How to get legal help if police have charged you
For: Anyone charged with a criminal offence in Victoria
📞 1800 641 072What to do if you are arrested or charged with a criminal offence in Victoria — know your rights and get free legal representation.
Ask for a lawyer immediately
If you are arrested: Say “I want a lawyer.” Do not answer any questions without a lawyer present. You have the right to call someone — ring 13YARN 13 92 76 if you need an Aboriginal lawyer.
Ring VALS (Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service)
VALS: 1800 641 072 — free for Aboriginal people in Victoria. They cover criminal law, family law, and civil law. Available 24/7 for criminal matters. They will send a lawyer to the police station for free.
Ask for an Aboriginal police officer
You can ask to speak to an Aboriginal police officer or police informant (someone who can advocate for you). This does not replace a lawyer but can help with cultural communication.
Bail — can you get out of jail?
If you are in custody, you can apply for bail. VALS can help with this. Factors that affect bail include: the seriousness of the charge, whether you have a fixed address, your ties to community.
Going to court
Get representation before your court date. VALS: 1800 641 072. Swan Hill CLC: (03) 5032 3490 (for less serious matters). Do not go to court without a lawyer — you are very likely to get a worse outcome.