If you are charged with a crime you have the right to legal representation, so the first thing to do is contact criminal lawyers who can work with you to get the best result. Remember you don’t have to answer any police questions without your lawyer present, except to give your name and address.

While a criminal lawyer will advise you, you are the only one who can decide whether a plea of guilty or innocence should be given. Depending on what the offence was, you may be charged and released on bail. Otherwise, if not given bail you will have to remain in custody until the matter is settled.

If you plead guilty and are released on bail, you may be given the option to not appear in court. Your case can be heard without your presence and you’ll be notified by mail of the penalty. If you plead not guilty, the trial must go ahead and you will need to attend. You should always have a lawyer to represent you as they know the law and can speak on your behalf, saying things in your defence that you may not have thought of.

This can help to reduce your sentence and may even prevent you from going to gaol, always a goal to be attained if possible. Criminal lawyers can also bring up other things to make your life a little easier. For instance, if you are going to lose your driver’s licence but need it for work reasons, the lawyer can make a good case for you to be given a special licence that allows you to only drive to and from work.

Continue reading ➞ What to Do if You are Charged with a Crime