Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's
Criminal Law
Can I commence civil court action in fraud cases?
Victoria Police advise that in the event you have suffered a financial loss and wish to seek recovery or compensation, you are advised to take immediate civil action, as it may not be until the end of a successful criminal prosecution that the Court is able to award compensation. However, criminal prosecutions for fraud can take years to complete.
Consequently, even if the matter is being investigated by the police, you should still consider taking civil action in the courts against the perpetrator of the fraud at the same time, in order to recover your money or property.
Allegations of fraud should not be made lightly. Allegations of criminality, fraud, or serious wrongdoing must be alleged with precision and sufficient supporting facts. The rules of Court require that particulars be given of any fraudulent intention that is alleged.
For specific information on how ALFA Lawyers can assist you in recovering your money or property in a fraud matter, please phone us. Or, if you would like to make an appointment to discuss your fraud matter with ALFA Lawyers, please see our Contact page.
We offer a free 30 minute case assessment to discuss your case, and your rights and obligations. Contact our office for details or make an on-line appointment.
How much will you charge me in a Criminal Law matter?
Our economical fixed fees will depend on the complexity of your matter and the number of offences. They start at $990, including GST. Please contact one of our lawyers for further details on our economical fixed fees.
We offer a free 30 minute telephone case assessment to discuss your case. Contact our office for details or make an on-line appointment.
What steps do I take after I am charged by police?
After you are charged, you should immediately seek legal advice.
You will receive a charge sheet and preliminary brief that will outline the allegations the police are making against you, and which detail the charges you will have to face in court. These documents will also give you the date you must appear in court to defend the charges against you, or to plead guilty. The alleged offences will also be listed.
You should retain a legal practitioner to work on your behalf, so they have sufficient time to prepare your case, and to give you the best chance of the best outcome.
We offer a free telephone 30 minute case assessment to discuss your case, and your rights and obligations. Contact our office for details or make an on-line appointment.
Should I consult a lawyer before my interview with police?
Yes, you should consult a criminal lawyer before you attend a police interview. A lawyer will advise you on the best approach to take in your particular case when questioned by police. Remember, Victoria police are highly skilled and professional interviewers, and they are also skilled in obtaining information during interviews that can be used against you in court. To understand your rights and obligation in a police interview, you should seek advice from a criminal lawyer before you attend.
We offer a free 30 minute case assessment to discuss your legal issues, and your rights and obligations.
Contact our office for details or make an on-line appointment. Or, if you are already in police custody and facing an interview, you can telephone us to obtain immediate legal advice before you are interviewed by police.
Do I have the right to remain silent in a police interview?
When you are interviewed by police, and you believe you are a suspect in a crime, other than giving police your name and address, you have the right under Victorian law to remain silent and make no comments whatsoever to police. This means you do not have to answer any questions (other than your name and address) or enter into any discussions with police. Your silence cannot be used against you in any future court hearing.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are being questioned by police at a police station, they most likely already have sufficient evidence to charge you, and they are searching for additional evidence to support their charges. The police are highly skilled and experienced at obtaining it. Even if you know you are innocent, it is often better to remain silent and offer "no comment", because although you may say something you think will help you, you could, for example, make a mistake about a person, a time or place, or inadvertently tell a lie, and such mistakes could easily damage your case in court. Anything you say to police can be used against you in future.
We offer a free case assessment in criminal matters, so please contact us and a lawyer will discuss your charges with you and advise you about any police interviews.
Our Location
Where are we located?
ALFA Lawyers is conveniently located in the Melbourne CBD at Level 40, 140 William Street, right on the corner of William and Bourke Streets, City. So you can take the number 58 tram (or number 96) from the suburbs, or ride the train to Flagstaff Station and walk about 5 minutes along William Street, directly to our front door. Or you can come by car, as there is street parking, and parking garages nearby.
Family Law
Civil Law
Can I commence civil court action in fraud cases?
Victoria Police advise that in the event you have suffered a financial loss and wish to seek recovery or compensation, you are advised to take immediate civil action, as it may not be until the end of a successful criminal prosecution that the Court is able to award compensation. However, criminal prosecutions for fraud can take years to complete.
Consequently, even if the matter is being investigated by the police, you should still consider taking civil action in the courts against the perpetrator of the fraud at the same time, in order to recover your money or property.
Allegations of fraud should not be made lightly. Allegations of criminality, fraud, or serious wrongdoing must be alleged with precision and sufficient supporting facts. The rules of Court require that particulars be given of any fraudulent intention that is alleged.
For specific information on how ALFA Lawyers can assist you in recovering your money or property in a fraud matter, please phone us. Or, if you would like to make an appointment to discuss your fraud matter with ALFA Lawyers, please see our Contact page.