Melbourne’s CBD and nightlife hubs like Richmond, South Yarra, and St Kilda transform into bustling zones of activity during the summer holidays. While most people are out to enjoy themselves, the combination of hot weather, large crowds, and excessive alcohol often leads to a rise in assault  and public order  charges. Victoria Police maintain a high-visibility presence in these entertainment precincts, and their "prevention mindset" means they are quick to intervene in any

While the festive season is typically a time for celebration, Victoria Police records consistently show that it is the busiest time of year for family violence call-outs. In Melbourne and throughout Victoria, family violence incidents have been known to spike by approximately 45% on Christmas Day alone compared to other periods. The combination of heightened holiday stress, financial pressures, and increased alcohol consumption often leads to situations that escalate beyond a

If you have recently tested positive for drugs at a roadside test, you are likely feeling a mix of panic and confusion. You might be thinking: "The police said it's a standard fine and suspension. Should I just pay it and get it over with?" This is a dangerous assumption. While drug driving charges in Victoria are common, they are not "minor." They carry mandatory licence loss and, more importantly, the risk of a permanent criminal record that can affect your employment and

It is a scenario we hear often: You are driving to work, perhaps careful to stay under the speed limit, when you see the flashing lights of a police car. You pull over, expecting a random breath test. Instead, the officer checks your licence on their iPad and tells you: "You are driving while suspended." Your stomach drops. You might not have even known. Or perhaps you knew, but you thought, "It's just a quick trip, surely the penalty is just another fine?" This is one of the

If you’re facing criminal charges, you have probably heard the term "plea bargain" from American TV shows. This idea of a "deal" to get a lighter sentence is one of the most common questions we get, and for good reason. It represents a path forward—a way to gain some control over a situation that feels completely out of your control. So, can it be done in Victoria?Yes, absolutely. In Australia, we don't call it a "plea bargain"; we call it "charge negotiation" or "plea negoti

If you have been charged with a criminal offence, your mind is likely consumed by one terrifying question: "What is going to happen to me?" For most people, the immediate fear is about two things: " Will I go to jail? "  and " Will I get a criminal record? ". The uncertainty of not knowing the answer is often the worst part. The legal system is complex, and the path from being charged to a final court date is not always clear. The good news is that the outcome is not set in s

If you or a loved one has been charged with a criminal offence, your world is suddenly filled with uncertainty. You have to deal with the police, your family, your job, and a court date that is looming. In this moment of high stress, the question "What do I do now?" can be paralysing. The legal system is an intimidating and foreign environment, and the process of finding and hiring a lawyer you can trust seems like another mountain to climb. Many people delay this crucial ste

Being charged with a criminal offence is an isolating and frightening experience. Your mind is racing, and the legal system feels like an overwhelmingly complex maze. Amid this stress, one of the biggest anxieties we hear from new clients is born from past experiences or horror stories: "Am I going to be left in the dark?" "Will I have to chase my lawyer for updates?" "Will I even be able to speak to the actual lawyer handling my case?" At Burdon Legal, we don't just see this

Facing a criminal charge is one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. Your first thoughts are likely about your family, your job, and your future. Your very next thought is almost always: "What is this going to cost?" The search for a clear answer on legal fees can be frustrating. Many websites are vague, and the fear of an unknown, escalating bill can cause many people to delay getting advice, or worse, to choose the cheapest option without considering t