Facing criminal charges in NSW: Plea options
Facing criminal charges in New South Wales can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Whether you have already been charged or are contemplating a guilty plea, it is crucial to seek professional guidance to understand your rights, your options and the intricacies of the legal system.
In this blog, we will explore the importance of consulting with a criminal lawyer and how Repute Law, one of Australia’s premier criminal law firms, can provide you with the expert legal support needed to navigate your case successfully. With our team of highly experienced Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers and dedicated Case Concierges®, you’ll be well-prepared and supported throughout your journey.
Do you understand what you have been charged with?
Regardless the charge, it is imperative that you understand what it is you have actually been charged with, what the elements of that offence are, and do the facts support the charge?
At Repute Law our first approach is to properly inform ourselves of what it is you have been charged with and we do this by very carefully and thoughtfully reviewing what are called the Charge and Fact Sheets. Our experienced Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers will then take your instructions and thoughtfully advise you what the likelihood of success is to either defend the matter, dispute the facts and renegotiate the charges, or, if necessary, plead guilty.
Did you know, if you plead guilty, your sentence can be reduced by 25%?
You would only ever plead guilty if your prospects of pleading not guilty were very slim.
If you must enter a plea of guilty, do not loose heart. In many criminal cases, the penalties when pleading guilty may be reduced depending on the offence and, in the first instance the Courts will often offer you a penalty reduction of 25% if the circumstances call for it.
A 25% reduction on sentence is not to be sneezed at and truly emphasises the importance of obtaining legal advice to determine if your situation allows for this and if entering a guilty plea is the best choice for you.
What’s the best way to reduce your fine or sentence if you plead guilty?
If you do plead guilty, it is extremely important to ensure your lawyer paints the best possible picture of who you are as a person, and to give a positive and clear context around the circumstances of the offence and the likelihood of you reoffending.
The Courts have held that individual circumstances, such as your remorse, cooperation with authorities, employment status, life history and previous good character, should be taken into account to reduce the severity of the sentence. Moreover, the Courts will consider any rehabilitative programs or community service undertaken to improve one’s circumstances in life.
With Repute Law at your side, you can benefit from our extensive expertise in handling similar cases and comprehensive understanding of guidelines. This allows us to present a compelling argument for mitigation on your behalf.
After going to Court and pleading guilty, the Magistrate will listen to the arguments presented by your legal representative and those put forward by the prosecution. They will then decide on what penalty you should receive.
Repute Law’s Commitment to you
At Repute Law, we understand the complexities of criminal law in New South Wales and are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of expertise and support. Our team of Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers possess extensive courtroom experience and will meticulously analyse the evidence against you, identifying any potential defences. Such defences include self-defence, lack of intent and unlawfully obtained evidence.
In addition to exploring defence strategies, it is essential to consider the potential consequences of a guilty plea. Criminal charges can have far-reaching implications, including fines, imprisonment and a permanent criminal record. Repute Law’s Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers are well-versed in the sentencing guidelines and precedent judgments relevant to New South Wales criminal law.
Repute Law is one of the only law firms composed entirely of Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers. With us, you will never be passed off to a junior lawyer; instead, you will receive personalised attention from a highly qualified Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer and a dedicated Case Concierge who is also a qualified lawyer. This comprehensive support system ensures you receive exceptional client service and expert advice tailored to your specific case.
Get on the front foot – retain a Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer ASAP
By engaging Repute Law at the earliest opportunity, our Senior Criminal Defence Lawyers can promptly gather evidence, interview witnesses and prepare the best possible defence. Our team will negotiate with the police, aiming to minimise reputational loss by seeking to have the charges reduced or even dismissed without going to Court. Early representation could mean the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.
There’s no need to let the complexities of the legal system overwhelm you. With our team of Senior Defence Lawyers and Case Concierge, we will ensure that you are Court Ready® and equipped with the knowledge and support needed to navigate your legal proceedings effectively.
Remember, the path to justice starts with the right legal advice. Contact Repute Law now and take the first step towards securing your future.