How Consultant Solicitor Programs can save the Presumption of Innocence in Australia.

Is the presumption of innocence still alive and well in Australia… or are we quietly drifting towards a “presumption of guilt” in practice?In this episode, I’m joined by Victorian criminal lawyer and one of the Owners at EAS Legal consultant program Joseph (Joey) Stephenson, who spends his days dealing with bail, remand, contested hearings and the harsh reality of court backlogs.We dive into:How time pressure on courts, prosecutors and solicitors is eroding the presumption of innocenceWhy so many accused people are pleading guilty just to get out of the systemThe impact of remand on jobs, homes and families – even before guilt is decidedWhy court technology is still stuck in the past, and how defence lawyers can use tech betterHow EAS Legal’s consultant solicitor model gives lawyers their time back without the headaches of running a firmThe business development and marketing support that helps criminal lawyers build portable practicesHow the Self Employed Lawyers League has become Joey’s go-to place for daily referrals and niche connectionsIf you’re a lawyer considering self-employment, consultant solicitor programs or simply a more sustainable way to practice criminal law, this conversation will give you a clear, unvarnished picture of what’s possible.🎧 Listen in to hear:A frontline view of the justice system from a criminal defence lawyerThe pros and cons of going out on your own vs joining a consultant solicitor programHow community and referrals can replace “spray and pray” marketing🔗 Links:EAS Legal: https://easlegal.com.auJoin the Self Employed Lawyers League: https://thesell.life