If you’ve been ordered to appear at Liverpool Local Court after being charged with a criminal or traffic offence, it’s important to know what to expect — and how to properly prepare. While the idea of going to court can be stressful or intimidating, knowing your rights and having strong legal support can ease much of the uncertainty.
At Criminal Lawyers Group, we regularly represent clients at Liverpool Local Court and understand the local processes, Magistrates, and common legal issues people face. This guide explains what typically happens on the day, the types of matters heard at the court, and how to position your case for the best outcome.
WHERE IS LIVERPOOL LOCAL COURT LOCATED?
150 George Street, Liverpool NSW 2170
Liverpool Local Court is conveniently situated close to Liverpool Train Station and several nearby parking options. Court usually begins at 9:30 AM, but arriving by 9:00 AM is ideal to clear security and meet with your lawyer.
📞 Call us today on (02) 8815 8167 or book your consultation here
TYPES OF CASES HANDLED AT LIVERPOOL LOCAL COURT
Liverpool Local Court deals with a wide variety of criminal and traffic cases, including:
- Assault charges
- Drug offences (possession, small-scale supply)
- Drink driving and PCA offences
- Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs)
- Shoplifting and minor theft
- Malicious damage
- Bail hearings
- Driving while suspended or disqualified
More serious charges, such as aggravated assaults, sexual offences, or large drug supply matters, may begin at the Local Court level before being committed to the District Court.
If you’re unsure what category your offence falls into, visit our pages on criminal offences and traffic offences.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOUR COURT DATE
If you’ve received a Court Attendance Notice (CAN), this is a formal summons requiring you to attend court. It’s crucial to take the matter seriously — even if the charge seems “minor.”
Before the hearing:
- Read all documents provided by police
- Contact an experienced criminal defence lawyer
- Decide on your plea only after legal advice
- Start preparing character references or evidence (if pleading guilty)
Your lawyer may also engage in negotiations with police to reduce or dismiss charges — this is often referred to as charge certification or case conferencing.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT COURT
Here’s a breakdown of how the court day generally plays out:
1. Security Screening
You’ll pass through a security checkpoint at the court entrance. Don’t bring anything restricted or offensive.
2. Find Your Courtroom
A screen in the foyer will list your name, case number, and assigned courtroom. If you’re unsure where to go, ask a court officer for help.
3. Speak With Your Lawyer
If you’ve hired a lawyer from Criminal Lawyers Group, they’ll meet with you before court to go over your matter and finalise your submissions.
If unrepresented, you may be eligible for the Legal Aid duty solicitor, though availability is limited.
4. Court Appearance
When your matter is called, you’ll approach the bar table, stand, and be asked:
- Your name and details
- How you plead — guilty or not guilty
- Whether you have legal representation
If you plead guilty, the court may proceed to sentencing. If you plead not guilty, your matter will be adjourned to a later date for a defended hearing.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU PLEAD GUILTY?
Pleading guilty means you accept the charge. The focus then shifts to minimising the penalty and seeking leniency.
Your lawyer will present sentencing submissions, which may include:
- Character references
- A written apology letter
- Details of your personal background and mental health
- Evidence of remorse and rehabilitation
- Proof of employment or family responsibilities
Depending on the circumstances, the Magistrate may impose:
- A non-conviction outcome (e.g. Section 10)
- A Conditional Release Order (CRO)
- A fine or community-based sentence
- In serious cases, a term of imprisonment
See more about these on our NSW sentencing guide.
WHAT IF YOU PLEAD NOT GUILTY?
If you dispute the charge, your matter will be set for a hearing, typically several months later. Leading up to the hearing:
- The prosecution must serve a brief of evidence
- Your lawyer may raise legal objections
- Witnesses may be subpoenaed to give evidence
- Police may be cross-examined in court
If the prosecution can’t prove the case beyond reasonable doubt, your charge can be dismissed and you’ll walk away without a conviction.
HOW TO DRESS AND BEHAVE IN COURT
You don’t need a suit, but dress neatly and respectfully. Good court etiquette includes:
- Turning off your phone
- Speaking only when addressed by the Magistrate
- Calling the Magistrate “Your Honour”
- Remaining calm and respectful at all times
How you present yourself can influence your outcome — especially when seeking leniency.
LIVERPOOL CASE EXAMPLE: NO CONVICTION FOR COMMON ASSAULT
Our client, a 35-year-old father from Moorebank, was charged with common assault after an argument with a neighbour escalated. He had no prior record, showed genuine remorse, and voluntarily completed an anger management course before sentencing.
At Liverpool Local Court, we submitted:
- A sincere letter of apology
- Strong character references
- Proof of ongoing counselling
The Magistrate accepted our submissions and granted a Section 9(1)(b) non-conviction, allowing the client to avoid a criminal record.
WHY CHOOSE CRIMINAL LAWYERS GROUP FOR LIVERPOOL COURT MATTERS
Our team has years of experience appearing in Liverpool Local Court. We know the environment, the legal thresholds, and what the Magistrates expect. When you engage us, you benefit from:
✅ Local representation in Western Sydney
✅ Tailored defence strategies for criminal and traffic charges
✅ Strong records of achieving non-conviction outcomes
✅ Professional, respectful courtroom advocacy
NEED A LAWYER FOR LIVERPOOL LOCAL COURT?
Don’t go to court alone. One mistake could impact your job, visa, or family. At Criminal Lawyers Group, we offer practical legal support — fast.
📞 Call now: (02) 8815 8177
🖥️ Or request your free case consultation online
Criminal Lawyers Group – Trusted defence lawyers for Liverpool, Western Sydney, and beyond.