Van Heerdens Attorneys Incorporated has established a strong reputation in Port Elizabeth for providing effective and professional criminal defence representation. We assist individuals who are under criminal investigation, have been arrested, or are facing criminal charges, with a firm focus on protecting their constitutional rights and ensuring fair treatment throughout the criminal justice process.
Our firm regularly appears in the Magistrates’ Court and Regional Court in Port Elizabeth and has experience handling matters across different levels of the criminal justice system.
We assist clients with criminal matters ranging from less serious offences to complex and serious criminal charges.
Our criminal defence practice covers matters across the full spectrum of criminal law. Navigating the criminal justice system without proper legal representation can place an accused person at a significant disadvantage. Early legal advice is essential to ensure that rights are protected and that the matter is approached strategically from the outset. In urgent situations, we are available to assist at short notice, including after-hours matters.
Criminal Charges and Investigations
Criminal matters often arise unexpectedly and can place individuals under immediate pressure. Decisions made during the early stages of an investigation, including whether to make statements or how to respond to law enforcement, can have lasting consequences.
We regularly advise clients in Port Elizabeth at the earliest stages of criminal investigations to ensure that their rights are protected from the outset.
We provide legal assistance from the investigation stage through to court proceedings, advising clients on their rights and representing them during arrest, initial court appearances, and throughout the progression of the matter.
Bail Applications
Bail is frequently the most urgent concern following an arrest. Depending on the circumstances, bail may be considered at a police station or through a formal court application.
We assist clients with both police bail and court bail applications, including urgent and after-hours bail matters.
Criminal Trial Litigation
Where a criminal matter proceeds to trial, careful preparation and experienced representation are critical. Criminal trials are conducted in the Magistrates’ Court or Regional Court, depending on the nature and seriousness of the charges.
We represent clients throughout criminal trial litigation, including plea negotiations, the presentation of evidence, cross-examination of witnesses, and legal argument.
Serious and Complex Criminal Matters
Certain criminal charges carry serious legal and personal consequences and require a considered and strategic approach.
We assist clients facing serious or complex criminal allegations, including fraud, theft, and white-collar crime matters.
Choosing the Right Criminal Defence Assistance
The following criminal law services address specific types of matters. You can explore each area in more detail below:
How a Criminal Defence Attorney Can Assist
No criminal defence attorney can ethically guarantee an acquittal or a particular outcome. Each matter depends on its own facts and legal considerations. However, effective legal representation ensures that an accused person’s rights are protected and that the matter is handled fairly and lawfully.
Many criminal cases are resolved through plea negotiations rather than trial. Experienced legal representation is essential to ensure that decisions are made with a full understanding of the consequences.
As soon as you become aware that you are under investigation, have been arrested, or are required to appear in court.
In certain cases, bail may be considered at a police station or through the court.
You have the right to remain silent. It is advisable to obtain legal advice before making any statement.
This depends on the nature of the charges and the court involved.
If you or a family member has been arrested and requires assistance with a bail application, you are welcome to contact us as soon as possible. We are available telephonically or via email, and consultations can be arranged by appointment.
| Van Heerdens Attorneys (After Hours Bail Applications) | 060 265 2063 |
| SAPS | 10111 |
| Family Violence, Child Abuse, Sexual Violence | 012 393 2363 |
| Childline | 0800 055 555 |
| CRIME STOP | 0860 010 111 |
| Women Abuse | 0800 150 150 |