Experienced Criminal Lawyers in Frankston
Facing a criminal charge, police investigation or court appearance in Frankston can leave you uncertain about what will happen next. Galbally Parker represents clients from Frankston and surrounding suburbs in criminal, traffic and intervention order matters, including proceedings at Frankston Magistrates’ Court.
Our lawyers can advise you before a police interview, prepare your case for court and represent you throughout the proceedings. We will explain the allegations, the available options and the likely next steps in clear terms.
Criminal defence representation in Frankston
Frankston Magistrates’ Court is located on Fletcher Road in central Frankston. It hears summary criminal offences, some indictable offences, committal proceedings, traffic matters and intervention order applications.
If your case is listed at Frankston Magistrates’ Court, the first appearance may be a mention rather than a final hearing. What happens on that date will depend on the charges, whether you intend to plead guilty or not guilty, whether further evidence is required and whether issues such as bail need to be addressed.
Before you attend court, our criminal lawyers can:
- review your charge sheets, summons, bail documents and police brief
- explain the elements of each alleged offence
- identify evidence that may need to be obtained or challenged
- advise you about pleading guilty or not guilty
- communicate with police prosecutors
- prepare material relevant to bail or sentencing
- appear for you at Frankston Magistrates’ Court when appropriate
The earlier we understand the circumstances of your case, the more time we have to protect your position and prepare a clear strategy.
You can also read our guide to facing criminal charges in Frankston and our explanation of the criminal court process in Victoria.
Speak with an experienced criminal defence lawyer before your court date
What criminal matters do we handle in Frankston?
Galbally Parker acts in criminal matters ranging from first-time and lower-level charges to serious allegations that may progress beyond the Magistrates’ Court.
Assault cases
Assault cases can arise from incidents in homes, licensed venues, workplaces or public places. The evidence may include witness statements, CCTV footage, body-worn camera recordings, photographs, medical records and phone messages.
We examine the circumstances surrounding the allegation, including whether the accused acted in self-defence, whether the identification evidence is reliable and whether the prosecution can prove each part of the charge.
Learn more about how our assault lawyers defend allegations involving physical violence, threats and related offences.
Family violence and intervention orders
Frankston Magistrates’ Court hears family violence intervention order matters as well as criminal charges arising from alleged family violence incidents.
These proceedings can affect where a person lives, communication with family members and contact with children. They may also involve related charges such as assault, property damage, stalking or contravening an intervention order.
Our family violence lawyers can advise respondents about both the immediate intervention order proceedings and any connected criminal allegations.
Drug offences
We represent clients charged with drug possession, trafficking, cultivation and other offences involving prohibited substances.
The issues in a drug case may include whether police conducted a lawful search, who possessed or controlled the substance, the quantity involved and whether the prosecution alleges possession for personal use or trafficking.
Our drug offence lawyers act in matters ranging from possession charges to serious trafficking and commercial quantity prosecutions.
Galbally Parker has also represented clients in complex bail matters involving alleged commercial quantity trafficking, including a successful Supreme Court bail application.
Drink driving and traffic offences
Traffic matters heard at Frankston Magistrates’ Court can include drink driving, drug driving, driving while suspended or disqualified, dangerous driving and other offences that may result in licence loss.
Losing a licence can affect a person’s employment and family responsibilities. Our driving offence lawyers advise clients about the charge, any available defence, the likely licence consequences and the material that should be prepared before court.
Theft, burglary and property offences
Property-related allegations may involve theft, burglary, handling stolen goods, criminal damage or obtaining property by deception.
Depending on the case, the evidence may include CCTV footage, fingerprints, financial records, phone data or disputed identification evidence. We assess whether the evidence connects the accused person to the alleged conduct and whether the prosecution can prove the necessary intention.
Learn more about representation for theft, burglary and robbery charges.
Bail applications
A person may need to apply for bail after being arrested, remanded or charged with further offences while already on bail.
Preparing a bail application involves more than asking the court for release. The court may need information about the proposed address, employment, treatment, family support and the conditions that could address any alleged risk.
Our bail application lawyers prepare and present this material and advise clients and their families about realistic bail conditions.
What should you do after being contacted by Frankston Police?
Frankston Police Station and Frankston Magistrates’ Court are both located on Fletcher Road. The police station operates 24 hours a day and includes a Crime Investigation Unit.
Being asked to attend the station for an interview does not mean you have to answer substantive questions without first obtaining legal advice. What you say in an interview may become part of the evidence used in the case.
Before participating in a recorded interview, you should understand:
- the offences police suspect you of committing
- whether you are under arrest
- your right to communicate with a lawyer
- the consequences of answering or declining to answer questions
- whether police intend to release you, charge you or seek to remand you
Contacting a lawyer before the interview gives you an opportunity to receive advice based on the actual allegations, rather than trying to make decisions while under pressure at the police station.
Attending Frankston Magistrates’ Court
Frankston Magistrates’ Court is located on Fletcher Road, Frankston VIC 3199. The court is generally open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
Only on-street parking is available at the court, so allow additional time to find a space and pass through court security. You should check your notice of hearing and the Magistrates’ Court’s daily court list]before attending, as the courtroom and listing arrangements may change.
Bring the following with you:
- your charge sheet or summons
- bail documents
- the notice showing your court date
- photo identification
- any documents your lawyer has asked you to provide
Arriving at court does not necessarily mean your case will be heard immediately. Court lists frequently contain many matters, and you may need to remain available while discussions occur between your lawyer and the prosecution.
Frankston Magistrates’ Court also provides access to programs including the Court Integrated Services Program for eligible people on bail and the Assessment and Referral Court for eligible accused people experiencing complex mental health conditions. Whether a program is available or appropriate will depend on the circumstances of the individual case.
For serious indictable charges, the case may begin in the Magistrates’ Court before progressing to a higher court. Our guide to committal hearings explains this process in more detail.
Contact Us
We. Are. Different.
Est. 1976
As the first Melbourne firm to practice exclusively in criminal defence law, our criminal defence lawyers have the skill, experience and understanding to deliver the best representation for you or your loved one.
This is the discreet boutique service that our experienced criminal defence lawyers deliver. This is why our firm is recognised as one of the best criminal defence firms in Melbourne. Our results speak for themselves.
Why choose Galbally Parker for a Frankston court matter?
Criminal defence has been our focus since 1976
Galbally Parker was established as Victoria’s first law firm dedicated exclusively to criminal defence. Our lawyers act in Magistrates’, County and Supreme Court proceedings, allowing us to continue representing clients when a case becomes more serious or progresses to a higher court.
Advice based on the evidence in your case
We do not rely on general promises or predetermined approaches. Our advice is based on the charges, the police evidence, your instructions and the legal issues that can affect the result.
This may involve obtaining CCTV footage, reviewing phone records, examining the legality of a search, identifying inconsistencies in witness accounts or preparing material to support a plea, bail application or sentencing hearing.
Clear explanations of your options
Criminal cases often involve decisions that carry lasting consequences. We explain the available options, what each option involves and the risks that need to be considered.
You will understand what is being done on your case, what information we need from you and what is likely to happen at the next court appearance.
Preparation beyond the day of court
Effective representation begins before your matter is called. Depending on the case, preparation may include conferences with you, reviewing the police brief, obtaining expert evidence, negotiating with prosecutors and preparing supporting documents.
When we appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court, we attend with a clear understanding of the allegations and the outcome being sought.
Read what previous clients have said about working with Galbally Parker in our client testimonials.
Get advice about your Frankston criminal matter
We assist people from Frankston and nearby areas, including Frankston North, Frankston South, Seaford, Carrum Downs, Langwarrin, Skye and the Mornington Peninsula.
You do not need to travel to our Melbourne office for every appointment. Initial and ongoing conferences can often be conducted by telephone or video, while our lawyers attend court when required.
Whether you have received a summons, been released on bail, been asked to participate in a police interview or have an upcoming appearance at Frankston Magistrates’ Court, obtaining advice early can help you understand what needs to happen next.
Contact Our Team Today
Our contact details:
Email: lawyers@galballyparker.com.au
Telephone: 03 9670 8771
Frequently asked questions about criminal charges in Frankston
Where is Frankston Magistrates’ Court?
Frankston Magistrates’ Court is located on Fletcher Road, Frankston VIC 3199. It is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm from Monday to Friday. The court advises that only on-street parking is available.
Current contact, accessibility and service information is available on the official Frankston Magistrates’ Court page.
What cases are heard at Frankston Magistrates’ Court?
The court hears summary criminal offences, some indictable offences, committal proceedings, driving and traffic offences and intervention order applications. More serious indictable cases may begin at the Magistrates’ Court before progressing to the County Court or Supreme Court.
Is Frankston Police Station near the court?
Yes. Frankston Police Station is also located at 15 Fletcher Road. Its reception counter and telephone service operate 24 hours a day, and the station has a Crime Investigation Unit.
Should I speak to a lawyer before a police interview?
You should obtain legal advice before deciding whether to answer questions in a police interview. A lawyer can explain your rights, the nature of the allegations and the possible consequences of participating in the interview.
What happens at my first court appearance?
The first appearance is commonly a mention. Your lawyer may speak with the prosecutor, request further material, discuss how the charge will proceed or ask for the case to be adjourned. A contested hearing or plea may occur later, depending on the matter.
Our article on understanding the criminal process explains mentions, briefs of evidence and the different ways a charge may proceed.
Do I have to attend Frankston Magistrates’ Court personally?
That depends on the type of proceeding, the stage of the case and any directions made by the court. Do not assume that your lawyer can attend without you. We will tell you whether your attendance is required for each court date.
How long will my case take?
Some matters can be resolved after the police brief has been reviewed and discussions have occurred with the prosecution. Contested cases, complex indictable matters and cases requiring expert evidence may take considerably longer. We can give you a more useful indication after reviewing the charges and available evidence.
What should I send my lawyer before the first appointment?
Send any charge sheets, summonses, bail documents, intervention order documents and correspondence from police or the court. You should also provide your upcoming court date and tell your lawyer about any bail conditions or deadlines that apply.
How much does a Frankston criminal lawyer cost?
The cost depends on the charges, the volume of evidence, the number of court appearances and whether the matter is resolved by negotiation, plea or contested hearing. We explain the proposed work and fee structure after discussing the case with you.
Last reviewed: July 2026
This page has been reviewed for accuracy and currency.