Common Assault Lawyers
I had an oustanding experience with Galbally Parker Lawyers, particularly with lawyers Ruth Parker, Candice Jackson, Thomas Bell and Natasa Poppen.
Ruth’s expertise and strategic approach were impressive, navigating my case with ease. Candice’s dedication, clear communicationand understanding of my needsmade the process smooth and stress free.
The entire team exudes professionalism, creating a welcoming environment. Highly recommend for top-tier legal representation.
December 2023
Facing charges of common assault can be daunting and time-sensitive, especially when navigating the legal complexities while dealing with other personal matters. At Galbally Parker, our team of experienced common assault lawyers provides comprehensive support and representation.
We understand the severe consequences of poorly handled cases, and prioritise legal expertise, thorough preparation, and personalised attention to secure the best outcomes for our clients. If you’re facing common assault charges, contact us today for specialised legal assistance and advice on your matter.
What are Common Assault Charges?
Under Victoria’s legal framework, Common Assault, outlined in section 23 of the Summary Offences Act 1966, pertains to the unauthorised physical or apprehended contact with another individual. It is a summary offence that will be heard in the Magistrates’ Court.
If you find yourself facing allegations of Common Assault by law enforcement, don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm for discreet legal counsel tailored to your situation. Our team of criminal lawyers is committed to advocating for individuals accused of assault offences, and our specialised team of common assault lawyers have years of legal practice and offering dedicated representation in this area.
How a Common Assault Lawyer Can Help with These Charges
When facing allegations of wrongdoing, it’s important to recognise that law enforcement may not be aligned with your interests. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek legal advice before engaging with the police regarding any allegations. Our experienced common assault lawyers can provide guidance on what to expect during a police interview, including your rights regarding disclosure. Be aware that making inadvertent admissions during questioning could hinder your ability to mount a defence later in court. Your defence lawyer can accompany you to the police station to provide support during this process.
Whether you decide to plead not guilty or guilty, our firm can provide tailored defence strategies. For those pleading not guilty, we meticulously investigate potential evidence such as CCTV footage or DNA evidence and explore avenues to disprove the charges. Conversely, if you choose to plead guilty, our lawyers can represent you in court by crafting a compelling plea strategy to secure the best possible outcome. With extensive experience in plea hearings, we are adept at presenting your circumstances persuasively to the magistrate, ensuring your voice is heard effectively.
When facing common assault charges, understanding the potential defences available to you is crucial to building a robust legal strategy. The following are some defences that may apply to your case:
- Self-defence: If you acted to protect yourself or others from harm, this could serve as a defence against common assault allegations.
- Lack of assault: If there was no physical contact or apprehension of contact with another person, you may argue that you did not commit assault.
- Absence of intent: If you did not intend to harm or threaten anyone, you can assert that you lacked the requisite intent for the offence.
Depending on the specific circumstances of the alleged offence, there may be additional defences available. Each case is unique, and requires a tailored approach to the defence strategy.
Finding the Right Common Assault Lawyer
Navigating the courtroom can be a daunting experience, especially for those without legal representation or facing their first legal proceedings. Court personnel, prosecutors, and magistrates may seem unfamiliar and may not have your best interests at heart. Without someone to safeguard your rights, ensuring a fair outcome can be challenging.
Engaging a common assault lawyer in a timely manner can make a significant difference to your case, and can even help you avoid having a criminal record or facing imprisonment.
- Prompt action allows for the gathering of facts and the formulation of a robust defence strategy.
- Access to legal representation ensures you’re adequately prepared for court proceedings, enabling you to present your case effectively.
- Having a supportive legal team can provide a sense of stability and understanding during a tumultuous time. For individuals facing charges and their families, the legal process can be bewildering and distressing. A knowledgeable lawyer can offer clarity, guidance, and reassurance, helping to alleviate anxieties and instill confidence in navigating the legal journey ahead.
For those unfamiliar with the legal process involving assault charges, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. Honesty is key when working with your common assault lawyer. Your conversations are protected by client legal privilege, allowing you to share the full details of your case without fear. The more your lawyer knows about your situation, the better equipped we are to build a strong defence on your behalf.
While a lawyer can simplify the legal proceedings, it’s important to understand that they cannot expedite the process. Delays are common and can be frustrating, but your defence team will keep you informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
When selecting a legal team to defend against common assault charges, it’s crucial to choose one with a proven track record of success in court. At Galbally Parker, we have a history of achieving favourable outcomes for clients across a spectrum of cases, including high-profile victories like the recent appeals process for Faruk Orman.
Why Choose Galbally Parker Common Assault Lawyers?
At Galbally Parker, our team has extensive expertise in defending clients facing assault charges. We prioritise the well-being of our clients and meticulously evaluate all pertinent factors to secure the most favourable outcome for you. With a wealth of experience representing clients in assault cases, our seasoned lawyers understand what it takes to navigate complex legal situations effectively.
Don’t just take our word for it – check out our client testimonials, where clients share their firsthand experiences with our legal team. If you’re facing common assault charges,don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today for expert legal assistance.
Common Assault Lawyers FAQs?
What qualifies as common assault in Victoria?
Common assault is an act that intentionally or recklessly causes another person to fear immediate physical harm, or involves minor physical contact without consent. Unlike aggravated assault, it does not involve weapons or serious injury. Common assault lawyers can explain the legal definition and help you understand how it applies to your situation.
How is common assault investigated by the police?
Police investigations typically include taking statements from all parties involved, collecting witness accounts, and reviewing any physical or digital evidence. Common assault lawyers can guide you through the investigation process, ensuring your rights are protected and advising on how to respond to police inquiries.
What should I do if I am charged with common assault?
If you’ve been charged with common assault, it’s essential to act quickly. Contacting a common assault lawyer as soon as possible ensures that your rights are protected from the outset. Your lawyer can:
- Advise you on your legal rights and obligations.
- Guide you on what to say (or not say) to the police, witnesses, or other parties.
- Review the charges and gather any relevant evidence.
- Begin building a defence strategy tailored to your circumstances.
Early legal advice can significantly influence the outcome of your case and help reduce potential penalties or complications.
Can a common assault lawyer help me avoid going to court?
In some cases, it is possible to resolve a common assault charge without attending a full trial. An experienced common assault lawyer can assess your situation and advise whether you may be eligible for diversion programs or alternative dispute resolutions. They can negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf, seeking reduced charges or plea agreements that may eliminate the need for a lengthy court process. Additionally, your lawyer can present mitigating factors to the authorities, such as a lack of prior offences or steps you’ve taken to address the situation, which can influence the outcome. While not every case can avoid court, having a skilled lawyer increases the likelihood of resolving the matter efficiently while minimising disruption and potential penalties.
What defences are available for common assault charges?
There are several potential defences to a common assault charge, and an experienced common assault lawyer will evaluate which are appropriate for your case. Common defences include:
- Self-defence: Acting to protect yourself from imminent harm.
- Consent: If the alleged assault occurred with the other person’s consent (e.g., in sports or mutual fights).
- Mistaken identity: If you were wrongly accused or misidentified.
- Lack of intent or recklessness: If you did not intend to cause fear or harm.
- Provocation or sudden response: In some cases, this may reduce culpability.
Your lawyer will analyse the evidence, witness statements, and circumstances to determine the strongest defence strategy.
Do common assault lawyers handle cases involving family or domestic disputes?
Yes. Common assault charges in domestic or family contexts require careful handling due to the additional legal and emotional complexities involved. Experienced common assault lawyers can provide guidance that protects your rights while navigating sensitive situations. They can advise on how criminal charges may intersect with family law matters, including issues like custody, parenting arrangements, or restraining orders. Additionally, they can represent you in negotiations, court hearings, or diversion programs that are specific to domestic cases. Having specialised legal support is essential to ensure that outcomes are fair, legally sound, and consider the unique dynamics of domestic disputes.
Speak with an experienced common assault lawyer
