Frequently Asked Questions
If you have been charged with an offence and are deciding what to do next, a few questions tend to come up first. Here are clear answers to the ones we hear most often, covering how a barrister works, what it costs, and what happens when you first make contact.
This page is general information, not legal advice about your matter. For advice on your situation, arrange a conference.
To arrange a free first one-hour conference, call 02 9235 3033.
Can I use a barrister without also using a solicitor?
Yes. Peter Godkin accepts work directly from members of the public under a Direct Access Agreement, so you do not always need to engage a solicitor first.
There are some administrative tasks a barrister cannot perform, so for certain matters you may still need a solicitor’s assistance. Peter will tell you early on whether your matter is one of those, and guide you on what you need.
What are the benefits of using a barrister?
A barrister is a court advocate. Peter’s work focuses on criminal law and appearing in court, which is the part of a case where the right submissions can make a real difference. As an experienced criminal barrister, his focus is on presenting your case clearly and arguing it on your behalf.
Briefing a barrister directly can also save you time and cost, because it removes a layer from the process in matters that do not require a solicitor.
What is the difference between a barrister and a solicitor?
A solicitor generally manages the day-to-day running of a matter: paperwork, correspondence, and preparing a case. A barrister is a skilled court advocate, briefed to give advice and to argue the case in court.
For many criminal matters, you can brief Peter directly. For some, a solicitor handles the administrative side while Peter runs the advocacy. He will help you work out which arrangement suits your case.
What types of criminal matters does Peter Godkin handle?
Peter is an experienced criminal barrister who appears across the NSW courts in a range of criminal matters, including assault charges, AVOs, drug offences, bail applications, and criminal appeals. He has District and Supreme Court trial experience.
If you are unsure whether your matter is one Peter can assist with, call and ask.
Can I have a fixed-fee agreement?
In many matters, yes. Fixed-fee arrangements are available depending on the type and complexity of your case. Peter will give you an estimate of your total costs so you know where you stand before you commit.
Do I really get the first hour for free?
Yes. The first one-hour conference is free. In that hour, Peter will make sure you understand:
- what you have been charged with;
- the maximum penalties that apply;
- the procedural steps along the way;
- how long the matter is likely to take;
- how much it is likely to cost.
You leave the conference with a clear picture of your situation and your options, whether or not you decide to brief Peter.
How do I arrange the free first conference?
Call 02 9235 3033 to arrange your free first one-hour conference. Peter’s chambers are at 8 Windeyer Chambers, Level 8, 225 Macquarie Street, in the Sydney CBD.
This page is general information about NSW legal practice and is not legal advice. Every case is different. For advice about your matter, arrange a conference.