Being arrested, investigated or charged with a criminal offence can have serious consequences for your freedom, employment and future. Kamfer Attorneys provides criminal defence and legal representation to clients in Pretoria and surrounding areas.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Criminal Defence Attorneys in Pretoria
Criminal proceedings can move quickly, particularly in the period immediately after an arrest. Decisions made during the early stages of a matter may affect bail, the evidence available and the way the defence is prepared.
South Africa’s Constitution protects important rights of arrested, detained and accused persons, including the right to remain silent, the right to consult a legal practitioner and the right to a fair trial.
Kamfer Attorneys assists clients at different stages of the criminal justice process. We provide advice where a person is under investigation, assist after arrest, represent accused persons in bail proceedings and defend clients facing criminal charges.
Our approach begins with understanding the allegations, the available evidence and the procedural stage of the matter before advising on an appropriate defence strategy.
What to Do If You Have Been Arrested
An arrest can be stressful and confusing. A person may feel pressured to immediately explain themselves, answer allegations or sign documents without fully understanding the legal consequences.
An arrested person has the right to remain silent and to be informed promptly of that right. The Constitution also provides the right to consult with a legal practitioner.
You should obtain legal advice as soon as reasonably possible.
The circumstances of the arrest, the alleged offence and the stage of the police investigation will affect the immediate legal issues that need to be addressed.
Kamfer Attorneys assists clients following arrest and can advise on the next steps, including the bail process and preparation for the first court appearance.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Legal Assistance at the Police Station
A criminal matter does not begin only when an accused person enters a courtroom.
Important developments may already have occurred during the investigation and arrest process. Police may be gathering statements, obtaining documents or dealing with physical and electronic evidence.
Where a person has been arrested or is requested to provide information in connection with a criminal investigation, understanding their legal position is important.
Our criminal defence attorneys can advise clients on their rights and the legal process while the matter is still at the police or investigation stage.
How Soon Must an Arrested Person Appear in Court?
The Constitution provides that an arrested person must be brought before a court as soon as reasonably possible and ordinarily no later than 48 hours after arrest, subject to the constitutional provisions dealing with the expiry of that period outside ordinary court hours or on a non-court day.
The first appearance can be an important stage in a criminal matter.
The accused may be informed of the charges or allegations before the court, and issues relating to further detention or release may need to be addressed.
Where bail is required, the nature of the offence and applicable legal requirements can affect how the application proceeds.
Kamfer Attorneys assists accused persons from the early stages of the court process and advises on the immediate issues affecting the matter.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Bail Application Lawyers in Pretoria
Bail allows an accused person to be released from custody while the criminal matter remains pending, subject to the applicable legal process and any conditions imposed.
A bail application is not a criminal trial and does not determine whether the accused is guilty or innocent. Bail proceedings deal with whether the accused should remain in custody while awaiting the finalisation of the criminal matter.
The Criminal Procedure Act regulates bail and provides different requirements depending on the circumstances and the offence involved.
Issues such as the risk of failing to attend court, interference with witnesses or evidence and other interests of justice considerations may become relevant.
Our criminal defence lawyers assist clients with bail applications and the preparation of information relevant to the proceedings.
Opposed and Serious Bail Applications
Not every bail application is straightforward.
The State may oppose bail, particularly where serious allegations are involved or concerns are raised about the accused’s release.
Certain categories of offences are subject to specific bail provisions and evidentiary requirements under the Criminal Procedure Act. The legal approach should therefore be based on the actual charge and circumstances rather than assuming that every bail application is handled in the same way.
Information relating to the accused’s personal circumstances, residence, employment and connection to the community may become relevant. The allegations raised by the State and the strength or nature of the case may also need to be considered within the applicable legal framework.
Kamfer Attorneys represents clients in opposed bail proceedings and serious criminal matters.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
What Happens If You Are Under Criminal Investigation but Have Not Been Arrested?
A person may become aware of a criminal investigation before any arrest takes place.
Police may request a statement, seek documents or ask the person to attend a police station. In commercial matters, an investigation may continue for a significant period before formal charges are brought.
Being under investigation does not automatically mean that the person will ultimately be convicted or even prosecuted. However, the situation should be taken seriously.
A person should understand the nature of the investigation and obtain legal advice before making decisions that may affect the matter.
Our attorneys assist clients who believe they are under investigation or have been approached in connection with alleged criminal conduct.
Criminal Summonses and Notices to Appear in Court
Not every criminal matter begins with an arrest and detention.
A person may receive a summons or another lawful notice requiring them to appear before a court.
Ignoring a court date or legal process can create further problems.
Where you have received documentation relating to a criminal charge, it is important to understand what the allegation is and what is expected at the court appearance.
Kamfer Attorneys can review the available documents, explain the criminal process and represent clients appearing in court.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Criminal Trial Representation
Where a criminal charge is not resolved and the accused pleads not guilty, the matter may proceed to trial.
The State carries the burden of proving the accused’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The Constitution protects the accused’s right to a fair trial, including the right to be informed of the charge with sufficient detail to answer it, to have adequate time and facilities to prepare a defence, and to challenge evidence.
A criminal trial can involve witness testimony, documentary evidence, forensic material and other forms of evidence.
The defence must consider the allegations and the evidence presented by the prosecution. Witnesses may need to be cross-examined and defence evidence may be presented where appropriate.
Kamfer Attorneys represents accused persons during criminal trials and prepares each defence based on the specific charges and available evidence.
Assault and Assault With Intent to Cause Grievous Bodily Harm
Assault charges can arise from physical confrontations, domestic disputes and other incidents involving alleged violence.
The circumstances of the incident are important. The court may need to consider what occurred, the conduct of the people involved and the evidence supporting the charge.
Medical evidence, photographs, witness statements and other information may become relevant.
More serious assault allegations can involve charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Our criminal defence attorneys assist clients facing assault-related charges and assess the evidence relevant to the alleged incident.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Murder and Attempted Murder Charges
Murder and attempted murder allegations are extremely serious criminal matters.
These cases can involve complex factual and evidentiary disputes regarding identity, intention, causation and the events surrounding the alleged offence.
The defence may need to consider witness evidence, forensic information, medical evidence and the accused’s version of events.
Serious criminal allegations require careful preparation from an early stage.
Kamfer Attorneys represents clients facing murder and attempted murder charges and provides legal assistance throughout bail proceedings, pre-trial processes and the criminal trial.
Theft and Robbery Charges
Theft and robbery matters can range from relatively straightforward allegations to serious cases involving multiple accused persons and extensive evidence.
A theft allegation may involve property, money or other assets allegedly taken without lawful entitlement.
Robbery involves different legal considerations and may include allegations of violence or threats used in connection with the taking of property.
The evidence may include witness identification, CCTV footage, possession of property, communications or other circumstantial evidence.
Our criminal lawyers assist clients charged with theft, robbery and related offences.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Fraud and White-Collar Criminal Charges
Fraud and commercial criminal matters often involve large volumes of documents and complex financial relationships.
An investigation may concern business transactions, payments, representations, company records or alleged misuse of funds.
These matters can develop over months or years before an accused person is formally charged.
Emails, banking information, contracts, accounting records and electronic communications may form part of the State’s case.
Kamfer Attorneys assists individuals facing fraud and other white-collar criminal allegations. We assess the charge, the financial and documentary evidence and the client’s version of the underlying transactions.
Drug-Related Criminal Charges
Drug-related allegations can involve possession, dealing and other offences connected to unlawful substances.
The seriousness of the matter can depend on the particular allegations and evidence.
Questions may arise regarding possession, control of the substance, the circumstances in which the drugs were found and the evidence connecting an accused person to the alleged offence.
Search and seizure issues may also become relevant in some matters.
Our criminal defence attorneys represent clients facing drug-related charges and advise on the legal process based on the specific allegations.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Driving Under the Influence and Drunk Driving Charges
A person arrested for allegedly driving under the influence may face criminal proceedings and potentially serious consequences.
The evidence in these matters can include observations made by law enforcement officials and results arising from alcohol testing or other procedures.
The circumstances surrounding the stop, arrest and collection of evidence may need to be considered.
A person should not assume that a driving under the influence charge is simply a traffic fine that can always be resolved informally.
Kamfer Attorneys assists clients facing driving under the influence and related criminal charges.
Firearm-Related Criminal Charges
Firearm offences can involve allegations relating to possession, licensing, storage or the unlawful use of a firearm.
These matters can carry serious consequences and should be addressed carefully.
The circumstances in which a firearm was discovered, who allegedly possessed or controlled it and the documentary evidence relating to the firearm may all become relevant.
Where a firearm is alleged to have been used during another offence, the accused may face multiple serious charges.
Our attorneys represent clients in firearm-related criminal proceedings and assess the evidence relevant to the particular charges.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Sexual Offence Allegations
Sexual offence allegations require careful and professional legal representation.
The allegations can have serious consequences for everyone involved, and criminal proceedings must be approached with respect for the legal process and the rights of the accused.
The evidence may include witness testimony, medical information, electronic communications and other material relevant to the allegations.
An accused person has the constitutional right to a fair trial and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Kamfer Attorneys represents accused persons facing sexual offence charges and provides confidential legal advice throughout the criminal process.
Domestic Disputes and Criminal Charges
Family or relationship disputes can sometimes result in criminal allegations.
Charges may arise from allegations of assault, intimidation, malicious damage to property or other conduct connected to a domestic dispute.
A criminal case may also exist alongside proceedings under domestic violence legislation or separate family law disputes.
These processes should not simply be treated as though they are the same matter.
Our attorneys can assess the criminal allegations and advise on the appropriate defence while considering any related legal proceedings.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Search, Seizure and Evidence in Criminal Matters
Physical and electronic evidence can play a major role in criminal investigations.
Police investigations may involve searches, the seizure of items and the collection of information that the State intends to use during criminal proceedings.
The Criminal Procedure Act contains provisions dealing with search and seizure and the circumstances in which articles may be seized.
The legality of a search and the treatment of evidence depend on the circumstances and applicable legal requirements.
Kamfer Attorneys can assess issues relating to searches, seized property and evidence where these arise in a criminal matter.
Cellphones, Messages and Electronic Evidence
Electronic information is increasingly relevant in criminal cases.
Messages, emails, photographs, location information and other digital material may be relied upon during an investigation or trial.
The existence of a screenshot or message does not always resolve the evidentiary issues in a criminal matter. The context, source and relationship between the electronic material and the alleged offence may need to be considered.
Our attorneys assess electronic evidence alongside the broader case and advise clients on how it may affect the defence.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Criminal Charges Involving Multiple Accused Persons
A criminal case may involve two or more accused persons who are alleged to have participated in the same offence or related conduct.
The State’s case against each accused person should be properly considered.
Evidence relating to one accused does not necessarily establish the same factual position against every other accused person.
The interests and versions of co-accused persons can also differ.
Kamfer Attorneys assists accused persons in multi-accused criminal matters and develops the defence based on the individual client’s legal position.
Plea Discussions and Plea Agreements
Some criminal matters may involve discussions regarding a possible plea or resolution of the case.
The Criminal Procedure Act provides a statutory framework for plea and sentence agreements in circumstances where the applicable requirements are met.
An accused person should understand the legal consequences before agreeing to plead guilty.
The charge, admitted facts and possible sentence implications need to be properly considered.
Our criminal lawyers advise clients on plea discussions and the legal options available in their particular matter.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
What Happens If You Are Convicted?
Where an accused person is convicted, the criminal proceedings move to the sentencing stage.
The court considers the offence, the circumstances of the accused and other relevant sentencing factors.
The prosecution and defence may present information relevant to sentence.
A conviction can have consequences extending beyond the immediate sentence, including the effect of a criminal record on employment and other areas of a person’s life.
Kamfer Attorneys represents clients during sentencing proceedings and presents relevant information on behalf of the accused.
Criminal Appeals
A person who has been convicted or sentenced may, depending on the circumstances and applicable procedural requirements, seek to appeal the conviction, sentence or both.
An appeal is not simply a second criminal trial because the accused is unhappy with the result.
The record of the proceedings, the trial court’s findings and the legal grounds relied upon need to be properly assessed.
The Criminal Procedure Act contains procedures governing appeals from criminal proceedings.
Our attorneys can review a criminal matter and advise on the available appeal process and applicable legal steps.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Can a Criminal Charge Be Withdrawn?
The fact that a complainant no longer wants to continue with a matter does not automatically mean that a criminal charge will disappear.
Criminal prosecutions are conducted by the State, and decisions regarding prosecution are not always controlled by the complainant.
The circumstances of the case and the prosecution process need to be considered.
Where a client is facing a criminal charge and believes that the complainant wishes to withdraw the complaint, our attorneys can explain the legal position and advise on the criminal proceedings.
Do Not Ignore a Criminal Charge
Avoiding a criminal matter generally does not make the charge disappear.
Missing court appearances or failing to properly address the proceedings can create additional legal difficulties.
Even where an accused person strongly believes that the allegation is false or that the matter is based on a misunderstanding, the charge should still be dealt with through the appropriate legal process.
Obtaining advice early also gives the defence an opportunity to understand the allegations and assess available evidence.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
How Kamfer Attorneys Assists With Criminal Matters
We begin by understanding the allegation, the stage of the criminal process and the immediate issues affecting the client.
Where a person has been arrested, bail and the first court proceedings may require urgent attention.
Our attorneys review the available charge information and evidence, consult with the client and consider the legal issues relevant to the defence.
As the matter progresses, we assist with court appearances, bail proceedings, preparation for trial and representation during the criminal trial.
Where a client has been convicted, we can assist with sentencing proceedings and assess possible appeal issues where appropriate.
Our approach is practical and based on the specific criminal matter. We do not assume that every charge has the same evidence, risks or defence.
Criminal Lawyers Serving Pretoria and Surrounding Areas
Kamfer Attorneys provides criminal defence services to clients in Pretoria and surrounding areas.
We assist with arrests, bail applications, criminal investigations, assault charges, serious violent offences, theft, robbery, fraud, drug-related charges, driving under the influence, firearm offences and other criminal matters.
Whether you have already been charged or believe you are under investigation, our attorneys can assess your circumstances and advise on the legal process.
be heard in the high court within 6 weeks from taking my case. Thank you so much to Ms Kamfer and team for the great experience during a stressful period. I would definitely recommend her if you have an individual who uses the law to continue to abuse you.
She acted in my best interest and removed a huge weight from my shoulders.
I am grateful and would highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney with insightful legal knowledge and expertise. Thank you Kamfer Attorneys for your amazing service!
Speak to a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Pretoria
If you have been arrested, charged with a criminal offence or are concerned about an ongoing criminal investigation, speak to Kamfer Attorneys as soon as possible.
Contact our criminal law attorneys in Pretoria to arrange a consultation and obtain advice based on your matter.