Defend Yourself is a book for people who wish to defend a charge in court and to better understand court processes. The third edition has been fully revised to reflect constant changes in the various laws and the author has widened the scope, using examples from New South Wales and Victoria to illustrate principles of law.
The book acts as a guidebook with signposts to further information and assistance on court processes and procedures. Updated content includes: arrest and questioning; bail - release pending trial; lawyers and self-representation; court procedure; pleas; hearing and trials; how to research and prepare for a criminal case; evidence; sentencing; appeals; a glossary of legal terms; diagrams of a magistrate's court, a typical jury trial, and the hearing or trial process; information on character references and warrants; an explanation of case law references; a reading list and contact points for further information and assistance. It will be of interest to those who find themselves in the strange and often intimidating environment of the courtroom.