Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

Being pulled over by police in Melbourne can be stressful, especially if you are unsure about your legal rights. Knowing what you are legally required to do, and what you can refuse, helps protect you from self-incrimination and ensures you comply with the law. This guide explains your rights, common traffic offences, and practical steps to follow if stopped by police. Understanding Traffic Offences in Melbourne Traffic offences in Victoria range from minor infringements like speeding and failing to signal, to more serious offences such as drink driving, reckless driving, and driving without a licence. Some common traffic offences include: Speeding Drink or drug driving Running red lights or stop signs Using a mobile phone while driving Driving without a valid licence or insurance Each offence carries specific penalties, which may include fines, licence suspension, demerit points, or even imprisonment for severe breaches. Your Rights During a Traffic Stop When p...

When you're facing a homicide charge, your whole world can feel like it's crumbling. The stakes? Nothing short of your freedom and future. At times like this, having an experienced homicide lawyer in Melbourne by your side isn't just important it's essential. But here’s the thing: these cases are complicated, emotionally charged, and often misunderstood. Ever wondered how lawyers manage to defend clients even when the evidence looks stacked against them? Or why they take on cases others might run from? In this guide, we’ll break down the top strategies homicide lawyers use to fight for justice. By the time you finish reading, you’ll not only understand their approach but also know why hiring a skilled legal team like Marcellus Law can make all the difference. If you’re searching for clear answers and the best possible defence, you’ve come to the right place keep reading because what you’ll discover here might change everything. Understanding the Role of a Homicid...

  Introduction Being charged with home invasion in Melbourne is a very serious matter. Under Victorian law, this offence carries significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. If you’re facing such charges, the most important thing to remember is that you still have legal rights and options. With the right defence strategy and support from an experienced lawyer, you can protect your future. Understanding Home Invasion Charges in Melbourne Home invasion is more serious than standard burglary. According to Victorian criminal law , it generally involves: Entering someone’s home without permission, Being armed or in company with others, and Intending to commit a serious offence such as theft, assault, or property damage. Unlike ordinary burglary, a home invasion charge can carry harsher penalties because it directly endangers people inside their homes. You can learn more about how courts treat burglary and home invasion cases on our Burglary & Invasions page...

Let’s face it! Melbourne’s streets can feel like a maze of rules, signs, and speed cameras just waiting to trip you up. One moment you’re cruising down the Monash Freeway, the next bam! You’re slapped with a fine or face something much worse. Getting pulled over or caught by a camera for a traffic offence in Melbourne can seem like a minor hiccup, but depending on the charge, it might snowball into a much bigger problem than you bargained for. So, what are the real consequences? And what should you do if you’re looking at a court date? Buckle up, because we’re breaking it all down, minus the legalese. What Really Counts as a Traffic Offence in Melbourne? Melbourne drivers, beware: not every traffic blunder is treated equally. Some missteps will only lighten your wallet, while others could stain your record with a traffic offence conviction . And once it's on there, that mark can stick around longer than you'd like. Common Offences That Might Trip You Up Here’s what could ...

Let’s be honest, no one enjoys that sinking feeling when blue and red lights flash behind you. Whether you missed a stop sign or got clocked going a little too fast, a traffic offence in Melbourne can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure what your rights are in that moment. Do you have to answer every question? Can you refuse a search? Are you suddenly looking at court? If you've been pulled over or charged, take a deep breath. You have more control than you might think. Let’s break down what your rights actually are, what a driving offence in Victoria looks like, and how to navigate the process, without losing your cool or your licence. What to Do (and Not Do) If You’re Pulled Over for a Traffic Offence in Melbourne So you're on the road, maybe running late or zoning out, and suddenly—sirens. Here’s what you should do when pulled over: Pull over safely and promptly. No sudden stops. Keep your hands visible and stay calm. Only give the basics: name,...

Being accused of property damage can be distressing, especially when you’re unsure of your legal rights or how to respond. Whether it's intentional or accidental damage to public or private property, Victoria’s laws take these allegations seriously. This guide walks you through the crucial steps to take and how Marcellus Law can help protect your legal interests. In Victoria, "property damage" generally refers to intentionally or recklessly destroying or damaging someone else’s property. Charges can apply to: Vandalism (e.g., graffiti) Breaking windows or doors Damaging a vehicle or fence Fire-related damage (arson) Under Section 197 of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic) , penalties can be severe, especially if the damage is valued at more than $5,000 or involved dangerous conduct. 1. Stay Calm and Do Not Admit Guilt Whether approached by police or the alleged victim, avoid admitting fault. Anything you say may be used against you later. 2. Contact a Criminal Def...

Knife laws Australia Alright, let’s not beat around the bush. You’re probably wondering: Do I need a defence lawyer for carrying a knife? It might seem like a harmless thing maybe it’s a pocketknife you’ve had for ages, or maybe you figured carrying a knife for protection was no big deal. But the law? Oh, it’s got a much stricter view. Whether it was tucked in your backpack or hanging on your belt, getting caught with a blade can land you in legal hot water faster than you can say “lawful excuse.” In this guide, we’re cutting through the jargon and slicing up the confusion (pun totally intended). If you’ve been charged or you’re just curious where the legal line is, we’ve got the straight talk you need. What a Defence Lawyer for Carrying a Knife Can Actually Do So You’ve Been Caught—Now What? First off, don’t panic. But also… don’t take it lightly. Knife-related offences in Australia, particularly in Victoria, are treated seriously even if you weren’t waving it around like a movie ...

So, you’ve found yourself facing a driving offence in Melbourne . Yikes. Whether it was a momentary lapse in judgment or just one of those unlucky run-ins with the law, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and a little panicked. But hold your horses, this isn’t the end of the road. In fact, knowing your legal options and who to turn to can make all the difference. The good news? You’ve got more choices than you think and yes, the best lawyers for driving offences in Melbourne are just around the corner (or maybe a Google search away). Understanding What a Driving Offence in Melbourne Really Means Let’s not sugarcoat it, driving offences can carry serious consequences. But before you assume the worst, it’s important to understand what you're actually dealing with. Driving offences range from minor speeding tickets to serious charges like drink driving or dangerous driving. And each one comes with its own set of penalties, processes, and thankfully legal defences. Common...

Being charged with a drug offence for the first time can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Many first-time offenders ask themselves: “Do I really need a lawyer?” The answer is simple,  yes , and here’s why. Whether the charge involves possession, use, or trafficking, the legal consequences in Victoria can be serious. Even if it’s your first encounter with the law, going to court without legal advice can lead to unexpected outcomes, including a criminal record that could impact your future education, travel, employment, and reputation. Understanding First-Time Drug Charges in Victoria In Victoria, drug offences are governed by the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 . The seriousness of your charge depends on several factors, including: Type and quantity of the substance Circumstances of the offence Whether there was any intent to supply Even a small amount for personal use can lead to a criminal conviction without proper legal representati...

Drug trafficking is one of the most serious criminal offences under Victorian law and if you’ve been charged, your future is on the line. At Marcellus Law , we believe knowledge is the first step in your defence. Here's what you need to know about the penalties for drug trafficking in Melbourne , and how we can help. 🚨 What Counts as Drug Trafficking in Melbourne? In Victoria, drug trafficking isn’t just about being caught with large quantities of drugs. It can also include: Selling or offering to sell drugs Possessing a traffickable quantity with the intent to sell Manufacturing, cultivating, or transporting illicit substances Even sharing drugs with a friend at a party can technically be considered trafficking under certain conditions. ⚖️ The Legal Penalties Under Victorian Law The Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 (VIC) lays out the framework for drug offences. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of the drug, and whether the charge i...

  Facing an assault charge in Victoria is a serious matter that can affect your freedom, reputation, and future. Whether it was a misunderstanding, self-defence, or a heated moment that got out of control, the legal system treats assault allegations strictly. Understanding what happens next can help you take the right steps to protect your rights. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process, possible consequences, and how to handle assault charges in Victoria with the support of a skilled criminal defence lawyer. 1. Immediate Aftermath: Arrest or Police Interview If you’re involved in a situation where someone accuses you of assault, police may: Arrest you on the spot, Issue you a court summons, or Invite you to a “record of interview” at the police station. Do not panic. At this point, it’s crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and contact a lawyer. Anything you say can be used as evidence later. 2. Charges and Types of Assault There are several t...