Criminal Defence Lawyers in Victoria
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence, the right legal advice can change the outcome. At Bastion Legal, we represent clients across Victoria in the Magistrates’ Court.
Summary Offences
Less serious offences.
Indictable Offences
More serious offences.
Your Risks
Criminal records, fines, licence loss, possible jail time.
How We Help
Free consultation, strong defence, fair outcomes.
Understanding criminal charges
Facing criminal charges is stressful, but knowing what you’re dealing with is the first step.
Summary Offences
These are less serious offences heard in the Magistrates’ Court. Common examples include driving offences, minor assaults, and low-value theft such as shoplifting. While these may seem minor, convictions can still result in fines, disqualification from driving, or even imprisonment in some cases. A criminal record can also affect future employment, travel, or professional registration.
Indictable Offences
Some indictable offences can still be heard in the Magistrates’ Court if appropriate. These charges carry heavier penalties, including possible jail terms, making early legal advice critical. A skilled defence lawyer may be able to reduce penalties, negotiate charges, or in some cases have charges withdrawn altogether.
How we can help
At Bastion Legal, we provide strategic, results-focused defence for clients across Victoria. We understand how daunting the process feels and are here to guide you through every step.
We can assist with:
Appearing on your behalf in the Magistrates’ Court.
Negotiating charges directly with police prosecutors.
Preparing pleas in mitigation to minimise penalties.
Advising on possible outcomes so you can make informed decisions.
Our focus is always on protecting your rights, reducing the stress of the process, and working towards the best possible result.
FAQ
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Summary offences are less serious charges heard in the Magistrates’ Court, such as traffic offences or shop theft. Indictable offences are more serious but some can still be heard in the Magistrates’ Court, depending on the case.
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Yes. Even minor offences can result in fines, licence loss, or a criminal record that impacts your future. A lawyer can often reduce penalties or negotiate outcomes.
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Pleading guilty doesn’t mean the process is over. A lawyer can make submissions on your behalf to reduce sentencing or highlight mitigating factors.
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Yes. We regularly represent clients in Magistrates’ Court matters and can appear on your behalf to reduce the stress of the process.
Why choose Bastion Legal?
What sets us apart is our balance of expertise and client care. We don’t just defend cases, we stand beside our clients during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Experience that matters – We know how the Magistrates’ Court works and how police prosecutors approach cases.
Clear advice – No jargon, just straightforward explanations so you always know where you stand.
Client-first approach – Your case will be handled personally by an experienced lawyer, not passed down the line.
Proven results – From reduced penalties to withdrawn charges, we fight for the best possible outcome every time.
“I thought there was no hope for me to win this case, but Dean Charalambous was the only hope I had…”
Dean is not only a lawyer, but he is a human being in the truest sense of the word who helped me to solve this issue. His strategic approach and attention to detail were truly exceptional. His unwavering support and professionalism not only won my case but also brought great relief during a challenging time finally I can see the light end of the tunnel. I am immensely thankful and a really appreciate for your hard work and commitment.
- Carolin
Contact us
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Bastion Legal, we represent clients across Victoria in summary and minor indictable offences in the Magistrates’ Court.
Contact us today for early advice that could make all the difference to your outcome.
