What does a duty lawyer do?
Local Court – a duty lawyer is available to assist at all Local Courts in NSW in relation to criminal law matters, Centrelink charges, driving and traffic offences and where there is a real risk of imprisonment. Duty lawyers are also available to assist at some local courts for family law and child support.
How do duty solicitors get paid?
They are paid by the Legal Services Commission, which is the government body that administers legal aid and therefore do not charge a fee for the advice and representation they provide. A Duty Solicitor’s primary role is to represent those who do not have access to a Solicitor.
Do I need a lawyer for magistrates court?
Magistrate Courts let you sue for money claims under $15,000 (fifteen thousand dollars). A Magistrate Judge decides your case after a trial. There is no jury. You do not need a lawyer.
Is a duty solicitor free in court?
Any person who is charged with an offence for which you can receive a prison sentence for is entitled to a duty solicitor free of charge at court for the first court hearing. The duty solicitor is from a panel of local solicitors who take turns to be on rota for the day.
Is a solicitor the same as a lawyer?
Lawyer: A person with a certificate to practice Law. This includes Solicitors, Barristers, Judges and Corporate Counsel. Solicitor: A person with a practising certificate that is not a Barrister or Judge.
Is everyone entitled to a duty solicitor?
Any person who chooses to have a duty solicitor is entitled to the designated duty solicitor free of charge.
How much is a solicitor for a police interview?
1.It is free
If you ask for a solicitor to attend to assist you in a police interview, the police cannot refuse. They must either arrange a solicitor for you (the duty solicitor) or make contact with a named solicitor of your choice who is willing to act.
What should you not say in court?
Things You Should Not Say in Court
- Do Not Memorize What You Will Say. …
- Do Not Talk About the Case. …
- Do Not Become Angry. …
- Do Not Exaggerate. …
- Avoid Statements That Cannot Be Amended. …
- Do Not Volunteer Information. …
- Do Not Talk About Your Testimony.
Is it OK to call a Judge Sir?
In person: In an interview, social event, or in court, address a judge as “Your Honor” or “Judge [last name].” If you are more familiar with the judge, you may call her just “Judge.” In any context, avoid “Sir” or “Ma’am.”
What happens if you plead guilty in a magistrates court?
Pleading guilty
If you plead guilty at the outset your case will not go to trial and you could be sentenced immediately in the magistrates’ court. For more serious offences you will have to go to the Crown Court to be sentenced. Find out more about sentencing hearings.