The Supreme Court of South Australia is the highest court in the state and hears the most serious criminal matters, complex civil cases and appeals from lower courts. The Court sits primarily in Adelaide and conducts regional circuits as required.

At the time of writing the Magistrates sitting at Supreme Court of South Australia are listed in this section.

Caldicott & Isaacs Lawyers – Lawyer Casey

Appearing in the Supreme Court requires exceptional preparation, technical skill and deep experience in complex criminal litigation. Matters before this court often involve life-altering consequences, including lengthy imprisonment, extended trials and appeals raising difficult questions of law.

Our lawyers regularly appear in the Supreme Court of South Australia and have extensive experience conducting major criminal trials, sentencing hearings and appeals. We understand how Supreme Court judges manage complex proceedings, how senior prosecutors present serious cases and the level of preparation required to properly test the evidence at this level.

This experience allows us to approach Supreme Court matters with clarity, precision and a disciplined legal strategy from the outset.

The Supreme Court has exclusive jurisdiction over the most serious criminal offences, including murder, attempted murder, manslaughter and other major indictable offences. It also hears criminal appeals from the District Court and Magistrates Court.

Caldicott + Isaacs Lawyers practise exclusively in criminal and traffic law and have extensive experience defending clients in Supreme Court matters across South Australia. Our lawyers are highly experienced trial advocates with a strong command of evidence law, forensic analysis, expert evidence and complex jury directions.

Whether your matter involves a major trial, a sentencing following conviction, or an appeal raising errors of law or fact, your case will be prepared thoroughly and presented with careful attention to detail.

The Supreme Court is South Australia’s superior court of record. It exercises jurisdiction in:

  • Criminal trials for the most serious offences
  • Criminal appeals from lower courts
  • Civil matters involving significant disputes
  • Appellate and supervisory jurisdiction

The Supreme Court sits primarily in Adelaide and conducts regional sittings where required.

In criminal matters, the Court typically hears:

  • Murder and attempted murder
  • Manslaughter
  • Serious violent offending
  • Complex multi-accused trials
  • Criminal appeals
Talk to a Lawyer Today

Supreme Court proceedings are formal and highly structured.

Here’s what typically happens:

Pre-Trial Proceedings:
Matters involve detailed disclosure, interlocutory applications, pre-trial conferences and case management hearings.

Trial:
Trials are usually heard before a judge and jury, with extensive witness evidence, expert testimony and legal submissions.

Sentencing:
Sentencing hearings involve detailed submissions addressing penalty, precedent, aggravating and mitigating factors and personal circumstances.

Appeals:
Appeal proceedings focus on identifying legal or factual error in earlier decisions and require precise written and oral argument.

At every stage, our role is to ensure your matter is properly prepared and your rights are rigorously defended.

More information about being charged with a criminal offence in South Australia.

What criminal matters are heard in the Supreme Court?

The most serious offences, including murder and manslaughter, as well as criminal appeals.

Does the Supreme Court hear jury trials?

Yes. Criminal trials are usually conducted before a judge and jury.

Do you regularly appear in the Supreme Court?

Yes. Our lawyers appear in Supreme Court trials and appeals across South Australia.

Is legal representation essential in the Supreme Court?

Yes. The complexity and seriousness of matters require experienced criminal defence lawyers.

How long do Supreme Court cases take?

They can take many months or longer, depending on the matter and trial length.

Can I appeal a District Court decision to the Supreme Court?

Yes. Appeals can be lodged on questions of law or fact, subject to time limits.

Are sentencing outcomes more severe in the Supreme Court?

Penalties reflect the seriousness of offences and can include lengthy imprisonment.

Will my matter always be heard in Adelaide?

Most matters are heard in Adelaide, though regional sittings occur where required.

What happens if I am convicted in the Supreme Court?

We advise on sentencing, appeal rights and next steps.

Can Supreme Court decisions be appealed further?

In limited circumstances, matters may proceed to the High Court of Australia.

First Tier Criminal Lawyers 2025 Caldicott + Isaacs

James and his associates are professional, punctual and knowledgeable. We won against SAPOL through a technical and detailed process. Highly recommend.

SamC+I Client

I am grateful for your commitment to securing the best possible result for me. It has been a pleasure working with you.

C SClient

Highly recommend Casey Isaacs. He was fantastic and managed to get a excellent result in court very happy and very easy to deal with, also very nice friendly admin staff

Pete DClient

Dealt with my minor charge in a professional & serious manner. Other lawyers in Adelaide told me to "cop the charge" though James was completely open to fighting the case. Which he did successfully. Highly recommend.

WillClient

Will do their absolute best at getting you out of a sticky situation...very good at explaining in simple terms everything about what's going on.

LauraC+I Client
1

Don't say anything

Exercise your right to silence and don't say anything to police.
2

Stay calm

Keep calm and make a note of what happens as this will help later.
3

Call us immediately

If you’re arrested or spoken to by police, call us immediately on (08) 8110 7900.
Book a Free Consultation

Your first consultation is free.