Sydney's Trusted Criminal & Traffic Lawyers

Thirteen DV counts were contested. Focused cross-examination revealed inconsistencies between the 000 call, recorded statements, and what was said in court. The magistrate was not satisfied beyond reasonable doubt. All charges were dismissed. We then adjusted related ADVO terms so safety remained a priority without unnecessary limits that would disrupt parenting or employment. The client avoided a conviction and its flow-on impacts.

With 11 priors and three Community Corrections Order (CCO) breaches, custody seemed likely. We documented stable work, treatment supports, and a supervision framework with reporting and curfew. The court imposed the minimum six-month disqualification and a fresh CCO instead of prison. This balanced community safety with rehabilitation and family stability. Clear conditions helped keep the client on track while preserving employment and care duties.

An early plea, apology, solid references, and Traffic Offenders Program proof supported a CRO without conviction. We added practical tools to prevent repeat issues, including vehicle service reminders, route planning to avoid high-risk corridors, and fatigue checks for late shifts. The client stayed licensed and employed. We provided HR-friendly letters explaining the court outcome and a short plan for ongoing compliance, which the magistrate acknowledged as sensible risk reduction.

Costs vary by charge, complexity, and preparation. Many pleas are fixed-fee; defended hearings use staged pricing. A criminal lawyer Fairfield provides a written costs disclosure, confirms what is included, and estimates likely disbursements like subpoenas, interpreters, or experts before you make decisions. They also explain how extra mentions, adjournments, or late evidence can affect the budget, so you understand both best and worst case fee scenarios in advance.

Apply for Legal Aid NSW or seek duty lawyer assistance if eligible. Your criminal lawyer in Fairfield reviews eligibility, offers payment-plan or limited-scope options, and prioritises the actions that most effectively reduce risk and expense. They can suggest using free services, such as community legal centres, for some tasks while the private lawyer focuses on critical hearings or negotiations. This blended approach can keep costs manageable without leaving you unrepresented at key stages.

Eligibility depends on means and merit tests and changes periodically. Your Fairfield criminal lawyer checks current thresholds, including income, assets, and dependants, prepares your application, and explains contributions or conditions that may accompany any grant of aid. They also clarify that Legal Aid policies are statewide, not suburb-specific, and outline what happens if you fall slightly above the limit, including options for review, internal appeal, or tailored private fee arrangements.