A criminal charge in Victoria sets off a defined procedural sequence: police interview, court mention, prosecution brief disclosure, and either a contested hearing or a plea. Understanding where a matter sits in that sequence, and what options are available at each stage, is the practical starting point for any defence.
Victoria's criminal jurisdiction divides into summary offences, heard in the Magistrates' Court, and indictable offences, which begin in the Magistrates' Court and may be committed to the County or Supreme Court for trial or sentence. Most of the charges Tringali Lawyers handles sit in the Magistrates' Court jurisdiction, covering assault, drug possession and trafficking, theft and dishonesty offences, and firearm possession and storage matters. That court hears over 90 per cent of all criminal matters in the state, and the pace of its lists means preparation before each date counts for a great deal.
The difference between a matter handled carefully and one that is not is usually visible long before the hearing date. It shows in how the prosecution brief is read, which elements are contested, what material is gathered in mitigation, and how the client is prepared. Tringali Lawyers is a boutique practice that takes on a limited number of matters at a time. That is a deliberate choice, not a limitation: it allows the file to be properly read and the strategy to be proportionate to what the facts actually require.
The statutes that govern criminal matters in Victoria span a number of Acts. Serious assault and theft charges fall under the Crimes Act 1958. Lower-level summary offences, including common assault and minor property matters, are covered by the Summary Offences Act 1966. Drug charges are brought under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981, which sets out offence categories and the quantity thresholds that separate possession from trafficking. Firearm matters are governed by the Firearms Act 1996. Knowing which statute applies, and which provisions are relevant, is the first step in reading any brief correctly.
Tringali Lawyers defends the criminal charges most commonly heard in the Victorian courts. Each area has its own statutory framework, charge categories and sentencing range.
Initial consultations are by appointment; you leave with a clear view of the next steps, the likely fees, and whether the firm is the right fit for your matter.
We start with a short conversation about what you have been charged with or summonsed for, what stage your matter is at, and what outcome you are hoping for. There is no obligation to engage the firm after that conversation. We will tell you plainly what the process looks like from this point, what the realistic range of outcomes is based on the information you have given us, and what engaging the firm would cost. If we are not the right firm for your matter, we will tell you that too. Initial consultations are by appointment; call 0432 651 326 or send an email to talia@tringalilawyers.com.au to arrange a time.
