Although in some cases it’s pretty clear that you’re going to need the services of a criminal lawyer, for example, if you’ve been arrested and/or charged with a criminal offence, there are plenty of other circumstances when getting access to the correct legal advice could make a big positive difference to the outcome of the situation.
Let’s consider potential situations where calling a criminal lawyer could assist you, even if it isn’t obvious.
Arrested and/or charged with a crime
In these circumstances, it’s vital to organise legal advice from a professional as soon as possible.
What you say or do immediately after being arrested and/or charged can make a big difference to the outcome of your case. In some circumstances, timely legal assistance may mean the charges are dropped, or you are released without charge.
Legal professionals are available 24/7 for emergency assistance. We recommend making use of this emergency access if possible.
Involved in a serious car accident
Even if you’re taken to the hospital rather than to the police station, it may be the case that there is evidence to suggest that law-breaking was involved in the car accident.
This might range from problems with the condition of your vehicle to suspicion of being under the influence of drink and/or drugs. Timely legal assistance may reduce the risk of your accident resulting in a court case.
If you're required to attend court
Correct legal advice ensures you know what options you have and what the likely outcome of various scenarios might be.
Understanding the court process, as well as having a legal representative who is on your side, makes the court process much less stressful than it might otherwise be. Even if accused individuals believe they are innocent, going to court is still an ordeal.
Legal counsel not only assists in obtaining your preferred outcome, but it’s also a good source of informed support.
If you're unsure of the legality of a particular course of action
Whilst it’s pretty clear that violence or theft are criminal behaviours, in other circumstances, it may be less clear whether an action is illegal.
Often individuals are surprised by what activities are against the law – if you have any doubts at all, a legal professional can clarify this for you.
If you suspect you are the subject of an investigation or undue scrutiny from a public agency
Do you feel that child protective services, public fraud agencies, ATO or other government agencies are taking an unwarranted interest in your personal affairs?
Even if you haven’t been charged with an offence or suspect that you’ve committed one, attention from a public service may mean that you could be charged with an offence in the future, or face some sort of legal action.
In these circumstances, contacting a criminal lawyer for advice and support is a sensible, pre-emptive action. If you have done something that could be construed as illegal, the right legal advice could make a positive difference.
If you haven’t done anything wrong, the presence of a legal professional helps to ensure that public agencies conduct their enquiries and investigations in line with the law.
Contrary to popular opinion, seeking legal advice pre-emptively isn’t an admission of guilt; rather, it’s a sensible precaution to ensure you have the timely advice you need.
Legal professionals are here to help
The law can be confusing and legal processes intimidating. A expert legal professional can help you navigate the criminal legal system at any stage.
If you have any doubts about your ability to resolve a matter yourself, we recommend accessing legal advice promptly.
Do you want to learn more? Find out more about what a criminal lawyer does and how they can assist you.