Experienced Geelong Criminal Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence in Geelong, getting the right legal advice early can make a significant difference to your outcome. Our experienced criminal defence lawyers represent clients across all courts in the region, including the Geelong Magistrates’ Court and other courts throughout Victoria.
We provide strategic, practical, and results-focused legal representation for all criminal matters—whether you’re facing a minor summary offence or a serious indictable offence.
Experienced Geelong Criminal Lawyer
Our team regularly appears in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, as well as the County and Supreme Courts. We understand how local courts operate and what magistrates consider when determining penalties, including whether to record a conviction under the Sentencing Act 1991.
We act for clients charged with:
- Assault and family violence offences
- Drug possession, trafficking, and cultivation
- Theft, burglary, and dishonesty offences
- Traffic offences including drink driving and drug driving
- Intervention order breaches
- Sexual offences
Criminal Law Services in Geelong
Assault & Violence Charges
We defend charges ranging from unlawful assault to serious offences under the Crimes Act 1958.
Drug Offences
If you’ve been charged under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981, we can assess the strength of the prosecution case and identify possible defences.
Traffic & Driving Offences
We assist with drink driving, drug driving, licence suspensions, and dangerous driving matters.
Intervention Orders
We represent clients in family violence intervention order proceedings and breach charges.
What Happens If You Are Charged?
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence in Geelong:
- You may be required to attend court (often the Geelong Magistrates’ Court)
- Police will provide a charge sheet and summary of allegations
- You will need to decide whether to plead guilty or not guilty
- Your matter may proceed to contest mention, hearing, or committal (depending on whether it is summary offence, indictable offence triable summarily or indictable offence
Getting legal advice early ensures you understand your options and can work towards the best possible outcome.
How We Help You Avoid a Criminal Conviction
In many cases, it may be possible to avoid a conviction. Courts consider factors such as:
- Your personal circumstances
- Prior criminal history
- The seriousness of the offence
- Steps taken towards rehabilitation
Under section 8 of the Sentencing Act 1991, a magistrate has discretion to impose penalties without recording a conviction in appropriate cases.
FAQ – Geelong Criminal Defence Lawyer
Do I need a lawyer for court in Geelong?
Yes. Even for minor charges, a lawyer can help you understand the process, negotiate with prosecutors, and present your case effectively.
Which court will hear my case?
Most criminal matters start in the Geelong Magistrates’ Court. More serious matters may proceed to higher courts.
Can I avoid a conviction?
In some cases, yes. A court may choose not to record a conviction depending on your circumstances and the nature of the offence. Section 8 of the Sentencing Act 1991, which sets out the factors the court must consider. The court considers the nature and seriousness of the offence/s, your personal circumstances, your prior criminal history, the impact that a conviction will have, your prospects of rehabilitation and your insight. The court will also be guided by the principles contained in section 5 of the Sentencing Act 1991.
Should I speak to police without a lawyer?
It’s generally not recommended. You have the right to obtain legal advice before participating in an interview.
Contact Criminal Law Advice today for confidential, expert legal advice and representation from an experienced Geelong Criminal Lawyer.
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