When criminal charges threaten your future, having a dedicated legal advocate by your side is essential. Based in the heart of Melbourne, our skilled team of criminal defence lawyers is here to guide you through each stage of this challenging journey. When the stakes are high—whether facing potential criminal records, significant fines, or the risk of imprisonment—our combined experience and expertise become your best ally.
At Shamac Lawyers, we handle a broad spectrum of criminal cases, providing robust defence strategies tailored to your unique situation. Our areas of expertise include:
Being charged with a criminal offence in Victoria can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process helps reduce uncertainty. At Shamac Lawyers, we guide you through each stage — from arrest through to trial — explaining everything in plain English and protecting your rights at every step.
If you are arrested by Victoria Police, you will usually be cautioned that you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say may be used against you in court. Even if you feel the need to explain yourself, it is rarely wise to answer police questions without first speaking to a lawyer. Our team can attend the station, be present during your interview, and ensure your rights are respected. We help you avoid making statements that may harm your defence.
After charges are filed, your matter will usually appear before the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria for a “first mention.” This is often an administrative hearing where the court checks on the status of the case. At this stage, we will request a copy of the police brief of evidence — the documents, witness statements, and material the prosecution intends to rely on. Once we receive the brief, we sit down with you to go through it in plain English. We explain the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case, discuss your options, and begin shaping your defence strategy.
If the case does not resolve at the first mention, it will usually return to court for a further mention. This allows more time for negotiation with the prosecution, reviewing the brief, and preparing your response.
If you decide to plead not guilty, the matter will be set down for a contest mention. At a contest mention, both parties appear before a magistrate to identify the real issues in dispute. Sometimes, charges are withdrawn, reduced, or resolved at this stage without the need for a trial.
For more serious, indictable offences, the Magistrates’ Court will hold a committal hearing. This is where the court decides whether there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial in the County Court or Supreme Court. We may cross-examine witnesses and argue that the charges should not continue.
If the case reaches trial, it may be heard in the Magistrates’ Court (for summary offences) or in the County or Supreme Court of Victoria (for indictable offences). Our criminal defence lawyers advocate strongly on your behalf — cross-examining witnesses, presenting evidence, and holding the prosecution to their burden of proof: guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you — whether that’s an acquittal, reduced charges, or minimising the impact on your record and future.
Every case is different. The right defence strategy depends on the evidence against you and the circumstances of your situation. That’s why one of the most important steps is obtaining and reviewing the police brief of evidence — the collection of documents, statements, and exhibits the prosecution will rely on in court.
At Shamac Lawyers, we sit down with you and go through the brief in plain English. Together, we identify weaknesses in the case and decide on the best defence strategy. Some of the most common defences available under Victorian law include:
The brief of evidence is where your defence starts to take shape. By breaking it down with you in clear, simple language, we can show:
This careful analysis often leads to successful negotiations, reduced charges, or stronger arguments at trial.
At Shamac Lawyers, we provide a comprehensive range of legal services designed to protect your rights and support you through life’s challenges. Whether you’re navigating family matters, facing criminal charges, buying property, or dealing with intervention orders, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.
As a trusted presence in Melbourne’s Magistrates’ Courts and courts throughout, Shamac Lawyers has earned a reputation for thorough, compassionate, and tenacious defence strategies. Criminal accusations can have life-altering impacts, and we approach each case with empathy and dedication. Whether the charges arise from misunderstandings or complex situations, we are here to guide you through the legal process, helping you understand your options and working tirelessly to protect your rights.
Our team handles a wide range of criminal charges. These include summary and indictable charges.
It’s crucial to hire a defence lawyer when you have been charged with a crime of any kind, or even if you discover or suspect that you are being investigated for an offence. You need to find a defence lawyer in Melbourne, Victoria, who you can trust to represent your interests, fight for your reputation, and have the charges against you either dismissed or at the very least minimised in the most cost-effective manner possible.
If you have been charged with a criminal offence and you do not go to court as required, a warrant could be issued leading to your arrest for failure to appear in court or, worse, the court could find you guilty in your absence. It’s not because you are charged with a crime that you will automatically be held responsible; the prosecution will first have to prove that you are guilty beyond reasonable doubt, which will require them to present adequate evidence during trial. A good criminal lawyer will examine the evidence, how it was obtained and make sure that it can legally be used against you in court.
Beyond legal defence, our team offers a relatable, compassionate approach. With roots in both rural and urban Victoria, we bring a unique perspective to your defence, understanding the nuances of each case. Our negotiation skills, coupled with a commitment to straightforward, honest advice, provide a foundation for success in and out of the courtroom.
A criminal defence lawyer is an indispensable ally for anyone facing charges in Melbourne. From providing critical advice to crafting robust defence strategies, they ensure fair treatment under the law and advocate tirelessly for their clients.
If you’re dealing with criminal charges or need legal advice, Shamac Lawyers is here to help. Our experienced team is committed to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome. Contact us today for expert guidance and dedicated support.
Yes, you have the right to change lawyers at any point during your case. We can guide you through the process to ensure a smooth transition without disrupting your defence.
Shamac Lawyers provides trusted legal support across family, criminal, property, and intervention matters — with clarity, care, and commitment.
