If you or a loved one has been arrested, your first concern is getting out of custody. Bail gives you the opportunity to return home while you wait for your matter to be heard, but in Victoria, recent changes to the law mean it’s now harder than ever to secure release.
That’s where we come in. At Slades & Parsons, we act fast and strategically to maximise your chance of being granted bail. With over 35 years of experience and a team of Accredited Criminal Law Specialists, we represent clients across all Victorian courts.
We are available 24/7 for urgent bail matters. Call us now on (03) 9602 3000.
Bail Laws in Victoria
Bail in Victoria is governed by the Bail Act 1977, which was significantly amended in March 2025. These changes introduced a tougher approach, making it harder to be granted bail – even for first-time or non-violent offences.
Under the updated law, courts must prioritise community safety above all else. That means bail may be refused if there’s any risk you might reoffend, interfere with witnesses, or fail to appear. In many cases, especially serious or repeat offences, you’ll need to prove why detention isn’t justified, a legal threshold known as the reverse onus.
The reforms also reintroduced an offence for committing an indictable offence while already on bail, and removed protections for children that once made youth remand a last resort.
These shifts make legal representation more important than ever. A well-prepared bail application needs to be legally sound, supported by evidence, and aligned with how courts are applying the law in practice.
When to Contact a Bail Lawyer
Bail can be decided quickly, often at the first court appearance. If you or someone you care about has been arrested, it’s important to get legal advice as early as possible.
You should contact a bail lawyer immediately if you’ve been charged with a criminal offence, especially if you’re already on bail or facing allegations of breaching bail conditions. We also represent clients applying again after a previous refusal, and parents or guardians of young people remanded in custody.
Delays can limit your options. The sooner we’re involved, the better prepared your application will be.
How We Help With Bail Applications
At Slades & Parsons, we provide urgent, strategic legal support tailored to the realities of Victoria’s current bail laws.
We can assist by:
- Assessing your eligibility and identifying the applicable legal threshold (e.g. unacceptable risk or reverse onus)
- Preparing supporting documentation, including treatment plans, housing details, and character references
- Advising on appropriate bail conditions that address the court’s concerns
- Representing you in court and presenting a clear, evidence-backed case for release
- Keeping you and your family informed throughout the process with practical, timely advice
Our goal is to give you the strongest chance of being released – quickly, safely, and with the right legal protection in place.
Speak to a Bail Lawyer in Melbourne Today
Bail matters are complex, high-stakes, and time-sensitive. With over 35 years of criminal law experience, Slades & Parsons offers a level of insight and responsiveness few firms can match.
Our team includes Accredited Criminal Law Specialists who understand how the Bail Act is being interpreted today, not just how it was written. We act quickly, communicate clearly, and focus on outcomes that protect your liberty and future.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or reapplying after a refusal, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence. A well-prepared bail application can mean the difference between release and extended remand.
We are available 24/7 for urgent advice and representation across Victoria.
Call (03) 9602 3000 for immediate support.
Contact Us Today
Contact Slades & Parsons to understand your rights and the bail application process. We’ll be back in touch shortly.
Case Study - Bail Application
Slades and Parsons solicitor Ms. Dubroja acted for a client who had been charged with a number of offences, including aggravated burglary, drug and dishonesty offences. The offending breached a Community Correction Order.
Ms Dubroja arranged community and court supports, including participation in a court-supported bail program, a suitable address, strong family support and counselling support. Our office submitted that strict bail conditions would reduce the risk of our client reoffending or failing to appear.
Bail was initially refused
The Magistrate agreed with all submissions but refused our client bail due to the seriousness of the offending and previous convictions for breaching bail and Community Correction Orders.
Our client was remanded in custody.
Bail was then granted
Ms Dubroja discussed further options with the client. Ms Dubroja organised for our client to undergo an in-custody assessment for a rehabilitation facility. When the client was found suitable for the rehabilitation program, Ms Dubroja negotiated with Corrections to allow our client to continue on the order so that the programs completed at the facility are credited to the Corrections Order.
On the basis of this assessment, new facts and circumstances were established and a further application for bail was made.
The Prosecution would not consent to bail and submitted the risk to the community was still too high. Ms Dubroja submitted that new facts and circumstances (the additional support of a rehabilitation centre) reduced the risk to an acceptable level. The Court granted our client Bail.
Slades & Parsons are available to take your call 24 hours a day.
We can provide more information on bail applications and help in navigating the legal process.
Bail Applications – Frequently Asked Questions
- What is bail?
- What happens at a bail hearing?
- When can a person be refused bail?
- What happens after bail is granted?
- How much bail do you pay?
- Do you get bail money back?
- What are some examples of ‘exceptional circumstances’ in bail applications’?
- What are ‘compelling reasons’ when applying for bail?
- What are common bail conditions?