When the Process Starts,
Counsel Should Too

In most circumstances, yes. Before attending any formal or informal interview under the Criminal Procedure Code, understanding what the investigation concerns and what your rights are in that setting can make a material difference to how the matter proceeds. A first-hour consultation is designed precisely for this situation.

The magistrate court handles less serious offences with lower maximum penalties. The sessions court handles more serious charges — including those with longer custodial sentences — and its procedural requirements are correspondingly more involved. Which court hears your matter depends on the offence charged, and this affects how the defence is structured and resourced.

Timelines vary considerably depending on the court, the complexity of the charge, the number of witnesses, and how the prosecution proceeds. Magistrate matters can sometimes be resolved within several months; sessions court proceedings can extend to a year or longer. At the initial consultation, Pravum will give a realistic picture of what to expect in your specific situation.

Court attendance requirements depend on the nature of the hearing. Mention dates and procedural hearings may proceed with counsel attending on your behalf; substantive hearings typically require your presence. Your counsel will explain each date to you in advance so there are no surprises about when your attendance is required.

Yes. From the moment the consultation begins, the conversation is protected by legal professional privilege. Pravum will not disclose what you share without your authority, subject only to the limited exceptions recognised under Malaysian law.

The RM 2,200 engagement covers full case preparation — review of investigation papers, witness analysis, defence theory formulation, preparation of written submissions, and conduct of the trial. Sentencing mitigation is included. Any disbursements (filing fees, transcript costs) are set out separately in the engagement letter.