Being charged is stressful, and much of the stress comes from not knowing what happens next. These guides explain the process in plain English.
Police Interviews: Your Rights
What police must tell you, your right to a lawyer, and why getting advice first matters.
Bail in Victoria
How bail decisions are made under the tightened Bail Act, and what an application involves.
Your First Court Date
What happens at a Magistrates’ Court mention, what to bring, and how to prepare.
Diversion: Avoiding a Criminal Record
Who is eligible for the Criminal Justice Diversion Program and how it works.
Plead Guilty or Contest?
How to weigh the evidence, the sentencing discount and the cost of a contested hearing.
This page is general information about Victorian law, current at the time of writing. It is not legal advice about your situation. Laws and police practices change, so speak with a lawyer about your own matter.
Court guides
Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
A practical guide to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court at 233 William Street: getting there, security, how the day works and what to bring.
Ringwood Magistrates’ Court
A practical guide to Ringwood Magistrates’ Court at 39 Ringwood Street, the court for much of Melbourne’s east: parking, how the day works and what to bring.
Dandenong Magistrates’ Court
A practical guide to Dandenong Magistrates’ Court at 35 Pultney Street: parking, specialist courts, how the day works and what to bring.