Criminal Law

Talk to us to find out how we can help you with your criminal charges and protect your legal rights in every step of your criminal proceedings. Regardless of what charges you are facing, we are dedicated to provide you the best result from the Court room.

Our main area of practice:

• Traffic offences;
• Illicit drug possession and supply;
• Murder and manslaughter;
• Sexual and indecent assault;
• Assault charges;
• Domestic violence and AVO;
• Fraud and larceny;
• Handling proceeds of crime;
• Goods in custody;
• Possession and use of weapons;
• Contravention of Court orders;
• Bail applications;
• Sentencing and appeals.

Knowing your rights:

A police officer may enter a dwelling to arrest or detain a person only if the police officer believes on reasonable grounds that the person to be arrested or detained is in the premises.

• A police officer may only arrest a person, without a warrant, if: (LEPRA Part 8)
  • The police officer suspects on reasonable grounds that the person is committing or has committed an offence and is satisfied that arrest is reasonably necessary; or
  • As directed by another police officer, whom may lawfully arrest the person without a warrant; or
  • The police officer suspects on reasonable ground that the person is unlawfully at large; or
  • The police officer suspects on reasonable grounds that the person has committed an interstate offence.
• No obligation to assist police officer when under investigation.
• Right to remain silent when questioned by police officer about the alleged criminal activity, except in cases where the person is charged with serious indictable offences. Caution must be given by the interviewing officer prior to any interview informing the right to silence.
• Maximum investigation period is 6 hours, from the time of arrest. Police officer who wishes to extend investigation period must make application to an authorised officer for a detention warrant before the end of investigation period, to extend the maximum investigation period. The detained person or his or her legal representative may make representations to the authorised officer about the application. The maximum investigation period cannot be extended more than once.
• Right to communicate with friends, families and legal practitioner (if the arrested or detained person is able to identify and establish contact with the legal practitioner).
• Custody manager must defer any investigation procedure for no more than 2 hours to allow the legal practitioner to arrive at the police station and provide legal consultation to the arrested or detained person.
• An arrested or detained person has right to reasonable refreshments and access to toilets.

What we can do for you?

• Thorough assessment of your matter and provide you sound advice about the charges against you and merits of both your case and the prosecutor’s case;
• Provide advice on the potential consequences and implications of every step or decision you make during the criminal proceedings;
• Liaise and negotiate with the police in relation to your charges;
• Obtain statements and evidence favourable to your case;
• On your instructions to us, and with our extensive experience in criminal proceedings, represent you before the Court;
• Timely communication with you for any updates about your matter and response to any concerns that you may wish to address.