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When Do You Need a Criminal Lawyer in Canberra?
Andrew Byrnes • March 19, 2025
No matter how minor or serious the charge, facing a criminal offence can truly be one of the most stressful and uncertain times in your life. Thankfully, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. Having an experienced criminal defence lawyer by your side can make a world of difference in the outcome of your case. But when exactly does someone need a criminal lawyer in Canberra?
Understanding Criminal Charges in Canberra
A criminal law solicitor is necessary when you are facing accusations that could lead to penalties such as fines, licence suspensions, criminal records, or imprisonment. The legal system can be too much for a person without the right knowledge, experience or support, and without the right representation, you may find yourself facing harsher consequences than necessary.
If you need a criminal lawyer in Canberra, having skilled and experienced legal representation can help protect your rights and build a strong defence. Whether you are charged with a crime in Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Wollongong, Yass, Cooma, Wagga Wagga, or surrounding areas, the right legal support can make all the difference in your case.
Types of Cases a Criminal Lawyer Can Help With
Our Canberra criminal defence solicitors provide aggressive representation for a wide range of criminal matters. Below are some of the most common cases where legal assistance is an absolute must:
Traffic & Driving Offences
Traffic offences may seem minor, but they can have lasting consequences. Fines, demerit points, and licence suspensions can impact your ability to work and maintain a normal life. More serious driving offences, such as dangerous driving or drink driving, can even lead to jail time. Our criminal law solicitors handle cases involving:
- Drink and drug driving
- Dangerous and reckless driving
- Driving while suspended or disqualified
- Speeding offences
- Negligent driving causing injury or death
Our traffic and driving offence lawyers at Andrew Byrnes Law Group can defend you against these charges and help you avoid harsh penalties.
Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)
Whether you are applying for an AVO or defending against one, legal representation is vital. AVOs can affect your ability to see your children, remain in your home, or even keep your job. Our lawyers assist with:
- Defending against false AVO claims
- Applying for AVOs for protection
- Breach of AVO charges
If you need help with an AVO matter, our AVO lawyers in Canberra are ready to represent your interests.
Drug Offences
Drug-related charges range from possession to trafficking and manufacturing. The penalties can be severe, with potential imprisonment for serious offences. Our legal team provides expert defence for:
- Drug possession
- Drug supply and trafficking
- Drug manufacturing
- Drug importation
Our drug offence lawyers in Canberra have the experience to guide you through the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome.
Murder & Manslaughter
These are some of the most serious charges anyone can face. If you are accused of causing another person’s death, you need a highly skilled legal team to construct a strong defence. Our lawyers have extensive experience handling complex cases involving:
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Criminally negligent homicide
- Dangerous driving causing death
If you are facing murder or manslaughter charges, our criminal defence lawyers will fight tirelessly for your case.
Fraud & Financial Crimes
Fraud offences can lead to hefty fines, asset confiscation, and imprisonment. A criminal law solicitor can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and build a case that protects your future. Common fraud charges include:
- Identity fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Corporate fraud
- Money laundering
- Centrelink fraud
Our fraud lawyers in Canberra can defend you against financial crime charges and work to protect your future.
Assault Charges
Being charged with assault can have serious repercussions, from fines to lengthy prison sentences. Assault charges vary depending on the severity of the incident and whether a weapon was involved. We defend clients against charges such as:
- Common assault
- Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
- Grievous bodily harm
- Domestic violence-related assault
If you are facing assault charges, our
assault lawyers in Canberra can help you navigate your defence.
Property Offences
Property crimes may not involve direct violence, but they can still carry significant penalties. Our lawyers represent individuals accused of offences such as:
- Break and enter
- Theft and larceny
- Malicious damage to property
- Trespassing
Our property offence lawyers in Canberra can build a strong defence strategy to protect your rights.
Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence allegations can have serious legal and personal consequences. Being convicted of a domestic violence offence can result in restraining orders, criminal records, and even imprisonment. Our legal team provides defence for:
- Allegations of domestic violence
- Breaches of protection orders
- Assault within a domestic relationship
If you are facing domestic violence charges, our domestic violence lawyers in Canberra are here to help.
Sexual Offences
Sexual offence allegations can have a devastating impact on your reputation, career, and future. These cases require an aggressive defence strategy, as the penalties are harsh. Our lawyers handle cases involving:
- Sexual assault
- Indecent assault
- Child exploitation offences
- Possession of child abuse material
We can provide the strong defence you need in these sensitive cases.
Bail Applications
If you have been arrested, securing bail is often the first step to fighting your case. Our lawyers can apply for bail on your behalf, presenting the strongest argument possible to ensure you are released while awaiting trial.
If you need urgent assistance with bail, we can help you apply quickly and effectively.
Why You Need a Skilled Criminal Lawyer
Facing criminal charges without legal representation puts you at a serious disadvantage due to the complex nature of the legal system. Other than that, prosecutors will work hard to build a case against you, and without a lawyer, you may not fully understand your legal options. A criminal defence solicitor can:
Analyse the Charges
Understanding the exact nature of the charges against you is the first step in building a strong defence. A criminal law solicitor will:
- Carefully review the prosecution’s evidence to identify inconsistencies, errors, or weaknesses.
- Examine police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to determine if there are grounds for challenging the case.
- Assess whether your rights were violated during arrest, questioning, or evidence collection, which could lead to the case being dismissed.
- Advise you on the possible penalties and legal consequences so you can make informed decisions.
By thoroughly analysing the charges, a lawyer can create a strategic defence that challenges the prosecution’s case and increases your chances of a favourable outcome.
Negotiate on Your Behalf
Many criminal cases are resolved before they go to trial through negotiations with the prosecution. A criminal defence solicitor can:
- Seek reduced charges – If the evidence against you is strong, your lawyer may negotiate for lesser charges that carry lighter penalties.
- Get charges dropped – If there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, your lawyer can argue for charges to be withdrawn before they reach court.
- Negotiate for alternatives to jail – In some cases, a lawyer can secure alternatives such as community service, rehabilitation programs, or good behaviour bonds instead of imprisonment.
Having a lawyer who knows how to negotiate with prosecutors can mean the difference between a criminal record and walking away with minimal consequences.
Represent You in Court
If your case goes to trial, having a lawyer who understands court procedures, evidence rules, and defence strategies is crucial. A criminal law solicitor will:
- Prepare strong legal arguments – They will craft a defence based on legal precedents, expert testimony, and evidence to counter the prosecution’s case.
- Cross-examine witnesses – Lawyers can challenge the credibility of witnesses who testify against you and expose inconsistencies in their statements.
- Present compelling evidence – They will use physical evidence, CCTV footage, or expert analysis to support your defence.
- Deliver persuasive arguments to the judge or jury – A skilled lawyer knows how to present your case in a way that maximises your chances of acquittal or a reduced sentence.
Without proper representation, you may struggle to defend yourself effectively in court, putting your future at risk.
Protect Your Rights
The legal system is designed to uphold fairness, but without a lawyer, your rights may be overlooked or violated. A criminal defence solicitor will:
- Ensure proper legal procedures are followed – They will check if law enforcement officers followed correct protocols during your arrest, questioning, and evidence gathering.
- Prevent self-incrimination – Many people unknowingly make statements that harm their case. A lawyer will advise you on what to say and what to avoid.
- Challenge unlawful evidence – If evidence was obtained illegally, such as through an unlawful search, your lawyer can push to have it excluded from court.
- Advocate for fair treatment – Whether you’re applying for bail, facing trial, or dealing with sentencing, your lawyer will ensure you receive just and equitable treatment.
Get the Right Legal Support
If you are facing criminal charges in Canberra or the surrounding areas, you don’t have to fight alone. Our criminal lawyers at Andrew Byrnes Law Group provide fearless representation to defend your rights and work towards the best possible outcome in your case. Whether you have been charged with a minor offence or a serious crime, seeking legal advice as soon as possible is crucial.
Contact our Canberra criminal lawyers today for a confidential consultation and take the first step in protecting your future.
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