Charged, or Got a Court Date Coming Up?

You don't need to engage us before you understand your options. In the free charge review we explain the allegations, the court process and the likely outcomes, so you can decide what level of legal help is right for you.

You speak directly with a lawyer, not a receptionist. You'll leave knowing what the charge means and the likely court process, your realistic options (including diversion or a no-conviction outcome where available), what to do and not do before your next court date, and a fixed-fee quote if a fixed fee suits your matter. No obligation.

Any charge sheets, bail conditions, court notices or letters from police or the court. If you don't have anything yet, that's fine. A clear outline of what happened is enough to start.

Get advice before you take part in a police interview or give a statement. In most cases you have the right to remain silent, but you must give your name and address when lawfully asked. We can advise you on the best approach for your circumstances.

The earlier you get advice, the more options may be available. If your matter is urgent, tell us in your answers and we'll do our best to arrange an appointment as soon as possible.

Pleading guilty isn't always as simple as it seems. Before deciding, it's important to understand the strength of the prosecution case, your options and the possible consequences.

Not necessarily. Many matters are resolved before a contested hearing, through negotiations with prosecutors, charge amendments, diversion or plea agreements.

Magistrates' Courts across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including Kyneton, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Bacchus Marsh, Echuca, Seymour and Shepparton, plus the County Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal.

Yes. You can change lawyers at any time, but changing close to a court date can create risk. If you're concerned about your current representation, contact us as early as possible.

The 30-minute charge review is free. Costs depend on your matter. Fixed-fee options are available for many matters, and we set out costs in a written costs agreement before you commit.

Many of our clients have never been in trouble with the police before. You'll be treated professionally, respectfully and without judgement, and your matter will be handled confidentially, subject to our legal and professional obligations.

No, sorry. We're a private practice and don't offer Legal Aid. If you hold a healthcare or pension card, you may be eligible for help through Victoria Legal Aid.

In the Magistrates' Court, the first hearing is usually a mention. Depending on your matter, it may be adjourned so the prosecution can provide its evidence, you may enter a plea, or the court may set the next steps. Getting advice before this date helps you understand your options and avoid decisions you might regret.

A criminal lawyer is any lawyer who practises in criminal law. A solicitor is usually your first point of contact: they advise you, prepare your case and can appear for you in court. A barrister is an advocate who is briefed by a solicitor, often for trials and more complex hearings. Shane appears in court himself and, where appropriate, briefs an experienced barrister.

Diversion may be available in the Magistrates' Court, usually for people with little or no prior history. The prosecution must agree, and you need to acknowledge responsibility for the offence. If you complete the conditions, the charge is discharged and no finding of guilt is recorded. We can tell you whether it is realistic in your situation.

Assault charges in Victoria range from common assault to serious injury offences, and the court process and possible penalties depend on the charge and the evidence. Before you speak to police or decide how to plead, get advice on what the prosecution has to prove and whether there are weaknesses in its case.

Drug charges include possession, use, cultivation and trafficking. The quantity involved and the circumstances of the search can significantly affect the charge and the outcome. For some possession matters, diversion may be an option. We review how the evidence was obtained and explain your realistic options.

It depends on the offence. For some driving offences the law sets minimum suspension or cancellation periods, while for others the court has a discretion. We can explain what applies to your charge and how to prepare for court. Please note we do not act in drink-driving matters.

Yes. We defend alleged breaches of family violence and personal safety intervention orders, and related criminal charges. These matters can carry serious consequences, so it is important to get advice early, before you speak with police or attend court.

Yes. We appear in Magistrates' Courts across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including Kyneton, Castlemaine, Bendigo and Bacchus Marsh, as well as the County Court, Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. Virtual conferences are available for clients anywhere in Victoria.