Fisher Dore’s Ms Jiabei Qi represented a client charged with Recklessly Endangering Serious Harm with Aggravation in the Katherine Local Court, Northern Territory
The case was a difficult one, where Fisher Dore’s Chinese speaking client faced a lengthy prison sentence if convicted of the criminal charge.
The incident was captured on CCTV, and Senior Counsel was briefed in the matter. Ms Qi and counsel, entered into extensive negotiations with the prosecution, and sought that the matter be discontinued prior to the commencement of the trial. Ultimately, the negotiations were successful and the prosecution accepted that they could not exclude self-defence pursuant to section 43BD of the Criminal Code Act 1983 (NT).
The defendant in this matter was a Chinese national, he spoke limited English, and complex legal issues arose throughout the case. Communication barriers were significant in this criminal matter as English was not the defendant’s first language. Ms Qi was able to assist with an urgent bail application, translate documents, evidence and statements to her client, and facilitate clear communication throughout the proceedings. Ms Qi was able to avoid delays which regularly arise in matters where obtaining a translator cannot be arranged on short and immediate notice.
Additionally, there were Chinese-speaking witnesses involved in this matter. Having access to a lawyer who could communicate fluently with all parties made the process much smoother for our client.
Ms Qi’s understanding of the cultural background of her client, together with her ability to engage with her client in Mandarin and take meaningful instructions in an expeditious way were key advantages in navigating the legal process and achieving the desired outcome for our client. Having a lawyer who not only understands the legal system but also speaks your language and is familiar with your cultural background is incredibly important.
If you or someone you know is facing criminal investigation or charge/s, having a lawyer who can bridge that cultural and linguistic gap can make all the difference.
- Jiabei Qi is an established criminal defence lawyer for Fisher Dore Lawyers, who is fluent in both the Mandarin and English languages. Ms Qi has a comprehensive understanding of both the Australian and Chinese criminal justice systems.
