Bail is now becoming a highly complex area of the criminal law and recent years have seen many changes in the legislation that affect bail applications.

Having the advice of an experienced criminal defence lawyer, can give your case the best possible chance of success. Your lawyer can provide you with advice about dealing with the police – even before charges are finalised, so that you do not inadvertently harm your defence

There are different categories of drug offences, depending on the substance and the quantity. In some cases, the difference between a charge of possession and the far more serious charge of trafficking depends on the skill of your lawyer.

Slades & Parsons Solicitors have extensive experience in defending people charged with theft and deception-related charges. These range from minor shop-thefts and possessing suspected proceeds of crime to large-scale social security frauds, aggravated burglaries and armed robberies.

Police ask many people to attend a police station for an interview about criminal allegations. Generally this is not arrest but a “taking into custody”. Under the Crimes Act (Vic), police must read you your rights and, if necessary, explain them before they can question you.

In Victoria, the Magistrate Court, Children’s Court, and the County Court each have a specialised list for sexual offence proceedings. Penalties for sexual offences can be severe, and are increasing as time goes on.