This article Picking the Right Criminal Defence Lawyer: A Guide for Victorian’s Facing Criminal Charges is written by Emma Turnbull, Director, Emma Turnbull Lawyers, Specialist Criminal Lawyer.
A passionate and fearless advocate, Emma appears regularly in all courts across the Victorian criminal law jurisdiction defending clients charged with any level of crime; from driving offences to homicide. Emma is the managing partner of the firm and prides herself on sharing her wealth of experience and knowledge in a way that her staff and clients can easily comprehend.
Choosing the right criminal lawyer is one of the most critical decisions you will make when facing criminal charges in Victoria. Whether you are facing serious charges or need representation for a minor offence, the right criminal defence lawyer can make all the difference in your case’s outcome.
At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, our team has a diverse range of experience, expertise and resources to provide you with exceptional representation that is tailored to you.
Contact our team of leading criminal defence lawyers today to secure your representation.
Things to consider when choosing a defence lawyer:
1. Understand Your Needs
Before starting your search, take a moment to assess your position. What kind of charges are you facing? Is it a serious offence, or something less severe? Different criminal lawyers can specialise in different areas, such as drug offences, theft, intervention orders, or white-collar crime. Identifying your specific needs will help narrow down your search options.
Make sure you are clear on what is most important to you when selecting the right lawyer.
2. Look for Specialisation
Not all lawyers are created equal. Criminal law is a complex field, and many lawyers specialise in particular areas. When researching potential criminal defence lawyers, look for those who have a strong track-record of success and experience by fully understanding their client and the Victorian criminal justice system.
In Victoria, criminal defence lawyers can set themselves apart by becoming an Accredited Specialist with the Law Institute of Victoria. At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, our firm’s Directors, Emma Turnbull and Adrian Lewin, and Partner, Manny Brennan have all attained Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law status. This gives you confidence in our firm’s ability to provide you with highly knowledgeable advice and excellent court advocacy.
3. Read Reviews and Testimonials
Client reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insight into both a firm and a criminal lawyer’s reputation and effectiveness. This feedback is publicly available on a firm’s website, social media platforms and google reviews. It is important to pay close attention to how previous clients describe their experiences, particularly in terms of communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
To check out our firm’s social media platforms, click the buttons below. You can also review our client reviews by clicking here.
4. Schedule a Consultation
Many lawyers offer free initial consultations. Use this opportunity to gauge whether the lawyer is a good fit for you by preparing questions for the meeting, such as:
- What is your approach to cases like mine?
- How will you keep me updated on my case?
- What are your fees, and how do you structure your payment?
Assess not just their answers, but also how comfortable you feel communicating with them. A good lawyer-client relationship is built on trust and open communication.
At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, our firm offers a free initial consultation to establish a strong relationship, provide a case assessment and answer any of your preliminary questions.
To schedule an initial consultation, contact our team today to find out where you stand.
5. Support Services
Understanding the legal process can be an overwhelming experience, making it even more important that you choose a criminal defence lawyer who can also connect you with vital support services. It is important to find yourself a criminal lawyer who goes beyond for their clients by linking them to vital resources such as counselling and behavioural programs that will assist in the court process.
At Emma Turnbull Lawyers, we understand that it takes more than legal advice and court advocacy to support our clients in the long-term. Our firm actively discusses with our client’s suitable support services and provides additional information that is readily available on our website. Click here to access our support services guide on our website.
6. Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your gut. The legal process can be dauting, and you want a criminal lawyer who makes you feel confident and secure. If something does not feel right during your research and/or consultations, do not hesitate to continue your search.
Make sure that your voice is heard throughout the entire process and that your criminal lawyer fights hard for your rights.
Conclusion
Selecting the best criminal lawyer in Melbourne requires careful consideration and research. Remember, the right lawyer can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of the Victorian criminal justice system.
Do your homework and choose wisely.
If you need assistance or have questions about your situation, our team of top criminal defence lawyers at Emma Turnbull Lawyers is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation today!
About the Directors
Emma Turnbull is a passionate advocate for justice, equality, and empowerment. With her deep commitment to making a positive impact, she has dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of individuals facing prosecution by the State and promoting social change.
“I firmly believe that each and every one of us has the power to create meaningful change. It starts by finding our voices, standing up for what is right, and ensuring that everyone, whether they have a five day or three month jury trial, receives a fair hearing. My goal is that win or lose, every client feels they have received a fair trial, with their voice heard and their best defence put forward.”
Adrian Lewin is a seasoned criminal lawyer renowned for his unwavering dedication to defending the rights of individuals facing legal challenges. With his extensive experience and expertise in criminal law, Adrian has successfully represented clients in a wide range of complex cases. Known for his strategic thinking and meticulous preparation, he tirelessly fights for justice, ensuring that every client receives the strongest possible defence.
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To start working towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case, contact Melbourne’s best criminal defence lawyers today.
