The legal landscape of transport law is complex, and dealing with infringements, prosecutions, or disputes can be daunting. Hughes Law helps clients understand their obligations under the HVNL and navigate the requirements set by the NHVR. We provide clear communication with strategic advice and representation for a range of transport law matters.
At Hughes Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty clients feel when facing criminal charges and can provide expert legal guidance, strong advocacy, and unwavering support every step of the way.
Our Approach to Criminal Defence
We believe that everyone deserves a fair defence and the best possible outcome. We are committed to protecting your rights, ensuring due process, and preparing meticulously to represent you.
When you engage Hughes Law, you can expect:
- Understanding and respect: An empathetic and professional approach – we will listen to your story without judgment, ensuring you feel heard and understood.
- Clear communication: We explain complex legal concepts in plain English, keeping you informed at every stage of your case.
- Thorough investigation: We carefully review all evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and gather any information that supports your defence.
- Strategic defence: We develop tailored defence strategies, exploring all available legal avenues and drawing on our extensive experience in NSW criminal law.
- Honest advice: We will be direct and honest with you on the prospects of your case.
How Can We Help You?
With practical experience from both sides of the criminal justice system, principal (and former prosecutor) Belinda Hughes assists clients across a range of charges, representing them in the Local, District, and Supreme Courts of New South Wales. We can assist with a range of offences, including:
- Assault offences: Common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm, and domestic violence-related assaults.
- Drug offences: Drug possession, supply, cultivation, and manufacturing.
- Property offences: Theft, robbery, break and enter, and malicious damage to property.
- Fraud and white-collar crime: Charges of fraud, embezzlement, and other financial offences.
- Sexual offences: Representation for various sexual offence charges.
- Bail applications: Bail applications and advocating for your release from custody, pending trial.
- Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs): Advising and representing you in responding to an application for an AVO or regarding alleged breaches of an AVO condition.
- Appeals: Assisting with appeals against conviction or sentence.
The Criminal Justice System
Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming. While every case is unique, the process generally involves:
- Arrest, interview and charges: If you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent and the right to legal representation. We can attend the Police station with you and support you through the process.
- Bail application: If you are charged, you may be released on bail or held in custody until a bail application is heard. We can assist in preparing and presenting a compelling bail application.
- Court appearances: You will need to attend court, where the charges will be formally read, and your plea (guilty or not guilty) will be entered.
- Evidence and negotiations: The prosecution will present its evidence. We will review this evidence and explore possibilities for negotiation, such as having charges dropped or reduced.
- Defended hearing or trial: If you plead not guilty, your matter will proceed to a trial, where evidence will be presented and arguments made.
- Sentencing: If you plead guilty or are found guilty, the court will determine an appropriate sentence. This can range from a good behaviour bond or fine to community service or imprisonment. Typically, you will have the opportunity (usually through your lawyer) to present submissions on sentencing, which will include factors for the judge’s consideration in determining a sentence.
Important Considerations
- Do not speak to the police without legal advice: Anything you say can be used as evidence.
- Seek legal advice early: The sooner you engage an experienced criminal defence lawyer, the better, and the more options may be available for your defence.
- Understand your options: We will explain your legal rights and the potential outcomes of your case clearly.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Sydney, please reach out for a confidential discussion on telephone 0422 388 370 or email [email protected].
Get in Touch
Whether you need legal advice for your business or personal matters, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.