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MGE Lawyers

Practice Area

Criminal Defence Lawyers in Parramatta & Sydney

Being charged with a criminal offence, or even just asked to attend a police interview, can be one of the most stressful experiences of a person's life. The process can feel confusing and fast-moving, particularly if it is your first contact with the criminal justice system. At MGE Lawyers, we work with people across Parramatta and greater Sydney to explain what is actually happening, what the charge means for them, and what choices are available at each stage.

Speak With a Criminal Lawyer 0412 151 151
Solicitor carrying a case folder up the sandstone steps of a NSW courthouse

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Where would you like to start?

Criminal matters are heard in a range of courts, from the Local Court through to the District and Supreme Courts, and the way a matter is handled early on can shape how it plays out later. Whether you are dealing with a summary offence, an indictable matter, an AVO, or a more serious charge, getting advice before you speak to police or attend court is one of the most useful steps you can take.

Our approach is to listen carefully to your circumstances, explain the law in plain language, and set out realistic options rather than promises. Every matter is different, and the right approach for one person will not necessarily suit another — that is why we tailor our advice to your specific situation rather than applying a one-size-fits-all strategy.

Our services

Criminal Law services

Each matter below has its own page explaining what is involved, what it could mean for you and how we can help.

The process

What the process generally looks like

Every matter is different and steps may vary. This is a general guide only, not legal advice about your circumstances.

  1. 1

    Charge or Court Attendance Notice

    A matter typically begins with police issuing a charge or Court Attendance Notice (CAN), setting out the alleged offence and the date you must first appear in court. This is a good time to seek advice, even before your first mention.

  2. 2

    First mention

    At the first court date, procedural matters are usually dealt with, such as requesting an adjournment to obtain the police brief of evidence or indicating an initial plea position. This step varies depending on the nature and seriousness of the charge.

  3. 3

    Reviewing the evidence and advice on plea

    Once the brief of evidence is available, it is reviewed to assess the strength of the case against you. Based on this, advice can be given about the realistic options, including whether there may be grounds to contest the charge.

  4. 4

    Negotiation with police or prosecution

    In some matters there is scope to raise representations with police or the prosecuting authority about the charges laid, which may in some cases lead to amended or withdrawn charges. This is not available or appropriate in every case.

  5. 5

    Hearing or sentencing

    If a plea of not guilty is maintained, the matter proceeds to a defended hearing where evidence is tested before a magistrate or jury. If a guilty plea is entered, the matter instead proceeds to sentencing, where submissions are made on penalty.

  6. 6

    Outcome and appeal rights

    Once a court reaches a decision, there may be avenues to appeal depending on the outcome and the circumstances of the case. Appeal rights and time limits are specific to each situation, so timely advice is important.

Common questions

Criminal Law FAQs

Speak with an MGE Lawyers criminal law solicitor

Every matter is different. Tell us briefly what has happened and we will explain your options in plain English.

Speak With a Criminal Lawyer 0412 151 151
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