Frequently Asked Questions
Working With Us
I've been arrested or police want to interview me. When should I contact a lawyer?
Whether you’ve been arrested, charged, or police have asked you to attend an interview, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Our lawyers can explain your rights, advise you on whether you should answer questions, attend the interview with you if required, and take early action that may improve the outcome of your case. Early legal representation can make a significant difference.
Who will actually handle my case?
Your case will be handled by our dedicated team of specialist criminal and traffic lawyers. You will benefit directly from the extensive courtroom experience of our Principal Lawyer, Robert Daoud, and our entire team, ensuring you receive expert, hands-on representation, not a junior substitute.
Do you offer fixed fees and what happens during the free strategy session?
Yes. Your first strategy session with us is completely free and confidential. During this meeting, we will listen to your situation, review the police evidence, explain your legal options in plain English, and outline a clear defence strategy tailored to your circumstances. For the majority of criminal and traffic law matters, we also provide an upfront fixed-fee quote, giving you certainty about your legal costs from the very beginning.
What kind of results can I expect from your firm?
While we can never guarantee a specific result, our reputation is built on achieving hundreds of successful outcomes. We focus on having charges withdrawn, securing not-guilty verdicts, and minimising penalties to protect your licence, your reputation, and your future.
Will my case be made public or appear online?
Most criminal and traffic cases are heard in open court and can be reported publicly. However, in some cases, we can apply for non-publication or suppression orders to protect your privacy. We’ll explain what options are available and guide you through the process.
Can you represent me in court anywhere in NSW?
Yes. Our criminal and traffic lawyers regularly appear in Local, District and Supreme Courts across Sydney, Newcastle, the Central Coast and throughout New South Wales. Whether you’re facing a criminal charge or traffic offence in a metropolitan or regional court, we have the experience to represent you. We also offer phone and video consultations for clients who are unable to attend our Sydney office.
Criminal Law
I think I have to plead guilty. Can you still help me?
Absolutely. Even if you plead guilty, our role is critical. We work tirelessly to minimise penalties by negotiating the police facts, preparing persuasive submissions for the court, and guiding you on steps to demonstrate remorse and rehabilitation, often resulting in no conviction being recorded.
Should I plead guilty or not guilty to my criminal charge?
This is a critical decision that should only be made after receiving expert legal advice. At Daoud Legal: Sydney Criminal Defence & Traffic Lawyers, we will carefully analyse the evidence against you and provide clear advice on the best plea and strategy for your specific case.
Will I get a criminal record?
A criminal record is not automatic. An experienced criminal defence lawyer can build a strong case to either have the charge dismissed or, if you plead guilty, persuade the court to not record a conviction. Protecting your clean record is one of our highest priorities.
What is a Section 10 dismissal?
A Section 10 is a sentencing outcome where a magistrate or judge finds you guilty of the offence but dismisses the charge without recording a criminal conviction. This means you avoid a criminal record. Our team has an exceptional track record of securing Section 10s for our clients.
What does the prosecution have to prove?
For you to be found guilty of a criminal offence, the prosecution must prove every element of the charge “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This is a very high standard. Our role as your criminal defence lawyer is to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and create that doubt.
Do you handle serious indictable offences like murder or sexual assault?
Yes. Our senior criminal lawyers have extensive experience defending clients in serious and complex criminal cases in the District and Supreme Courts of NSW.
Can you help with appeals or sentence reductions?
Yes. If you’ve been convicted or believe your sentence was too harsh, we can assess your case and explain your appeal options. Our lawyers have extensive experience preparing appeals and applications for sentence reductions in both Local and District Courts.
Traffic Law
What does a traffic offence lawyer do?
A traffic offence lawyer provides legal advice and court representation for driving-related offences, including drink driving, drug driving, dangerous driving, negligent driving, speeding, driving while suspended or disqualified, and licence appeals. Our experienced traffic lawyers work to protect your licence, minimise penalties, and achieve the strongest possible outcome for your circumstances.
What's the difference between a criminal lawyer and a traffic lawyer?
Traffic law is a specialised area of criminal law that focuses on driving offences and licence-related matters. While many traffic offences are criminal offences, they involve unique legislation, procedures and sentencing considerations. At Daoud Legal, our lawyers practise exclusively in criminal and traffic law, giving you experienced representation regardless of the charges you are facing.
What are the most common traffic offences in Sydney?
Common offences include speeding, drink and drug driving, using a mobile phone, running a red light, and driving while unlicensed or suspended.
Is drink driving a criminal offence?
Yes. Drink driving is a criminal offence, although low-range matters finalised by a fine do not result in a conviction unless dealt with in court.
Will I get a criminal record for a traffic offence?
You will only get a criminal record if your case is dealt with by a court and a conviction is recorded. Paying a standard infringement notice does not result in a criminal record.
Can I fight or contest a traffic fine in court?
Yes. If you believe the offence did not occur as alleged, you can elect to have it heard in court. A successful challenge requires analysing the evidence and police procedure. A lawyer specialising in driving offences can identify weaknesses that may lead to the fine being dismissed.
Can a traffic lawyer help me keep my licence?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances, a traffic lawyer may be able to help you avoid a licence disqualification, reduce the period of suspension, or appeal certain licence decisions. Every case is different, but obtaining legal advice early gives you the best opportunity to protect your licence and minimise the impact on your work and daily life.
Can I get a restricted or work licence in NSW?
No. NSW does not offer special “work licences.” The only way to drive for work while suspended/disqualified is to successfully appeal or remove the suspension.
How much does a traffic lawyer cost in Sydney?
The cost of hiring a traffic lawyer depends on the type and complexity of your matter. We offer a free initial strategy session to assess your circumstances and explain your options. For many traffic law matters, we can also provide an upfront fixed-fee quote, so you know exactly what your legal costs will be before your case begins.
