Ask JFL
We’re experts in our field.
We have prepared a list of the most common questions we get asked.
Why Jasper Fogerty Lawyers?
We have fought passionately, energetically and with dedication to be where we are—rapidly rising in legal circles and highly ranked by Doyles Guide. We’re not afraid to think differently. For every client, we take the time to explore every angle and reach the best possible outcome.
Do I need a lawyer?
Being charged with a criminal offence may have profound consequences on your life, liberty, family, employment and reputation. If you have been contacted by the police about a potential criminal matter, you should seek legal advice before taking any further steps. In a criminal investigation, you have the right to remain silent. A lawyer will ensure that your rights are protected at every stage. A lawyer will communicate with the police and prosecution and appear in court to represent you.
What are my rights with the police?
If you are under investigation by the police, including interstate police or the Australian Federal Police, you have the right to remain silent. By law you must provide your name, address and date of birth to the police upon request. With some limited exceptions, you otherwise cannot be forced to give information to the police. You have the right to request a lawyer, and the right to legal representation of your choice should you participate in a record of interview. You should not participate in a record of interview with the police without first obtaining confidential legal advice.
Can my right to silence be used against me?
The right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions is one of the fundamental civil rights in our society. This means that the police and the prosecution cannot use your right to remain silent against you. The police cannot infer that you are guilty because you have elected to remain silent. In our experience, the right to silence is a key protection and, in many circumstances, may make a critical difference to the outcome of a criminal matter.
How much will it cost to have a lawyer?
We understand that the cost of legal representation is a major factor in considering what lawyer to use. For this reason, we provide by fixed fee and time costed fee structures and flexible payment terms. How much your matter costs depends on many different factors, including the seriousness of the charge, the size of the brief of evidence, your instructions, the extent of any investigations we need to undertake and the engagement of third parties such as barristers or experts. We care deeply about ensuring that you receive top tier legal representation without breaking the bank.
Can the police search my house or my car?
The police are entitled to search your house or car if they have a search warrant. The police are not allowed to conduct searches outside of the scope authorised by the search warrant. If a police officer comes to your house with a search warrant, you should seek urgent legal advice immediately.
Can the police confiscate my mobile telephone?
A police officer is authorised to seize your mobile phone if they have a search warrant. If authorised under the warrant, a police officer may lawfully request you to provide your PIN to provide access to your phone. If you refuse to provide the PIN without a lawful excuse, you may be charged with an offence. Forgetting the PIN, in the absence of medical evidence, is not a lawful excuse. These days, police have extensive technology in relation to mobile phone searches. This means that police can potentially obtain information from your mobile phone that has been deleted.
What courts to do you appear in?
We appear in all courts in Queensland and Australia, including the Court of Appeal and Supreme, District and Magistrates Courts.
We care deeply for our clients.
Our mission is to give you the best possible legal representation - and we are experts at what we do.
We work with a range of other experts to ensure that you receive a holistic service that ensures that no stone is left unturned.
Barristers
Approaching our matters collaboratively is important to us, because we know our clients need the right experts in the room at all times.
When we work with barristers, we hold ourselves to the highest of standards in executing and researching our briefs.
We explore every angle to reach the best outcome for our clients, so you know you’re relying on sound and thorough legal advice.
Accountants
The intricacies of legal matters sometimes require third party experts.
In our experience, when it comes to white-collar and financial crime, having someone who understands numbers is a huge advantage.
Julia Jasper is double qualified as an accredited criminal law specialist and a chartered accountant, so our white-collar crime clients are in highly experienced, well-informed hands.
Sometimes, however, it might be necessary for us to engage an independent third party to appear as an expert witness or provide a report.
Rest assured that when it comes to white collar crime, we are at the top of the game.
Solicitors
Some matters incorporate multiple areas of law, such as family law, employment law, migration and commercial law.
Part of our job is to try to ensure that any criminal proceedings do not impact your other legal matters. That's why we work with a range of leading lawyers throughout Queensland and Australia. This is all part of our full-service guarantee to you.
Scientists and Medical Professionals
Our knowledge spans the width of criminal law, but we are not experts at everything! That's why we engage with medical practitioners, doctors, scientists, researchers, engineers, and other professionals. This allows us to explore every angle of your matter to reach the best possible outcome.
Have a question? Ask JFL
Even if you’re not sure if you need a lawyer, it doesn’t hurt to reach out anyway.
No matter how busy it gets, we always have time for you.