Criminal Law Firm - Daniel Wakim Law Firm

  When it comes to criminal defense, one of the biggest moral and legal questions people ask is: “Can I tell my lawyer I’m guilty?” Movies often dramatize this moment as a tense confession a lawyer looking shocked, a client breaking down but real life operates under a very different, and far more complex, set of ethical rules. Let’s unpack what actually happens when a client admits guilt, and how honesty impacts your case. Understanding Attorney–Client Privilege Before anything else, it’s important to understand the foundation of trust between a lawyer and client: attorney–client privilege . What It Means Attorney–client privilege means that: Anything you tell your lawyer in confidence can’t be shared with anyone else not the judge, not the police, not even the prosecution. This protection encourages open communication , allowing your lawyer to give you the strongest defense possible. Exceptions to the Rule While privilege is powerful, it’s not absolute. A lawyer...

Being arrested or asked to attend a police interview can be an intimidating experience, especially if you’ve never been in that situation before. The most important thing to remember is that you have legal rights designed to protect you — and understanding those rights can make all the difference in how your case unfolds. Whether you’re facing allegations, being questioned as a witness, or unsure why the police want to speak with you, knowing how to respond calmly and lawfully is crucial. What Should You Do If You’re Arrested or Asked to Attend a Police Interview? If you’re arrested or contacted by the police to attend an interview, your first step should always be to seek immediate legal advice. Do not make any statements or answer questions until you have spoken to a qualified criminal defence lawyer . You are entitled to understand what the allegations are and what rights you have before saying anything that could later be used against you in court. Remaining calm, polite, and c...

  Criminal defence lawyers hold one of the most important roles in the justice system. They are the professionals who stand between the individual and the power of the state, making sure that justice is done fairly and that no one is punished without due process. For people accused of crimes, these lawyers are often the difference between freedom and imprisonment. But what exactly does a criminal defence lawyer do on a day-to-day basis? How does someone become one in Australia? And perhaps just as importantly, how much do they earn in this challenging yet highly respected profession? Let’s take a deep dive into the world of criminal defence law. What Criminal Defence Lawyers Do When most people think of criminal defence lawyers , the image that comes to mind is someone passionately arguing a case before a judge or jury. While court advocacy is a large part of the role, it is only one piece of a much broader picture. The work of a criminal defence lawyer starts long before anyon...

If you've recently been charged with a criminal offence in Australia, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. One of the most common concerns for defendants is: “How long will this take?” Closely followed by “What exactly will my criminal defence lawyer do to help me?” In this guide, we break down the typical timeline of a criminal case in Australia and explain the critical role a criminal lawyer plays from arrest to resolution. Choose the right criminal lawyer early to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled with skill, strategy, and care. ⚖️ Understanding the Criminal Justice Process in Australia Before estimating how long a case might take, it’s essential to understand the key stages of a criminal matter in Australia: Investigation & Arrest Charge & Bail Hearing First Court Appearance Committal Proceedings (if applicable) Trial (Summary or Indictable) Sentencing (if convicted or plea is entered) Appeals (optional and case-depend...

  Defending More Than Just a Case   criminal defence lawyer australia  serve a critical function far beyond simply speaking in court or filing legal paperwork. They are the shield between the individual and the power of the state, ensuring that the fundamental rights of the accused are not only acknowledged but actively protected at every stage of the legal process. In a system built on the principles of fairness, transparency and justice, the role of the defence lawyer is essential to preventing miscarriages of justice. Their work upholds the very values upon which Australia’s legal framework is based. The Principle of Presumed Innocence   The presumption of innocence is not just a legal phrase; it is a fundamental right enshrined in Australia’s legal system. It means that no person should be treated as guilty until the prosecution has proven their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Defence lawyers work to copyright this principle in every action they take, from pre-tr...