Legal Aid Trials

Criminal Defence Experts only practice in the area of Criminal Law, and have represented hundreds of people in all types of criminal cases, including through grants of Legal Aid. We have access to a specialist in Criminal Law, and will do everything within our power to help you achieve the best result in your case.

Some of our legal aid trial clients are in prison and have been refused bail because they have been charged with a serious offenses which include, but are not limited to, sexual assault, murder, arson, break enter and steal, malicious wounding, manslaughter, drug supply, drug importation, child pornography, indecent assault, kidnapping, home invasion and fraud.

To provide legal advice and obtain instructions we regularly visit our clients in the jail where they are located. We can also conduct meetings via video link to our offices in Sydney. We will also attend criminal trials at many different locations. See our list of courts we attend for more information.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Legal Aid

How Do You Apply For Legal Aid?
A form needs to be completed. We can provide you with the form and assist you in completing it. You will need to provide supporting documentation such as bank statements, rent receipts, pay slips, and Social Security papers. If you nominate our firm or one of our lawyers, we can also sign the form and forward it to the Legal Aid Commission for approval.

We prefer that you consult with us prior to making the application for a grant of aid if you want us to act.

Can You Discuss Your Matter With A Solicitor?
Yes. Unless it is an urgent matter, your first conference with our solicitor is free whether or not you make an application for legal aid. If you have an urgent matter, we will advise you of any costs that may be involved so that you can choose whether to proceed.

Can You Nominate Your Preferred Lawyer or Firm?
Yes. The lawyer nominated must be a Panel Member approved by the Legal Aid Commission (LAC). The LAC determines whether or not you will have the solicitor of your choice. Sometimes in-house legal aid lawyers will retain your case and sometimes your case will be assigned to your nominated lawyer.

Can You Have A Barrister of Your Choice?
Sometimes. In matters where a barrister is to be briefed, such as a legal aid trial, the Public Defender's Office must first be approached to see whether a Public Defender is available. If none are available, then generally the legal aid solicitor can select a trial barrister. In certain cases, Senior Counsel or Queens Counsel can be briefed.

Can We Appear For You In A Trial Anywhere in NSW?
Yes. The Legal Aid Commission has certain restrictions that may apply to the funding of travel costs and accommodation, however we are still able to be nominated as your preferred trial lawyer. See our list (above) of district courts that we can attend. We believe that people in rural or country areas should not be disadvantaged in any way, such as choice of lawyer. Although there are lawyers in country areas, some people want to ensure that they have a lawyer who is truly independent of their community.

Will You Visit Clients in Jail?
Definitely. We regularly attend jails across the Sydney metropolitan area as well as some country jails. We also have the facility to conduct an audio visual visit from our office to some prisons.

Is Legal Aid Subject To A Merit Test or a Means Test
Yes to both. Your case must have merit and you must be eligible under the means test to be granted legal aid. Sometimes you might be asked to make a financial contribution towards your legal costs as part of the grant of aid.

Why Do We Do Legal Aid Matters?
Simple, everyone has the right to competent legal representation. At Criminal Defence Experts, we are passionate about achieving the best results possible for our clients.