Criminal Law - ACT

At Armstrong Legal, our experienced criminal lawyers in the ACT provide clear, practical advice and strong representation across all areas of criminal law. Whether you are facing police charges, court proceedings, or need urgent advice, we can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Bail in the ACT

If you have been charged with an offence, securing bail is often the first critical step. Bail determines whether you can remain in the community while your matter is before the court.

We assist with:

• Police bail applications 
• Court bail hearings in the ACT Magistrates Court 
• Bail variations and appeals 
• Urgent after-hours bail advice 

Our lawyers focus on presenting strong bail arguments addressing risk, community safety, and personal circumstances.

Criminal Offences

We represent clients across all categories of criminal offences in the ACT, including:

Assaults & Violence

Assault charges range from common assault to serious violent offences involving injury or aggravating circumstances.

Drug Offences

Including possession, cultivation, supply, trafficking, and drug driving matters.

Sexual Offences

We provide discreet and strategic defence for all sexual offence allegations.

Theft & Dishonesty

Such as shoplifting, fraud, burglary, robbery, and receiving stolen property.

White Collar Crime

Including fraud, embezzlement, corporate offences, and financial misconduct.

Firearms & Weapons

Covering unlawful possession, use, and licensing breaches.

Perjury & Public Order Offences

Including resisting police, affray, and making false statements.

Property Offences

Such as trespassing, malicious damage, and break and enter.

Animal Cruelty

Defending or prosecuting offences involving harm to animals under ACT legislation.

Defences

We carefully assess every case to determine the strongest possible defence strategy, including:

• Self-defence 
• Duress or necessity 
• Lack of intent 
• Mistaken identity 
• Mental health defences 
• Procedural or evidentiary challenges 

Penalties & Sentencing

If you are found guilty or plead guilty, the court will consider a range of sentencing options.

Sentencing Options in the ACT

• Good behaviour bonds 
• Fines 
• Community service orders 
• Intensive correction orders 
• Imprisonment 

Sentencing Principles

The ACT courts consider factors such as rehabilitation, deterrence, seriousness of the offence, and personal circumstances.

Ancillary Orders

Including licence disqualification, confiscation of property, and non-association orders.

Personal Protection Orders (PPOs) & Family Violence Orders (FVOs)

In the ACT, Apprehended Violence Orders are known as:

• Personal Protection Orders (PPOs) 
• Family Violence Orders (FVOs) 

We assist with:

• Applications for protection orders 
• Responding to orders made against you 
• Variations or revocations 
• Breach proceedings 

These matters are handled urgently and often involve complex families and criminal law overlap.

Evidence

Evidence plays a crucial role in criminal proceedings. We assist in analysing and challenging:

• Police interviews and statements 
• CCTV and digital evidence 
• Forensic evidence 
• Witness credibility 
• Illegally obtained evidence 

Police Powers

We advise on your rights during police interactions, including:

• Arrest and detention powers 
• Search and seizure 
• Drug and alcohol testing 
• Electronic surveillance 
• Right to silence 

Understanding police powers is essential to protect your legal position.

Commission & Serious Investigations

We act in matters involving complex investigations, including multi-agency and corruption-related inquiries.

Diversionary Applications

Where appropriate, we assist clients in applying for diversion programs to avoid criminal conviction and achieve rehabilitation-focused outcomes.

Appeals

If you believe your case was decided incorrectly, we can assist with:

• Appeals to the ACT Supreme Court 
• Severity and conviction appeal 
• Bail appeals 
• Procedural review applications 

Children’s Court

We represent young people and their families in the ACT Children’s Court, focusing on rehabilitation and minimising long-term consequences.

Court Process

Understanding the court process can reduce stress and uncertainty. We guide clients through every stage, including:

• First court mention 
• Case management hearings 
• Committal proceedings 
• Trial or sentencing hearings 

Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to attend court?

Yes, in most cases, attendance is required unless excused.

Should I speak to the police without a lawyer?

You have the right to remain silent and should seek legal advice first.

Can charges be dropped?

Yes, depending on evidence and circumstances, charges may be withdrawn or discontinued.