What are the typical stages of a criminal court case?

The typical stages of a criminal case are as follows: Pre-filing – The police will investigate the crime and gather evidence. If they believe they have enough evidence, they’ll file charges against the accused. Initial pleading – The prosecutor will file an indictment or information charging the accused with a crime. Discovery – During this stage, both the prosecution and defence will gather evidence and information from each other and from witnesses. Pre-trial – This is where plea bargains may be offered and motions are heard. Trial – The case is tried in front of a judge or jury; evidence is presented and the verdict is delivered. Post-trial – This is when the sentence is imposed and, if applicable, the appeals process begins.

What happens if I plead Not Guilty in a criminal case?

If you plead not guilty, the case will go to trial and a Judge or jury will determine your guilt or innocence. If you are found guilty, you will be sentenced according to the penalties associated with the crime. However, if you are found not guilty, you will be free to go and no further action will be taken against you in relation to the charges unless an appeal is lodged by the prosecution.

Criminal Matters

Criminal Lawyers in Darwin

We assist with criminal law cases involving drug charges, breaking and entering and more.

What We Do

Get the Legal Support You Need!

Let's Talk!

We Advise On The Most Serious Legal Matters

Have you been charged with drug offences: possession, selling or supplying? Are you being wrongfully accused of assault and intend to fight the accusations in court? It can happen to almost anybody; one day you’re going about business as usual and then all of a sudden, you find yourself in an unexpected and unwanted situation. When you find yourself being charged with a criminal offence, what do you do? Where do you start? The answer is to call a criminal lawyer before doing anything else.

Whereas civil law involves disputes between people and businesses in relation to money, criminal law can be a lot more serious, often involving the potential for hefty fines and imprisonment. At Bradley Solicitors, our criminal lawyers represent clients in bail applications, pleas and sentencing, and throughout trial. We’ll take the time to carefully advise you on the court processes you’re likely to encounter, answer any questions or concerns you may have, deal with the police and courts on your behalf, and ultimately protect your rights and alleviate some of the pressure you’ll be facing.

For representation or advice in Darwin, Katherine or elsewhere throughout the Northern Territory and Australia, contact our team on (08) 8941 1677.

Enquire Now

We’ll Stand By Your Side

Criminal law is used to regulate conduct in society and to sanction those who commit crimes. There are typically two parties involved in a criminal case: the Police and the defendant. Charges can include:

Illicit drug offences
Public order offences
Murder & manslaughter
Assault & sexual offences
Breaking & entering
Domestic violence
Theft
Stalking, harassment & abduction
Fraud or dishonesty
Abduction

Among others. At Bradley Solicitors, we have experience in both the Local courts—where less serious matters are heard—and The Supreme Court, where the most serious cases are prosecuted such as major drug crimes, sexual assault and murder. When you find yourself having to defend a case, speak to our team about the options available to you. We stand by our clients side, providing risk mitigation, advice and more.

Get In Touch

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical stages of a criminal court case?
The typical stages of a criminal case are as follows:
- Pre-filing – The police will investigate the crime and gather evidence. If they believe they have enough evidence, they’ll file charges against the accused.
- Initial pleading – The prosecutor will file an indictment or information charging the accused with a crime.
- Discovery – During this stage, both the prosecution and defence will gather evidence and information from each other and from witnesses.
- Pre-trial – This is where plea bargains may be offered and motions are heard.
- Trial – The case is tried in front of a judge or jury; evidence is presented and the verdict is delivered.
- Post-trial – This is when the sentence is imposed and, if applicable, the appeals process begins.
What happens if I plead Not Guilty in a criminal case?

If you plead not guilty, the case will go to trial and a Judge or jury will determine your guilt or innocence. If you are found guilty, you will be sentenced according to the penalties associated with the crime. However, if you are found not guilty, you will be free to go and no further action will be taken against you in relation to the charges unless an appeal is lodged by the prosecution.