When do I find out what evidence the police have against me?

• When you are charged you will be given a copy of the police summary. This is a summary of the case against you and is usually 1-3 pages long depending on how many charges there are. It is a brief outline of the circumstances of the alleged offence or offences.
• The summary will generally describe:
  • the evidence against you;
  • when and where the offence occurred;
  • the names of witnesses and victims; and
  • whether or not anyone else was involved and if they have been charged.
• After the initial filing hearing you are entitled to receive a copy of the police brief of evidence. This is provided around 6 weeks after the filing hearing.
• The brief of evidence must include all the evidence the police are relying on to support their charges. It will include:
  • witness statements;
  • electronic recordings;
  • photographs;
  • a list of exhibits;
  • forensic evidence such as fingerprint evidence or DNA analysis;
  • a transcript of your police record of interview; and
  • a copy of your criminal history.
• It is important to give the brief of evidence to your lawyer as soon as possible after you receive it. If you do not have a lawyer our LegalPlan™ membership will allow you to ask lawyers to handle your matter for a Fixed Fee Quote.