top of page
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is a free or complimentary case assessment?At ALFA Lawyers, we understand that navigating legal challenges can be daunting. That's why, as a courtesy to you, we are pleased to offer a complimentary Case Assessment to help you gain clarity about your situation. This no-obligation telephone assessment includes: An Initial Review: A professional evaluation of the facts you present to us, aimed at identifying the core legal issues at hand. Understanding Potential Outcomes: We'll outline possible legal pathways and outcomes based on the information provided, helping you understand what might lie ahead. First Steps Guidance: Suggestions for initial steps you could consider to address your situation. Please Note: Our complimentary Case Assessment is a courtesy designed to provide a preliminary evaluation of your situation based on the information you provide. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does it establish a lawyer-client relationship. For detailed advice tailored specifically to your case, including strategic planning and legal representation, we invite you to discuss retaining our legal services. Should you wish to proceed with us, we're ready to offer the comprehensive legal expertise and the support you need. To schedule your complimentary Case Assessment, please call us. Let us help you navigate your legal journey with confidence.
-
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 in court. To understand your rights and obligation in a police interview, you should seek legal advice from a criminal lawyer before you attend. We offer a complimentary 30 minute case assessment to discuss your legal issues, and your rights and obligations. (Please see our FAQ Question 1 for more infomation.) Contact our office for more details or to make a complimentary case assessment. Or, if you are already in police custody and facing an interview, you can telephone us anytime 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, you have the right under Victorian law to remain silent and to make no comments to police. This means you do not need to answer any questions (other than questions concerning your identification details) 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 Victoria police are highly skilled and professional interviewers. Even if you are innocent, it is often better to remain silent and offer "no comments", because although you may believe saying something will help you, you could, for example, make a mistake about a person, a time, or place, or inadvertently say something untrue. Such mistakes could damage your case at a later stage. Anything you say to police can be used against you in court. We offer a complimentary case assessment in all criminal matters, so please contact us; a lawyer will discuss your charges and police interviews with you. (For more information on what a case assessment is, see FAQ Question 1.)
-
What steps do I take after I am charged by police?After you are charged, you should immediately seek legal advice from a criminal defence lawyer. You will eventually 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 complimentary case assessment to discuss your case, and your rights and obligations. Telephone our office for details or an appointment. (For more information on what a case assessment is, see FAQ Question 1.)
-
How much will you charge me in a Criminal Law matter?Our fixed fees will depend on the complexity of your matter and the number of offences. Please contact one of our lawyers for further details on our economical fixed fees. We offer a free case assessment to discuss your case. (Please see our FAQ Question 1 for more details.) Please contact our office for details or make an on-line appointment.
-
Can I commence civil court action in fraud cases?Victoria Police advise that in the event you have suffered a financial loss from a crime, and you 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 telephone 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 complimentary 30 minute case assessment to discuss your case. (For more information on what a case assessment is, see FAQ Question 1.) Contact our office for details or to make an appointment.
-
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 telephone us. Or, if you would like to free case assessment for your fraud matter, please see our Contact page. (For more information on what a free case assessment is, see FAQ Question 1.)
-
Where are we located?Our South Melbourne office is Located close to the intersection of Market Street and Clarendon Street, only a few minutes walk from South Melbourne Market and the number 12 tram. The CBD is only minutes away. Or you can come by car, as there is ample street parking, and parking garages nearby. See our contacts page for directions.
bottom of page