Our highly-respected team of experienced criminal lawyers are dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Our proven history of success, along with our recognition within the industry and unwavering commitment to our clients, positions us as the preferred option for those seeking skilled and effective legal representation.
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BEN WILLCOX
Principal Lawyer
We pride ourselves on being one of the best law firms in Sydney, routinely appearing on behalf of our clients for all types of matters across every jurisdiction. Our lawyers have experience handling every type of case, from common assault through to murder, drug possession to drug manufacturing, kidnapping, extortion and everything else in between. If you have been charged with a traffic or criminal offence, regardless of how serious, please don’t hesitate to call us to discuss your options.
Our skilled criminal defence lawyers offer professional representation for a wide range of criminal offences, including assault, drug-related charges, fraud, traffic, firearm offences and more.
We represent clients pursuing claims against the New South Wales Police Force for unlawful arrest, false imprisonment, misconduct and malicious prosecution.
We strongly believe that everyone should have access to high-quality legal representation regardless of their financial circumstances. To alleviate financial strain, we provide fixed fees and flexible payment plans, providing our clients with peace of mind and transparency.
Whether it’s a defended hearing in the Local Court, a trial in the District Court, or an appeal to the Supreme Court, you can rest assured knowing that we have the experience and expertise to manage your case and achieve the best possible outcome. Call us for a free initial consultation. We are happy to answer your questions and assist you with a clear understanding as to the process, fees and potential outcomes of your matter.
Section 10(1)(a) of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 (NSW) allows a court to dismiss a charge without recording a conviction following a plea of guilty or a finding of guilt.
In practice, a Section 10(1)(a) dismissal is most commonly granted after a plea of guilty, where the offender demonstrates genuine remorse, contrition, and otherwise good character. When imposed, the matter is finalised with no criminal conviction recorded.
There are two types of criminal appeals: conviction appeals and severity appeals.
A conviction appeal challenges a finding of guilt following a contested hearing, while a severity appeal challenges the sentence imposed after a plea of guilty or a finding of guilt. An appeal against both conviction and sentence is known as an “all grounds appeal.”
If the appellate court is considering imposing a more severe sentence, the judge must issue a Parker warning (as established in Parker v DPP (1992) 28 NSWLR 282), giving the appellant the opportunity to withdraw the appeal before a harsher penalty is imposed.
Appeals must be lodged within 28 days of sentencing.
Legal Aid NSW is a government-funded organisation that provides legal advice and representation to eligible members of the community.
Assistance through Legal Aid NSW is subject to specific eligibility criteria and assessment processes.
In some cases, Legal Aid NSW may allocate criminal matters to approved private solicitors who are members of the relevant Legal Aid Panel. If you are granted Legal Aid, you may request that your matter be referred to Willcox Criminal and Civil Lawyers.
Section 14 of the Mental Health and Cognitive Impairment Forensic Provisions Act 2020 (NSW) allows certain criminal charges to be dismissed where the defendant has a mental health condition.
A Section 14 order enables an eligible defendant to apply for dismissal of the charge by entering into an agreement to undertake appropriate mental health treatment, rather than proceeding through the criminal justice system.
Request a Free Consultation by calling (02) 8251 0067 or by completing the online form.
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“I used Willcox Criminal and Civil Lawyers for a matter last year. Ben was the lawyer that assisted me. Through the whole process, I was kept up to date and provided full and frank costings before proceeding. Ben’s knowledge and expectations on how the matter would run, were amazing. He was kind, courteous and was able to sympathise with me, and was available for questions I may have. He would respond as soon as he was available to. I could not recommend this firm more for Criminal matters. They are absolute champions.”
- Brett, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“Dear Ben Willcox, we can’t thank you enough for your professionalism, compassion and expert legal guidance during an extremely stressful time for our family. Your strong advocacy resulted in a “good behaviour bond” instead of a “conviction and penalty” which has made a life-changing difference to our nephew’s future. We are forever grateful. We highly recommend your services.”
- Esperanza, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“We recently worked with Ben & Michael at Willcox Criminal & Civil Lawyers with a challenging legal matter involving The Department of Fair Trading. They took the time to understand our case, offering clear guidance and support at every step. Their passion for justice and dedication to our case was evident, and it was clear that they were invested in achieving the best possible outcome for us. We are extremely grateful to Ben and Michael for securing us a victorious result. If ever you need reliable legal counsel, look no further than Willcox Criminal & Civil Lawyers, they are the best.”
- Julie, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“Your efforts in negotiating with the police on my behalf made all the difference, and I’m extremely grateful for the excellent result you were able to achieve. Your approach gave me confidence throughout the process, and I truly felt supported every step of the way. I can’t thank you enough for your hard work, and I’m beyond appreciative of how you both handled everything with care and expertise.”
- Tim, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“Ben was always available, clear and informative – he was able to effectively communicate with the police and managed to prevent charges that seemed inevitable at one point. Highly recommended.”
- Etha, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“Michael and his team have been nothing short of outstanding. Professional, patient, supportive and person centred, truly understanding the case. Thank you.”
- Nick, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“Your efforts in negotiating with the police on my behalf made all the difference, and I’m extremely grateful for the excellent result you were able to achieve. Your approach gave me confidence throughout the process, and I truly felt supported every step of the way. I can’t thank you enough for your hard work, and l’m beyond appreciative of how you both handled everything with care and expertise. Thanks heaps.”
- Tim, NSW
Here are some of the reviews left by our esteemed clients.
“I recently used the services of Ben at Wilcox Criminal and Civil Lawyers for my case, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome. Ben managed to secure a result with no conviction recorded, which was exactly what I was hoping for. The team was professional, thorough, and communicated clearly throughout the process. They understood the nuances of the legal system and knew how to navigate it to achieve the best possible outcome for my situation. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of skilled criminal defence representation.”
- Chris, NSW