Shore Lawyers

Criminal Defence Lawyers

At Shore Lawyers, we recognise that facing criminal charges or driving offences can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. That’s why it’s crucial to seek the guidance of the best criminal defence lawyers in Sydney to help you navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. Our team of highly experienced criminal defence lawyers is committed to providing expert legal advice and robust representation, ensuring that you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Trust Shore Lawyers to stand by your side and defend your rights with the dedication and expertise you deserve.
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Our Criminal Defence Expertise

Court Representation

We offer a comprehensive range of legal services, including court appearances, bail applications, plea negotiations, sentencing and hearings in the Local, District, or Supreme Court. Our criminal defence lawyers are well-versed in all aspects of criminal law, from minor offences to serious crime punishable by a custodial sentence.

We understand that each case is unique and requires a tailored approach. Our lawyers will listen to your concerns, advise you on the best course of action, and act in your best interests to achieve a suitable outcome. With our representation and advice, you can be confident that all relevant circumstances will be considered.

Legal Expertise

Our areas of expertise include: Defended Hearings Jury Trials Mentions / Direction Hearings Representations to the Police Dismissal / Withdrawal of Charges Bail Applications Sentencing Driving & Traffic Offences Firearm Offenses Larceny/stealing Sexual Assault Sexual Touching Stalking & Intimidation Affray Apprehended Violence Orders (AVO) Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders Armed Robbery Assault Drug Offenses (supply, manufacture & importation)

Our Professionals

Our professionals provide expert legal and strategic assistance. Get in touch and we’ll find the right lawyer for your matter.
Tatiana-Tia

Tatiana (Tia) Stack

Practice Director

Rao Qasim Zahid

Rao Qasim Zahid

Lawyer & Practice Manager

What Our Clients Said…

FAQ's

Criminal law in Australia governs offences that are considered harmful to individuals or society, such as theft, assault, and murder, possession of fire arms, with the main purpose being to maintain public order and punish offenders.
Criminal offences in Australia are generally divided into two categories:
  • Summary offences: These are less serious offences (e.g., traffic violations, common assault, minor theft) and are usually heard in the Local Court of NSW.
  • Indictable offences: More serious offences (e.g. drug trafficking, rape, murder) are heard in higher courts, such as the District Court or Supreme Court of NSW. Indictable offences may require a trial by jury.

When a person is charged with a criminal offence, they will be given a court date. The case is first listed in the Local Court of NSW. If the offence is serious, it may be referred to a District Court of NSW.

Penalties for criminal offences can vary depending on the severity of the crime and the jurisdiction. Some common penalties include:
  • Fines: Monetary penalties for minor offences.
  • Imprisonment: A term of imprisonment for serious offences.
  • Community service: An alternative to imprisonment, requiring the offender to perform community work.
  • Suspended sentences: The offender avoids jail time unless they commit another offence within a specific period.

A conviction is a formal finding of guilt, which usually results in a criminal record. In some cases, the court may issue a non-conviction (or dismissal), which means the offender is found guilty but does not receive a formal conviction. A non-conviction can help reduce the impact of criminal proceedings on employment and travel prospects of the defendant.

If you are arrested in Australia, you have the right to:
  • Be informed of the reason for your arrest.
  • Contact a lawyer or a family member.
  • Remain silent (except in specific cases like giving your name and address).
  • Apply for bail in most cases, which allows you to remain out of custody until your court hearing.
    Bail allows a person charged with a criminal offence to remain free until their trial. Bail conditions, such as reporting to the police or surrendering a passport, may apply. If bail is denied, the person must remain in custody until their court date. Bail can be granted by police or a court, depending on the offence.
    When an accused person appears in court, they are asked to enter a plea of either:
    • Guilty: Admitting to the offence, which often leads to sentencing without a trial.
    • Not guilty: Denying the offence, which leads to a trial where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
    Some common defences to criminal charges include:
    • Self-defence: Arguing that the use of force was a reasonable response in the circumstances as you perceived them and necessary to protect oneself or another person.
    • Duress: Claiming the offence was committed under coercion or threat.
    • Mental impairment: Arguing that the accused was not of sound mind at the time of the offence and could not understand their actions.
    • Mistake of fact: Arguing that the accused acted under a genuine and reasonable belief that they were not committing a crime.
      In a criminal trial, the prosecution presents evidence to prove the accused committed the offence. The defence presents their case, possibly raising doubt about the prosecution’s evidence or offering a legal defence. The judge or jury then decides whether the accused is guilty or not guilty based on the evidence presented.