Services
Criminal Law
Criminal Lawyers Providing Clear and Practical Advice
We advise and represent clients facing criminal charges across Central Otago.
Criminal matters often require urgent advice and clear direction from the outset. Our role is to ensure clients understand their position, receive practical advice early and are properly represented throughout the process.
Overview
Being charged with a criminal offence can be stressful and uncertain. Early legal advice is important.
We advise on a wide range of criminal matters, from traffic and limited licence applications through to more serious offending requiring District Court representation. We provide clear advice, practical guidance and experienced representation at all stages of the process.
Our focus is on ensuring clients understand what they are facing, what options are available and what steps need to be taken next.
Our Experience
We advise and act on a wide range of criminal matters, including:
- District Court criminal proceedings
- Bail applications
- Defended hearings and trials
- Sentencing appearances
- Appeals
- Traffic and road transport matters
- Limited and work licence applications
We act for clients at all stages of the criminal process, from first appearance through to resolution.
Criminal charges and District Court proceedings
We provide advice and representation in criminal matters before the District Court, including:
- First appearances
- Bail applications
- Guilty pleas
- Defended hearings
- Trials
- Sentencing appearances
We work to ensure clients understand the process, the practical implications of decisions being made and the best way to move matters forward.
Bail and urgent applications
Where a criminal matter is urgent, immediate advice is often required.
We assist with:
- Bail applications
- Advice on conditions of bail
- Variation of bail conditions
- Urgent representation where required
Traffic and road transport matters
We advise on a range of road transport and driving-related matters, including:
- Traffic offending
- Drink driving and related charges
- Limited and work licence applications
- Other matters affecting the ability to drive lawfully
These matters can have a significant effect on work and daily life, and we aim to provide prompt and practical advice.
Sentencing and resolution
Where charges are admitted or resolved without trial, careful sentencing advice is still critical.
We assist with:
- Advice before entering pleas
- Sentencing preparation
- Presentation of relevant personal and background matters
- Practical steps to support the best available outcome
Appeals
We also advise on appeal rights and the steps involved where a criminal matter may need to be challenged following conviction or sentence.
Who We Act For
We act for:
- Individuals facing criminal charges
- Clients requiring urgent bail advice
- Clients dealing with traffic and limited licence matters
- Clients appearing in the District Court
- Clients seeking advice on appeal rights or sentencing issues
Why Checketts McKay
We offer:
- Clear and practical advice from the outset
- Experienced representation in District Court matters
- Prompt assistance where urgent action is required
- A calm and measured approach to stressful situations
- Support through each stage of the criminal process
Criminal matters require clear advice and steady representation. Our role is to ensure clients understand the process and are properly supported throughout.
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