You have received a Court Attendance Notice for a criminal offence and have to go to the Local Court on a specified date and time. There are some fundamental things that may sound obvious, however it is amazing that people when faced with a situation that could change their lives, forget the most obvious things.
Get legal advice. An incorrect decision made when not informed of the consequences, can have an impact on your life and that of your family for years to come.
Many people who feel the need to defend their honour, or really put their point forward in Court by representing themselves fail miserably, as they have no idea of the nature of their charge (or charges) or the correct way of dealing with the Court and the allegations made.
Take your Court Attendance Notice and any other relevant information or documents with you and have them in a logical order, ready to present to the Magistrate. An un-organised scramble to try and locate documents which may reduce your penalty is certainly not the way to put your best foot forward when facing a criminal charge.
Being able to supply your lawyer with documents, details and your version of the offence alleged as well as any other pertinent information will generally result in the lawyer being able to represent you more effectively.
Be present and on time. Know which Court, and what time it starts and make your presence known to the Court staff.
If you have any questions you would like answered either confidentially or via this medium, please email us at office@mjolegal.com.au
This is intended for general information and does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal legal advice should be sought.