Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

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...