How to have charges dropped before a defended hearing or jury trial

Going to court for criminal charges is an intimidating prospect, so it's not surprising that many people who are accused of criminal offences seek to have charges brought against them withdrawn before the case reaches a defended hearing in the Local Court or a jury or judge-alone trial in the District or Supreme Court.

Here are a number of ways by which criminal proceedings can be discontinued before the charges are adjudicated by a magistrate, judge or jury – or not initiated at all.

Police cautions and warnings

For some individuals suspected of committing a crime, there may be an option to have the matter resolved very early on in the form of a formal police caution or warning.