Advice
Basic initial advice to help you understand the issue and consider your next steps.
What is criminal law?
Criminal law concerns allegations that a person has broken the law. A charge can lead to court hearings, penalties and consequences for your criminal record. Early advice can help you understand the charge, the process and your options before deciding how to respond.
Criminal records, employment and visas
A finding of guilt or criminal record may affect future employment, occupational checks, overseas travel or visas. The effect depends on the outcome, the role or country involved, and applicable disclosure and spent-conviction rules. Not every record must be disclosed in every situation.
If you are not an Australian citizen, criminal matters can also affect your Australian visa status. Seek specialist migration advice about your circumstances, particularly if you receive a visa cancellation notice.
Questions we can discuss
- Understanding charges, summonses and court notices.
- General information about pleas and the court process.
- Criminal record and disclosure questions.
- Possible employment or visa consequences and specialist referrals.
How we may help
- Basic initial advice and assessment of your next step.
- Help understanding relevant legal documents.
- Referral options for Legal Aid, duty lawyers or specialist assistance.
What level of assistance can we offer?
We assess each matter individually, taking account of its suitability and our available resources. An enquiry or appointment does not guarantee ongoing assistance or representation.
Referral
Information about another legal or support service when specialist help is needed or we cannot assist.
Further assistance
A specific legal task or ongoing casework may be available, decided case by case and subject to resources.
What we do not do
- Commercial or business matters.
- Conveyancing, real-estate transactions and property ownership disputes.
- Personal injury claims and WorkCover.
We do not promise criminal defence representation or attendance at court. Ongoing criminal law help depends on the matter and available resources. Visa concerns may require specialist migration advice.
Prepare for your appointment
- Bring charge sheets, summonses, bail documents and relevant letters.
- Tell us about the next court date and any urgent deadline.
- Mention employment checks, travel plans or visa concerns that may be affected.
Talk to us
Contact Southport Community Legal Service to discuss an appointment.
Call 03 9646 6066, 0490 934 661 or 0440 131 920.
Email [email protected].
Further information
- Victoria Legal Aid: going to court for a criminal charge
- Victoria Legal Aid: criminal records
- Victoria Legal Aid: visa cancellation and criminal matters
This page provides general information. Ask for advice about your own circumstances. Information reviewed September 2026.