Our Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

Finding a good criminal lawyer requires research and careful consideration. Look for lawyers who specialise in criminal law, as they are better equipped to handle the nuances of these cases. Once identified, check their reviews, client testimonials, and track records in similar cases to help you gauge their expertise. You will find Galbally Parker is the longest standing independent criminal defence law firm in Melbourne, established in 1976. 

Seeking recommendations from trusted sources, such as family, friends, or other legal professionals, can also be useful.

Criminal lawyers represent their clients in court by presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses and arguing the case before a judge or jury. They may file legal motions, such as excluding certain evidence or seeking to dismiss charges. Their primary goal is to challenge the prosecution’s case and advocate for their client’s defence.

Not all criminal lawyers appear in court frequently. If your case is likely to go to trial, ensure your lawyer has substantial courtroom experience and a track record of preparing strong defences. Good lawyers for criminal cases will prepare thoroughly to ensure your defence is strong and that your rights are upheld throughout the trial process.

Not all criminal cases result in court appearances. Many cases are resolved outside of court through negotiations, plea deals, or alternative dispute resolution processes. Criminal lawyers often aim to settle cases outside of court to save time and reduce costs for their clients.

However, court proceedings may become necessary if negotiations fail or the charges are serious. In these situations, your lawyer will represent you at every stage of the trial. If you’re looking for a good criminal lawyer, look for someone who is skilled to handle your case both inside and outside the courtroom.

Criminal lawyers specialise in defending individuals or organisations charged with criminal offences. Their role involves:

• Assessing your case.
• Advising on your legal rights.
• Developing a strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.

They negotiate with police or prosecutors and represent clients in court if needed. Criminal lawyers can also assist with bail applications, plea bargains, and, in some cases, expunging criminal records.

Engaging an experienced criminal lawyer provides you with an advocate who protects your interests and guides you through the legal process. Whether it’s representation at trial or navigating a complex legal issue, their expertise can have a significant impact on your case.

When meeting with a criminal lawyer, ask questions to assess their suitability for your case. Some examples include:

• Have you handled similar cases before?
• What outcomes have you achieved in those cases?
• How long do you expect my case to take?
• Will you personally handle my case?
• How will you keep me updated throughout the process?

These questions can help you understand their experience and approach and ensure you find someone who will prioritise your needs.

The cost of hiring a criminal lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. Some lawyers charge hourly rates, while others offer fixed fees for specific services, such as bail applications or plea negotiations.

At Galbally Parker, we charge a fixed fee of $330 for an initial appointment, during which time we assess your case, understand what you want and what you need and whether you need a criminal lawyer at all. With a thorough understanding of the case requirements, we advise on further costs with no obligation on you to continue to retain us. A good lawyer will provide transparency about costs, helping you understand what’s included and whether there are any potential additional expenses.

Based in Melbourne, Galbally Parker criminal lawyers work all across the city, from Frankston, Moorabbin and Dandenong to Werribee. Our experience across greater Melbourne gives our clients comfort that we are more than inner-city lawyers. Wherever you are, we have the experience and understanding to represent you.

Yes, a lawyer can assist with expungement, which involves removing certain offences from your criminal record. In Victoria, expungement is often available for historical offences, including those related to outdated laws or wrongful convictions.

When you engage a lawyer to help with expungement, they will assess your eligibility, prepare the required paperwork, and advocate for you during the application process. Having an experienced lawyer can improve your chances of successfully clearing your record, improving employment opportunities and easing other challenges in your personal life.

When you need a good criminal lawyer, that means a lawyer with relevant experience, clear communication skills, and a genuine commitment to your case. Key qualities to look for include:

• A track record of success in similar cases.
• The ability to explain your options clearly.
• Responsiveness to your questions and concerns.
• Professionalism and a strong understanding of the law.

These attributes ensure your lawyer can build a strong defence and negotiate favourable outcomes, which can significantly affect the resolution of your case.

When looking for a good criminal lawyer, prioritise their qualifications, experience, and client rapport. They should have expertise in criminal law and a deep understanding of Victoria’s legal system.

Look for someone with experience handling cases similar to yours, both in and out of court. Asking for examples of past cases can help confirm their capabilities. A thorough selection process will ensure you hire someone who can effectively manage your legal needs.

A skilled criminal lawyer is essential for protecting your rights and navigating the complexities of the legal system. They can explain court procedures, negotiate on your behalf, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.

Their support during stressful situations is invaluable, and their ability to build a strong defence can make a significant difference in the result of your case.

Even for minor offences, a criminal lawyer can be instrumental in negotiating reduced penalties, avoiding convictions, or even having charges dropped. Their involvement ensures your rights are upheld and the case is resolved with minimal impact on your record.

During your consultation, these are the questions to ask a criminal lawyer before hiring them:

• What strategies do you recommend for my case?
• Are there any challenges I should be aware of?
• What are the chances of my case going to trial?
• How will you gather evidence to support my defence?

Asking these questions will help you make an informed decision about hiring the most suitable lawyer for your situation.

The answer to this question can be more complicated than it seems on the surface. At Galbally Parker, we are here to help you determine the type of legal representation you require for your criminal law case. Contact us for assistance determining the requirements for your case.

The terms ‘lawyer’ or even ‘criminal law lawyer’ can have a broad meaning, encompassing both solicitors and barristers. Solicitors and barristers both have a wealth of knowledge in the legal field.

Solicitors are exceptionally skilled at preparing cases and advising clients, among other things. They can also appear in court, though doing so is not necessarily their speciality.

If you need a criminal offence lawyer to represent you in court, you will likely want to hire a barrister. Barristers specialise in courtroom advocacy. They work with solicitors and their clients to learn more about the case in question and to formulate a strategy for the courtroom. From there, the barrister will appear in court to argue the case and defend the client. Barristers have a deep understanding of litigation tactics and often specialise in a specific area of law.

Typically, barristers work independently, whereas solicitors practice as part of law firms. Law firms and their clients will then engage the services of barristers if a courtroom advocate is required.

We pride ourselves on having won favourable verdicts for clients in high-profile cases. Most recently, our Principal, Ruth Parker, achieved an acquittal for Faruk Orman, who had been wrongfully accused and convicted of a crime as part of the infamous Lawyer X scandal.

While our solicitors are extremely skilled in all areas of criminal law, we also have an innate sense of when it is time to bring in a third-party expert. Sometimes, that means hiring one of the best barristers in Melbourne. Other times, it means working with third-party providers of medical, psychological, technological or forensic services. In any case, our goal with these partnerships is always to bring in the sharpest and most experienced voices to help our clients.