Do I need a lawyer to go to court?

So, you're facing a charge by police and have to appear in court. Sure, you can go to court by yourself and face the magistrate alone. That is your right. But most of the time, it's best to have a lawyer by your side to argue your case.

I spend a lot of time in the Local Court defending people charged with offences ranging from traffic infringements and petty theft through to drugs, bad public behaviour, family disputes and physical altercations.

In my experience, many people underestimate the processes involved, the specific courtroom procedures they must follow and the emotional pressure they'll experience if they decide to represent themselves.

What you need to consider before deciding to represent yourself