CRIMINAL LAW
If you have been arrested and charged with a criminal offence by the Victoria Police, you will either be: 1. For serious offences, held in remand until your bail application hearing; or 2. For less serious offences, released on bail immediately but you will be served with a summons to appear in court on a later date to face your charges. Depending on the charge, your case may be heard in the Victorian Magistrates’ Court, the County Court, and the Supreme Court. Most offences are heard in the Magistrates’ Court and more serious offences are heard in the County and Supreme Court. You have the right to appear in court self-represented or you can have a solicitor appear on your behalf. You can arrange a private solicitor to appear for you or if you are unable to afford a lawyer then you can arrange representation with Victoria Legal Aid (or a law firm who does pro bono or legal aid work). You have the choice to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest to your charge(s