Criminal & Traffic Matters
A criminal charge or serious traffic infringement can have consequences that go well beyond the courtroom — employment, licensing, insurance, professional registration and immigration are all potentially affected. Armstrong Lawyers represents clients in the Magistrates' Court of Victoria on criminal and traffic matters, with a focus on protecting the client's broader interests, not just the immediate charge.
Drink driving and drug driving
Drink and drug driving offences under the Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic) carry mandatory licence loss and, depending on the reading and the driving history, mandatory minimum periods of disqualification, alcohol interlock conditions and the prospect of conviction. We advise on plea, penalty range, the prospect of avoiding a conviction in appropriate cases, and the path back to a full licence.
Careless, dangerous and reckless driving
Careless driving, dangerous driving causing serious injury, reckless conduct endangering life and exceeding the speed limit by 25 km/h or more carry significant penalties and discretionary or mandatory licence loss. We prepare these matters fully — police brief, expert evidence where required, character material and clear submissions on penalty.
Summary offences
We act in summary criminal matters in the Magistrates' Court, including minor assaults, property offences, public order offences and breach of intervention order. The focus is always on the right plea, the right disposition, and minimising the long-term impact of the matter.
Licence applications and appeals
We assist with applications to remove an alcohol interlock, applications for re-licensing after a period of disqualification, and appeals against fines and infringement decisions. Where the client's livelihood depends on their licence, this work is critical.
Related services
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution → — where the underlying conduct also gives rise to a civil claim.
- Employment Law → — managing employment consequences of a criminal charge or conviction.
Further reading
Visit the Armstrong Lawyers Information Centre for commentary on Victorian legal issues relevant to this area of practice.
Speak with Armstrong Lawyers
If you have been charged with a criminal or serious traffic offence in Victoria, Contact Armstrong Lawyers on 134 134 or submit an enquiry through our contact page.