Supreme Courts, potentially resulting in heavier penalties.
While self-representation is allowed, having a criminal lawyer greatly improves your opportunities of a favourable outcome. Lawyers can guide you on how to plead, gather evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors.
Penalties vary depending on the offence, ranging from fines, demerit points, and licence suspension to vehicle impoundment or imprisonment for more serious offences like dangerous driving. Seek expert advice of driving offence lawyers in Melbourne to save yourself from unnecessary fines or any other penalty.Â
Diversion programs allow certain offenders to avoid a criminal record by complying with specified conditions (apology letters, counselling, community work). Eligibility for diversion programs depends on the seriousness of the offence, prior history, and police recommendation in cases involving criminal and traffic law.
The Children’s Court of Victoria handles most criminal matters for individuals aged 10-17. The focus is on rehabilitation, and having a lawyer experienced with the Children’s Court is vital for guidance and support.
You have the right to remain silent and should seek legal advice before answering police questions. What you say can be used as evidence, always consult Melbourne criminal lawyers first.
Depending on your circumstances, the quality of your defence, and the evidence, charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed. Diversion and plea negotiations may also be available in specific cases.
