Criminal Law

Criminal Law

Skilled Representation When the Stakes Are Highest

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Facing a criminal charge or even a police investigation can be an overwhelming experience. The outcome of these criminal charges can be life-altering, which is why experienced legal advice is critical from the very first interaction with police.

At Wakefield Lawyers, our criminal law team represents clients across Gippsland in a wide range of matters, including advice prior to a police interview, negotiation with police prosecutors on your behalf, attending Court hearings to advocate on your behalf, including to present a plea, or defend the charges in a Contest Hearing. Whether you are under investigation or already charged, we will defend your rights, explain your options, and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome.

Early Advice Is Critical: Police Interviews & Your Rights

For many people, the first point of contact with the criminal justice system is being asked to attend a police interview or being arrested. This can be a stressful and confusing time, and unfortunately, it’s also the moment when crucial mistakes are often made.

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What You Should Know:

• In Victoria, you are legally only required to provide your name and address to police. You have a right to silence beyond that.
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• Anything you say in a police interview or conversation can be used as evidence against you.
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• Even well-meaning answers can unintentionally damage your case.

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Our Advice:

If you are contacted by police, we recommend stating your name and address, then answering “no comment” to all further questions. Then, contact our office immediately. We offer over-the-phone guidance before your interview to help protect your rights from the outset.

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Charged With a Criminal Offence?

If you have been charged by Victoria Police, time is of the essence. Our criminal defence lawyers will:

• Review and assess the police brief of evidence
• Identify weaknesses in the case against you
• Advise you clearly on the likely outcomes, available defences, and risks
• Represent you in court at all stages of the process

We understand that every case and every client is unique. We tailor our advice and strategy based on your specific circumstances, aiming to achieve the most favourable result, whether that means negotiating with prosecutors, seeking diversion, contesting the charges, or minimising penalties in a detailed plea.

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Our Areas of Expertise

Wakefield Lawyers provides representation in a wide range of criminal law matters, including:

Police Investigations & Interviews

• Pre-interview advice
• Assistance at the police station
• Advice on bail applications

Criminal Charges in Court

• Summary offences (handled in the Magistrates’ Court)
• Indictable offences (including County Court matters)
• Pleas of guilty and not guilty
• Bail applications and variations

Common Charges We Defend

• Theft and burglary
• Assault (including family violence and affray)
• Drug offences (possession, trafficking, cultivation)
• Property damage
• Weapons offences
• Public order and offensive behaviour
• Driving offences (including drink/drug driving, suspended license, dangerous driving)

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Representation in Gippsland Courts

Our lawyers regularly appear in:

• Magistrates’ Court of Victoria
• County Court of Victoria (for more serious indictable matters)

We also work closely with experienced barristers where appropriate, ensuring you have a strong and well-prepared legal team behind you at every step.

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Speak With a Criminal Lawyer Today

Whether you’ve received a summons, been contacted by police, or are preparing for court, don’t delay getting legal advice. Early intervention can significantly affect the outcome of your matter.

Contact Wakefield Lawyers today to arrange a confidential consultation with a criminal law specialist