What to Do If You Receive a Charge Sheet in Victoria
Receiving a charge sheet from Victoria Police can be confronting, especially if it is your first time facing the criminal justice system. A charge sheet means the police allege you have committed an offence and intend to prosecute the matter in court. If you have received one, you may be wondering: What happens next? Do I need a lawyer? What are my options?
At Craigieburn Lawyers, we assist individuals across Melbourne’s north to understand the legal process and defend their rights in the Magistrates' Court. This guide explains what to do when you receive a charge sheet in Victoria, the legal process that follows, and how to secure the best possible outcome.
What Is a Charge Sheet?
A charge sheet is a formal document issued by Victoria Police that outlines:
The offences you have been charged with
The date, time, and location of the alleged offending
The legislation or law under which you have been charged
The court you are required to attend and your first court date
It may be handed to you after a police interview, posted to you, or served at your home. You may be required to attend court on a set date (also called a mention) or, in some cases, you may be bailed or summonsed to appear.
Do not ignore a charge sheet. Failing to attend court can result in a warrant for your arrest and additional charges.
Step 1: Read the Charge Sheet Carefully
When you receive a charge sheet, take the time to:
Review the alleged offences
Note the court location and first appearance date
Consider whether you understand what the police are alleging
Many people misunderstand the charges or are unsure how to respond. The terminology can be confusing, and the legal consequences can vary widely depending on the offence.
If you do not fully understand the charges, contact a lawyer immediately.
Step 2: Seek Legal Advice Early
Engaging a criminal lawyer early can make a significant difference to your case. At Craigieburn Lawyers, we:
Explain the charges against you in plain English
Request and review the police brief of evidence (the documents and evidence they rely on)
Identify any possible defences or legal issues
Help you decide whether to plead guilty or not guilty
Represent you in court and negotiate with the police on your behalf
Getting legal advice early also allows your lawyer to explore alternatives such as diversion programs, negotiating a withdrawal of charges, or seeking an adjournment to prepare your case properly.
Step 3: Understand the Court Process
Most criminal charges in Victoria start in the Magistrates' Court. The first court date listed on your charge sheet is called a mention. This is an administrative hearing, not a trial.
At the mention, the Magistrate will ask whether:
You have a lawyer
You understand the charges
You intend to plead guilty or not guilty
If you are not ready to make a plea, the Magistrate may adjourn the matter to give you time to seek legal advice or review the evidence.
Do not plead guilty just to "get it over with" without proper advice. Even minor charges can carry significant penalties and long-term consequences.
Step 4: Decide How to Plead
You have two options:
Plead Guilty
If you accept the charges and decide to plead guilty, the matter will proceed to a plea hearing, where the Magistrate will hear submissions about:
The circumstances of the offence
Your personal background and character
Whether you are genuinely remorseful
Any mitigating factors such as mental health, addiction, or provocation
Your lawyer will advocate on your behalf and may provide supporting documents, such as:
Character references
Evidence of counselling or rehabilitation
Medical or psychological reports
Penalties can range from fines and good behaviour bonds to community correction orders or, in serious cases, imprisonment. A well-prepared plea can significantly reduce your penalty and, in some cases, avoid a conviction.
Plead Not Guilty
If you dispute the charges, your case will be adjourned for a contest mention and then listed for a summary hearing (or trial).
Your lawyer will examine the police brief, challenge weak or inadmissible evidence, and present your version of events. Witnesses may be cross-examined, and you may also give evidence, though you are not required to.
Craigieburn Lawyers regularly represent clients at contested hearings and help identify:
Whether the police have enough evidence to prove the charge beyond reasonable doubt
Whether your actions were lawful or justified
Whether there is scope to negotiate lesser charges or alternative outcomes
Step 5: Consider Diversion or Alternative Outcomes
In some cases, you may be eligible for the Criminal Justice Diversion Program, particularly if:
You are a first-time offender
The offence is minor and not violent or sexual in nature
The police and court agree to your suitability
Diversion allows you to avoid a criminal record by completing certain conditions, such as:
Apologising to the victim
Attending counselling or education programs
Making a donation or completing community work
Our lawyers can apply for diversion on your behalf and help prepare a compelling application.
Step 6: Prepare for Court
If you have a court date approaching, make sure you:
Arrive on time and dress appropriately
Bring all relevant documents
Be respectful and courteous in court
Having a lawyer by your side ensures that your matter is presented clearly and professionally, and that the Magistrate hears your side of the story.
We appear regularly at:
Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court
Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court
Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
Sunshine and other suburban courts
Why Choose Craigieburn Lawyers?
Our criminal law team at Craigieburn Lawyers offers:
Practical advice and strategic representation
Affordable fixed-fee options for guilty pleas and diversions
Thorough preparation for contested hearings
Clear communication throughout the process
We understand that facing a police charge can be stressful and confusing. Whether you are dealing with an assault charge, a driving offence, theft, or a breach of an intervention order, we will help you understand your rights and defend your position.
We serve clients throughout:
Craigieburn
Roxburgh Park
Greenvale
Mickleham
Donnybrook
Beveridge
Kalkallo and surrounding suburbs
Send Us Your Charge Sheet
If you have received a charge sheet and do not know where to begin, contact Craigieburn Lawyers. You can email your charge sheet directly to our office and we will review it and advise you on your next steps.
Do not wait until your court date is around the corner. Early advice can make all the difference.
Craigieburn Lawyers -Trusted local representation in criminal and traffic matters across Melbourne's north.