Being charged with a criminal offence is stressful and often overwhelming, particularly if it is your first time dealing with the court system. You need a solicitor who explains what is happening, what your options are, and what you can expect, without rushing you or burying you in legal terminology.
At Beneke Legal, we provide criminal defence representation across the Grafton, Coffs Harbour, and Maclean Local Courts. We take the time to understand your situation, give you honest advice about the likely outcomes, and work to achieve the best possible result.
PCA offences, DUI charges, roadside drug testing matters, and interlock orders. Whether it is a first offence or a subsequent charge, we provide clear advice on the process, likely penalties, and available defences.
Speeding fines, driving whilst suspended or disqualified, and licence appeals. We can advise on whether you have grounds to challenge a charge or how to present the strongest case for keeping your licence.
We assist with both sides of AVO matters. If you need protection, we can help you apply for an ADVO or APVO. If you are responding to an application made against you, we provide advice on your options and represent you at the hearing.
Possession, supply, and cultivation charges. We advise on available defences, diversion programs, and how to present the best case for your circumstances.
Common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and related charges. We review the evidence, advise on your options, and represent you through the court process.
Applying for bail or seeking variation of bail conditions when you or a family member has been refused police bail or needs conditions changed.
If you have been sentenced in the Local Court and believe the sentence was too harsh, we can advise on and conduct severity appeals in the Grafton and Coffs Harbour District Courts.
We appear regularly in the Grafton, Coffs Harbour, and Maclean Local Courts, and we attend court circuits that many firms will not travel to. This local presence means we understand the court processes, and can prepare your matter more effectively.
We offer fixed fees for many straightforward criminal matters, including traffic offences and simple pleas. For more complex or contested matters, we provide clear cost estimates upfront and can arrange payment plans to ease the financial pressure during a difficult time.
We accept Legal Aid grants for eligible criminal law matters and can assist you with your application if you think you may qualify.
We always discuss costs in your first conversation and formalise everything in a costs agreement before any work begins. No surprises.
In most cases, yes. Even for matters that seem minor, a criminal conviction can affect your licence, employment, travel, and future opportunities. Getting legal advice early gives you the best chance of a favourable outcome. We offer a free initial phone consultation so you can understand your options before your court date.
Your first appearance is usually called a "mention." In most cases, the matter will not be finalised on that day. The court will check whether you have a lawyer, whether you have received the police brief of evidence, and set a date for the next step. We can appear with you or on your behalf, and we will explain exactly what to expect before you get there.
It depends on the nature and complexity of the charge. Many straightforward matters, such as a first-offence drink driving charge or a simple guilty plea, can be handled for a fixed fee. More complex matters are billed on an hourly basis with regular cost updates. Payment plans are available, and we accept Legal Aid for eligible matters. We always discuss costs upfront.
The vast majority of matters dealt with in the Local Court do not result in a prison sentence, particularly for first offences. The outcome depends on the nature of the charge, the circumstances of the offence, your prior record, and how the matter is presented to the court. We will give you an honest assessment of the likely range of outcomes for your situation.
It depends on the specific charge and your circumstances. In some cases, it may be possible to avoid a disqualification or reduce the disqualification period. We will review the details of your charge and advise you on the realistic options for your situation.
An AVO (Apprehended Violence Order) is a court order that places conditions on your behaviour to protect another person. Having an AVO made against you is not a criminal conviction, but breaching its conditions is a criminal offence. If you are served with an AVO application, it is important to get legal advice about your options, which may include consenting without admissions, or defending the application at a hearing.
The earlier you get legal advice, the better your options. Call us for a free initial consultation. We will explain where you stand and what to expect.