Frequently Asked Questions

There are few more stressful things in life than being charged with an offence.

I’m on a demerit point bond and have just received another traffic fine, what do I do?

If you want to keep your license, you MUST elect to refer the fine to court and successfully contest it. If you pay the fine, or take no action, you will breach the bond and lose your license, no exceptions.

Contesting the fine means pleading not guilty and being acquitted. The Court has no discretion over demerit points if you’re found guilty, no matter how good your reason is for needing your license. To successfully defend a traffic offence you need a skilled lawyer with experience in that area of law.

Police want to speak to me about an alleged crime, what do I do?

Speak to a criminal lawyer. They can give you advice on your rights prior to a police interview. Depending on how serious the charge is they may need to start arranging a bail application.

Police don't keep to business hours and neither do I. If you've been arrested contact me for advice.

How long will my case take?

That depends. A criminal trial can take 18 months - 2 years to reach after you're charged. A Magistrates' Court case might be from a few months to a year depending on whether you're pleading guilty or fighting the charges.

Do I need a lawyer if I'm just pleading guilty?

No, in the same way you don't need an electrician to wire a fuse box. There's nothing stopping you giving it a go, but you may not like the results...

Courts have a range of sentencing options and the only way to achieve the best outcome for you is to hire a competent criminal lawyer.

A lawyer may also be able to advise you of a defence, or help you avoid a criminal record through diversion.

A family member/loved one is in custody, can you help?

Yes. I can arrange a visit or video-conference with them free of charge to discuss their case.

I've just been charged, what happens next?

Police have to provide you or your lawyer with what's called a brief of evidence. This is a document containing a description of the allegations against you, witness statements and photographs.

You are presumed innocent and police must prove your guilt. Whether they can prove it depends on what's in the brief.

After reading the brief a lawyer can explain the evidence against you and whether you have a defence. They can also advise you of likely sentences if you're found guilty.

I've been to court and I'm unhappy with the outcome, can I appeal?

Yes. If you've been sentenced or found guilty in the Magistrates' Court you have an automatic right to appeal the decision to a Judge of the County Court. The Judge has the power rehear the case and find you not guilty, or substitute the sentence for a lesser one if they see fit.

If your case was heard originally in the County Court then you must apply for leave to appeal to the Court of Appeal. This is a much more complex process.

Appeals in both cases require rigorous preparation and legal knowledge, you must have a lawyer. Your appeal must be lodged within 28 days of the sentence, if this applies to you contact me now.

Criminal Law Firm Melbourne

Compassion and professionalism

There are few more stressful things in life than being charged with an offence. When you face losing your license, your reputation or even your liberty you need someone you can trust in your corner. You need a specialist criminal defence lawyer.

Clients from right across Melbourne know to turn to May Lawyers.

I have many years of experience as a leading criminal defence lawyer and have provided comprehensive and proven legal services and representation to countless people over that time.

Clients can turn to me for legal advice, and I’ll work to ensure they receive the representation and support they need and deserve.

For qualified services and assistance from a sought-after criminal law firm in Melbourne, make sure you contact May Lawyers.

A Leading and Respected Criminal Defence Lawyer in Melbourne

I can offer you expertise, understanding and a proven track record of results. I practice only in criminal and traffic law and have spent years developing and refining my practices to ensure I can offer only the best and most uncompromising legal services to my clients.

I know your case matters to you, so it matters to me. Your case will only be handled by myself and trusted barristers. You will never be passed off to a junior lawyer or must go through a receptionist to get hold of me. It is this kind of direct, transparent, and straightforward service that clients simply will not find at a larger law firm.

I believe you should not have to choose between justice and putting food on the table. My rates are competitive and negotiable with no hidden fees. I am happy to offer Legal Aid if you qualify.

I also provide services as a solicitor advocate, representing clients who are appearing in court for bail applications, appeals, pleas of guilty, or to contest the confiscation of property.

So, when it comes to securing qualified and in-demand services from a skilled criminal defence lawyer, Melbourne clients know to contact May Lawyers.

Proud to be Recognised as One of the Best Criminal Defence Lawyers in Melbourne

No matter what the nature of the charges may be, I am committed to providing each of my valued clients with the standard of support, assistance, and legal guidance they need, when they need it.

I know just how confusing and stressful entering into a legal proceeding can be for those with little to no experience of the system. That is why I work closely with all clients, describing the standing of their case to them as clearly and simply as possible and helping to remove some of the uncertainty they may be feeling. I also make sure they are aware of any and all legal options and avenues open to them as their case progresses.

I am one of the few solicitors working today that is recognised as an Accredited Specialist in criminal law with the Law Institute of Victoria, and work tirelessly to maintain my reputation as one of the best criminal lawyers in and around Melbourne.

For uncompromising legal services, do not hesitate to call May Lawyers.

Our Testimonials header-line

I had a great experience working with Mr. May on my recent traffic matter. From start to finish, he was excellent in communication—always keeping me updated and making sure I understood every step of the process. He handled my case with a high level of professionalism and made everything as smooth and stress-free as possible. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and would highly recommend him to anyone needing legal help.

Daniel Wu

I would say One of the best lawyers in the Melbourne Firstly, he is very budget friendly .Also, having very good knowledge about updates laws and rules . He saved my future . He did what he said to me he stood on his words and give me best results without conviction Highly recommend

sukh jodhan

Will provided exceptional legal support, guiding me through a complex matter with professionalism, clarity, and efficiency. His expertise and responsiveness made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable lawyer.

Carlota Espejo Díaz

He’s not only incredibly knowledgeable and clear about everything, but he’s also really approachable and friendly. He takes the time to explain things in a way that’s easy to understand and always makes you feel comfortable. I really appreciate how involved he gets in your case and how warmly he treats you. Highly recommend him if you’re looking for someone you can trust and who genuinely cares.

JAR e

I recently had the pleasure of working with May Lawyers, specifically Will May, for a legal matter. Will's expertise and dedication were evident throughout the entire process. I especially appreciated Will's straightforward approach. He doesn't mess around and always tells it like it is, which made a significant difference in managing the stress of the situation. His clear and honest communication was invaluable. I highly recommend May Lawyers for their outstanding legal services. Thank you, Will, for your exceptional representation.

STAiNLESS

We needed to employ Will May's services to guide us through a difficult and stressful situation. He was extremely professional, timely, knowledgeable and able to relate well to us and my stepson who needed the legal advice and court representation. Cannot recommend him highly enough.

Thea Blakely-Adams

Great Lawyer! I wouldn’t chose anyone else. Highly recommend Will May!

Jasmine boulter

Will did an amazing job with my case, I got exactly the outcome I wanted, hes prompt in replying to any communications ive made, I would definitely recommend him to anyone who was looking for legal representation. Thanks Will appreciate everything you did for me.

Matt Pacholli

Very Professional approach & outcome, excellent communication & support taking all the stress off me - I couldn't have done it without you Will. Highly recommended Legal representative 100%

Natasha Conroy

May lawyers did an absolutely fantastic job and I couldn’t be happier with the result! Will was professional and proactive as well as very understanding. Definitely very happy that I did not have to navigate the legal system alone and truly believe that I got a far better result with a lot less stress than what I would have received if I had no representation. Absolutely worth it, can’t recommend more highly.

Michelle Elliot