Whether you’ve been charged with an offence or you’re the victim of an offence, going through the criminal justice system can be an overwhelming experience for anyone. But it’s important to remember that you still have legal rights and responsibilities that should always be upheld, no matter the circumstances. Our criminal solicitors in Melbourne work with people from all works of life for all sorts of cases to seek the best possible result. If you’ve been charged with an offence or you’re the victim of an offence, we recommend you get in touch with a criminal justice expert as soon as possible. In the meantime, it helps to get to know the criminal justice system a little to better understand the details surrounding your charges and defence.
How Can a Criminal Lawyer Help Me?
The role of criminal law and defence experts varies depending on your circumstances.
If you’ve been charged with an offence in Victoria, criminal lawyers in Melbourne can help you to understand your rights, obligations and potential outcomes. They’ll also help you negotiate with Victoria Police to achieve the best possible outcome for you. They may be able to minimise your charges or even contest them entirely. If you plead guilty to the charges, they will bring your case to the court ensuring there is a greater awareness of your circumstances before deciding on an appropriate sentence.
If you’re the victim of an offence in Victoria, your criminal justice lawyers can seek compensation for your injuries, even if the offender hasn’t been charged. They can collect supporting documentation and help you build a strong case to present to the court and guide you through the process of claiming compensation for your injuries. At Robert Wood and Associates, we offer free applications to victims of crime to help them through a difficult period.
When Should I Contact a Criminal Defence Solicitor?
You can contact a criminal defence solicitor at any point in the process to discuss your situation. Some situations where you might contact our defence lawyers include:
When the police have requested a formal interview with you
- When you are attending court (whether you want to plead guilty plea or fight the charges)
- When you want to appeal a sentence
What if the Crime Was Not Recent?
If you’ve been the victim of a violent offence in Victoria in the last two years and the crime was reported to the police, your case is still considered current. You should contact your criminal defence solicitor as soon as possible to discuss your options for injury compensation.
What if the Offender Wasn’t Charged?
If the offender has not been charged or found guilty – don’t worry. Your criminal defence solicitor can still help you with your claim. They will explain your rights, responsibilities, eligibility for compensation and guide you through the process of claiming.
For more answers, don’t hesitate to contact the criminal law and defence experts at Robert Wood and Associates. Phone 9762 3877 for personalised advice and assistance.
