If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence in NSW and have received a court attendance notice to appear at Parramatta Local Court, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what’s ahead. Whether it’s your first time attending court or you’ve been through the process before, understanding what to expect — and how to prepare — can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.
At Criminal Lawyers Group, we’ve helped hundreds of clients successfully navigate the Parramatta Local Court system with confidence and clarity. In this article, we’ll break down the court process, what happens on the day, and how our team can help you secure the best possible result.
WHERE IS PARRAMATTA LOCAL COURT?
Parramatta Local Court is located at:
12 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Parramatta Train Station and close to Parramatta Wharf, with multiple parking stations nearby. Court usually starts at 9:30 AM, but you should aim to arrive by 9:00 AM to go through security screening and speak with your lawyer.
✅ We also have an office nearby, located at:
Suite 3, Level 1, 154 Marsden St, Parramatta NSW 2150 — just a short walk from the courthouse.
You can contact our Parramatta office on (02) 8815 8167 or book online for a free case assessment.
WHAT TYPES OF CRIMINAL CASES ARE HEARD AT PARRAMATTA LOCAL COURT?
Parramatta Local Court deals with a broad range of criminal and traffic matters, including:
- Assault and common assault
- Drug possession and minor drug supply
- Drink driving and other traffic offences
- Domestic violence and AVOs
- Property offences (e.g. theft, damage)
- Bail applications
- Breaches of community orders
More serious offences may start in the Local Court before being committed to the Parramatta District Court.
For more, visit our criminal law and traffic law pages.
WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE THE HEARING?
If you’ve received a Court Attendance Notice (CAN), it means you’ve been formally charged by police and must appear in court on a specified date.
Before your court date, it’s essential to:
- Understand the charge you’re facing
- Speak with a criminal lawyer to get early advice
- Decide on a plea (guilty or not guilty) after reviewing the evidence
- Prepare any supporting documents, such as character references or medical reports
Your lawyer may also enter early negotiations with the police prosecutor to withdraw or downgrade charges through a process called case conferencing.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY OF YOUR HEARING
Here’s a breakdown of how your day will likely unfold:
1. Arrival and Security Check
All visitors pass through a metal detector and bag screening. Do not bring sharp or restricted items.
2. Check the Court List
Digital screens display the daily case list by name and courtroom. You can also ask court staff if you’re unsure where to go.
3. Consult With Your Lawyer
Your lawyer will review your case with you before your matter is called. If you don’t have legal representation, you may be able to speak to the Legal Aid duty solicitor depending on eligibility.
4. Court Appearance
When your name is called, you’ll stand at the bar table while the Magistrate reads out the charge and asks for your plea:
- Plead guilty → the matter usually proceeds to sentencing
- Plead not guilty → the case is adjourned for a defended hearing
Your lawyer will speak on your behalf throughout.
PLEADING GUILTY AT PARRAMATTA LOCAL COURT
If you plead guilty, the court will consider sentencing submissions prepared by your lawyer. These may include:
- Evidence of good character
- Details of employment or study
- Evidence of rehabilitation (e.g. counselling, clean drug tests)
- An apology letter
- References from employers, family, or community leaders
The Magistrate may impose:
- A non-conviction order (Section 10)
- A Conditional Release Order (CRO)
- A fine or community corrections order
- Supervised community service
- In rare cases, a custodial sentence
Our lawyers regularly secure section 10 outcomes at Parramatta Local Court, helping clients avoid a criminal record. Learn more on our sentencing options page.
PLEADING NOT GUILTY: NEXT STEPS
If you plead not guilty, your matter will be set for a defended hearing.
In the lead-up, your lawyer will:
- Obtain and examine the brief of evidence
- Identify legal and factual issues
- Challenge the admissibility of police evidence
- Call witnesses on your behalf, if needed
At the hearing, the prosecution must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If they fail to do so, the charge can be dismissed.
WHAT TO WEAR AND HOW TO BEHAVE
Court is a formal setting, and first impressions matter. We recommend:
- Dressing conservatively (smart casual or business attire)
- Turning off your phone before entering the courtroom
- Addressing the Magistrate as “Your Honour”
- Remaining calm, respectful, and silent unless asked to speak
CASE STUDY: SECTION 10 FOR POSSESSION – PARRAMATTA LOCAL COURT
Our client, a 24-year-old from North Parramatta, was charged with possessing a prohibited drug (MDMA) after a police search at a music festival. It was their first offence.
We submitted:
- A sincere letter of apology
- Evidence of drug counselling
- Multiple glowing references
- Proof of part-time work and university study
The Magistrate accepted our argument that a conviction would significantly harm their future. A Section 10 non-conviction was granted, and the client walked away with no criminal record.
Explore more case results on our criminal defence page.
WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A PARRAMATTA COURT LAWYER
Having a knowledgeable, confident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. At Criminal Lawyers Group, we:
✅ Appear regularly at Parramatta Local Court
✅ Know the Magistrates, prosecutors, and court staff
✅ Provide clear advice, even in complex situations
✅ Fight to reduce or dismiss charges
✅ Help clients avoid criminal records
CONTACT US – YOUR PARRAMATTA COURT LAWYERS
If you’ve been charged with a criminal or traffic offence and need legal help, our team is here to assist.
📍 Visit us at:
Suite 3, Level 1, 154 Marsden Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
📞 Call us now on (02) 8815 8177
🖥️ Or book your free consultation online
Criminal Lawyers Group – Western Sydney’s trusted defence lawyers, defending your future, one case at a time.