Guilty Pleas

At Jackson John Defence Lawyers, we understand that navigating the legal landscape when facing criminal charges can be daunting. In many instances, the decision to plead “guilty” is the most appropriate course of action. We are here to provide you with the support and guidance you need throughout this process, ensuring your rights are upheld and your interests are protected.

What is a Guilty Plea?

A “guilty” plea is your formal acknowledgment that you accept responsibility for the offence.

What are our Services?

Local Court Sentence

If you wish to plead “guilty” to a less serious offence that can be dealt with by the summary jurisdiction of the Local Court, for example possession of a prohibited drug or common assault, the matter will proceed to a sentence before a Magistrate.

The Magistrate will read the evidence tendered by the Prosecution, which usually includes the facts and your criminal history. The Magistrate will then hear from us. We will make cogent submissions on your behalf and tender any material in support, such as character references and certificates of completion of relevant courses.

If you are unhappy with your result, we can appeal this decision in the District Court.

District Court Sentence

If you wish to plead “guilty” to a more serious offence, such as armed robbery or sexual assault, the matter will proceed to a sentence before a Judge.

The Judge will read the evidence tendered by the Prosecution, which usually includes the facts and your criminal history. The Judge will then hear from us. We will make cogent submissions on your behalf and tender any material in support, such as psychological or psychiatric reports, character references, and certificates of completion of relevant courses.

If you are unhappy with your result, we can appeal this decision in a higher court.

Supreme Court Sentence

If you have been charged with murder, your matter must proceed in the Supreme Court before a Judge.

The Judge will read the evidence tendered by the Prosecution, which usually includes the facts and your criminal history. The Judge will then hear from us. We will make cogent submissions on your behalf and tender any material in support, such as psychological or psychiatric reports, character references, and certificates of completion of relevant courses.

If you are unhappy with your result, we can appeal this decision in a higher court.

Why Jackson John?

At Jackson John Defence Lawyers, our expert team will strive to ensure you receive the most lenient outcome given your circumstances. This can be achieved through a variety of different measures, such as by downgrading the charges, reducing the number of charges, and presenting impactful subjective material to the Court such as psychological and psychiatric reports, apology letters, character references, and directing you to programs that may help assist the underlying offending. If you are contemplating a guilty plea or require assistance with your legal proceedings, contact us today.