When It Applies

Not For

• Tactical criminal defence advice, witness coaching, contacting complainants, hiding evidence, or deciding bail strategy without a lawyer.

Documents

• ID or passport
• Proof of address
• Employer letter
• Payslips
• Medical records
• Dependant records
• Charge sheet
• Court notice
• Prior bail papers
• Protection-order papers
• Question list

Timeline

• Immediately: identify police station, court, charge, detention place, and next appearance.
• Before consultation: collect identity, address, employment, medical, dependant, and case records.
• During consultation: confirm what is safe to provide and what family must avoid.
• Afterwards: calendar court dates and preserve bail-condition records.

Tips

• Lead with the court date and detention location.
• Use verifiable address and employment proof.
• Keep medication and health details clear.
• Do not contact witnesses or complainants without legal advice.

Warning Signs

• The person needs medication, medical care, an interpreter, or urgent family contact.
• There are prior cases, protection orders, firearms issues, immigration-status issues, or co-accused.
• Police or another person asks family to sign or say something urgently.
• The next court appearance is today or tomorrow.