Criminal Law
Being accused of a criminal offence can be stressful and overwhelming. Decisions made at an early stage may also affect how the matter progresses.
David Healey Solicitors provides private and sensitive legal advice and representation to people facing criminal matters. We take the time to understand your circumstances, explain the process clearly and help you make informed decisions about your next steps.
Understanding your position
Being contacted by police does not necessarily mean that charges will be laid. The steps available to you will depend on whether the matter is under investigation, you have been charged or court proceedings have already begun.
Legal advice can help you understand what has been alleged, the documents or information you have received and any immediate decisions or obligations. This provides a clearer basis for deciding how to respond and what to do next.
What stage is your matter at?
Contact from police
You may be contacted by police before any decision has been made about whether charges will be laid.
We can explain your position and provide advice before you decide how to respond to questions, requests for an interview or other contact from police.
You have been charged
If you have been charged with an offence, it is important to understand the allegation, the court process and the options available to you.
We can review the available information, explain the next steps and provide advice about how you may respond to the charge.
Your matter is before the court
We can assist with the preparation and conduct of criminal proceedings, including communicating with the prosecution and representing you in court.
The approach required will depend on the allegation, available evidence and your instructions.
How can a criminal lawyer help?
The appropriate legal strategy will depend on the circumstances of the matter. David Healey Solicitors can assist by:
- Providing advice before or after you speak with police
- Explaining the allegations and applicable court process
- Reviewing police documents and other available evidence
- Advising you about your options
- Communicating with police, prosecutors and other parties
- Preparing your matter for court
- Representing you in criminal proceedings
- Taking over a matter that is already underway
We will explain the available options and work with you to determine the appropriate way forward.
What information should you provide?
You do not need to have every document before contacting a solicitor. However, some basic information can help us understand the nature and urgency of your matter.
Details of the allegation
Tell us what you understand has been alleged, when the relevant events occurred and whether police have contacted, interviewed or charged you.
Documents you have received
Relevant documents may include a summons, charge documents, bail paperwork, court notices and correspondence from police or prosecutors.
Important dates and conditions
Let us know about any upcoming court dates, deadlines, bail conditions or other requirements affecting you. This helps us identify any immediate steps that may need to be addressed.
When should you seek legal advice?
You may wish to obtain advice as soon as police contact you about an alleged offence, even if you have not been charged.
Advice may also be appropriate if you have been asked to participate in an interview, received court documents, been granted bail subject to conditions or need to attend court.
If proceedings have already begun, you can still contact David Healey Solicitors. We can review what has occurred and discuss whether we can take over the matter.
SPECIALIST LEGAL SUPPORT
Private and sensitive legal support
A criminal allegation can affect more than the immediate court proceedings. You may also be concerned about your employment, family, reputation or professional standing.
David Healey Solicitors provides a private, respectful and sensitive approach. We listen to your circumstances without making assumptions and explain your options in clear, practical terms.
We also understand that criminal allegations can have particular professional consequences for police, emergency-service personnel and corrections officers. Learn more about our legal services for first responders.
Frequently asked questions
Can I contact a lawyer before I have been charged?
Yes. You can seek legal advice when police first contact you or while an allegation is being investigated.
Obtaining advice early may help you understand your position before deciding how to respond.
Should I participate in a police interview?
Whether you should participate in an interview will depend on the circumstances.
You should obtain legal advice before deciding how to respond to a request for an interview or answering questions about an alleged offence.
Can you help if my court matter has already started?
Yes. You can contact us after proceedings have begun. We can review the matter and discuss whether we can take over your representation.
Do you assist first responders with criminal matters?
Yes. We provide private and sensitive advice and representation to first responders facing criminal matters.
Is the first appointment free?
The free initial appointment offered for workers’ compensation and TPD matters does not apply to criminal matters.
Please contact us to discuss the appointment and payment arrangements that apply to your enquiry.
Related resources
Learn more about criminal law in the ACT
Closing Loopholes Bill: Amendments to the SRC Act creates a presumptive provision for PTSD claims made by first responders.
On 7 December 2023, the Australian Government partially passed the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill. Of particular interest are the presumptive PTSD provisions that amend the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 (‘SRC Act’) to create a presumption
David Healey Solicitors recommended in 2023 Doyle’s Guide
We’re incredibly excited to announce that David Healey Solicitors and Mr David Healey have been recommended as a top Work Injury Compensation Law Firm and Lawyer in the ACT for 2023 by Doyle’s Guide. We are honoured that our dedication
Discuss your matter with our team
If you have been contacted by police, charged with an offence or are already involved in criminal proceedings, contact David Healey Solicitors to discuss your circumstances.
Please include any upcoming court date or other urgent deadline when submitting your enquiry.