Sydney’s Leading Criminal Lawyer
Our Sydney criminal lawyers provide tailored assistance to help our clients understand the complexities of criminal law during some of the most difficult times of their lives. We excel in all types of criminal and traffic matters including defended hearings and trials, sentencing hearings, bail applications and appeals.
We Provide Legal Assistance In The Following Sydney Criminal Offences:
- Driving and traffic
- Assault and other violence
- Domestic violence and Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)
- Drug offences including possession, supply, manufacture and importation
- Theft and break-in
- Fraud and dishonesty
- Property damage
- Weapons and firearms
- Public order offences, including offensive behaviour and affray
- Money laundering and proceeds of crime
- Sexual offences
- Child abuse material offences
- Murder and manslaughter
- Terrorism
What Courts Our Criminal Defence Solicitors Appear In
In NSW offences are classified into different categories based on their severity, ranging from summary offences, which are less serious and can be dealt with in the Local Court, to indictable offences, which are more serious and are typically heard in higher courts. This categorisation allows for a nuanced approach to justice, tailoring the legal process to the gravity of the alleged crime.
Our criminal defence lawyers in Sydney appear in all NSW criminal courts, including the Local, Children’s, District and Supreme Courts, the Court of Criminal Appeal and the High Court of Australia. We also appear before the NSW State Parole Authority.
Dealing With Criminal Charges
The legal process in NSW begins with the filing of criminal charges. It is important to understand that to prove any charge, the state must prove every element of an offence beyond a reasonable doubt. Seeking legal advice at the earliest opportunity is crucial for those facing criminal charges. Understanding the elements of the charges, potential defences and the available legal pathways is essential in making informed decisions throughout the legal proceedings.
Pleas To A Criminal Charge
Understanding the ramifications and potential outcomes associated with pleading guilty or not guilty to a criminal charge is vital. A lawyer can offer valuable advice in determining the most appropriate plea based on your specific circumstances.
Granting of Bail
Those pleading not guilty to an alleged offence are often focused on getting out of custody on bail as soon as possible. In certain cases, bail is granted to allow an individual charged with an offence to be released from custody pending the resolution of their case. As some criminal cases can take years to finalise, the ability to prepare for your case in the community rather than in custody is of vital importance.
In determining whether bail is granted, the court weighs factors such as the seriousness of the alleged offence, the accused’s criminal history and the risk that the accused will not attend court. An experienced criminal lawyer will make the strongest possible application for the granting of bail.
Sentencing
If you plead guilty or are found guilty, the court will proceed to sentencing. There are a range of sentencing options available to the court. Sentencing depends on the severity of the offence and other relevant factors.
When deciding an appropriate sentence, a court considers ‘aggravating’ and ‘mitigating’ factors to help guide the judge or magistrate to make a finding about how serious the offence is compared to other similar offences. Usually, a person found guilty will have some evidence to give to a judge or magistrate that may be considered in sentencing. The type of evidence that might be appropriate for your case will depend on the charges and the outcome that is sought.
Speak To Our Criminal Lawyers in Sydney
Our criminal lawyers in Sydney provide a compassionate and client-centred approach, offering a personalised service that many larger firms struggle to match. With us, you will receive the dedicated focus and the care that you deserve.
For expert legal advice and representation contact [email protected] or call 02 9159 9024.