The Leading Central Coast Criminal Lawyers

Are you in trouble with the police? Have you been or do you expect to be accused of a crime? Speak to the largest and most experienced Criminal Law Team in NSW – we have the track record to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

Led by NSW Law Society Accredited Criminal Law Specialist Manny Conditsis, our team has over 100 years of combined experience helping clients facing criminal charges across the Central Coast, Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle. We provide advice, assist with criminal appeals and provide representation and specialist advice for criminal trials.

Getting charged with a criminal offence can have life-changing consequences. Each charge must be proven by the police or the prosecution beyond reasonable doubt. Therefore it is important that police investigations are put to examination on the evidence in court.

At Conditsis Lawyers, we understand the anxiety, stress and financial burden you and your family may be experiencing when dealing with criminal charges or a criminal law matter. Our criminal solicitors specialise in cases ranging from traffic offences, drink driving or DUI (Driving Under the Influence), to drugs, assault, manslaughter and murder. Our approach is passionate, logical, and ethical, and we strive to establish a strong professional relationship with our clients.

We will inform you of your rights and options as a defendant throughout the process to help you manage the stressful situation and achieve the best outcome.

Our experienced, award-winning team of Central Coast criminal lawyers (also known as criminal defence lawyers) is regarded as one of the best in the state and can represent you in any NSW court for your case.

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Criminal Law FAQ’s

Answers to the crucial questions often asked by people about criminal law.

If you have been charged with a criminal offence in New South Wales (NSW), it is essential to take immediate action and follow these steps:

  1. Seek Legal Representation: Contact an experienced criminal defence lawyer immediately. They will provide you with legal advice, protect your rights, and guide you through the legal process. If you don’t have a lawyer, our lawyers are experienced solicitor advocates that regularly appear in the Local Court, District Court, Supreme Court and Court of Criminal Appeal.
  2. Understand Your Charges: Obtain a clear understanding of the charges against you. One of our lawyers will explain the nature of the offence, potential penalties, and the essential elements (or ingredients) that the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt. Understanding the charges will help you make informed decisions regarding your defence strategy.
  3. Attend Court Appearances: Attend all scheduled court appearances. Your lawyer will advise you on when and where you need to appear. Failure to appear in court as required can have serious consequences. Dress appropriately and maintain a respectful demeanour in the courtroom.
  4. Provide Information to Your Lawyer: Share all relevant information and documents related to your case with your lawyer. This may include police reports, witness statements, or any other evidence that may support your defence. It is common for clients to think some information is ‘irrelevant’ only for it to come out in court (without warning to the defence lawyer) and turn the entire defence case on its head. Therefore, open and honest communication with your lawyer is crucial for building a strong defence strategy.
  5. Consider Bail Options: If you are in custody, our lawyers can assist you in applying for bail and seeking your release from custody until your case is determined. Bail decisions depend on factors such as the seriousness of the allegations, your criminal history, the danger to the community and victim, and your risk of flight (leaving the jurisdiction) and/or reoffending. Your lawyer will represent you during bail hearings and advocate for your release, if it is advisable to do so.
  6. Follow Legal Advice: Listen to the advice and guidance provided by your lawyer. We are experienced in criminal defence and will advocate in your best interests.
  7. Take Care of Your Well-being: We understand that facing criminal charges can be a stressful and challenging time for our clients and their loved ones. Take care of your physical and mental well-being by seeking support from friends, family, or counselling services. It’s essential to maintain a positive mindset and follow healthy coping strategies during this process. In many respects, the criminal justice system is a marathon, not a sprint – it requires you to look after your well-being and maximise endurance.

Remember, every case is unique, and it’s crucial to consult with a qualified criminal defence lawyer who can provide personalised advice based on the specific details of your case.

A criminal defence lawyer can provide essential legal advice, explain your rights, analyse the evidence against you, negotiate with the prosecution, and represent you in court. They will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome for your case, whether it’s getting charges reduced or “downgraded”, seeking an acquittal, or persuading the sentencing court to impose the least punitive penalty.

The consequences of a criminal conviction in NSW can vary depending on the offence. They may include imprisonment, fines, community service, probation, loss of driving privileges, impact on employment prospects, travel restrictions, and the creation of a criminal record. The severity of the consequences depends on factors such as the nature of the offence, prior convictions, and personal circumstances.

When dealing with the police in NSW, you have the right to remain silent (subject to a few exceptions – which is why it is essential first to seek legal advice), the right to legal representation, and the right to know the reason for your arrest. It is important to exercise these rights respectfully and cooperate within the limits of the law. Consulting with a lawyer before providing any statements or answering questions is highly recommended.

In 2013 the NSW Parliament introduced legislation that amended the Evidence Act to allow an unfavourable inference to be made against the accused if he or she failed or refused to mention a fact at the time of official questioning and later relies upon it in his or her defence. Thankfully, strict criteria must be met before your right to silence is abrogated. For this reason, you must discuss your right to silence with an experienced criminal defence lawyer.

In NSW, a summary offense is generally less serious and can be heard in the Local Court, while an indictable offence is more serious and is typically heard in the District Court or Supreme Court. Indictable offenses can be further categorised as either “table” offences (which can be dealt with summarily in the Local Court) or “strictly indictable” offences (which must be dealt with in either the District Court or Supreme Court).

The Supreme Court is the highest court in NSW that hears trials for the most serious of offences, such as murder, treason and terrorism offences. The District Court hears all other offences dealt with on indictment.

Yes, in certain circumstances, you can appeal a decision made in a lower court to a higher court. An appeal typically involves demonstrating errors in law, procedure, or fact that occurred during the trial or sentencing. Appeals from the Local Court are generally heard in the District Court but may be appealed directly to the Supreme Court if the appeal deals with a question of law alone. Appeals from both the Supreme Court and District Court are heard in the Court of Criminal Appeal (or in the Court of Appeal in civil matters). Three (sometimes five) Justices of the Supreme Court will hear appeals in the Court of Criminal Appeal and Court of Appeal. If you are still unhappy with the result, you may be able to appeal to the High Court of Australia, which hears appeals from the Supreme Courts of the several States and Territories, and the Federal Court of Australia. It is important to consult with an appellate lawyer who can assess the merits of your case and guide you through the appeal process.

The duration of a criminal case in NSW can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the case, the number of charges, the court’s schedule, and whether the case proceeds to trial in the District Court or Supreme Court. Some cases may be resolved quickly through negotiations or guilty pleas, while others may take two to three years (or longer) if they go to trial.

Whether you can obtain bail after being arrested for a criminal offence in NSW depends on several factors, including the seriousness of the charges, your criminal history, and the risk of flight or reoffending. Bail laws in NSW are complex, so it is crucial to first consult with a lawyer who can assess your specific circumstances and advocate for your release on bail if appropriate.

Defences in a criminal case depend on the specific circumstances and nature of the charges. Common defences can include lack of intent, self-defence, duress, honest and reasonable mistake of fact, alibi (you were somewhere else at the time of the alleged offence), identification issues, or challenging the admissibility or reliability of evidence. An experienced criminal defence lawyer can assess the facts of your case and identify the most appropriate defence strategy.

Highlights

At a Glance

Trial Advocates

Manny Conditsis and Michal Mantaj are amongst only a handful of trial advocates who personally appear in murder trials, serious crimes in jury trials, and in appeals to the Supreme Court and High Court

Criminal Law Committee

Two of our lawyers are current members of the NSW Law Society Criminal Law Committee, which is substantially charged with the responsibility of advocating for criminal law reform in NSW

Criminal Law Specialists

Following a rigorous assessment process, three of our lawyers have been awarded prestigious specialist accreditation in criminal law by the NSW Law Society

President’s Award

In 2012, Manny Conditsis was awarded the prestigious NSW Law Society President’s Award

Conferences Speakers

Two of our lawyers regularly speak at legal conferences, teaching other lawyers about more complex aspects of the criminal law

Specialist Examiners

Two of our lawyers had been called in as examiners of other lawyers seeking specialist accreditation in criminal law

Fighting for the Underdog

We have a reputation for taking on difficult and unpopular cases and winning against the odds

90% Success Rate

Manny Conditsis has a better than 90% success rate in jury trials

Partner Of The Year

In 2021, Manny Conditsis was named Criminal Law Partner Of The Year at the Lawyers Weekly Partner Of The Year Awards

Highlights

Why Conditsis Lawyers

Trial Advocates

Manny Conditsis and Michal Mantaj are amongst only a handful of trial advocates who personally appear in murder trials, serious crimes in jury trials, and in appeals to the Supreme Court and High Court

Criminal Law Committee

Two of our lawyers are current members of the NSW Law Society Criminal Law Committee, which is substantially charged with the responsibility of advocating for criminal law reform in NSW

Criminal Law Specialists

Following a rigorous assessment process, three of our lawyers have been awarded prestigious specialist accreditation in criminal law by the NSW Law Society

President’s Award

In 2012, Manny Conditsis was awarded the prestigious NSW Law Society President’s Award

Conferences Speakers

Two of our lawyers regularly speak at legal conferences, teaching other lawyers about more complex aspects of the criminal law

Specialist Examiners

Two of our lawyers had been called in as examiners of other lawyers seeking specialist accreditation in criminal law

Fighting for the Underdog

We have a reputation for taking on difficult and unpopular cases and winning against the odds

90% Success Rate

Manny Conditsis has a better than 90% success rate in jury trials

Partner Of The Year

In 2021, Manny Conditsis was named Criminal Law Partner Of The Year at the Lawyers Weekly Partner Of The Year Awards

Areas Of Criminal Law

If you are in trouble with the police or face criminal charges, you need an expert criminal lawyer on your side. It is critical to get the right advice and representation without delay. We can provide immediate assistance to you, including if you are being held at the police station or currently in a detention centre or gaol.

Led by NSW Law Society Accredited Criminal Law Specialists Manny Conditsis and Michal Mantaj, our team of criminal lawyers is regarded as one of the best in NSW, with over 150 years of combined experience helping clients facing criminal charges.

As one of two Trial Advocates, Manny Conditsis has a greater than 90% success rate in jury trials. He and Michal Mantaj are among only a few Trial Advocates to appear in murder and other serious crime trials in the Supreme and High Courts. The media regularly call upon both to comment on high-profile cases and issues relating to criminal and traffic law due to their reputation for professional excellence in legal practice.

In trouble with the law or going to court?

Don’t delay contacting us. The sooner we hear from you, the sooner we can begin our investigations.

Your first consultation is free. Call our office on 02 4324 5688 to book a private and confidential consultation with one of our criminal lawyers today.

Our Central Coast Criminal Law Team

Manny Conditsis

Director | Senior Trial Advocate | Accredited Specialist Criminal Law

Michal Mantaj

Director | Senior Trial Advocate | Accredited Specialist Criminal Law

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