A lawyer can help by providing you with legal advice and representation at a number of stages in the criminal justice process.

If you are arrested or asked by police to attend the police station for questioning in relation to a criminal property damage offence a lawyer can assist. They can provide you with advice about your legal rights on the telephone or in person.

If you have been charged with a criminal property damage offence a lawyer can assist you to understand court processes in relation to bail and when you need to attend court. They can review the evidence against you and advise:

• what the charge means;
• what the prosecution needs to prove for you to be convicted;
• the strength of the evidence against you;
• what the penalty might be if you are convicted; and
• what your options are.

In addition, a lawyer can provide you with legal representation. This means they can:

• negotiate on your behalf with the prosecuting authorities; and
• speak on your behalf in court.

The law is different in each state and territory. This means that each offence is worded differently and there are different penalties. A lawyer from your jurisdiction is the best person to provide you with legal advice about how the law applies in your situation. Our free Find a Lawyer directory may help you get in touch with an experienced criminal lawyer near you