Facing criminal charges can be one of the most daunting and stressful experiences in life, with potentially severe consequences for your freedom, reputation, and future. At Thompson Lawyers, we understand the gravity of criminal allegations and are committed to providing robust defence representation to individuals accused of criminal offences.
Our team of experienced criminal defence lawyers helps you navigate the complexities of the Australian legal system and advocates vigorously for your rights. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, don't delay – contact us today on 02 4925 6129 to schedule a consultation and begin building your defence.
Legal Defence for Criminal Offences in New south wales
Whether the criminal offence(s) you are charged with are minor or serious, our firm offers comprehensive legal defence representation. We handle a wide range of criminal cases, including:
Assault and violence offences
Drug offences
Theft and property offences
Dishonesty offences, like shoplifting, fraud, and organised or white-collar crimes
Sexual offences
Domestic violence charges
Traffic offences, including drink driving
Homicide, murder, and manslaughter charges
Bail applications and hearings
Appeals against convictions and sentences
If you are charged with multiple offences, we will provide the same care and representation for each. We will also help represent you if you have been prohibited from contacting a person via an order. The terms for these types of protection or restraining orders vary by state and jurisdiction. Examples include:
Apprehended Violence Order (AVO): This term is commonly used in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Domestic Violence Order (DVO): This term is commonly used in Queensland, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory.
Family Violence Order (FVO): This term is commonly used in Victoria.
Intervention Order: This term is used in South Australia and Western Australia.
At Thompson Lawyers, we know that criminal allegations can make life hard and unpredictable. We believe that each of our clients has the right to defend themselves and are here to make sure they get the best defence possible to ensure the best possible outcome.
Strategic Defence Planning and Representation in New south wales
When facing criminal charges, having a strategic defence plan is essential to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Our criminal defence lawyers conduct thorough investigations, review all available evidence, and develop a strategic defence strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of your case.
Possible defences that might be applied, when relevant, include:
Self-defence: Acting to protect oneself or others from harm, with reasonable force, when faced with an imminent threat.
Mental Impairment: If the defendant can prove they were suffering from a mental impairment at the time of the offence, such as insanity or diminished responsibility, it may mitigate their culpability.
Duress: Committing a crime under threat or coercion, where the defendant reasonably believed they or someone else would suffer serious harm if they did not comply.
Necessity: Committing a crime to prevent a greater harm or danger, where there were no reasonable alternatives available.
Automatism: Acting involuntarily or without control due to factors such as sleepwalking, seizures, or involuntary intoxication.
Honest and Reasonable Mistake of Fact: If the defendant honestly and reasonably believed in certain facts that, if true, would make their actions lawful, this can serve as a defence.
Consent: In cases involving offences like assault or sexual assault, if the victim consented to the act, it may serve as a defence, provided the consent was genuine and informed.
Alibi: Providing evidence that the defendant was not present at the scene of the crime when it occurred.
Intoxication: In some cases, voluntary intoxication may reduce culpability, but only if it negates the required mental element of the offence.
But a defence strategy is not solely based on an applicable defence but on a number of arguments put together to provide the best possible defence.
We provide aggressive representation at all stages of the criminal justice process, from police interviews and bail hearings to trials and appeals, ensuring that your rights are upheld and that you receive fair treatment under the law.
Understanding Australia's Criminal Courts and Criminal Process
Criminal cases are heard in various courts depending on the offence, severity of the offence, and the jurisdiction. Below are the main courts that hear criminal cases.
Magistrates' Court: This is the lowest level of court in Australia's judicial system and typically handles less serious criminal offences, such as traffic violations, minor assaults, and property crimes. Magistrates' Courts also conduct preliminary hearings for more serious offences before they are transferred to higher courts.
District Court: In some states and territories, the District Court hears more serious criminal cases, including indictable offences such as sexual assault, robbery, and drug trafficking. District Courts usually have jurisdiction over cases where the maximum penalty exceeds what the Magistrates' Court can impose.
Supreme Court: The Supreme Court is the highest court in most Australian states and territories and has jurisdiction over the most serious criminal cases, including murder, manslaughter, and major drug offences. It also hears appeals from lower courts.
Children's Court: As mentioned earlier, the Children's Court hears cases involving young offenders who are under a certain age threshold, typically around 18 years old. It focuses on addressing the welfare and rehabilitation needs of children and adolescents accused of criminal offences.
Youth Court: In jurisdictions where it exists, the Youth Court handles cases involving older youths or adolescents who are no longer considered children but are still under the age of 18. Like the Children's Court, it emphasises rehabilitation and support for young offenders.
Federal Court: The Federal Court of Australia primarily deals with matters arising under federal law, including certain criminal offences such as terrorism, drug trafficking, and offences against Commonwealth legislation. It also hears appeals from lower federal courts and tribunals.
Each state and territory has its own court system with its own rules and procedures for criminal cases. Generally, you can expect the following in a criminal case.
Investigation, Arrest, Charging
The police investigate alleged criminal activity. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collecting statements.
If the police have sufficient evidence, they may arrest a suspect. Upon arrest, the suspect is informed of their rights and may be taken into custody for questioning.
After the investigation, if there is enough evidence to proceed, the police may formally charge the suspect with a criminal offence. The suspect is then issued a court summons or bail notice.
Initial Hearings
The suspect appears in court for the first time, known as the First Court Appearance, where they are formally advised of the charges against them. They may enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
If the suspect is detained in custody, they may have a bail hearing before a court to determine whether they can be released on bail pending trial.
In some cases, particularly for indictable offences, there may be a preliminary hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial. This stage is more common in some states than others.
Trial, Verdict, and Sentencing
If the case proceeds to trial, the prosecution presents evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The defendant has the opportunity to present their defence and cross-examine witnesses. The trial may be before a judge alone or a judge and jury, depending on the seriousness of the offence and the defendant's preference.
At the conclusion of the trial, the judge or jury delivers a verdict of guilty or not guilty. If the verdict is guilty, the court proceeds to sentencing.
The court determines the appropriate punishment for the convicted offender, taking into account factors such as the seriousness of the offence, the offender's criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.
Appeals
Both the prosecution and the defence have the right to appeal against a sentence if they, respectively, believe the sentence was too lenient or too tough. Only the defence can appeal a verdict if they believe there were errors in the legal process or the decision.
Why Choose Thompson Lawyers for Your Criminal Defence Needs
When it comes to defending your rights and freedoms, experience, expertise, and dedication matter. Here are some compelling reasons to choose us for your criminal defence.
Proven Track Record of Success
With successful case outcomes and satisfied clients, we have established a reputation for excellence in criminal defence advocacy. Our comprehensive understanding of criminal law and courtroom experience equips us to effectively defend your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Personalised Legal Strategy
At Thompson Lawyers, we recognise that every case is unique, and we are committed to developing a tailored legal strategy that aligns with your specific circumstances and objectives. Whether you are facing minor charges or serious allegations, we will work tirelessly to craft a defence strategy that maximises your chances of success and minimises the impact on your life.
Strong Advocate in and out of Court
As your dedicated legal advocate, we will stand by your side throughout every stage of the legal process, from initial investigation to trial and beyond. We will vigorously defend your rights in court and tirelessly advocate for your interests, ensuring that you receive the fair treatment and due process you deserve.
Accessible and Responsive Communication
At Thompson Lawyers, we understand the importance of clear and open communication, especially during challenging times. You can rely on us to provide you with prompt, honest, and transparent communication at every step of your case. We are here to address your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the support you need to make informed decisions about your legal options.
Compassionate and Supportive Representation
Facing criminal charges can be emotionally overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. We are here to provide you with compassionate and supportive legal representation, guiding you through the legal process with empathy, understanding, and unwavering commitment to your best interests.
Comprehensive Legal Services
From minor infractions to serious felony charges, we offer a full range of criminal defence services to address a wide variety of legal matters. You can trust us to provide you with the skilled legal advocacy you need to protect your rights and defend your freedom.
Contact our Criminal Defence Lawyers in New south wales Today
At Thompson Lawyers, we understand the significant impact that criminal charges can have on your life, your family, and your future. We are committed to providing compassionate support and effective legal representation to help you navigate this challenging time.
Contact us today on 02 4925 6129 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced criminal defence lawyers. Your freedom and future are our priority. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for you.
