Project Description

Not Guilty Hearings

Not Guilty Hearings

If you’ve been charged by the police, you need to consider your legal options carefully. If the charges against you are proven, you risk facing some substantial penalties. Depending on the nature of the charges, these may include a hefty fine, criminal conviction and even imprisonment. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and options so that you can make an informed decision about what to do next.

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    Before the initial hearing, you need to decide if you will plead guilty or not guilty. You should obtain legal advice from an Australian criminal law specialist to help you make this decision.

    Our experienced Western Sydney criminal lawyers have represented people just like you who have been charged by the police. We can help you:

    • Understand your options, including the risks and benefits of each choice.
    • Make the best decision as to how to plea. This will take into account the strength of your defence and the possible discounts for a guilty plea.
    • Build a defence.
    • Develop a case strategy.
    • Investigate and research your case.
    • Negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf.

    • Represent you in court.

    • If necessary, instruct an experienced barrister to appear on your behalf and work with them to make sure they’re fully briefed and can fight for you.

    While we can’t guarantee an outcome in the courts, we bring many years of experience and can help you understand your options. We’ll look at cases similar to yours and leverage our knowledge of the particular Magistrate to Judge assigned to your case.

    Pleading Not Guilty

    When your case is called into the courtroom, you will be asked to plead guilty or not guilty. You may choose to plead not guilty if:

    • You didn’t do the thing that you’ve been charged with.
    • You did do it but have a legally valid defence.
    • You choose not to admit anything and see if the prosecution can prove their case.

    Sometimes, you may feel that you just want to tell your side of the story. Our Western Sydney criminal lawyers will help you decide whether that is in your best interests.

    If you choose to plead not guilty, you will need to attend the initial hearing, called a ‘mention’. On that date, the Magistrate will set a ‘reply date’ or second hearing. Before that date, the police must serve you with a brief of evidence. You can use that to see what the case against you will be, and decide if you still want to plead not guilty. If you do, the matter will go to a hearing or trial.

    If you enter a not guilty plea, you will be given a trial date. At trial, the prosecution will present evidence to try and convince the court that you are guilty. We will present evidence to show that you are not guilty or have a valid defence. Usually, the trial is scheduled far enough in advance to allow everyone to have a chance to gather their evidence and witnesses in support of their argument.

    Depending on how serious the offence you’re charged with is, your case might be heard in the Magistrates, District or Supreme Court. Each Court has different rules, processes and procedure as well as the costs involved in running a trial. We have experience in every Court, and have represented clients across a range of offences in each jurisdiction.

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    John & Co Lawyers | Fairfield Lawyer | Variety of Practice Areas

    “I would just like to thank you for your hard work and understanding during a very stressful time for myself.I cannot thank you enough for the work and advice you provided. My assault and stalking and intimidation charges were heard by the Magistrate at Liverpool Court yesterday, Tuesday 16th. I pleaded guilty to the assault with the stalking being dropped prior by way of representations made by you. The Magistrate seen through the bullshit supplied by the Police facts sheet and I am happy to say no conviction was recorded. He stated it was “a molehill turned into a mountain by police”. John I would just like to say your professionalism on both of my criminal and family law matters was outstanding. I would go so far as to say its the best service I have ever had. Keep up the good work!!!”
    Josh P.

    John & Co Lawyers | Fairfield Lawyer | Variety of Practice Areas

    “I found John & Co lawyers to be there when I needed them. They were very quick to return my calls and emails which came about at random times. The team were very experienced and had high technical knowledge in family law that was required throughout the process. John will defend you and give you that encouragement to fight for your rights when you have lost all will power to defend yourself. John was very tough to stand up to the other side whilst achieving great results for my daughter and I. I highly recommend their services.”
    Nikky R.

    John & Co Lawyers | Fairfield Lawyer | Variety of Practice Areas

    “Highly recommend this law firm to anyone injured! John is the best personal injury lawyer. He is exceptionally knowledgeable in the law. He always kept me well informed and was readily available to answer all of my questions. John represented me for my workplace injury. From the very beginning I felt his genuine concern for my wellbeing and it showed throughout the case as he always returned my calls and explained the process step by step. My case settled in November 2018 for $690,000 clear in my hand. John & Co Lawyers gave me my life back, and for that I am forever grateful. John & his team are great lawyers, very professional and, made the process seamless for me.”
    Nenad A.

    John & Co Lawyers | Fairfield Lawyer | Variety of Practice Areas

    “I was absolutely astounded by the service provided by John and co lawers.  John went above and beyond to extend additional help with my case. Johns experience is second to none, His professionalism and sound advice was just what was needed. I would highly recommend his services to anyone with pressing family law matters. His warm personality made me feel like part of the family, as I could easily dissus any finer details with my case and he would take into consideration. If I have any cases in future he will be my first choice. Thanks again John your service is Highly appreciated. God bless you. 5 stars.”
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