EXPERTS IN CRIMINAL LAW
The Layburn Hodgins criminal law team have many years experience in defending clients against a wide range of charges, from dishonesty involving modest sums to major fraud to drug offences ranging from possession of small quantities for personal use to charges involving cultivation, manufacturing, importation, trafficking, supply of drugs and conspiracies to do these. This depth of experience has provided the firm with expertise and skill to handle all criminal matters in either summary offences or jury trials.
Regardless of the extent of your criminal matter we recommend advice from our expert Criminal Lawyers to ensure that you have explored all your options. We believe the success of any professional relationship is based upon sound advice and clear communication to our clients. If your matter is one which must progress to a hearing then we will provide you with robust legal representation because of our strong presence in the District and High Courts.
Assaults and Violence
If you have been charged with assault or violence, having the services of a law firm with focus and experience will make a vital difference. Our Criminal Law team brings over 35 years of combined experience to the practice of criminal defence. Our familiarity with the Christchurch Courts means that we can move efficiently through your case — we will guide you, explaining your options and working with you to achieve the best outcome for you.
Drug Offences
If you are facing drug charges then it is crucial to have our experienced Layburn Hodgins Criminal Lawyers on your side. We offer representation based on years of experience and a thorough understanding of the law and the processes. We spend the necessary time to fully prepare cases and to get the best possible results in each case.
Bail Applications
The nature of many charges will mean the Police will take our client into custody, with bail initially refused at the police station and later opposed at Court. Our client's prospects of retaining liberty can be considerably improved by our skilful management and statement of the clients rights immediately after their arrest and by effective preparation and presentation of a bail application.
Dishonesty & Fraud
We care about our clients, and understand the anguish and stress that a person charged with a crime experiences - not only for the individual charged, but for his or her family as well. Our expert Criminal Lawyers will guide you through the process, answer your questions and provide you with the highest quality representation.
Indecent Publications
Our professionalism and skill help us to obtain the best results and satisfaction for our clients who face these types of charges. The high penalties in New Zealand for charges in relation to indecent publications warrant retaining a criminal lawyer with strength and a high level of knowledge. Our experience in all manner of charges relating to indecent publications means that we can give you immediate, relevant advice and guide you through what will be a stressful time.
Sexual Offending
Bearing in mind the high penalties in New Zealand for sexual offending, retaining an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer is crucial. We understand the affect these charges have on you and your family and so we will work hard to obtain name suppression for you. Our expert team of Criminal Lawyers are regularly instructed in these matters and so are up to date with the constantly changing laws and guidelines.
District and High Court Jury Trials
Layburn Hodgins has established a good reputation for high-quality, professional litigation services. This reputation is based on establishing a close working relationship with our clients, giving professional advice and spending the necessary time to fully prepare cases and to get the best possible results in each case. Our Criminal law team approaches every case with the goal of dismissed charges or acquittal at trial.
Appeals
The skills required to try a case to a jury or to a court are, in many important ways, different from those required to handle a case on appeal. The objective of appellate counsel is to persuade the court to adopt a particular view of the law. Layburn Hodgins Criminal Law team are experienced in this complex area of law.
What should you do?
If you are charged with a criminal offence, or you think you may be charged with a criminal offence, or the Police or other investigators want to speak to you, you need to think and act quickly.
Importantly:
Q. Should I speak to a lawyer first?
A. Yes, and that lawyer should be an experienced Layburn Hodgins criminal lawyer.
Q. Do I have to answer the Police questions?
A. In most cases you have to provide your name and address, and in the case of a motor vehicle accident:
- your licence and car registration details
- information about who was driving
Given the opportunity you should first speak with your lawyer before speaking to the Police and answering questions. In some cases it is a good idea to speak fully and frankly to the Police. In some cases it may not be such a good idea. An experienced criminal lawyer will help you make the right decision.
