Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Australia

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Anvil Legal
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
English
HISTORYMy name is Brett Owen & I am the founder and Principal Lawyer here at Anvil Legal.To give you an idea of why we focus on workersโ€™ compensation claims here at Anvil Legal itโ€™s probably best to give you a bit of an idea as to my background (I have also been hassled by my IT guys for...
Maatouks Law Group
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2000
20 people in their team
Arabic
Russian
English
Sydneyโ€™s Most Experienced LawyersIf you are looking for an experienced team of lawyers, there is no looking past Maatouks Law Group. Having been in the legal industry for almost 30 years, Peter has the experience that people in Sydney and the surrounding areas need in order to sort out a range of...
Hall Payne Lawyers
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1997
100 people in their team
English
ABOUTChoosing the right law firm is the first and most crucial step in achieving the best legal outcome possible.Hall Payne Lawyers is an Australian law firm with offices in Brisbane, Ipswich, Rockhampton, Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and Darwin. Weโ€™re known for giving expert advice on a range of...

Founded in 1998
English
Bayside Solicitors - Lawyers and Barristers in Frankston is a leading legal practice known for its depth of expertise across multiple areas of law. The firm is staffed by experienced solicitors and barristers who focus on delivering clear, strategic advice in fields such as conveyancing, criminal...

Founded in 2011
2 people in their team
English
Elenaโ€™s focus is to find a solution to your legal issue avoiding the need for unnecessary cost, stress or lengthy litigation. With that in mind, Elena established Adelaide Legal Solutions in 2011.Elena was trained by one of the leading criminal lawyers in South Australia. During that time, she...
Timpano Legal
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2008
8 people in their team
English
Our Vision and ValuesOur vision is to be recognised for our ethics, passion and excellence in the practice of criminal law. We walk the path with you every step of the way.Our values of respect, compassion and practicality are the backbone of how we work and behave as criminal defence...
Cameron Legal
Epping, Australia

Founded in 2000
3 people in their team
English
ABOUT USCameron Legal provides quality legal services efficiently and effectively in a friendly, caring and professional environment. For us, there is nothing more rewarding than establishing a good working relationship with our clients to achieve the best outcomeOur ExpertiseDuring our years of...
Butler McIntyre & Butler
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 1824
10 people in their team
English
WelcomeButler McIntyre & Butler is a medium sized independent Tasmanian legal firm. Its offices in Hobart are situated in the centre of the city close to the Commonwealth Law Courts and the Supreme Court of Tasmania. In Hobart, the name Butler McIntyre & Butler has been synonymous with high...

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
English
ABOUT US The Criminal Law GuyDr Marc Saupin is โ€œThe Criminal Law Guyโ€ and the firmโ€™s Legal Practitioner Director.  He has always practised as a Perth Criminal Defence Lawyer and never as a Prosecutor.Marc specialises in defending historical rape cases that have their particular...

English
Established in 1895, Connolly Suthers Lawyers is one of North Queensland's most experienced and dynamic law firms, offering a comprehensive range of legal services to individuals and businesses. With a team of highly skilled lawyers, the firm specializes in compensation law, family law, wills and...
AS SEEN ON

About Criminal Defense Law in Australia

Criminal defense law in Australia governs how individuals charged with crimes are prosecuted and defended in court. This field of law is designed to ensure that every accused person has the right to a fair trial and that their legal rights are protected throughout the legal process. Defense lawyers play a crucial role in advocating for the accused, challenging evidence, and negotiating with prosecutors. The legal system in Australia is based on common law traditions, influenced by British legal history, and includes both state-specific laws and federal legislation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where someone might require legal assistance in the field of criminal defense. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, regardless of its seriousness, legal representation is crucial to understand the charges and potentially mitigate legal consequences. Common situations include:

  • Arrest for suspected criminal behavior
  • Receiving a court summons for a criminal offense
  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges
  • Accusations of domestic violence
  • Being suspected or investigated for white-collar crimes
  • Juvenile offenses
  • Facing penalties such as fines or imprisonment

In these scenarios, a lawyer can provide valuable guidance, represent you in court, and work toward the best possible outcome for your situation.

Local Laws Overview

Criminal defense in Australia is shaped by both Commonwealth laws and state and territory-specific legislation. Key legal aspects include:

  • Presumption of Innocence: This is a fundamental principle where individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty.
  • The Right to Silence: Accused persons have the right not to incriminate themselves.
  • Legal Representation: Everyone has the right to legal representation and to a fair trial.
  • Types of Offenses: Criminal offenses are categorized into summary offenses (less serious) and indictable offenses (serious crimes).
  • Sentencing Laws: Sentencing is guided by legislation and case law to ensure consistency and fairness.
  • Bail and Remand: Specific regulations determine whether an accused will be held in custody or released on bail before trial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a criminal defense lawyer?

A criminal defense lawyer represents and advises individuals charged with criminal offenses, ensuring their rights are protected and advocating for the best legal outcome in court.

Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?

Yes, even if you plan to plead guilty, a lawyer can help negotiate plea deals, potentially reduce charges, and ensure the sentence is fair and just.

What happens if I cannot afford a lawyer?

In Australia, individuals who cannot afford legal representation may be eligible for assistance through legal aid services provided by the government.

How are juvenile crimes treated differently?

Youths are typically dealt with in the juvenile justice system, which focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment compared to the adult system.

Can police question me without a lawyer present?

In most situations, you have the right to remain silent or request legal representation before and during police questioning.

What should I do if I am arrested?

Itโ€™s crucial to remain calm, ask for legal representation, and exercise your right to remain silent until you have spoken to a lawyer.

How long can I be held in custody?

The maximum time police can hold you for questioning varies, but generally, you must either be charged or released within a reasonable timeframe.

What are summary and indictable offenses?

Summary offenses are minor crimes dealt with in lower courts, while indictable offenses are serious crimes that may be tried in higher courts.

Can I appeal a conviction or sentence?

Yes, if you believe a legal error influenced your trial or sentencing, you may have grounds to appeal to a higher court.

What is a plea bargain?

A plea bargain involves the defendant agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence or other benefits.

Additional Resources

For more information and assistance, consider contacting the following resources:

  • Legal Aid Commissions in each state and territory
  • Local Bar Associations for referrals to criminal defense lawyers
  • Community Legal Centers for free or low-cost advice
  • Australian Human Rights Commission for information on rights

Next Steps

If you seek legal assistance in criminal defense:

  1. Contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer to discuss your case and options.
  2. Consider reaching out to a legal aid service if you require financial assistance.
  3. Gather all relevant information and documentation related to your case for your lawyer.
  4. Ensure you understand your rights and any legal timelines or requirements.
  5. Follow your lawyer's advice and prepare adequately for court appearances or legal proceedings.

Remember, seeking prompt legal advice can greatly affect the outcome of your situation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Criminal Defense, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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