Local Court Criminal Defence Lawyers Sydney

Facing a Local Court Matter? We Can Help.

Local Court Matters in New South Wales

All criminal matters in NSW begin in the Local Court, and the majority are finalised there. Whether you’re facing a summary offence or a more serious matter, having the right legal support is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome. At Kingston Fox Lawyers, our experienced team understands how overwhelming these situations can feel, and we’re here to provide you with clear, compassionate advice every step of the way.

With over 40 years of combined experience, including time as former prosecutors, we have a deep understanding of how Local Court matters are managed. We use our knowledge to plan a strategic defence, helping you to make informed decisions and defending you and your reputation.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and the expert advice you need.

What are Local Court Matters?

Local Court matters fall into one of two categories:

Summary offences: These are less serious criminal matters such as traffic offences, public order offences like fail to quit premises or offensive conduct, or drink driving. These types of matters are always finalised in the Local Court.
Indictable offences triable summarily: These include more serious offences that can be finalised in either of the Local or District Courts, like assault, larceny, and some frauds. These matters would ordinarily be finalised in the Local Court. It can also include some Commonwealth offences if the prosecution agrees.

No matter the charge, it’s essential to have a trusted legal team that can guide you through each of the steps in Local Court proceedings and work with you to develop the best defence strategy tailored to your situation.

Meet the Team Behind Your Defence

Alexandra Sarmed

BA LLB, Partner

Phone: 0455 039 707

Erin Hoile

BA LLB LLM, Partner

Phone: 0455 039 660

Shane Arie

LLB, Solicitor

Phone: 0455 039 112

Tim Stern

B.Ed(Hons), M.Bus, JD, Solicitor

Phone: 0457 781 133

Sam Key

Law Clerk

Phone: 02 8360 7811

The Kingston Fox Difference

Why Choose Kingston Fox Lawyers?

At Kingston Fox Lawyers, we are more than just your legal representatives — we are your partners in navigating the challenges ahead. What sets us apart is our deep commitment to providing a tailor-made, personalised service, backed by over 40 years of combined experience in criminal law.

Our team, which includes former prosecutors, brings unparalleled expertise and a strategic advantage to your defence.

We pride ourselves on our supportive, client-focused approach. Clients often share how much more at ease they feel after speaking with us, reassured by our understanding and straightforward advice. We focus not just on the legal challenges but on your future, ensuring that you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Hear it from our satisfied clients

“A difficult matter that was resolved in my favour”

“Alexandra Sarmed offered me exceptional service and professional assistance with a difficult matter that was resolved in my favour. I couldn’t have asked for any more and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone in future. Nor will I ever go anywhere else for legal advice myself. I know if she couldn’t help me she would steer me to the right person for the job.”

A.C

“Frank, understanding, hardworking, and knowledgeable”

“We were incredibly lucky to be referred to Alexandra Sarmed for a complex set of charges against my adult child. From the first meeting, we were struck by her sense of humanity. She supported us throughout the process with her frankness, understanding, warmth, humour, hard work and knowledge. Alexandra found an amazing Barrister and together they achieved the right outcome. We will be forever thankful to Alexandra Sarmed.”

S.D

“Sympathetic and extremely reassuring”

“Erin was wonderful at a time of extreme stress for me. She listened to me and provided professional and helpful advice. She was sympathetic and clear-thinking, expertly guiding me through a process that was foreign to me. This was extremely reassuring. I would strongly recommend Kingston Fox Lawyers to anybody needing legal representation.”

B.F

Frequently Asked Questions

What offences are heard in the Local Court?

The Local Court in NSW handles a broad range of criminal matters, and is the first point of contact in the judicial system. Matters heard in the Local Court include:

Summary Offences: These are less serious criminal matters that are typically resolved quickly in the Local Court without proceeding to a higher court. Examples include:
- Traffic offences: Such as speeding, drink driving, or driving without a license.
- Public order offences: Including offensive behaviour, offensive language, or fail to quit premises.
- Fine only offences: Such as trespassing.

Summary offences can often be finalised on the first or second court date.

Indictable Offences Triable Summarily: Most indictable matters that are triable summary will be finalised in the Local Court if both the prosecution and the defence agree. This process allows for faster resolution without escalating the case to the District Court. Examples include:
- Larceny
- Common assault or assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
- Drug possession and supply (small quantities)

When finalised in the Local Court, these matters will have lower jurisdictional limits on penalties that can be imposed.

Kingston Fox Lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide variety of offences in the Local Court, ensuring that your case is managed with expertise and care at every step.

What is a Court Attendance Notice (CAN)?

A CAN is a document that informs you of the charges against you and provides details of your court appearance, including the date, time, and location. It is important to seek legal advice as soon as you receive a CAN to prepare your defence strategy and understand your options. Failing to attend court as required could result in your arrest or you being convicted in your absence.

What should I do if I am pleading guilty?

If you decide to plead guilty, it’s important to seek legal advice to ensure you have all the information on your options including the likely penalties before making a decision. Your lawyer can help you prepare character references and any other supporting documents, such as evidence of your financial circumstances, to present a well-rounded picture to the court. This preparation can influence the Court’s decision and help achieve a fair and appropriate sentence.

What happens if I plead not guilty?

If you plead not guilty, the prosecution will prepare a brief of evidence which contains the witness statements and documents they rely on in their case. Your lawyer will review the brief, discuss the evidence with you, and advise on your next steps. Depending on the strength of the evidence, you may choose to proceed with a not guilty plea or reconsider your options. If you maintain your plea, the court will set a date for your hearing.

What happens when you go to Local Court?

Navigating the Local Court process can be challenging without the right guidance. Here’s a general overview of what you might encounter:

Receiving a Court Attendance Notice (CAN)
If you are required to attend court, you will receive a CAN, which includes details such as the offence you have been charged with, the court date, and other essential information. It’s important to seek legal advice as soon as you receive this notice to prepare for your first court appearance.
First Mention (First Court Date)
At your first court date, also known as a ‘mention,’ the Court will ask whether you wish to plead guilty or not guilty. If you haven’t yet obtained legal advice, the court may adjourn your matter to give you time to consult a lawyer.
Pleading Guilty
If you plead guilty, your matter can be finalised on the first court date. In preparation, it’s beneficial to gather character references and evidence of your financial situation if you’re facing fines. This helps the court make an informed decision when determining a suitable sentence.
Pleading Not Guilty
If you plead not guilty, the prosecution will need to prepare a brief of evidence. Your lawyer will review this evidence with you, advising on the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution case and the options available to you. If you maintain your plea, the Ccourt will set a date for your hearing.
Hearing and Sentencing
At the hearing, both the prosecution and the defence present their evidence. The defence has the opportunity to cross-examine prosecution witnesses and call their own witnesses if necessary. The Court then decides whether you are guilty or not guilty. If found guilty, the matter then proceeds to sentencing.

Having a lawyer who understands the Local Court process can make a significant difference in managing your case and achieving a favourable outcome.

Can I appeal a decision made in the Local Court?

Yes, you can appeal a Local Court decision if you are not satisfied with the outcome. Appeals are made to the District Court, and obtaining legal representation is an important part of presenting a strong appeal. Kingston Fox Lawyers can provide guidance on whether an appeal is appropriate and help you prepare a strong case.